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CNC tutorial download T001: speedboat model

SMT001 speedboat model.zip (download ZIP file)

SMT002 turbine model.zip (download ZIP file)

SMT003 SLR camera model.zip (download ZIP file)

SMT004 SLR camera lens model.zip (download ZIP file)

SMT005 wind turbine model.zip (download ZIP file)

SMT006 Wave energy model.zip (download ZIP file)

SMT007 V8 Engine Block Model.zip (download ZIP file)

SMT001 speedboat instructions.pdf (download PDF)

SMT002 turbine instructions.pdf (download PDF)

SMT003 SLR camera instructions.pdf (download PDF file)

• Studiomill

  Lift the handle to unlock the door. A safety interlock stops the machine automatically when the door is unlocked.

  StudioMill is enclosed in a safe transparent case which provides a great view of the cutting process. It can only run when the door is closed and the included emergency stop unit is connected.

  StudioMill has an integrated tool switch which is used to zero the machine to ensure quick and accurate cutting.

  StudioMill supports a wide variety of tool sizes which are easy to change for quick machine setup. Long and wide ball-nose tools cut away more material allowing smooth flowing surfaces to be cut very quickly.

  StudioMill comes with 5 material mounts to suit a wide range of materials and cutting requirements. The 5th axis mount allows models to be cut from the top.

Studiomill was a hit at the recent technology exhibition in Seoul.  Studiomill engineer Jake Roberts attended the exhibition and demonstrated the 3D CAD CAM capabilities of Studiomill.  Jake produced many complex parts including a large aluminium engineering component, wax models and sculptural pieces.  Visit rmsolutions.co.kr to find out more.

12.05.11 Studiomill Inventor and CEO Josh Reid talks to discusses design with school pupils.

Josh Reid, winner of the Prince Philip Engineering Award spoke to the A-level students at St Christopher School about his work as a designer, engineer and entrepreneur.   The students discussion covered most of Josh’s engineering experince ranged from how we extract oil from dwindling north sea fields to how we design accessible incluive products for the new consumer demographic.

09.06.11 Studiomill NEW MODEL UNDER DEVELOPMENT.

We are adding to our product offering with a sister product, it will have all the features of the original Studiomil D160 that provide accessible multiaxis machining that is easy to use.  Watch this site for more information.

02.07.11 Studiomill BETT awards entrant.

A1 Technologies have decided to enter Studiomill D160 for an award at the BETT show.  The BETT show is “Dedicated to showcasing the best in UK and international educational technology products, resources and best practice…”  If you haven’t seen Studiomill in action yet why not come along to the BETT show.

06.08.11 Studiomill: The power of making.

Londons V&A museum claims to be the “worlds greatest museum of art & design”.  Studiomill is part of a new exhibition: The power of making.  Link to V&A

03.10.11 Lights shining bright down under.

Studiomill featured making the latest LED lighting systems for an Australian company that invested in the D160 desktop machining centre.  LED lighting is set to become the main source of lighting in a few decades, cutting energy consumption and providing a safer, greener source of light so we are pleased that Studiomill may have helped this new technology.  Link to Interlleca

27 – 29 September 2011 – Birmingham NEC, UK.
TCT Live:  See Studiomill live with A1 Technologies.

11-14 January 2012 – London Olympia, UK.
BETT 2012:  See Studiomill live with A1 Technologies.

1. When I click on Machine control the software says “USB device not found”

Is this a new software instillation?

