Low cost and open source software-based CNC router for machining contours

Abstract

After the advance of NC technology to CNC technology there are attempts to bring openness in the control to bring modularity, flexibility and accuracy in the system to replace proprietary controllers. To experiment the same a portable open architecture-based CNC machine is developed for engraving application. Open source software’s are used to identify the contour, generate CNC g-code and microcontrollers to execute the motion control. The mechanical structure is developed to meet the requirement of low cost without sacrificing the accuracy. Besides the accuracy of the profile to be machined, feed rate is another criterion which should be achieved as it is intended in the program. The 3 axis CNC structure is developed and tested satisfactorily for the targeted performance.