Unlike previous weeks, in this assignment we had the task of a group project.

Clicking on the image you can access to documentation of the group project:

1.) Mechanical and structure design.

In this assignment my main contribution was the structural and mechanical design of the CNC milling machine pipe, using corrugated carboard of 1.5 millimeters thicknes.

To start, with my classmate we downloaded the modules of the cardboard stages from "Machines that make machines" webpage.

I can see that the cardboard modules use a considerable quantity of cardboard, and I redesign the modules with less material and I simplify more possible.

Assembly Steps:

Another thing that can be detected in the above structure was the position of the anti backlash, which was located only on one of the outer surfaces of the carton and noticed a problem when moving. For this reason I have decided to put the anti backlash inside the box and modify it for more resistance at the time that this move.

Here you can see the comparison in size of the original module and redesign, saving and simplifying material without losing the necessary strength in the structure.

2.) Machine base Structure.

Trying to keep the idea of using only cardboard for design of the machine, I have designed a base where the entire structure is supported. This proved quite efficient but still needs some modifications to make efforts to be submitted to the machine during operation and support work properly.

3.) Cardboard Spindle Design.

To assemble the spindle used as a reference found in the following link, with the variation that all structure is made of cardboard. The inside part is made equal to the reference that I have observed.

At one point I had the problem that we did not have couplings to the connections between the DC motor and aluminum shaft, therefore, had to design fittings in 3D and then print them on ABS.

4.) Z Axis Mechanism Design.

In the Z axis use a stepper motor for horizontal movement of the head holding the mill tool. In order to move the head I designed a mechanism consisting of a rack and pinion on acrylic of 3mm thickness.

Here ends my contribution to the project! So far, I think it's the most challenging assignment. We now need to review the programming part of the gestalt.

All photos were taken by my classmate Gabriela Mojoli, you can see her work here.