You need to be trained before using our CNC router.
Only current, authorized trainers can deliver router training. Reading these instructions does not constitute training.
Training for Swarf XL has two phases:
CAD stands for Computer Aided Design. In the context of using the machine, CAD involves generating a digital representation of the thing you want to make. You may be able to make things from CAD models you have downloaded but we teach the very basics anyway.
CAM stands for Computer Aided Manufacturing. In this context, CAM involves generating instructions from a CAD model that tell the machine how to make it. Since those instructions are particular to the machine, materials, cutting tools available and of course what you want to make, it is generally not possible to bypass the CAM step and just download something from the internet.
We teach two different CAD / CAM tools and workflows. Feel free to choose the one that best suits your needs:
If you have relevant prior experience, you are free to skip CAD / CAM training. The trainer will take a look at your work as part of Machine Operation training (as they would do for any trainee) and ensure it is OK to use on the machine.
CAD / CAM training using Fusion is video-based and self paced. There is excellent instructional content on Fusion available on Autodesk's website (as well as independent content on YouTube). In addition, we have produced a video that shows specifically how to prepare a job for our CNC router using Fusion.
The product you need to download and install is "Fusion for Personal Use"". (You will need to create an Autodesk account). Follow the link here and scroll down about 80% of the way, then click "Get Autodesk Fusion for Personal Use" and follow the prompts.
We recommend the following videos:
From the Ïntroduction to Fusion series (around 25 minutes total):
Introduction to Fusion
User Interface Overview
Set Preferences
Adjust Display Settings
From the Getting Started with Modelling series (around 40 minutes total):
Components and Bodies
Sketching Basics Overview
Sketch Constraints
Extrude Solid Bodies
If you want to use Fusion and are having problems with the video instruction, please feel free to ask for help in #cnc-router.
It is recommended you download and install the assets below for Fusion. You can do this by selecting the "Manufacture" workspace. Then:
You should use the "Cloud" folder instead of "Local" if you intend using these assets on multiple machines.
Swarf XL starter wood tools library for Fusion
Swarf XL / UCCNC post-processor for Fusion
more to come
CAD / CAM training using Aspire is conducted one-on-one and in person. The trainer will introduce the software and walk through all operations necessary to produce the machine instructions (G-code file) for a simple project. The "standard project" is a wooden sign engraved with text of the trainee's choice. If you would like to do something different for your training project, discuss it with your trainer.
CAD / CAM training using Aspire can be requested in #training-and-inductions.
Stepcraft UCCNC ATC Arcs(mm)(*.txt) as the post processor.Machine Operation training is conducted one-on-one and in person. The trainee should arrive for training either:
An outline of the material covered in Machine Operation training is here.
Machine Operation training can be requested in #training-and-inductions.