Week 7: Computer-Controlled Cutting – CNC Shenanigans & Functional Chaos

Meet the Beast: The CNC Machine 🦾

This week, I got to work with the Numac Hightec CNC machine, powered by a Richmond controller. If you’re wondering what CNC stands for— Computer Numerical Control—it’s basically a machine that listens to a computer’s precise instructions and cuts, carves, and crafts materials with robotic accuracy. Think of it as a giant robotic sculptor, except it doesn’t get tired, complain, or ask for coffee breaks.

Here’s how it works in a nutshell:
🔹 You feed it a digital design (a CAD file).
🔹 The machine reads it and translates it into G-code, the CNC’s secret language.
🔹 A spinning bit (aka end mill) cuts the material precisely based on the instructions.
🔹 The result? Perfectly cut pieces, ready for assembly (or accidental disasters if you ignore safety!).

Safety First (Because Limbs Are Important) 🦿🦾

At FabLab, safety training always goes one step beyond what we expect. Akhilesh Sir gave us a thorough walkthrough of:
✅ How to operate the CNC machine.
✅ Where the sensors are and what the machine can’t do (yes, it has limits).
✅ Where and how to clamp materials securely.
✅ Changing bits (without causing mini heart attacks).
✅ The risks of improper use—this part got real when we heard about an accident that happened before. A sobering moment.

Some CNC Rules to carve in your mind 🧠:

🔹 Closed-toe shoes only – Because dropping a heavy wood panel on your foot is not a vibe.
🔹 No loose clothing or accessories – Unless you want to become part of the CNC machine.
🔹 Proper material loading/unloading – Because gravity exists, and so do expensive materials.

Project 1: The Stand-Up Desk – Built for the Best (Me 😎)

A while back, I built a stand-up desk using this very machine. The project brief was simple:
📌 Create a surface that facilitates or delights a specific audience.
So, naturally, I designed it for the most amazing person I know—ME!

Here’s my reasoning:
🔹 I can’t work in a mess – If things are in sight, they’re in my mind. So, I designed it to hide away clutter.
🔹 I prefer standing while working – Sitting all day is overrated.
🔹 I wanted it compact & functional – Minimal footprint, maximum utility.

So, I kept the design bare bones, making sure it’s strong, simple, and space-efficient.
📂 CAD file? Check!

⚙️ CNC machining? Done!

🛠️ Finishing & assembly? Nailed it!

📸 Final Hero Shot? Chef’s kiss.

Project 2: The F1-Inspired Napping Chair – Because Work-Life Balance Exists 🏎️💤

This one’s still in the pipeline, but let’s talk about the idea.

The thought process:
💡 F1 drivers spend hours in a reclined position while driving at insane speeds.
💡 Naps are crucial.
💡 What if I made a chair that mimics that reclined position?

And just like that, the F1 Napping Chair was born (in my head).

Design Process:

✏️ Sketching Forms – I kept sketching until I found a shape that looked right.
🖥️ 3D Modeling in Blender – This step was crucial to ensure fabrication would be smooth.

🎨 Renders? Check!

🔪 Execution? Um…

Well, here’s the thing—my first design was TOO complex. It would take way too much material, time, and effort to cut and assemble. So, I’m back to simplifying it before sending it for CNC cutting. Stay tuned for the final version!

Wrapping Up 🛠️

An amazing week with tons of hands-on learning. CNC cutting is a game-changer, but also a patience-tester. Excited for what’s next! Onward to the next adventure! 🚀