[Sbthomas13]

Today we started to cut out the X Axis Torsion Box Long Run Supports.

Preperation: First we ripped a piece of MDF to a blank that would fit two of the supports on it. We then cross cut it to the desired length on the radial arm saw. The blank was then placed on the CNC table and placed against a fence in the sacraficial board. This fence was made by lowering the bit into the sacraficial board and then moving the bit along the X and Y, allowing for a channel that was 1/4" wide and that was parallel with the movement of the router on the X and Y. We then cut 1/4" pieces of wood to fit into the channel to make the fence. The blank was then attached to the sacrificial board using screws.

Geometry: Using the CAD provided by Joe, I combined the X Axis Torsion Box Long Run Brace (1) with the X Axis Torsion Box Long Run Brace (2) creating one long part. I then split the geometry at the half point. The geometry was then divided into two files. The first file places the part that will be cut first 1" from the bottom of the blank. The second file places the second part that will be cut directly on the X-axis (our shorter axis that runs across the table..we did call it the Y until our teacher told us it was the X). This would allow us to align our pieces to the fence, zero the machine on the bottom left hand corner of the blank, cut the first part, mark a line at the end of the first cut, slide the blank down until the mark lines up with the origin, make the second cut.


We cut out the first part, but now we are not quite sure how to cut out the second part. Should I just draw a line at the end of the first cut (Look at picture) and then line that up with the origin? Or should I draw a line at the end of the first cut, measure down 1/8" to account for the radius of the bit, and then line that up with the origin? Or should I use a different method?

I just don't want the part to be too short....It can't be too long, because if it is there will be a gap of mdf between the two halfs and I will know. But if the tool paths run into eachother, then it could shorten the part.. Ideas?


Picture 1: Layout of Blank on sheet of MDF
Picture 2: Cross cutting MDF Blank to length
Picture 3: Blank placed on CNC table
Picture 4: Fence Channel
Picture 5: Fence Channel (2)
Picture 6: Fence Channel (3)
Picture 7: Cut Begins
Picture 8: Inside contours being cut
Picture 9: Inside contours being cut (2)
Picture 10: Outside contours being cut
Picture 11: Outside contours being cut (2)
Picture 12: Origin
Picture 13: Finished cut
Picture 14: Finished cut (2)
Picture 15: First half cut
Pitcure 16: Line drawn at end of cut
Picture 17: Geometry Split