Can a DIY CNC Router this

[DougMorency]

I was wondering if a DIY CNC Routher could do this



more pics at

http://www.easyracers.com/pod/web/

Thanks
Doug Morency

[mxtras]

Why would it not be able to?

If the machine can physically address the envelope, then the rest is somewhat of a foolish question - the motors do not care what the shape is, it's up to the imagination and/or ability of the programmer and operator to get the results. The machine is simply a tool - and therefore it's only as good as the operator.

Scott

[kdoney]

There seems to be a discontinuity in the piece about 1/2 way up.

[DougMorency]

There seems to be a discontinuity in the piece about 1/2 way up.

This Piece is made in two so it is hollow, if you look at the other pics on the site.

I want to use this technique to build bodies for recumbent bikes, and I was not sure if a diy cnc router woulkd work, as I am new to this and to your site.

Thanks
Doug Morency.

[ger21]

Depending on the size of the machine, you'd probably need to do it in layers and then put them together after they're cut. MeshCAM can create the g-code, and it's cheap. www.MeshCAM.com

You'll need to have a 3D CAD model of the part, of course.

[mxtras]

The part apears to be completely laminated from maybe 1/2 or 3/4 particle board. The other pics show them profiling individual sheets on a commercial router and another pic shows what appears to be abrasive rotary cutters - a bit odd if that's what they are using but - hey - do what works for you. This is all speculation, of course.

There is a definate incongruency in the part pic'd in post 1 but I am willing to bet it's layered up from the base, 1/2" or 3/4" at a time. More speculation...

Scott

[High Seas]

DougMorency
the answer is - yes.
But, the simple answer begs more questions:
How much are you willing to to spend?
How many other things do you want to build?
Will you use it to build something other than "plugs."
Will you sell enough to pay for the machine and your time?

There are other members planning/building/using their DIY machines for aircraft and cars!
Just bacause its DIY doesn't mean it is cheap or lacks capability. There are some VERY NICE DIY machines on the site. You could take a look thru the members gallery and get an idea or two that may help.
BTW- it could be cut in layers using a technique called "slabbing." (StlWork does it.)
Much for you to think about! Enjoy the journey!
Jim

[ViperTX]

You guys saying yes...need to take a look at the nearly vertical sides....the only way to accomplish this task as a single piece is with a rotary table and a z-axis that would allow it to swivel 90 degrees....there are other options like machining 1/2 of the long side then flipping it over and machining the other have.....most DIY routers don't have long spindles that are small in diameter....there are a lot of challenges with this part....

[turmite]

It can be carved one layer at a time then glued together. I have just finished doing a foam buck for a sports car top like this because my z clearance was not enough. It went together quite neatly and easily.

Mike

[kdoney]

One slice at a time for sure. It would be more than 3 axes but a simple rotary on the z would handle that.

[mxtras]

Cut pin locations into each individual piece and you lose almost no accuracy at all.

Scott

[High Seas]

As long as the considered opinion is yes - a DIY CNC can do that, the next question begged is - HOW?
At more cost and complexity - 4th axis.
Or as Mike, Scott, kdoney, and I suggested, 3 axis could do it in slabs - as done already. From a design engineering perspective, might consider building the plug by slabing "sideways." I mean put the partlines thru the vertical axis rather than horizontal as shown. Left and right 1/2s are mirrored and pinned as suggested. Just another way to, "skin the cat."

Jim
Turmite - Mike do you have more pics of your "hardtop?" Just seen one here. PM me. Thanks Jim