How it's made?
As it's with anything else, it all starts with an idea. Sometimes, the inspiration generates an idea through a functional need, while the aesthetics are incorporated as we work through the project. Other times, we're inspired by the look first and seek to fulfill a function that won't take away from the inspiration itself. In the following steps, we utilize software to turn our idea into a visual design and the code that guides the CNC (Computer Numeric Control) gantry to dance the lines of our imagination into existence as contours that define our products.
CNC Laser cutting & engraving
CNC Laser cutting and engraving is where the visual design meets the cold machine code. To be precise, in the wording and end product's visual appeal, the laser beam focuses on a focal point, where the heat generated burns the material away. The process is similar to the magnifying glass and the sun experiments you might have played as a child. The gantry assembly is the mechanical system that moves the laser on an x and y axis (think of x as back and forth and y as left to right). The computer code tells the gantry which direction to move with extreme precision. The power output of the laser, controlled by the computer, controls the depth of the cut (or burn). With this complex process, your design is turned from digital ones and zeros into a physical object of your imagination.
CNC Router 3D designs
CNC Router 3D design depends on the routing bits that turn at high speeds to cut the material away. This process removes the material instead of burning it, which doesn't alter the original texture and color compared to the laser. However, this creates more waste in some instances yet allows us to utilize another dimension. The gantry is the same as with laser cutting and engraving, but an additional z-axis is needed to control the depth of the tool. Of course, this adds complexity to the design and code requirements and the need for frequent router bit changes. With this extra depth, the 3D contours of your design can take shape.
Videos
Please click on the link above and glimps into the process itself.
For DYI-ers
If you feel adventurous and think about attempting the CNC approach yourself, please check out James Dean Designs (not affiliated) before embarking on it and purchasing any of the equipment since it could be a costly endeavor with not so great results.