Teach Yourself (or Your Kids) CNC with TheMotionKit

Ever see cool motion control projects made with the current technology and thought “wow, I wish I could do that.” Now you can learn the skills you needor even teach your kids graduate-level engineering concepts with TheMotionKit. This new kit aims to make learning both fun and easy.

The makers claim TheMotionKit is applicable for all ages. We’re sure that’s true for those already involved in a maker community, but for everyone else, it might help to know what this fancy electronic kit entails. So, before we go any further, what is CNC? CNC (computerized numerical control) is the term for a type of machine that allows computers to drive motion in different applications like 3D printing, milling, and laser engraving. It’s also a major focus in the maker movement.

Ok, so how does this kit teach CNC? The basic kit is made for all users, no matter what your level. It includes motion blocks, linear rails, bearings, belts, pullets, mico-controller, motors, and other assorted material. Aside from the power supply, which can be found at most electronic stores, the kit has everything you need to get started. The motion block itself is promoted as an all-in-one piece of hardware that serves as each part of a 2-axis CNC machine. Each side of the block is for a different purpose, including a pulley mount, belt clamp, carriage, tool holder among other uses.

Once you’ve got the blocks, you can then begin teaching yourself the basics via the virtual classroom app, which presents a step-by-step guide on motion, including aspects of circuitry and coding. The lessons can be found on a companion website to make sure you get the most of out the hardware. Not only will the site have easy to follow guides, there will also be new projects for users to follow released on a weekly basis.

The full kit includes:

• 7 Motion Blocks
• 6 Timing Pulleys
• 3 Stepper Motors
• 3 Timing Belts
• 4 Linear Rails
• 4 Bearings
• 2 Mechanical Endstops
• 2 Stepper Drivers
• 1 Microcontroller
• 1 USB Cable
• 1 Breadboard
• Assorted Wires & Hardware
• License to Virtual Classroom
• Instructions Manual

Are you ready to start learning the basics of CNC? Earlybird kits start at $179, while full kits will costs you $199. You can head over to Kickstarter now to show your support; the team is currently hoping to gather $25,000 and has only reached $6,972 with over a dozen days to go. I can see this being useful for test engineers… get on it!

Read Teach Yourself (or Your Kids) CNC with TheMotionKit at SolidSmack.

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Source: http://www.solidsmack.com/fabrication/teach-yourself-cnc-with-the-motion-kit/