CNC Machining Technology
The Senior Project process is broken down into four checkpoints. Currently, I have completed two of the four checkpoints. The final checkpoint is due in April 2023 on Senior Project Night.
For more information, please visit the Sunapee Middle High School Senior Project page.
Checkpoint #1
For my first checkpoint, I began to figure out how my CNC machine will take shape. I met with my senior project mentor, Lovell Comstock who is a former engineer at Corning, Inc., to talk about CNC basics (spindle options, servo drive vs stepper motor control, etc.). After our first meeting, Lovell and I toured Moore Nanotech in Keene, NH where I learned about ultraprecision machining and the technologies they use to hold angstrom-level tolerances.
Checkpoint #2
After talking with Mr. Comstock, I began to model out the components of my machine. I spend hours taking dimensions off of components I planned on using and came up with the first iteration of my machine. After consulting Mr. Comstock about my design, he pointed out a number of potential design flaws (using linear bar bearings rather than linear rod bearings, moving the gantry of the machine rather than just the stage, etc.). I again turned to CAD to remodel much of my machine. This process continued until Mr. Comstock could no longer foresee any issues, and I began to order parts.
Checkpoint #3
Moving forward I plan on constructing my machine according to my drawings. I have a number of design and electrical issues I need to address before the machine will be operational. I also plan on measuring the accuracy of my machine after its completion (potentially using some sort of CMM).
Checkpoint #4
In my fourth and final checkpoint, my CNC machine will be completed, and I will prepare a presentation and demonstration during the Senior Project Night Gallery.