If no:  go to solutions a,b,c,d,e,f
If yes:    go to solutions a,b,c,d,e,f,g,h

2. When I move to the machine control step and click start cutting nothing happens:

go to solutions c,d

3. When I cut a multi-axis part the part zone alignment is not correct displaying large seams on the resulting part.

go to solutions j,k,l,m

a)      Check that the power cord is connected, the fuse in the plug is ok and the switch on the back of the Studiomill is in the on position.

b)      Check that the USB cable is connected – unplug the USB cable wait a couple of seconds then plug it back in again preferably to a different USB port.  You should hear the windows recognition tone shortly after you plug the cable in.

c)       Check that the emergency stop is connected to the back of your Studiomill.

d)      Check that the emergency stop mushroom is up and then press the reset button.

e)      Restart the computer and try again

f)       Check that the door of your Studiomill is firmly closed and that the handle is down to lock the door shut and engage the secondary safety device.

g)      Check that the correct USB device drivers are installed – visit  our downloads section and download the latest device driver.

h)      Disconnect the USB cable, completely uninstall all Studiomill software then restart the computer. Reinstall Studiomill software using the latest version from this site following the instillation instructions.

i)        Check that the machine is not “on a limit”  (Studiomill is on a limit when one of the axes is at one end of the fullest extent of its travel – the z axis is either all the way in or out, the x axis is all the way to the left or right etc…  If this is the case the software will direct you to move the machine away from the limit switch.

j)        Ensure that you have loaded the correct cutting tool as specified in the “pathing” step of the software.   If you select a flat end tool but actually use a ball nose then this will result in a seam on the model, if the tool diameter is even slightly incorrect this will also result in a corresponding seam or misalignment.

k)      If you are over-clocking the machine speed this could cause the problem – try keeping the default speed setting or decreasing it if cutting hard materials like aluminium.

l)        Ensure that the correct Stm.dat file is on the computer that is running the software – the Stm.dat file holds the offsets data for your Studiomill machine – if you have changed the computer that is operating your Studiomill this file must be transferred to the new station after instillation.  (see the instillation guide for more details)

m)    Execute a machine alignment routine (contact us for detailed instructions before performing this step)

a. Yes, Studiomill is a complete comprehensive package including software site license, cutting tools and all mounting fixtures, features, collets and spanners and keys required.   And of course the pack also includes the teaching guides and tutorials, your quote should also include delivery and may include on site training.

Faq.  I already use toolpathing software that I am familiar with – can I continue to use this for making models with Studiomill?

a. Yes.  Whether you are used to using fully featured value software such as Deskproto or high end software like Mastercam you can import G-Code files into the Studiomill machine control – And once imported you can review the toolpaths before cutting the part.

Faq.  What is meant by Studiomill 5 axis CNC – Can Studiomill cut complex 5 sided parts?

a.  Yes Studiomill can cut models with complex features on all sides using the rotary axis,  the 5^th axis is provided by a manual re-mounting fixture so that the top of the model can also be cut allowing a full complicated 5 sided part to be machined.

Faq.  I am in USA and I want to purchase Studiomill.

a. Unfortunately our product liability insurance does not currently cover any of our distributors to export to the United States.  We are currently seeking new distributors in the US and hope to resolve this shortly.

Faq. I would like to see Studiomill in action.

a. Visit one of our worldwide network of distributors at an exhibition or contact a distributors to visit their office, most of them are all fully equipped with demonstration machines.

Core PD Group works in the fields of Factory Automation, Robotics and Health & Wellness products and has strong interest in seeing a flourishing Scientific, Engineering and Manufacturing sector in the UK. Josh Reid is founder and CEO.

Group member companies:

Core PD Ltd.
Core Robotics Ltd.
Poolpod Ltd.

Get the most from your Studiomill. View our CAD/CAM tutorials and learn to use the basic and advanced features of the software.  At the start of the tutorial you will be told what material you will need and how long the model will take to cut.

Downloads

Stay up-to-date. Download the latest software & updates, the user manual, STL model files, videos & images.
Latest software : www.studiomill.co.uk/PathingCNCInstallV2.1.msi

Troubleshooting

Problems operating your Studiomill? See the list of things to try before you contact us.

Frequently Asked Questions

Need answers? If you are looking for help see the FAQ for answers to previously asked questions.

Studiomill’s included PathingCNC application takes you from a 2D or 3D CAD model to machined part from within one package. Import industry standard file formats created in Solidworks, Rhino 3D, Creo elements/pro, Inventor, Pro desktop and more. The intuitive wizard-based interface allows new users to quickly learn how to produce in-house prototypes. Integrated machine control  means no additional software is required and helps to maintain a fast workflow.

