Hardware Reference
In-Depth Information
CNC Milling
low-cost CNC (computer-numeric control) router. The parts required to build it are avail-
able online through a bill of materials. The CNC router can also be purchased as a preas-
sembled consumer-friendly kit ($649) or as an online DIY kit ($299). The assembly pro-
cess is well documented, and setup requires accessible hardware components (nuts and
bolts) from any local hardware store. The device's shape and bed size can be expanded or
remodeled based on the original design. The control unit is Arduino based, so the micro-
controller is well known and accessible. Because it is open source hardware, the Shapeoko
CNC router is customizable, low cost, and accessible to artists, designers, hobbyists, and
schools, enabling them to fabricate precisely designed machine parts as well as to carve
works of art.
Shapeoko hosts a community web forum with more than 1000 members, and the com-
munity input has contributed to the low cost of the CNC router—such machine typically
costs orders of magnitude more when purchased from closed source vendors. The crowd-
sourced R&D means that the costs of research and development can be eliminated from
the price tag: the centralized community forum has provided an outlet for the community
to contribute back new improvements, as well as undertake testing and troubleshooting.
The engineers behind Shapeoko were able to crowd-source the testing and research for the
Shapeoko 2 by responding to community needs just two years after releasing the design
for the Shapeoko 1. Shapeoko relies on distribution through its BOM, meaning costumers
are intended to build the hardware themselves from locally sourced parts.
3D Printing
Numerous examples can be cited of open source 3D printers on the consumer and hobbyist
market being developed and sold globally. A wealth of derivatives has emerged, and newer
models continue to be built, derived, modified, and rebuilt. It is important to note the con-
sumer 3D printing market would not exist as it does today without the RepRap 3D printer
being open source hardware, as the vast majority of consumer printers on the market are
derivatives of the RepRap.
The
Lulzbot TAZ
3D printer (
Figure 10.6
) is one example of an open source hardware
to be the most dependable desktop 3D printer on the market. It requires minimal mainten-
ance, so it is a good choice for consumers as well as engineers, hackers, and artists both
for creating prototypes and for small-scale manufacturing. Because of TAZ's open source
design, this 3D printer can be modified or adapted. Lulzbot also hosts an online store
