Tools: ShopBot CNC: Difference between revisions

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Shop Bot
== Tool Description ==
The ShopBot is a 3-axis CNC (Computer Numerically Controlled) router.  It is capable of cutting pieces out of 4 foot by 8 foot sheets of material (i.e. plywood or MDF);  Smaller pieces can also be used.


== Tool Description: ==
It can make vector cuts (and pockets and drill holes) for shapes like boxes, circles, arcade cabinets, flat-pack furniture, gears, and airplanes; as well as carving 3d models of things like faces, terrain, plaques, ceiling medallions, door panels, or Carbonite prisoners.
The ShopBot is a CNC (Computer Numerically Controlled) router.  It is capable of cutting pieces out of 4 foot by 8 foot sheets of material. (i.e. plywood or MDF)


We use VCarvePro for layout, toolpath creation, and save toolpaths with post processing for ShopBot.
== Software ==
                                                                               
 
                                                                               
=== VCarve ===
== Materials (what to use, and not use, it on): ==
 
We use VCarvePro for layout, toolpath creation, and to save toolpaths with post processing for ShopBot.
 
VCarvePro can import these formats:
* [http://support.vectric.com/aspire-questions/item/what-vector-file-formats-can-be-imported Vector formats]: DXF, EPS, AI, PDF, SKP, DWG
* [http://support.vectric.com/vcp-questions/item/what-3d-file-formats-can-be-imported-copy 3d formats]: STL, DXF, 3DS, OBJ, SKP, V3M, LWO, 3DM,  WRL
* [http://support.vectric.com/aspire-questions/item/can-i-work-image-files These Bitmap formats] can be imported and automatically or manually traced to generate vectors for cutting: BMP, JPG/JPEG, GIF, TIF/TIFF, PNG
* Bitmaps can be converted into 3d models for carving using other tools.
* [http://vector-conversions.com/vectorizing/raster_vs_vector.html The difference between Vector and Raster images.]
 
Creating or importing vectors in VCarve and assigning them toolpaths is fairly straightforward, once explained.  Setting up 3d models requires more tweaking.
 
Members can get the [http://www.vectric.com/makerspace.html VCarve Pro Makerspace Client] for use on their own computers.
<blockquote>
    The Makerspace Client edition will allow users to design from scratch or import their data from other packages and includes the ability to both generate and simulate toolpaths, however it will not save these in a format that can be understood by the CNC machine. To complete this last step though the user can then bring the VCarve Pro files from the Client edition into the Makerspace and save their toolpaths to cut on the Makerspace’s CNC machine using the Makerspace edition of VCarve Pro licensed and installed at that location. [http://www.vectric.com/media/files/products/vcp/makerspace/MakerspaceDocument.pdf (Source and further documentation)]
</blockquote>
Install v11.0 VCarve Trial Version (do not use 11.5). Going to [https://www.vectric.com/free-trial/vcarve-pro https://www.vectric.com/free-trial/vcarve-pro] to will download v11.5 of VCarve Pro Trial Edition.  If it is a newer version than that of the hackerspace, see the pinned messages for download links to the correct version(s) (typically from google drive) in #cnc-shopbot channel on THS slack.  When prompted to sign up or log in, you can select Download as Guest.  Once installed, select "About VCarve Pro Trial Edition..." from the Help menu, then "enter the Makerspace ID" to connect the trial to the Makerspace client.  This ID number is also pinned in the #cnc-shopbot channel on THS slack, as a file named <b>THS MakerSpace VCarve Info.txt</b>. This [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hwUAs_FY134 video] explains the process.
 
=== Fusion 360 ===
 
Many members use [[Classes: Fusion 360|Fusion 360]] for their toolchain (bypassing VCarve).  This has been accomplished by going to "Manufacture in Fusion 360 to generate tool paths and export to SBP format." It is recommended you perform an "Air cut", with the router high above your work surface, before performing the actual cut.
 