Studiomill’s compact size means it is suited to many business environments. The small footprint can be accommodated on a desk or workbench so it can be placed to suit the requirements of an office, studio or workshop. The door opens very wide providing convenient access to the work area for changing mounts and tools. An extraction port also allows Studiomill to be connected to a conventional extraction system.

Studiomill comes complete with 5 material mounts to suit a wide range of materials and cutting requirements. The standard bed plate is designed to securely mount block material and has clear markings to make it quick and easy to locate the material correctly without requiring complex alignment. The flat part mount is designed to provide maximum support for thin sheets whilst the 3-jaw chuck is the best way to mount cylindrical stock. The 5th axis mount allows models to be cut from the top.

Studiomill supports a wide variety of tool sizes which are easy to change for fast machine setup. Long and wide tools cut away more material allowing prototype models to be made very quickly for rapid design iterations. Short and narrow tools can access very small areas allowing detailed models to be made for testing parts for form and fit. Large tools can be used to quickly cut a rough model which can then be repeated with a small tool to achieve the required detail.

Studiomill has a diverse material palette to meet the needs of businesses. Cheap extruded polystyrene foam can be simply and securely mounted for fast iterative prototyping and low running costs. Functional polymers and sheet metals can be cut to reflect the true properties of the intended materials of the design.

Studiomill is enclosed in a safe, shatterproof polycarbonate casing. It can only run when the door is closed and the included emergency stop unit is connected. A safety interlock stops the machine automatically when the door is opened. The emergency stop can be used to interrupt the cutting process at any time. The software allows cutting to proceed from where it was interrupted.

Studiomill allows you to spend more time designing. The automatic coordinate system setup means cutting can start sooner. While prototypes or patterns are being machined you can get on with more important things.  Studiomill is designed to require minimal user intervention but if necessary you can monitor the cutting progress thanks to the transparent case.

Studiomill provides in-house prototyping and same-day design evaluation in 8 simple steps. Effective visual prototypes can be created for communicating concepts to clients. Functional parts can be machined and combined with other parts to test mechanical assemblies. Ergonomic variations and different sizes can quickly be tested to help refine the design and shorten overall development time.

1. Import CAD model.

Studiomill’s included PathingCNC application takes you from a 2D or 3D CAD model to machined part within one software package. Import industry standard file formats created in Solidworks, Rhino 3D, Creo elements/pro, Inventor, Pro desktop and more. The intuitive wizard-based interface allows new students to be taught how to produce a simple model in just one lesson. More experienced students can take advantage of advanced features to support their creative projects from design to prototype.

2. Open door.

Studiomill’s small size and low weight make it easy to install and locate. The small footprint can be accommodated on a desk or workbench so it can be placed to suit the requirements of a lesson. The door opens very wide providing convenient access to the work area for changing mounts and tools, fitting and removing material and cleaning.

Studiomill comes complete with 5 material mounts to suit a range of creative projects. The standard bed plate is designed to securely mount block material such as foam and wood. It has clear markings to make it easy to locate the material correctly. The 5th axis mount allows the principles of 5-axis machining to be demonstrated. The 3-jaw chuck is the best way to mount cylindrical material. See our pen engraving tutorial for a quick, fun example.

Studiomill supports a wide variety of tool sizes which are easy to change for quick machine setup. Long and wide tools cut away more material allowing models to be made very quickly to suit the time available in a lesson. Short and narrow tools can access very small areas allowing detailed models to be made for more complex design projects. Large tools can be used to quickly cut a rough model which can then be repeated with a small tool to achieve the required detail.

Studiomill has a diverse material palette to meet the creative needs of student design projects. Cheap extruded polystyrene foam can be simply and securely mounted for quick introductory lessons, fast iterative prototyping and low running costs. Balsa wood can be machined for producing components for model boats, cars and aeroplanes. Cuboidal and cylindrical wax can be used to machine patterns for jewellery making.

