CAD/CAM
Introduction
- Getting Started with CAD, CAM and CNC For
some folks simply jumping in with both feet is the best way to learn how to
use these technologies, but a more cautious and sequential approach may make
the introduction easier and may also save some money. This article details the
actual CAD software package I recommend.
- Downloadable CAD Drawings of
Stringed Instrument Parts CAD drawings of some common instrument hardware,
in AutoCAD 2000 .dwg and .dxf file formats. In most mechanical design fields
the manufacturers of component parts make CAD drawings of their parts freely
available as a matter of course. This is not the case for lutherie for some
reason. This small collection of parts is my attempt at making life a bit
easier for those that use CAD tools.
- A Shop-built
Desktop CNC Router Descriptions and CAD drawings for a small and
inexpensive hobby grade CNC (Computer Numerical Control, i.e. computer driven)
router that is very useful for inlay, engraving, routing of various small
parts, and a number of other lutherie tasks. I wouldn't recommend a light duty
shop built tool like this for anyone intending to do any production work, but
for occasional low precision use or as an introduction to the technology a
machine like this has something to offer.
- Backlash in
Lead Screws Here's a discussion of one of the bugaboos of CNC machine
design. Backlash is defined and the standard ways for dealing with it are
discussed in not-too-technical language. Yeah, I know this is pretty far
afield of lutherie, but luthiers are very fond of shop-built machines and this
is a design issue in a lot of them.
- Generating Pocket and Boss Toolpaths
Manually One of the most expensive things you'll need to buy to use
CAD/CAM/CNC in the small shop is CAM software. But if you only do 2.5D work
you may be able to get by with free software to convert drawings to toolpaths
for most applications. This page provides instructions for a simple method of
drawing toolpaths for the excavation of straight sided pockets and bosses and
then converting them to machine instructions. Not something I recommend for
even small scale production, but this is a useful learning exercise.