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6. Large format CNC (computer controlled Machining)

This week I worked on the CNC machine, created a design with my group and an individual design using Fusion 360.

About the machine, safety and VCarve software

What is CNC ?

Computer Numerical Control Numerical control is the automated control of machining tools by means of a computer. A CNC machine processes a piece of material to meet specifications by following coded programmed instructions and without a manual operator directly controlling the machining operation.

Safety

VCarve

After making the design in Fusion 360 this design needs to transformed to a file where the CNC machine could read and that’s why we use VCarve.

What is VCarve?

VCarve allows you to create an exciting 3D carving from a simple 2D image. Routing or engraving using standard tools produces square-edged cuts of a set depth. If you want to replicate the subtlety of hand-carving for more delicate work then VCarve is an ideal and simple solution. Download Free Trial VCarve

Group Assignment

In this assignment we have test runout, alignment, speeds, feeds, and toolpaths for the machine. Our design was a mould for the Recycling Plastic Project

The design was simply a rectangle product to test it the wood is strong enough to handle the high temperature melted plastic.

Individual Assignment

I wanted to design a partition wall, I have added the dimensions graph I made. This design was done by Fusion 360 and the steps are clearly discussed below.

Fusion 360 Desgin

After defining my dimensions and the design I started making 3D design on Fusion 360. First, I made the base using the shown tools :

The Design

s

VCarve settings

Errors

While the machines was printing I faced some human errors of not putting enough space of 2 cm between each component which it caused some problem in cutting it as shown :

Also I have noticed that the machine takes long time to cut my design took 3 days to cut. Another thing the taps were very strong which removing it caused a obvious damage in my design as shown :

Files

The partition wall design


Last update: April 25, 2022