Introduction to CNC

Intro project: CNC Pen Plotter

Computer Numerical Control - Machines that follow precise instructions to make parts.

G-code

G-code is a set of very simple, specific instruction codes that tell the controller exactly when, how fast, and how far to move its various axes. GRBL is an open-source software package that interprets G-code and translates it into stepper signals.

grbl - high performance g-code motion controller that can run on an arduino
grblHAL - GRBL g-code handling for more powerful 32-bit processors.

Introduction to G-code
Using GRBL for a simple CNC machine

• OnStepX Telescope control software - making a motorized telescope mount could be really cool #remind/monthly

Lessons - 37 full weeks

Create Microscope Camera Build (session 3)

1. micro-01-microscope-camera-build- project page microscope-camera
2. micro-02-microscope-camera-build- project page microscope-camera
3. Design for 3D printing engr-02-design-for-3d-printing
4. engr-02-parts-library - taking inventory and planning what we'll need for our CAD model
5. engr-03-analyze-designs - Look at the laser engraver and the root-4 and PrintNC designs
6. CNC Router Build (session 1) Building our CNC router

Homework

1. #hw Write a g-code program that creates a capsule outline. The center-to-center distance must be 3.00 inches, and the radius of the ends must be 1.00 inch.
2. #hw Connect a GRBL controller to a stepper driver and two steppers, and use it to make the motors do a series of basic operations (rotate different directions and speeds, as if moving X and Y axis)
3. #hw Design a barebones 2-axis frame with a moving cross-slide and two steppers that can be 3d printed on our ender3. This will become the cnc-pen-plotter.
4. #hw Assemble the cnc-pen-plotter you designed
5. #hw Use the pen plotter to draw a cool picture