Craftsman - CompuCarve
This benchtop CNC machine from Craftsman allows you to crosscut, edge-rout, bevel, joint, and miter using a numerical keypad on the side of the machineCompuCarve is the invention of two former robotics engineers at NASA. Stock is fed through the machine automatically as a router bit mounted on a flex-shaft works back and forth to carve the workpiece.
At $1,800, the CompuCarve costs much less than other automated routing machines. Similar in size and design to a benchtop planer, the CompuCarve can handle stock up to 5 in. thick and 14-1/2 in. wide. Using a variety of easily changed plunge-cut router bits, the machine allows you to crosscut, edge-rout, bevel, joint, and miter using a numerical keypad on the side of the machine. In my shop, most of these operations are performed more easily elsewhere.
What piqued my interest was this machine’s carving capabilities. Designs can be created on the CarveWright software included with the machine. It’s a simplified drawing program–easier than most CAD programs, but sharing many of the same functions. The drawings are then uploaded from the computer to the CompuCarve machine and settings are controlled from a simple keypad on the side.
For more information, go to www.craftsman.com.
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