== Materials (what to use, and not use, it on) ==
*  Wood (MDF, plywood, hard woods, soft woods (pine, poplar), etc)
*  Wood (MDF, plywood, hard woods, soft woods (pine, poplar), etc)
*  High density foam
*  High density foam
*  Metals
*  Acrylic?
*  Acrylic?
Other??
Metals can't be cut because the spindle (router) doesn't turn slow enough


== General and Special Safety Considerations: ==                              
== General and Special Safety Considerations ==
'''This is not an exhaustive list!                                            
'''This is not an exhaustive list!
* '''Always wear safety glasses.'''                                            
* '''Always wear safety glasses.'''
* '''Read, understand and follow all warning labels, instructions and safety manuals.'''
* '''Read, understand and follow all warning labels, instructions and safety manuals.'''
* Hearing and respiratory protection are recommended.
* The ShopBot may start and move in unexpected ways.  Stay well clear of all moving parts during operation.  Warn any bystanders before you command the ShopBot to begin a motion.
*  The ShopBot's router may create dust, chips, and larger chunks.  These may be thrown from the cutter.  Be aware of possible projectiles.  Always wear safety glasses.


== Classes ==
* Classes are offered on a regular basis.
* Check meetup for the next scheduled class:  [https://www.meetup.com/Tampa-Hackerspace/events/ Tampa Hackerspace Meetup]
* Recommended reading: [https://www.v1engineering.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/LMT-Onsrud-CNC-Prod-Routing-Guide.pdf ONSRUD Cutter LP - CNC Production Routing Guide]


== Classes: ==
* '''Prerequisites'''
* We are currently working to build a class, however, William Stillwell and others do offer 1:1 training when they are available ( Generally Open Make night is good, please coordinate with him a ahead of time, and have material ready )
** Students must have the ability to generate toolpaths using one of the supported CAM tools (VCarve or Fusion 360). Generating toolpaths is outside the scope of this class.
 
*** There are separate classes for VCarve and Fusion360.
** Students must have completed woodshop safety before taking this course.
** This meetup is open to paid members only.


When asking for training on the ShopBot, you should first have (pre-requsites):
* [https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/12kCdBXTbjjEzhcGE_IeuvdE3nk53ES8_/edit?usp=sharing&ouid=117262156839396407579&rtpof=true&sd=true Class slide-show deck]
* Taken the wood shop class so you know how we want things cleaned up.
* A basic understanding of work holding, feeds and speeds, and conventional and climb cutting (as taught in the machine shop class).
* A project idea, and have either already generated vector files for your project, or, for simpler designs, measurements of the pieces you want to cut outThis could be as simple as a couple boxes and a circle cut from a piece of plywood.
* Material to use to cut. This could be a sheet of wood, or an appropriate scrap from the wood bin.  Your material should be relatively flat, free of any metal (nails, screws, staples) and in good condition.  I.e. not rotting, splintering boards you found on the side of the road.


== Pre-Use checklist: ==
== Pre-Use checklist ==
Before using the ShopBot, you should:
Before using the ShopBot, you should:
*  Ensure that the gantry (y-axis) is square to the rest of the ShopBot frame.
*  Ensure that the gantry (y-axis) is square to the rest of the ShopBot frame.
Line 36: Line 62:
*  Ensure you have the desired bit installed in the router.
*  Ensure you have the desired bit installed in the router.
*  Zero out your Z axis.
*  Zero out your Z axis.
*  Triple check that your intended cut path will not impact any holddowns
*  Triple check that your intended cut path will not impact any hold-downs
*  Wear hearing and eye protection.
*  Wear hearing and eye protection.
*  Activate the JET dust collection vacuum system.
*  Activate the dust collection vacuum system.
*  Before hitting "Cut Part", do a bladder check.
*  Before hitting "Cut Part", do a bladder check.
*  "Cut Part".  You will be prompted to turn on the router. ("Spindle")
*  "Cut Part".  You will be prompted to turn on the router. ("Spindle")


== Post-Use Checklist (cleanup, etc): ==
== Post-Use Checklist (cleanup, etc) ==
When you have finished using the ShopBot, be sure that you:
When you have finished using the ShopBot, be sure that you:
* Return the tool to the traditional [0,0] position in the lower-left corner.  Zero the axises if they have been changed.
* Return the tool to the traditional [0,0] position in the lower-left corner.  Zero the axises if they have been changed.
* Install a standard cutter bit if you have changed to a specialized bit.
* Install a standard cutter bit if you have changed to a specialized bit.
* Use compressed air to blow dust off the ShopBot itself, the computers, and the work bench.
* Vacuum or sweep wood chips, debris and dust off the bed and the tool.
* Vacuum or sweep wood chips, debris and dust off the bed and the tool.
* Use compressed air to blow dust off the ShopBot itself, the computers, and the work bench.
* Sweep up dust and debris within 4 a foot area around the ShopBot.
* Sweep up dust and debris in the area around the ShopBot.
* Return any other tools you have used to their storage location.
* Return any other tools you have used to their storage location.
* Turn off the ShopBot CPU.
* Turn off the ShopBot CPU.
* Turn off the laptop.
* Turn off the NUC (smaller computer).
* Turn off the power strip and the light above.
* Unplug all electrical cords used and return them to stowed condition


