Hardware Reference
In-Depth Information
Other Fabrication Machines
A variety of other digital fabrication processes exist, each with its own affordances and
constraints. For example, a host of machines are available for working with soft materials:
CNC embroidery machines apply custom designs to fabric, knitting machines generate col-
ors and constructions based on digital files, and Jacquard looms are possibly the oldest di-
gital fabrication machines in existence. Industrial production uses a variety of automated
machines, including robotarmsandotheradaptable partsofanassembly line.Furthermore,
as digital fabrication becomes more established, more people are creating their own ma-
chines for custom purposes of various kinds.
Printed Circuit Boards and Electronics
The production of printed circuit boards (PCBs) can also be considered a digital fabrication
process—and a relatively mature one. Digital designs are etched from copper or other ma-
terials using a photographic process, then covered with an isolating layer and text and other
annotations. While the processes for creating circuit boards in this way are generally toxic
and the automated systems for doing so are expensive, many services will produce PCBs
on demand for individual customers with small or nonexistent minimums and standard
specifications and tolerances. (As a board's specifications get more demanding, however,
costs can increase, sometimes dramatically.) Circuit boards can also be manually etched or
milled on a CNC machine, processes that are more directly accessible to individuals but
also less robust and precise. While some circuits are sensitive to the precise characteristics
of circuit board's substrate or the exact tolerances of the fabrication process, a great many
can be shared with relative confidence that they will work when made on a different ma-
chine from a different provider.
In reproducing circuits, then, the main difficulties are typically getting the necessary
parts and assembling them. While vast quantities of components are available to individu-
als—and many distributors specifically target hobbyists—advanced parts with specific
functionality may not be accessible. These may be simply impossible to purchase, require
an extended procurement process that makes replication infeasible, or be difficult or im-
possible to assemble with the processes available. As parts are optimized for size and
automated assembly, they become harder for individuals to work with. Even easier-to-
solder parts rely on manual skill and the knowledge to troubleshoot problems. Different
electronic components may be available or preferred in different locations. Parts may go
out of stock, become obsolete, or cease being made altogether. All of these factors mean
that while making a PCB may be a robust and accessible process, much work must be
done to ensure that individuals are able to replicate a complete electronic circuit for them-
selves. (It's also worth noting that while the problem may be worse for electronic com-
