Future refinements:

3D workflow

Linux-based workflow ( so I can use the same PC as EMC2 is using)

2.5D CNC Workflow:

1)  Google sketchup:

Create your object.  This software is great for really quick and easy modelling.  Set the accuracy to a helpful value (eg 1mm if you’re just doing something quick and simple, 0.01mm if it’s going onto a knee mill).  One limitation is that circles are modelled as segmented lines – increase the number of segments until your mill doesn’t notice anymore.

2)  Export from sketchup to dxf using the ruby plug-in on this page:

http://www.guitar-list.com/download-software/convert-sketchup-skp-files-dxf-or-stl

3)  Edit the data (if necessary) in ProgeSOFT Smart:

Open the dxf in this free 2D & 3D CAD package.  The user interface is heavily based on AutoCAD, so you’ll be right at home here…  Free for non-commercial use, £240 for a licence.

http://www.progesoft.com/en/smart-2009#downl

4)  Import to CamBam, insert the machining data, then generate the GCode file.

http://www.cambam.co.uk/

5)  Load the .NC file into your chosen motion control software (EMC2, or Mach3 are common).  Machine away!

http://www.linuxcnc.org/

http://www.machsupport.com/

Sorotec, Germany 12 to 15 Euro incl VAT at 19%

Model Engineer’s Digital Workshop £14 incl VAT at 15%

RoutoutCNC £13 excl VAT (£15 incl VAT)

MarchantDice £19 to £24 + VAT!!!  (thanks but no thanks)  If you buy 9, you can have them for £14.50 ea including VAT (again, thanks but no thanks).

The MachineWorks is a machine shop away from real working life.  In it, creative things happen.  Things to be proud of, and to own 100%.

I am an Engineer by trade.  Even so, unfortunately during the course of my work I have minimal involvement with the actual process of cutting metal – the very process that should be at the heart of every engineer.  I spend my days planning the metal-cutting (metaphorically speaking) which is to happen in a few years time.  Daily I am involved with the shop floor, but too soon I have to leave, in order to write about the future.  This pains me.  I want to roll up my sleeves and join in…

To learn more, (and to become a better engineer) I have slowly set up a home workshop.  There I can experiment, and mimic the real work done from 6 till 2 and 2 till 10 and 10 till 6.  In my own workshop I create simple objects that satisfy me and make me proud.

From 6 till 2 I plan, and sketch, and write reports, and change people’s minds, and earn a living.

From 2 till 6 I am free to be creative.  At 2pm I clock into the MachineWorks.  It satisfys me, I enjoy it, and I don’t even get paid!  You’re here now – I hope you’ll enjoy it too….

Welcome to the MachineWorks!