In a recent DIY endeavor, a passionate maker Eirik Brandal, embarked on a journey to master the art of operating a CNC router. What started as a simple warm-up project quickly evolved into a complex and mesmerizing creation that pushed the boundaries of their newfound skills? The initial idea was to break free from the constraints of straight-line cutting, which had been the norm due to the limited tools available, such as a table saw.
The project's ambition grew exponentially as the maker envisioned spinning acrylic plates adorned with LED lights. However, the challenge of transferring power to these lights while in motion presented an intriguing problem to solve. Ingeniously, they designed their own slip rings using 3D printing technology to transmit power and signals from stationary to rotating elements. This innovation led to intermittent electrical connections, which they cleverly incorporated into the final piece, giving it an artistic and unpredictable dimension.
The maker's dedication to craftsmanship extended to the creation of intricate gears, made possible with the help of the ngf gear generator plug-in for Fusion 360. While placing the gears in relation to each other involved some guesswork, it was the integration of multiple motors and a lead screw that ultimately brought the project to life. The maker's commitment to the auditory experience was equally impressive, as they used Piezo elements to capture the resonating sounds of the grinding gears, adding a unique and mesmerizing layer to the sculpture.
The complete project can be found on his youtube channel which has in-depth explanation of the project.
