DIYLILCNC
Hardboard, Computer, Motors, Electronics
24" x 36" x 36"
2009 - ongoing
Additional Media:
Video
Free CAD plans and instructions
DIYLILCNC (aka lil' CNC) is a set of plans for an inexpensive, fully functional 3-axis CNC mill that can be built by an individual with basic shop skills and tool access. The project was co-authored by Taylor Hokanson and Chris Reilly, the two partners behind DIYLILCNC L3C.
CNC devices are used to fabricate precise physical copies of digital 3D models. These devices come in two major flavors: additive and subtractive. Additive tools, such as the Makerbot, build up a model by adding material to empty space. Subtractive tools, like DIYLILCNC, start with a block of material and carefully carve it away to produce a result.
The DIYLILCNC can be built for around $700. This cost includes all the stock hardware and sheet material used in construction. CAD files for custom laser-cut parts are distributed along with the plans. Anyone with access to a laser cutter can use these files to fabricate all the panel parts necessary for construction; those without ready laser-cutter access can use local or online laser-cutting services.
Plans and instructions for building the DIYLILCNC are distributed freely and intended for wide distribution and modification with few restrictions. The plans are formatted to facilitate easy fabrication, especially for beginners. The DIYLILCNC can be built by an individual, a student group, or a class. Besides being immensely fun, building the DIYLILCNC is a great way to learn about motion control and CAD/CAM/CAE.
For more information, or to download complete documentation, please visit diylilcnc.org.
24" x 36" x 36"
2009 - ongoing
Additional Media:
Video
Free CAD plans and instructions
DIYLILCNC (aka lil' CNC) is a set of plans for an inexpensive, fully functional 3-axis CNC mill that can be built by an individual with basic shop skills and tool access. The project was co-authored by Taylor Hokanson and Chris Reilly, the two partners behind DIYLILCNC L3C.
CNC devices are used to fabricate precise physical copies of digital 3D models. These devices come in two major flavors: additive and subtractive. Additive tools, such as the Makerbot, build up a model by adding material to empty space. Subtractive tools, like DIYLILCNC, start with a block of material and carefully carve it away to produce a result.
The DIYLILCNC can be built for around $700. This cost includes all the stock hardware and sheet material used in construction. CAD files for custom laser-cut parts are distributed along with the plans. Anyone with access to a laser cutter can use these files to fabricate all the panel parts necessary for construction; those without ready laser-cutter access can use local or online laser-cutting services.
Plans and instructions for building the DIYLILCNC are distributed freely and intended for wide distribution and modification with few restrictions. The plans are formatted to facilitate easy fabrication, especially for beginners. The DIYLILCNC can be built by an individual, a student group, or a class. Besides being immensely fun, building the DIYLILCNC is a great way to learn about motion control and CAD/CAM/CAE.
For more information, or to download complete documentation, please visit diylilcnc.org.