Computer-Controlled Machining

Group assignment:

  • Complete your lab's safety training
  • Test runout, alignment, fixturing, speeds, feeds, materials and toolpaths for your machine
  • Document your work to the group work page and reflect on your individual page what you learned

Individual assignment:

  • Make (design+mill+assemble) something big

#.Group assignment:

As a group, we began by completing the lab's safety training to ensure we followed all necessary precautions while working with the machines. We then tested spindle runout and alignment to confirm the machine’s accuracy. After properly fixturing the material, we experimented with different speeds and feeds to determine the most effective settings. Finally, we tested our toolpaths to ensure smooth operation and reliable results during the actual machining process.

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😄 Here's a fun mental image of us around the CNC.

Group assignment link

#.Individual assignment

For this assignment, the goal was clear: design, mill, and assemble something big using computer-controlled machining. I wanted to create something that was not just large in scale but also practical and relevant to my daily life. That's how I came up with the idea of an adjustable computer stand, a piece I could use both for my Fab Academy tasks and regular work sessions.

My Approach

My initial idea was to design a portable and adjustable computer stand that could adapt to different working positions. I often work long hours, and comfort and flexibility are key. I also wanted the stand to be easy to disassemble for transport or storage.

The Journey: Challenges, Decisions & Results

Research & Inspiration

The first step was to explore what others had done. I browsed Pinterest and eventually found this image that captured the general look I was going for. Although there were no measurements, the structure gave me a solid visual guide for my own interpretation.

Design Phase

Using SolidWorks, I designed the adjustable stand. The structure was fairly simple two main side legs with vertical slots and a horizontal platform that could slide into different positions. I also made sure the parts would fit together without glue or screws (press-fit), which aligns with the Fab Academy's focus on digital fabrication.

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Simulation & Preparation for Milling

Before milling, I assembled the parts virtually in SolidWorks to check for any interferences or fit issues. The design looked good, so I exported the 2D drawings as DXF files, ready for CNC processing.

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Machining Process

I used VCarve to prepare the toolpaths and arrange the layout for cutting. After that, I set the origin and controlled the milling process using the ShopBot Control System Interface.

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The milling went smoothly, and all parts came out clean. I sanded the edges, assembled the pieces, and was satisfied to see the stand working just as expected — strong, stable, and adjustable.

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Reflection and Takeaways

  1. Start with visual research, even if you don’t have exact dimensions — inspiration can come from anywhere.
  2. Use 3D modeling software to simulate your assembly before milling; it helps you catch mistakes early.
  3. Always double-check your measurements and ensure all parts will fit within your material size and thickness.

Design files