Wes 2014 Log

Wed, Mar 12, 2014

Morning meeting

• Ensure that we are documenting our activities
  • 15 min documentation sprint

eWork

• Revise the CAM Files Protocol wiki entry.

CAM Files Protocol

Computer Aided Manufacturing (CAM) files are toolpath files that enable a computer-controlled machine - such as a CNC Torch Table or a CNC Milling Machines - to produce parts automatically by using the CAM files as blueprints.

Example CAM files:

• DXF format for scale-model laser cutting - OSE Rapid Prototyping
• STL format for 3D printing - tubing for the Tractor Construction Set - scale models OSE Rapid Prototyping
• DXL format for cutting steel sheet via CNC Torch Table - the Brick Press CEB_Press_CAM_Files

Special Note: The 'Sketchup SKP files to DXF or STL' plugin must be installed locally for this Protocol to work. If you do not have the 'Export to DXF or STL' option under Tools, the plugin will need to be downloaded and installed. See below for installation instructions.

Protocol

1. Open original SKP file in SketchUp.
2. Ensure that all objects to be exported are aligned flat to the plane of the Z-axis. Note: 3D objects aligned vertically will NOT be exported successfully
3. Select all objects that are needed for the CAM file. Note: Ensure that all edges of desired objects are selected, faces are NOT exported during conversion, this is normal
4. Go to File Menu and select command Tools > Export to DXF or STL
5. Select "inches" in dialogue box drop down menu (selected by default), click OK
6. In second dialogue box, entities to export, choose best option from drop down that matches needs of destination CAM software. Note: Most versatile entities are 'polylines', and are typical for DXF files
7. For STL export, select 'stl' from the second dialogue box (entities). The option is located at bottom of list in drop-down menu, below 'polylines' option.
8. In save dialogue, name the file (ensure file extension is correct), choose location, click OK. Note: Ignore 'Save as type:' drop down menu
9. Final dialogue box will report number of faces, lines, and objects converted. Click OK. Note: Do not be alarmed by 'objects ignored', the script must alter the objects' properties in order to convert the file
10. Documentation: Open CAM file in appropriate software, capture screen shots and embed images next to your CAM file on wiki

Notes:

'Plugin Installation'

1. Go to [1] in a web browser and download the appropriate version (skp_to_dxf.np)
2. Navigate to your SketchUp Tools folder, for SketchUp 2014 it is - C:/Program Files(x86)/SketchUp/SketchUp 2014/Tools
3. Copy the skp_to_dxf.np file into the Tools folder.
4. Restart SketchUp, installation is complete

previous version

CAM Files Protocol

Computer Aided Manufacturing (CAM) files are toolpath files that enable a computer-controlled machine - such as a CNC Torch Table or a CNC Milling Machines - to produce parts automatically by using the CAM files as blueprints.

Examples:

1. CAM files for cutting steel sheet via CNC Torch Table - the Brick Press is an example - where DXF files are used - CEB_Press_CAM_Files
2. CAM files for 3D printing - tubing for the Tractor Construction Set scale models - where STL files are used - see OSE Rapid Prototyping
3. Cam files for scale-model laser cutting - DXF files are used - see example at OSE Rapid Prototyping

Protocol

1. Take the CAD file.
2. Export into the desired format - such as DXF, STL, or others.
3. Generate whatever file format is required by the CNC machine, such as Gcode
4. Start a page on the wiki called - Machine/Module Name - CAM Files. Use Machine Naming Convention.
5. Open the file, and take a screenshot. Include a screenshot of what the file looks like - embed it next to your CAM file on the wiki - to facilitate identification of the file content.

Work Window trim, exterior front HabLab

Tues, Mar 11, 2014

Work

• Started to replace high window where stove pipe was.
  • Stopped, on hold for clear caulk
• Plumbing in MicroHouse 1
• Whitewash HabLab swarm, various tasks

Mon, Mar 10, 2014

Infrastructure meeting ToDo list (in priority order)

• 1) Evaluate direct driveway to HabLab vs. path from entry near Workshops (1 and 2)
• 2) New workshop will go between Workshop 1 (oldest) and Workshop 2 (newest)
• 3) Pool - Delivery expected early this week
• 4) MicroHouse
• 5) Camp ground (for Summer visitors)
• 6) Re-roofing Greenhouse (attached to Workshop 2)

MicroHouse 1 ToDo:

• Site cleanup
• Documentation

Work

• Built platform for front entry to HabLab

Sun, Mar 9, 2014

Infrastructure meeting, discussed needs of MicroHouse 1 and improvements for MicroHouse 2

MicroHouse 1

• Documentation needs consolidation
  • Collect data from MicroHouse Collaboration 2014 and input to MicroHouse1 Development Board

MicroHouse 2

• Flooring
  • CEBs should be cured, 30-60 days prior to use
  • CEBs crack and flake from stresses over time
• Modular roof
  • Must be able to be installed on upper frame concurrently while CEB wall is being laid below
    • Safety primary concern
  • Looking for new concepts on the roof construction method

Work

• Painted interior door trims