CNC Desktop Milling Machine Final Design

This CNC milling machine is to be used for prototyping in an office setting with a minimum of four degrees of freedom or three degrees of freedom with additional features for ease-of-use. We devised an engineering specification, carried out research about existing models on the market, generated ideas on the placement and types of motion mechanisms used in the machine, and modelled the final design using CAD software. We generated four candidate designs based on our research and engineering specifications and eventually determined which one was the best candidate with respect to our engineering specification requirements. The final design is a CNC desktop milling machine which achieves linear motion in the x, y, and z direction using ball screws and linear guides, as well as rotational motion about the y-axis using a rotary table. Linear ball bearings on linear motion shafts were used in the x,y, and z directions to handle exerted forces on the workpiece/spindle while milling, and to support the steady motion of the workpiece/spindle. Motion of the ball screws is driven by stepper motors in the three linear axes. As well, the rotary table is driven by a stepper motor.