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The ShopBot is an automated CNC mill that can carve both 21⁄2 D and full 3D designs on a 96” x 48” bed. It offers high-precision milling of complicated shapes. Learning how to use the ShopBot may be useful when you need to carve large, complicated shapes out of wood or other similar materials, though it can only cut materials less than 3 inches deep.
Disclaimer: This page aims to provide information to prepare shop users for using the Shopbot, and to give a better idea of the ShopBot's capabilities. This page is not a comprehensive guide of how to use the ShopBot, and does not replace in-person training on the machine. To learn how to use the Shopbot properly, talk to a proctor or shop manager.
Main Tutorial
Main Tutorial
Note: The tutorial mentions a folder of Solidworks part files called "puzzle". That folder is here.
ShopBot Tutorial.pdfSetup and DXF Conversion
Setup and DXF Conversion
ShopBot Setup.docxConverting a 3D Model to G-Code
Converting a 3D Model to G-Code
The ShopBot runs a specific flavor of G-code that is not supported by Solidworks CAM (the shop's recommended CAM software). Users that want to export G-code from a CAD model will have to use HSMExpress/HSMWorks by Autodesk, a free CAM plugin for Solidworks. HSMExpress has a post-processor that will export G-code in a ShopBot-friendly format. The post processor is available for download here.
Tool Info and Feeds & Speeds
Tool Info and Feeds & Speeds
Tool Info & Speeds and Feeds.pdfUser Guide
User Guide
ShopBot User Guide.pdfPage updated
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