Introduction to Computer Numerical Control
Introduction to Computer Numerical Control
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Introduction: This tutorial will guide you through the basic principles of using a CNC router
What is a stock?
What is a stock?
The stock is the raw material that the vehicle will be cut out from. We will all be using a standard size that is the following dimensions:
Width: 200mm
Height: 150mm
Depth: 16mm
What are Work Coordinates?
What are Work Coordinates?
To make writing CNC programs easier, we use a Work Coordinate System, or WCS. The WCS defines a particular origin point on a block of material.
We will manipulate the WCS until we see that the Z axis (Z) points up.
What is the Stock Point?
What is the Stock Point?
The Stock Point informs the CNC router where to start cutting the stock.
We will manipulate the Stock Point until we see that it starts on the top of the material and in the bottom left corner.
What are boreholes?
What are boreholes?
The boreholes are small holes in the body of the toy needed to accomodate the axles.
These holes should be precisely 10.5mm to allow the 10mm axle to spin freely.
What are 2D Contour Cuts?
What are 2D Contour Cuts?
The 2D Contour Cuts are cuts that follow the outline of the toy precisely to cut out the desired shape.
The same command can also be used to cut out windows.
These cut lines should be repeated with the "Multiple Depths" option as this will ensure that the CNC router can manage - cutting too much material in one go would break the tool.
What are Tabs?
What are Tabs?
Tabs are small pieces of material that are left uncut to ensure that the pull toy does not move around as it is being machined on the CNC router.
These tabs should be included by selecting the "Tabs" option
Tabs can easily be removed later with a craft knife.
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