== Tool Use: ==
== Tool Use ==
Please take a class or ask for individual instruction


                                                                 
== Tips and Tricks ==                                                           
== Tips and Tricks: ==                                                           
For those who are looking to buy Bits, Here are the current Recommended Bits to purchase for your "Tool Box"
For those who are looking to buy Bits, Here are the current Recommended Bits to purchase for you "Tool Box"
*  Whiteside UD2100 Spiral Cut Bit (Compression), .25 Diameter, .25 Shank, 1" Cut Length, 2.5" Overall Length -- Good For Wood and will give nice clean cut - Available via Woodcraft Special Order Item # 818489  $38.49
*  Whiteside UD2100 Spiral Cut Bit (Compression), .25 Diameter, .25 Shank, 1" Cut Length, 2.5" Overall Length -- Good For Wood and will give nice clean cut - Available via Woodcraft Special Order Item # 818489  $38.49
*  Whiteside RD2100 Spircal Cut Bit (Down Cut), .25 Diameter, .25 Shank, 1" Cut Length, 2.5" Overall Length -- Good For Wood cuts downward pushing work against table - Available via Woodcraft Special Order Item # 812126  $20.99
*  Whiteside RD2100 Spircal Cut Bit (Down Cut), .25 Diameter, .25 Shank, 1" Cut Length, 2.5" Overall Length -- Good For Wood cuts downward pushing work against table - Available via Woodcraft Special Order Item # 812126  $20.99
Line 64: Line 90:
*  Whiteside is the best bits you can buy, they will last as long as you live, and you can pass them on to your children provided you take good care of them.
*  Whiteside is the best bits you can buy, they will last as long as you live, and you can pass them on to your children provided you take good care of them.


== Related links ==


== Related links: ==
[http://www.instructables.com/id/Cutting-1-inch-Acrylic/ Cutting-1-inch-Acrylic]
 
http://www.instructables.com/id/Cutting-1-inch-Acrylic/


[https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/12kCdBXTbjjEzhcGE_IeuvdE3nk53ES8_/edit?usp=sharing&ouid=117262156839396407579&rtpof=true&sd=true  Class instruction deck]


[[Category:Tools]]
[[Category:Tools]]
[[Category:Fabrication]]
[[Category:Fabrication]]
[[Category:Woodworking]]
[[Category:Wood Shop]]
[[Category:CNC]]

Latest revision as of 22:09, 10 May 2023

Tool Description

The ShopBot is a 3-axis CNC (Computer Numerically Controlled) router. It is capable of cutting pieces out of 4 foot by 8 foot sheets of material (i.e. plywood or MDF); Smaller pieces can also be used.

It can make vector cuts (and pockets and drill holes) for shapes like boxes, circles, arcade cabinets, flat-pack furniture, gears, and airplanes; as well as carving 3d models of things like faces, terrain, plaques, ceiling medallions, door panels, or Carbonite prisoners.

Software

VCarve

We use VCarvePro for layout, toolpath creation, and to save toolpaths with post processing for ShopBot.

VCarvePro can import these formats:

Creating or importing vectors in VCarve and assigning them toolpaths is fairly straightforward, once explained. Setting up 3d models requires more tweaking.

Members can get the VCarve Pro Makerspace Client for use on their own computers.

