Background:

This is my first time with the CNC machine. I decided to try the intermediate level assignment which different depths were used. I downloaded a Sword and Shield Icon from the Noun Project website and the pattern is shown below.

 

Part 1: Create the Gcode file from Cabide Create

A piece of wood was first chosen to determine the dimensions of the base. I used a ruler to measure the sizes and input the data into the app.

As the size of the object is within 5*5 in, the Nomad machine was decided to be used. After importing the SVG file of the icon,  the object was scaled to 3.1 in * 3.1 in so that it can fit on the chosen wood piece.

Because of the small dimension of the object, I decided to dicard some of the smaller features of the original icon and kept the main features of it. A total of 5 toopaths were created to complete the work.

The simulation is shown below (for pine):

 

Part 2: Cutting on CNC machine

At first, the wood was sticked to the base using double-sided tape. After that, the BitZero was placed and probed to zero the endmill. (The endmill was already the #102 1/8 in endmill I needed)

The job was then started and the CNC machine was working:

After cutting, I removed the wood from the machine and vacuumed all the dust. The outcome was great!

 

Part 3: Post-processing the result

As the wood was originally smooth, I started sanding it with 100-grit sandpaper and gradually moved to 220-grit sandpaper.

After sanding, I decided to keep the original texture and color of the wood. As a result, the Danish oil was used to protect the wood instead of other stains or spraypaints.

The same process was repeated on the other Sword and Shield.

Successes and limitations:

Successes:

All the cuts was clear and the contouring was perfectly planned so that all the main features of the sword and shield were created.

All the results are carefully sanded and coated so that it can sustain longer period of time.

Different depths and toolpaths were carefully combined to create an aesthetically pleasing piece.

Limitations:

Beacause of the small scale of the piece, fine details cannot be transported on to the real object. This could be improved by changing the endmills to smaller bits or enlarge the material size.

 

Cost estimation:

Material:

Wood: 15/144 * 18.43 = $1.92 (Home Depot)

Price of sandpaper and Danish oil is ignored.

Machine time:

40 min * $40/hr = $26.67

Labor:

2hrs * $10/hr = $20 (Machine did almost all the work)

Total cost: $1.92 + $26.67 + $20 = $48.59