Following is the original project description provided by Dr. David Willy:
The Mechanical Engineering Department is looking for a space saving CNC table that can be retrofitted as a routing table, a 3D printer, or even a laser cutter. This year’s project will be centered on a routing table design configuration. As such, the client is looking for the following out of the finished product:
Ability to use both a typical router or dremel tool as the spindle
A robust table that has the ability to clamp typical work pieces
A robust travel system that limits deflection of tooling during operation
Ability for the table, travel system, and controls to convert into future configurations (3D printer or laser cutter) by future capstone teams
Travel – approximately 12x12x3 inches
Ability to make both aluminum and wooden parts
Uses standard 120V 60Hz.
Uses commercially available control boards and motors
Interfaces with available open source software on a windows operating system
Safety shielding around the table and the ability for the operator to still see the work piece.
Must have a safety kill switch and appropriate fusing per industry standards.
The finished deliverable to the client will include the following:
The functional system after a demonstration of the system making aluminum and wooden parts
Provide cut depth and width recommendations based on final design.
Provide a feeds and speeds chart based on different materials.
Provide a user’s manual for operation Original System Structure
This project involved the design of a completely new CNC Table. There was no original system when this project began.
