Shopbot CNC Router Class: The Whole Works

NOTE: Students are required to go to the MakeIt Labs wiki and print out the ShopBot Order of Operation and ShopBot Certification and bring them to class. (https://sites.google.com/a/makeitlabs.com/wiki/resource-areas/shopbot?authuser=0)

NEW: The update to Vectric VCarve 12.5 will be included in this class.

The Shopbot CNC router is a fantastic machine that can carve and cut with extreme precision using its computer-controlled robotic router carriage. It can cut out furniture parts, carve designs, and much more.

The Shopbot needs a particular form of input to instruct the router head where to go and what tools and materials are being used. The software that MakeIt Labs uses is called VCarve. it tells the Shopbot exactly what to do to make each project.

Programming VCarve is not that difficult, but users must know about tools, feed rates, clearance, toolpaths, and more. Students in this class will have three hours of classroom instruction with plenty of time to follow along on their own laptops.

The instruction will include a PowerPoint presentation integrated with a live demonstration of VCarve and the use of the VCarve online manual. Students will be shown everything they need to begin working on VCarve designs from Alphabet to Z-Axis.

The second part, after the break for lunch (bring your own), will be a lab session where students will complete four simple assignments to show that they have mastered the basics of the VCarve design software. Instructor assistance will be available, and students will be allowed to correct any mistakes in their work before moving on to the next assignment.

It is anticipated that the lab portion will last about three hours, but students who have mastered the software and principles of VCarve may finish earlier.

Students who complete this lab will participate in the third session, where the hands-on portion will be taught using the ShopBot. It will be held immediately after the VCarve lab session.

Students are encouraged to bring a laptop (Windows only, sorry to say) to follow along with the instructor and complete the assignments. There will be a limited number of loaner laptops available to those who are laptop-less. Anyone who needs a laptop should contact the instructor in advance.

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