Studiomill is enclosed in a safe, shatterproof polycarbonate casing. It can only run when the door is closed and the included emergency stop unit is connected. A safety interlock stops the machine automatically when the door is opened. The emergency stop can be used to interrupt the cutting process at any time. The software allows cutting to proceed from where it was interrupted.

Studiomill is enclosed in a transparent case which provides a great view of the cutting process. The inner workings of the machine can also be viewed for an added educational experience. The small footprint means Studiomill can be placed in the optimum viewing position to suit the requirements of the lesson. An extraction port allows Studiomill to be connected to workshop extraction systems.

From virtual worlds to tangible realities in 8 simple steps. A simple model can be imported, setup and machined within a single lesson. Our speedboat tutorial can be completed in just 40 minutes learn more. Students can then examine the finished part to learn how machine settings translate into physical results. Individual parts can be machined and then assembled to demonstrate the concepts of fits, tolerances and precision. Students can evaluate not only their designs but also the CAD/CAM method itself.

Studiomill’s PC-based software takes you from a 2D or 3D CAD model to jewellery pattern within one application. Import files created in Rhino 3D and many other industry-standard jewellery design packages. Handmade models can be captured using a 3D scanner and then imported to quickly make replicas or wax patterns.  The intuitive wizard-based interface allows new users to quickly learn how to produce a simple model. The machine can be setup to cut from many directions to achieve extremely detailed patterns.

Studiomill’s small size and low weight make it easy to install and locate. The small footprint can be accommodated on a desk or workbench so it can be placed to suit the requirements of a small studio or workshop. The door opens very wide providing convenient access to the work area for changing mounts and tools, fitting and removing material and cleaning.

Studiomill comes complete with 5 material mounts to suit a range of materials and cutting requirements. The chucks are perfect for securely holding cuboidal and cylindrical wax material which is ideal for making rings and other small pieces of jewellery. The flat part mount is designed to provide maximum support for sheets of material so they both sides can be engraved with 2D designs.

Studiomill supports a wide variety of tool sizes which are easy to change for quick machine setup. Long and wide ball-nose tools cut away the most material allowing smooth surfaces to be cut very quickly. The industry-standard collet system supports tools from 16mm down to 0.2mm cutting diameter (16mm to 2mm shank diameter).  Short and narrow point tools can access very small areas allowing fine detailing to be picked out. Large tools can be used to quickly cut a rough model which can then be repeated with a small tool to achieve the required detail.

Studiomill has a diverse material palette to meet the creative needs of designers. Jewellery wax can be accurately cut with fine detail and then directly used for investment casting. Non-ferrous sheet metals can be securely mounted for engraving on both sides. Cheaper materials can be used for testing designs to achieve finished pieces faster and maintain low running costs. Harder materials can be cut into robust master patterns for making into moulds.

Studiomill is enclosed in a safe, shatterproof polycarbonate casing. It can only run when the door is closed and the included emergency stop unit is connected. A safety interlock stops the machine automatically when the door is opened. The emergency stop can be used to interrupt the cutting process at any time. The software allows cutting to proceed from where it was interrupted.

Studiomill allows you to spend more time designing. The automatic coordinate system setup means cutting can start sooner. While prototypes or patterns are being machined you can get on with more important things.  If necessary you can monitor the cutting progress thanks to the transparent case. An extraction port also allows Studiomill to be connected to a conventional extraction system.

From virtual design to physical model in 8 simple steps. Studiomill allows jewellery prototypes to be made for evaluation and manufacture. Design variations and different sizes can quickly be tested to help refine the design, speed up the process and build a cohesive collection. See our step-by-step tutorial for more information.

A simple model can be imported, set up and machined within a single lesson. Students can then examine the finished part to learn how machine settings translate into physical results.

Learn more.

Studiomill allows jewellery prototypes to be made for evaluation and manufacture. Design variations and different sizes can quickly be tested to help refine the design, speed up the process and build a cohesive collection.

Learn more.

Effective visual prototypes can be created for communicating concepts to clients. Ergonomic variations and different sizes can quickly be tested to help refine the design and shorten overall development time.

