Digital modeling and fabrication: Difference between revisions

Revision as of 22:02, 14 January 2017

Revision as of 05:25, 8 June 2017

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CNC stands computer numerical control. CNC mills or routers include proprietary software which interprets 2D vector drawings or 3D models and converts this information to a [[G-code]], which represents specific CNC functions in alphanumeric format which the CNC mill can interpret. The g-codes drive a [[machine tool]], a powered [[Machine|mechanical device]] typically used to fabricate components.<ref>{{Cite web|title = Five CNC Myths and Misconceptions {{!}} Modern Machine Shop|url = http://www.mmsonline.com/columns/five-cnc-myths-and-misconceptions|website = www.mmsonline.com|access-date = 2016-02-17|first = Mike|last = Lynch}}</ref> CNC machines are classified according to the number of axes that they possess, with 3, 4, and 5 axis machines all being common, and industrial robots being described with having as many as 9 axes. CNC machines are specifically successful in milling materials such as plywood, [[foam board]], and metal at a fast speed. CNC machine beds are typically large enough to allow 4' × 8' (123&nbsp;cm x 246&nbsp;cm) sheets of material, including foam several inches thick, to be cut.

===Laser Cuttercutter===

The laser cutter is a machine that uses a laser to cut materials such as chip board, matte board, felt, wood, and acrylic up to 3/8" (1&nbsp;cm) thickness. The laser cutter is often bundled with a driver software which interprets vector drawings produced by any number of CAD software platforms.

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Objects cut out of materials can be used in the fabrication of physical models, which will only require the assembly of the flat parts.

===3D Printersprinters===

[[3d printer]]s use a variety of methods and technology to assemble physical versions of digital objects. Typically desktop 3d printers can make small plastic 3d objects. They use a roll of thin plastic filament, melting the plastic and then depositing it precisely to cool and harden. They normally build 3D objects from bottom to top in a series of many very thin plastic horizontal layers. This process often happens over the course of a several hours.