Lizzie Edwards - Project 4: Desktop CNC

Process

For this project we used the CNC (Computer Numerical Control) Mill to create a design that incorporates a topographic element. We used Fusion 360 again to create our designs, but this time we created tool paths using CAM (Computer Aided Manufacturing) to then mill our design on the CNC. I first made a "things" catch-all tray for my mom because she loves wooden trays. I decided to utilize the 6x6 in dimensions completely and even go a little further and put some engravable writing. I then realized I needed to use some kind of topographic surface, so I took the topography around my house in north San Antonio and replaced the smooth top surface with the topographic data. Then I had to create the paths for the milling process. I made four total paths: one for cutting out the shape, one for the topographic contours, one for the engraving, and one morphed spiral. But when I came in to fabricate the design, Dawson found some better ways to do it. We went with his paths because they were quicker and likely going to come out better looking. 

My initial design.

My design with the topographic terrain lines.

Simulation the milling process.

Result

As always, I looked around online a lot to find a design I thought was visually appealing. I feel like I am pretty picky when it comes to what I am going to make, but I found a simple design I liked and couple make all on my own. Like I previously mentioned, I made the design first without the topographic surface and had to make it again to add it on top. The design I made was done without any help besides finally learning how easily it is to add words to a design. I did have to follow the video on creating tool paths, but this was fairly straightforward. I did have some trial and error in making my design the right shape and dimensions for the four indentions to hold "things." I actually enjoyed this part because I did have to play around with my design.

The start of fabricating the tray.

My tray right after coming off the CNC machine. 

Final project after engraving.

Reflection

Dawson helped a lot with the paths and the process of moving from Fusion to the machine. He and Ryan decided it would probably look much cooler and work better if we did the word engraving on the Epilog Laser. I think they were right, so that is what we decided to do instead. I learned from this and other student projects that small details will not always come out pretty. I think that if I were to do this project again, I would first choose my topographic data and be more meticulous with what type of design I would make based on that. I honestly don't like my tray very much because it is so thin that I am not sure what it can realistically hold.