Learn more.

• Studiomill CNC milling machine and polycarbonate case
• Full suite of mounting accessories
• Emergency stop unit
• Cutting tools (may vary from illustration)

Click to download Studiomill Technical Specifications

3D CNC

Studiomill allows you to machine complex shapes with a simple easy-to-learn software interface. Advanced features including 5 axis cutting can be accessed with a single mouse click. 3D CNC learning materials are available in our tutorials section.

With Studiomill you can make more models, more quickly. The wizard-based software takes you from CAD model to tool path in just a few simple steps. The over-size tools remove the maximum amount of material to deliver prototypes fast whether it’s for a client or in the classroom.  See how this simple CNC rapid prototyping system works in 10 simple steps.

Studiomill does not restrict you to designing to the capabilities of a machine. A diverse palette of functional materials including light-weight foam, non-ferrous sheet metal and carbon fibre tubing can all be cut from multiple directions.

1. Import CAD file

Studiomill’s integrated PathingCNC software takes you from a 2D or 3D CAD model to machined part within one package. Import industry standard file formats created in Solidworks, Rhino 3D, Creo Elements/Pro, Inventor, Pro/DESKTOP and more, including scanned data and files from Chameleon. The intuitive wizard-based interface allows new users to quickly learn how to produce simple models. CNC features normally reserved for advanced users are easily accessible for creating detailed prototypes fast.

2. Select material

Select the desired material with a single click. Optimum cutting speed, feed rates and other parameters are automatically setup with a single click. Advanced features can be accessed by more experienced users to customise material settings for exotic materials.

3. Select mount

Select the required material mount with a single click. The coordinate system and model offsets are automatically set up. The material and selected mount are displayed in the graphics area.

4. Scale/rotate model

When a model is imported, it isn’t always the right size or in the right orientation. If a model is too large for the work area this is detected and the model can simply be scaled and rotated to fit.

5. Set stock size

Block or cylindrical stock can be selected with a single click. PathingCNC automatically calculates the required stock dimensions to fit the model including the allowance for required mounting screws. The model, screw allowance and material that will be removed are all displayed in the graphics area to easily understand how changes in stock size will affect the final model.

6. Setup cutting strategy

The cutting strategy to be used is selected in a single click. Choose from the preset 1- & 2-sided strategies or select a custom multi-sided strategy. Advanced settings allow the size and direction of each cutting zone to be manipulated. A visualisation of the cutting zones is displayed in the graphics area.

7. Select tool

PathingCNC’s tool library allows a cutting tool to be selected with a single click. New tools can be added to the library as they become available. The tool diagram allows physical attributes to be easily identified and corresponding parameters entered correctly.

8. Generate cutting path

The level of cutting detail can be changed with a single click. Finer control of model detail is provided with a simple slide control. The cutting path is automatically generated and a preview is displayed in the graphics area so it can be checked before committing to the machine.

9. Integrated machine control

PathingCNC’s integrated machine control means you can go from CAD model to physical prototype within a single package. No additional software is required. The coordinate system is automatically setup. A preview of the tool path is displayed in the graphics area. If necessary, cutting can be paused and resumed as required.

1. Import CAD model.

Studiomill’s included PathingCNC application guides you through the entire CNC machining process. It takes you from a 2D or 3D CAD model to finished part all from within one package. Import industry standard file formats created in Solidworks, Rhino 3D, Pro/DESKTOP, Creo Elements/Pro, Inventor and more. Integrated machine control  means no additional software is required, helping to maintain a fast workflow.

The intuitive wizard-based interface allows new users to quickly learn how to produce simple models. CNC features normally reserved for advanced users are easily accessible for creating detailed prototypes fast. A contextual view of the the machine makes it easy to optimally orientate the model. Coordinate systems are automatically set up saving time. The resolution of the cutting can be changed with a simple control and then previewed before machining begins.

Studiomill’s small size and low weight make it easy to install. The small footprint can be accommodated on a desk or workbench so it can be placed to suit the requirements of a lesson. The door opens very wide providing convenient access to the work area for changing mounts and tools, fitting and removing material and cleaning. An extraction port also allows Studiomill to be connected to a conventional extraction system.

