This week I used the CNC machine to create two wooden ducks.

The first step I took to create my project was to go on the noun project website to get the SVG I wanted to cut out. I decided to go with a simple duck illustration. Then I got the SVG and placed it on the Carbide Create software.

Figure 1. Noun project file I chose

Once imported, I use the scale tool to make the cut out large enough to fit between the 3 x 3 inch and 5 x 5 inch constraints. Additionally, I added an external outline around the duck shape to serve us the line I would use to cut out the wooden piece. Then I selected tool paths. I made the duck illustration 0.2 inches deep and the cut that would actually cut out the piece of wood to be .8 inches deep, which is above the depth of .78 that I found on the wood pieces I plan to cut. The .2 inch deep cut used 1/16 inch end mill and the deeper cut used a 1/8th inch end mill. I also added to tabs one at the top one at the bottom of my cut to ensure it would not come loose while the CNC machine was machining.

Figure 2. Carbide Create File

I then downloaded the file on the Carbide Motion software that is on the computer in the OEDK connected to the Nomad CNC machine. After doing all initialization steps, including zeroing and calibrating the device, I cut out my wooden piece. Multiple iterations were required to get a cut that I desired. I recommend getting a thin piece of plywood and placing it under the wood piece that you plan to cut. This way you minimize the risk of damaging the machine when you try to cut out the wooden piece.

Figure 3. Picture of cutting process.

After cutting out my wooden pieces I removed it from the larger piece of wood by simply twisting it out and breaking the tabs. I then sanded both wood pieces using 400 grit sand paper, especially at the location of the tabs to ensure a smooth finish. After sanding I applied Danish Oil natural wood stain finish with a paint brush to improve the aesthetics of the piece and improve its longevity.

Figure 4. Example of what tabs look like post cut

Figure 5. Wood finish selected

 

Overall, while multiple iterations were required, I’m satisfied with the final product of the project. I like the natural finish for wood and the simple aesthetics of the cut. I think placing the tabs in flatter regions of the cut may make it easier to post process the wood, since I had to spend more time sanding near the head of the duck, which may have slight defects under close inspection.

Figure 6. Wood cutout post staining

Figure 7. Collage of clean workspaces

The vast majority of the cost of this project were labor and overhead costs. I believe that with my newly acquired experience I would be able to use the CNC machine for half the time, reducing cost by over 40%.

 

Type	Item	Price	Source	Quantity	Total
Materials	Wood	$1.50/ft	Home depot	3 ft	$4.50
	Wood finish	$.88/oz	amazon.com	2 can	$1.76
Labor	CNC operator	$22/ hour	ziprecruiter	5 hours	$110
Overhead	CNC machine	30/hour	HLH	5 hours	$150
Total					$266.26