The Makerspace Client edition will allow users to design from scratch or import their data from other packages and includes the ability to both generate and simulate toolpaths, however it will not save these in a format that can be understood by the CNC machine. To complete this last step though the user can then bring the VCarve Pro files from the Client edition into the Makerspace and save their toolpaths to cut on the Makerspace’s CNC machine using the Makerspace edition of VCarve Pro licensed and installed at that location. (Source and further documentation)

Install v11.0 VCarve Trial Version (do not use 11.5). Going to https://www.vectric.com/free-trial/vcarve-pro to will download v11.5 of VCarve Pro Trial Edition. If it is a newer version than that of the hackerspace, see the pinned messages for download links to the correct version(s) (typically from google drive) in #cnc-shopbot channel on THS slack. When prompted to sign up or log in, you can select Download as Guest. Once installed, select "About VCarve Pro Trial Edition..." from the Help menu, then "enter the Makerspace ID" to connect the trial to the Makerspace client. This ID number is also pinned in the #cnc-shopbot channel on THS slack, as a file named THS MakerSpace VCarve Info.txt. This video explains the process.

Fusion 360

Many members use Fusion 360 for their toolchain (bypassing VCarve). This has been accomplished by going to "Manufacture in Fusion 360 to generate tool paths and export to SBP format." It is recommended you perform an "Air cut", with the router high above your work surface, before performing the actual cut.

Materials (what to use, and not use, it on)

  • Wood (MDF, plywood, hard woods, soft woods (pine, poplar), etc)
  • High density foam
  • Acrylic?
  • Metals can't be cut because the spindle (router) doesn't turn slow enough

General and Special Safety Considerations

This is not an exhaustive list!

  • Always wear safety glasses.
  • Read, understand and follow all warning labels, instructions and safety manuals.
  • Hearing and respiratory protection are recommended.
  • The ShopBot may start and move in unexpected ways. Stay well clear of all moving parts during operation. Warn any bystanders before you command the ShopBot to begin a motion.
  • The ShopBot's router may create dust, chips, and larger chunks. These may be thrown from the cutter. Be aware of possible projectiles. Always wear safety glasses.

Classes

  • Prerequisites
    • Students must have the ability to generate toolpaths using one of the supported CAM tools (VCarve or Fusion 360). Generating toolpaths is outside the scope of this class.
      • There are separate classes for VCarve and Fusion360.
    • Students must have completed woodshop safety before taking this course.
    • This meetup is open to paid members only.

Pre-Use checklist

Before using the ShopBot, you should:

  • Ensure that the gantry (y-axis) is square to the rest of the ShopBot frame.
  • Zero out your X and Y axises to the desired location.
  • Ensure you have the desired bit installed in the router.
  • Zero out your Z axis.
  • Triple check that your intended cut path will not impact any hold-downs
  • Wear hearing and eye protection.
  • Activate the dust collection vacuum system.
  • Before hitting "Cut Part", do a bladder check.
  • "Cut Part". You will be prompted to turn on the router. ("Spindle")

Post-Use Checklist (cleanup, etc)

When you have finished using the ShopBot, be sure that you:

  • Return the tool to the traditional [0,0] position in the lower-left corner. Zero the axises if they have been changed.
  • Install a standard cutter bit if you have changed to a specialized bit.
  • Use compressed air to blow dust off the ShopBot itself, the computers, and the work bench.
  • Vacuum or sweep wood chips, debris and dust off the bed and the tool.
  • Sweep up dust and debris within 4 a foot area around the ShopBot.
  • Return any other tools you have used to their storage location.
  • Turn off the ShopBot CPU.
  • Turn off the NUC (smaller computer).
  • Unplug all electrical cords used and return them to stowed condition

Tool Use

Please take a class or ask for individual instruction

Tips and Tricks

For those who are looking to buy Bits, Here are the current Recommended Bits to purchase for your "Tool Box"

  • Whiteside UD2100 Spiral Cut Bit (Compression), .25 Diameter, .25 Shank, 1" Cut Length, 2.5" Overall Length -- Good For Wood and will give nice clean cut - Available via Woodcraft Special Order Item # 818489 $38.49
  • Whiteside RD2100 Spircal Cut Bit (Down Cut), .25 Diameter, .25 Shank, 1" Cut Length, 2.5" Overall Length -- Good For Wood cuts downward pushing work against table - Available via Woodcraft Special Order Item # 812126 $20.99
  • Whiteside SA2100 O-Flute Straight Router Bit, .25 Diameter, .25 Shank, 1" Cut Length, 3.5" Overall Length -- This is for Plastic - Available via Woodcraft Special Order Item # 405215 $27.99
  • Whiteside is the best bits you can buy, they will last as long as you live, and you can pass them on to your children provided you take good care of them.

Related links

Cutting-1-inch-Acrylic

Class instruction deck