Studiomill comes complete with 5 material mounts to suit a wide range of materials and cutting requirements. The standard bed plate is designed to securely mount block material such as foam and wood. It has clear markings to make it quick and easy to locate the material correctly and does not require complex alignment. The flat part mount is designed to provide maximum support for thin sheets whilst the 3-jaw chuck is the best way to mount cylindrical stock. The 5th axis mount allows models to be cut from the top.

5. Select cutting tool.

Studiomill supports a wide variety of tool sizes which are easy to change for quick machine setup. Long and wide ball-nose tools up to 16mm in diameter cut away more material allowing smooth flowing surfaces to be cut very quickly. Short and narrow point tools down to a diameter of 0.2mm can access very small areas allowing fine detail to be picked out. Large tools can be used to quickly cut a basic model followed by a small tool to achieve the required detail.

Studiomill has a diverse material palette to meet your needs. Studiomill allows you to machine the material of your choice, from the lightest of foams to non-ferrous metals and ceramics. Cheap extruded polystyrene foam can be simply and securely mounted for fast iterative prototyping and low running costs. Functional polymers and non-ferrous sheet metals can be cut to reflect the true properties of the intended materials of the design. Cylindrical wax can be used to machine patterns for jewellery making. Balsa wood can be machined for producing components for model boats, cars and aeroplanes.

Studiomill is enclosed in a safe, shatterproof polycarbonate casing. It can only run once the included emergency stop unit is connected and the door is closed. A safety interlock stops the machine automatically when the door is opened. The emergency stop can be used to interrupt the cutting process at any time. The software allows cutting to proceed from where it was interrupted.

Studiomill allows you to spend more time designing. The automatic coordinate system setup means cutting can start sooner. While prototypes or patterns are being machined you can get on with more important things.  Studiomill is designed to require minimal user intervention but if necessary you can monitor the cutting progress thanks to the transparent case. For students the inner workings of the machine can also be viewed for an added educational experience.

Effective visual prototypes can be created for communicating concepts to clients. Functional parts can be machined and combined with other parts to test mechanical assemblies. Ergonomic variations and different sizes can quickly be tested to help refine the design and shorten overall development time. Students can examine finished parts to learn how machine settings translate into physical results.

Simple software

Studiomill’s integrated PathingCNC software takes you from a 2D or 3D CAD model to machined part within one package. Import industry standard file formats created in Solidworks, Rhino 3D, Creo Elements/Pro, Inventor, Pro/DESKTOP and more, including scanned data and files from Chameleon. The intuitive wizard-based interface allows new users to quickly learn how to produce simple models. CNC features normally reserved for advanced users are easily accessible for creating detailed prototypes fast. Our integrated machine control software  means no additional software is required, helping to maintain a fast workflow.

Studiomill supports a wide variety of tool sizes which are easy to change for quick machine setup. Long and wide ball-nose tools rapidly cut away significant amounts of material ,allowing smooth flowing surfaces to be cut very quickly. Short and narrow point tools can access very small areas allowing fine detail to be picked out. Large tools can be used to quickly cut a basic model followed by a small tool to achieve the required detail.

Process large models

• 220mm high x 160mm diam

Studiomill supports the industry-standard ER25 and ER11 collet systems which are compatible with tool shank diameters ranging from 2mm to 16mm (0.2mm to 16 mm cutting diameter). Tool changeover is quick and simple and the collets are widely available, making it easy to add new tools to your collection. If the worst happens and a collet is lost or broken, it can easily be replaced.

Studiomill’s 5th axis mount provides virtual 5-axis machining, allowing detail in the top of a model to be cut. The standard mount is used to quickly cut an accurate model using 4-axis machining. A 5th axis cutting area can be added with a single click in the software – it’s as easy as that. The standard mount is then transferred to the angle mounting fixture (shown here) so machining can continue in the 5th axis. No model alignment or complex coordinate system set up is required.