Multimachine
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Introduction
The Multimachine is, physically, a multipurpose machining tool for metal. Its framework or scope is much greater - it is an open source project that is closest to the the one-stop shop for learning the skills to become an effective machinist. The project takes one from scratch - explainng many simple techniques that lead to advanced machining - based on proven techniques from history. As such - the Multimachine provides a firm foundation that is an essential prerequisite for anyone attempting to add computer numerical control to the package - for ends of post-industrial digital fabrication. If there were a series of steps for creating a digital fabrication facility - implementing the Multimachine would be one of them - because of the breadth of topics covered in the project.
The book, which should be studied carefully and read many times over - describes how to make the Multimachine - cheaply. It is clearly an appropriate technology approach. It even goes as far as describing the construction of a basic manual drill and temporary lathe from a wheel rotor - and even touches on the need for casting - such that with about $100 of infrastructure - one can build an entire machine from scratch. This work clearly hints at the possibility of closing the gap between the developed and developing world - in that it exposes the possibility of advanced machining starting from scrap metal casting and basic tools.
It should be said that while the multimachine can perform wonders - it is only as magical as the hand of the operator. Mastery of various skills is required - and the Multimachine documentation is perhaps the most integrated source of all this knowledge to be found in any 80 page manual.
On a personal note - yesterday I was stuck with a $100 bill for getting a motor coupler lathed at the local custom fabricator. I was upset that such a simple piece should cost so much - when I have the skills to do it myself. In desperation, I picked up the Multimachine manual - knowing that it's time to build the machine and start doing my own heavy-duty lathing. by reading the book, I have a pretty solid idea of how I could build a temporary lathe from a wheel rotor of a car - using a simple workpiece holder design - found in the book.