So when you guys brought in cnc, how long did it take you to have it fully integrated into your process? I am not using any software now, so would be going into everything with no prior experience. I know everyone is different, I was just wondering what other people went through.
From contributor Ri
Hi Lee,
I started my career path in woodworking by running a CNC so I have not experienced first hand implementing a machine into an already established business. However I have worked with a number of places integrating machines and software into their business. I wouldn't want to give you a timeframe his getting things fully integrated there are so many factors that influence that time line.
My main advice would be to make sure you have good support for both the machine and the software. Don't underestimate the power of software as that really unlocks the full potential of your CNC. Remember that CNC will be an investment of time as well as money. You need to tackle the learning curve head on.
Good luck on your journey!
Richard
From contributor ja
I brought on in after 25 years without,,
1) do not have work waiting on it, there is a new apprentice in the shop it is you.
2) be a part of all of the integration. do not hand it off to an employee and think he will grab it because you bought it.
3) give yourself a time frame based on your trainers expectations and do not try to jump ahead. I teach some to do this with a particular software, it has basic initial functions and some advanced functions like 3d and specialty toolpathing.. too many want to jump to the fun stuff and then are baffled at why they have so much trouble with process later on.
with todays software chances are you will be cutting quick. just pay attention to the basics, initial setup, homing and setting parameters, daily operation techniques, once you get good at this you will be off to the races with what may become one of the best tools in the shop.
remember it is not Smarter than you are it cannot think, it will only do what you tell it to.. I say this so you will keep a cool head when it seems to have a mind of its own (it is only an illusion) for some it is far easier to blame the machine, the company, salesman, the tech than it is to admit that we are still in learning phase, Blaming will only slow down your learning curve and the only one who will suffer is you.
there is a lot more to this so keep us informed on this thread as you go through this.. what type of machine are you getting, what software are you intending to use. ??
From contributor Le
Thanks for the replies. I definitely won't be bringing it in and think I'll be taking off right away. It will be my sole responsibility, since I'm a one man shop. I'm thinking a couple of months minimum to get it going smoothly, and longer to get the full effect of the machine. I've kind of thought in the back of my mind to stay with the basics for a year before jumping in to the 3D stuff.
The machine will be a Shop Sabre 4814. I've talked with several people that have them and are pleased, plus their facility is only a 20 minute drive from my shop.
It comes with Vector Vcarve, and I'm adding on Rhino cad, and then still deciding between Mozaik or KCD for the cabinet end of it.
From contributor ja
Good move, the US built Shopsabres use Wincnc, I have had it on all my machines and love it for this size table, with vectric you will not go wrong, although rhino is kinda a either or when it comes to 3d, I have rhino as well yet I got into vectric aspire and even draw a good bit of my submittals with it.
