CAD

Catalaytor Makerspace

I’m very excited about a break through in how I’m actually going to build the prototype.  I’ve joined a makerspace in Silver Spring, MD, Catalaytor Makerspace.  The curved wood was presenting the greatest challenge.  Two test were tried.

  • Steam bending of 1/4 baltic birch plywood.  I just ran a small scale test and it was going to be very tough.  I couldn’t get an precision on the bend.
  • Kerf cuts of the wood to make it bendable.  This might have worked, but would require lots of cuts and gluing.

The Makerspace changes the game by getting me access to a laser cutter.  Now I’m building out a frame and applying wood veneer to the frame.

Here is a look at the first attempt.

The laser cut frame of the Apple Pomona prototype.

The laser cut frame of the Apple Pomona prototype.

Someday soon it will look like this.

mac2004_360

By • CAD, Makerspace, Pomona Curved, Prototype • 0

CNC Prototyping

I haven’t done any 3D work in years.  Not since Strata Studio 3D .  I’ve found a CNC machining and prototyping firm locally called Xometry.  Just upload the geometry file, pick the material and finish and they print it.

I’m looking through the CAD programs trying to find one with a short learning curve.  AutoDesk still seems to have good products.

Xometry takes files in the following formats .stl, .step, .stp, .iges, .igs, .x_t, .x_b, .sldprt

By • CAD, Prototype • 0