I needed a CNC machine but dont have the $10,000+ for even a small one so I stumbled across this DIY article and got re-motivated. I figured before that I may be able to make a manual "CNC" but that wouldnt suffice with my time savings and automation needs.




Goal: automate the routing of desired logos or shapes both positive and negative to create a "puzzle" of pieces that fit precisely together out of different materials. They will then be epoxied and in-laid together. The end result will be, for ex, a board in one color/material with a business logo in-laid in another color/material.






I was thinking of something like this one better but a dremel may not be the best router for the job because the material being cut will be wood, sheet metal, fiberglass and carbon fiber. A carbide or diamond tipped bit will be required and high rpms. In the above video the movement seems a bit choppy?






Todos:
  1. determine the best board (arduino, netduino, etc) that satisfies all requirements.
  2. cutting tool: dremel or router?
    • needs to be mounted precisely and repeatedly for when servicing needs to be performed it can be remounted accurately.
  3. size of largest job to be cut: 2' x 4'
    • may make it larger to be able to cut multiples on a single sheet without reloading
  4. needs dust collection
  5. figure out how to convert or design the templates in the required format(s)
    • image logos and text converted into "cnc" instructions

*More to be added as the project evolves

Any input or suggestions are welcomed.