Introduction: Definity Collection and DMS One Tool One Setup

By Aminimal Studio
About: AMINIMAL Studio is a Brooklyn-based company focused on researching complex systems and emerging technologies as an approach to designing 21st century products. Lana Blum Briscella and John Briscella are the cr…

We used this setup to make your Definity Collection

In this tutorial for the DMS 5 axis CNC, We wanted to explore the possible way to setup the machine for one tool and one setup, so that 5/6 sides of a cube can be approached by the bit.

Step 1: Measure the Tools and Clearance of Dust Collector

To get a full cutter access around your piece there are a few things you want to keep in mind while setting up.

1) Cutter length - the bits lengths vary to make sure you find a bit that can go into the material max.

We used a 10" 3/4 bit, so in theory, we can get full cutting capability on a 10x10" cube. Or carve 5 sides of a 20 x 20" side at 50% depth, and so on.

2) Vice and Dust Collector Clearance

Make sure you double check the Dust Collector clearance by jogging the head 90º sideways and move close as possible to the table without touching. *Check dust collector open and closed position.

Measurements from the table to the center of the bit, the bit to top of the dust collector port. Make sure the dust collector will not hit your vice. Input this value into your Cam setup and to avoid collisions.

Step 2: Setting Up the Material

The material setup is simple enough:

1) Mount a vise in the center of the Machine.

2) Place the material upright. We are using foam for the test and lumber for production. Walnut 4 x 9 x 22".

Foam will have no flex but please use double sided tape as well.

Wood is a different story. Make sure that is super secure and your design plays a big role in its structural support while cutting.

3) Jog the bit over to the top left corner of the work piece and create your offset

Step 3: CAM Setup

The major difference in setup, compared to a typical setup, is enabling tool orientation in your 3D milling techniques.

Select different faces of a cube to turn the tool perpendicular to the worktable.

repeat for each side of the cube

*Use adapative 3D to clear most of the material. And Parallel starting from the top down for finishing

Step 4: Final Product

The Sculpture can made with complexity and a high level of craftsmanship.

Step 5: Details

Different bits can result in better finishes. An endmill will leave a stepping finish, so best bet is to use a ball mill with parallel finish.

Some more details are you can mark your works with a laser cutter.

Step 6: Once You Have the Setup...

Once you have the setup, You can create many other forms in different materials.