Welcome to week 7 of FabAcademy! This assignment delves into the realm of CNC by embarking on a project to create something substantial. Through this process, we aim to grasp the capabilities of the machine and explore its potential.
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Computer numerical control (CNC) machining, a technique in manufacturing, employs computerized software and hardware to direct cutting tool movements, shaping materials into desired products. CNC machines are versatile, capable of accurately cutting, drilling, and milling various materials like wood, metal, plastics, and composites. The software facilitates the creation of intricate designs, ensuring precise replication by the machine.
A CNC (Computer Numerical Control) Milling Machine is used to precisely cut, carve, or engrave wooden components based on a computer-generated design. The machine operates using pre-programmed software to perform complex tasks with high accuracy, making it ideal for producing intricate patterns, furniture components, and decorative items.
This week's group assingment was to do the lab's safety training and to test the runout, alignment, fixturing, speeds, feeds, materials and toolpaths for the machine in our lab. We milled out a plywood test piece with various features mentioned in the group assignment.
I took inspiration from a Adjustable height computer stand design by Portuguese Designer and modelled my version of it on solidworks
I began the design process by focusing on the dimentions.
Initially, I designed the top of the structure
now i started to design the side legs
After designing the components, i have started to assemble each
After assembling, i have gotten this results
Then i imported them on coral draw to convert it into dxf file
Dog bone is a woodcutting technique employed to craft precise and seamless joints between two wood pieces. This method entails carving out a small notch or groove at the end of one piece to perfectly accommodate the shape of the other, resulting in a flush and sturdy joint.
Art cam is a software application used for creating and preparing designs specifically for CNC (Computer Numerical Control) routing machines. It allows users to design intricate 2D and 3D models, generate toolpaths, and simulate the machining process. Art cam software is commonly utilized in woodworking, signage, and other industries that involve CNC routing and engraving.
Once I had the .dxf file, I saved it onto a USB flash drive and subsequently transferred it to the PC that is connected to the CNC Wood Router STM 1325 machine.
Issue with CNC Wood Router STM 1325 and Solution
Our CNC Wood Router STM 1325 CNC experienced a malfunction due to a damaged MOSFET in the Z-axis. This issue raised concerns about completing our CNC week projects on time. After discussing the problem with my instructors, they suggested using the VCarve cutter as an alternative.
Adjustments and Solution Implementation
The cutter has the capability to mill plywood up to 12 mm in thickness. To accommodate this, I adjusted my design to 18 mm, which aligns with the available plywood stock in our inventory.
Drill Tool (DT): Used for drilling & routing holes in various materials with precision so i need to use this tool
The machine's versatility is further enhanced by its modular design, which enables easy customization and integration of additional tools and modules based on specific production needs.
this is the controler it have lot of options and i learned some of them
now im putting the drill bit to the origin point
you can see the drill bit on the origin point.
now i opened the loaded file on the contrller
i selected my design file and we are ready to mill
you can see our machine at salem fab lab
i was started the milling process by pressing run
we need to wait for the mill to done
this is the final output after milling
this are the saftey stuffs we have.
this machine is im going to use it for finishing
wearing saftey equipments looks funny but it saves you from damaging yourself
im removing any burs left on the wood try to giving a smooth finish
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