Every Project Needs a Plan

This image is from a 3D model of the CRP 100 router. It uses a linear motion mechanism that I am really impressed with. This hardware is sold by CNC Router Parts and plans for the CRP 100 are free to download! It is a design that makes excellent use of the characteristics of the materials used. It is likely that we will be looking into these linear motion mechanisms in future posts.

Now to the subject at hand. It is time to think a bit about what this project involves, at least in outline. I have a general idea of the main pieces needed, so let's begin. We can fill in the details as we go along.

First, I am thinking it would be nice to use the Thanksgiving holiday to assemble the actual CNC Router. If things go well in the assembly and setup perhaps a turkey carving attachment could be designed. This would create great excitement around the table! However, I would hope to just get the basic assembly complete during that week.

I have pretty much decided that a kit would be the best approach for me rather than having to source all parts and materials and building from plans. Based on what I have seen so far CNC kit purveyors require up to 4 weeks of lead time to deliver a kit. Many of the businesses that serve the hobby CNC market are cottage industries that probably order their material only after receiving a firm customer order. This would mean making my final decision and placing an order no later than mid-October for a kit (i.e. in the next week or so). That is a useful data point. I will need to structure my plan so that I make good use of the 4 weeks of waiting time. Otherwise this will be a very slow moving blog and project.

Here are the major capabilities, activities or items that need to be in place for a complete system:

• Create Part Geometry (2D and 3D) - CAD and Drawing Applications
• Create Tool Paths and G-Code Files - CAM Application
• PC-based CNC Controller - Hardware and Software
• CNC Power Supply and Drivers
• Configure and Test Controller/Driver/Stepper Motor Sub-System
• Build Router Stand/Table
• Router Machine Assembly and Setup
• Testing and Tuning

I will detail out a project plan and get it posted this week. It will be fun to watch the plan depart from reality as things go along!