3D Printed Precision CNC Dust Boot
After many issues with the standard dust boot that had been installed in the CNC mill. I was tasked with designing an optimized, space-efficient alternative with added features such as a quick connect vacuum hose system, clear viewing into the milling bit, and a 90-degree rotation to allow for the use of twice as many milling bits. The challenge, however, was to print the entire component from one piece on the Formlabs Fuse 1 3D printer.
Spring 2023
3D Render
This CNC dust boot was carefully designed to minimize the size of the original dust boot which was made with a single aluminum plate. It was printed in one piece on the Formlabs Fuse 1 SLS 3D printer using Nylon 12 powder. My new design allows for the CNC to incorporate double the number of tool-heads on the tool-rack. Going from 6 to 12 tool options has significantly improved the workflow of the CNC and has also allowed for more complex components to be milled.
Default Dust Boot
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The Default Factory Dust Boot came with a significant number of flaws. due to the orientation of the boot, only 6 tool-heads could be mounted on the rack. The vacuum hose would also often catch on the components being milled due to the loose and unstable Fit.
First Iteration
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The first iteration came with significant changes. The boot was rotated 90 degrees to allow for more tool additons. I also incorporated my first Iteration of the hose quick connect system. This boot however was too big and its removal to access the tool head was not optimal.
Final Iteration
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The Final iteration saw a significant improvement in material usage. The design was streamlined and made to fit the mill exactly. The quick connect system was also improved on by making it more reliable and stronger. Finally, The addition of a replaceable acrylic window allowed for the toolhead and its cuts on components to be closely supervised and easily worked on if necessary.