7. 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.

To see our group assignment click here

Individual assignment:¶

• Make (design+mill+assemble) something big (~meter-scale)
• Extra credit: don't use fasteners or glue.

Storage Cabinet Fabrication Process¶

This documentation details the design and manufacturing of a storage cabinet, from 3D modeling to final assembly using CNC machining.

Step 01: Modeling and Cutting File Generation¶

I designed a custom storage cabinet using SolidWorks, focusing on structural integrity.

Cabinet Dimensions¶

Design Workflow¶

1. 2D Sketching: Precise dimensions and Dog-bone fillets at the corners for tool clearance.
2. 3D Modeling & Assembly: Converted to 3D to verify joinery and fit.
3. Export: Generated individual .DXF files for each piece.

Step 02: ShopBot CNC Preparation¶

1. Toolpath Creation (V-Carve Pro)¶

The DXF files were processed in V-Carve Pro to create the toolpaths.

Interface of V-Carve Pro showing the part positioning.

• Import & Positioning:

• Vector Check: Closing open vectors and nesting.

• Tool Selection: Using a 6mm down-cut end mill.

• Put a tab for secure

2. Machine & Material Setup¶

Before launching, I set up the ShopBot and the MDF sheet.

• Securing Material: Fixed the MDF sheet using screws.
• Machine Power: Starting the unit and the software.
• Spindle Control: Setting the correct RPM.
• Zeroing: Setting X, Y origin and Z-zero with the plate.

Step 03: Manufacturing Launch¶

The machining process is controlled via the ShopBot software: 1. Click Cut Part and select the G-code. 2. Press the green START button on the control pendant.

• video

Step 04: Assembly¶

The parts were cut, sanded, and assembled according to the 3D model.

📂 Project Files¶