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6. Large format CNC (computer controlled Machining)

This week’s task was to use the CNC machine to build a design of your own.

The Group assignment can be found here It shows how we chose the best feeds and speeds, depth of cut etc.

What is a CNC machine?

CNC (Computer Numerical Control) machining is a production technique in which industrial equipment and machinery are controlled by pre-programmed computer software. From grinders and lathes to mills and CNC routers, the procedure may be utilized to manage a wide range of complicated gear.

Designing the object

I have chosen to build and design a two layered shelf using fusion 360. Below is the process of designing the shelf.

First step was creating a parameters table which makes the process easier.

Then I started designing and creating the body parts of the shelf. At first I designed and created the back part of the shelf. As shown below.

Then I designed and created the first shelf.

Then I mirrored the body to get get another shelf, and using the cut feature and alignment feature, the shelfs were attached to the back part of the shelf as shown.

Then I sketched the sides part, mirrored it and again using the cut and alignment feature all parts were perfectly attached.

Finally, using the offset feature the tolerances were made to get a design which would fit perfectly.

Siuuuuuuuuu V2 by Talal.Abdulla on Sketchfab

Click here to download the body parts of the design

Safety measures for CNC machines

1.Wear closed shoes. 2.Long hair has to be tied. 3.Avoid wearing loose clothes or dangling jewelry. 4.Keep safe distance (1m) between you and the machine while its operating 5.Wear Safety goggles.

Using CNC machine

  1. Save all sketched done in fusion 360 as dxf files.
  2. Download the Vcarve software by clickinghere
  3. Click on Create new file
  4. Adjust the sizes of the ply in this coloumn
  5. Import the dxf files.
  6. After importing the files, create ‘dog bone fillets’ on the corners of the joint.
  7. use this colomn to edit the toolpath measurments and features to what you desire them to be.

Hero Shots

Problem faced

An issue occured due to the joints being slightly wide. In order to overcome this, small nails were used as shown below.

Last update: April 21, 2022