6. Week 6 Large format CNC (computer controlled Machining)¶
Day 1 - CNC Group Assignment
Day 2 - Design
SolidWorks Design¶
I wanted to go with a simple square box design where i design it from scratch. Before starting the design, we were given a limitation of the design where the MDF wooden board size provided is 8 x 4 feet (243 x 122 cm). Hence, the design restrictions were considered for the box to ensure that most of the material is utilized with minimal waste. Another restriction was that the use of any fasteners or adhesives were prohibited and the box should be fitted through joints only. The entire design has been made on SolidWorks.
Since I wanted some engraving on the wood to not have the box be basic, I added a an image of a logo to be etched into the design.
The dog-bones are added as they are required for the joint holes since the cutting tool is circular and needs to ensure the cut is reaching the measured distance. The dog-bone size is based on the diameter of the cutting tool. Hence, the design was made based on the consideration of a 6mm diameter of the cutting tool.
Click here to download it as a DXF file
Day 3 - Cutting Process
CNC Cutting¶
More details about the entire CNC process can be found in the CNC Group Assignment Link
After the completion of the cutting process, the plates have been removed and filed to remove unnecessary sharp edges and smoothen the surfaces.
Day 4 - Assembly
With the assistance of Yaqoob, I managed to assemble the box using a soft mallet.
Personal Notes
- CNC machining is a very simple task as long as you are following all the safety procedures and understand the limitations of your design.
- Issues that may arise are during your design ensuring the the joints are up to the expected dimensions with tolerances considered depending on the material used.
- Make sure to check the 3D design assembly through the software first before cutting to double check that all the parameters are satisfied.
Last update:
September 15, 2024