GEarheads
We’re the #16460 GEarheads, a FIRST Tech Challenge team based in Brookfield, Wisconsin. FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) is an organization divided into 3 robotics challenges: FLL, FTC, and FRC. Around 3 years ago, we recognized that to improve our prototyping and design process, we needed the ability to machine-cut our own components. This led us down a journey of acquiring and building multiple CNC (Computer Numerical Control) machines and even expanding to helping other FTC teams build their own open-source MPCNCs.
Our first acquisition was a Dynamyte 2400, a small older CNC machine that was donated to us by a local school. Although it could make good quality parts, it was very limited in both size and speed, and we knew we needed to improve.
In the summer of 2022, we upgraded to an MPCNC (Mostly Printed CNC), an open-source design from V1 Engineering, and our first CNC machine large enough to cut larger parts for our robot. As the name suggests, the MPCNC is mostly 3D printed, in addition to certain store-bought parts from Home Depot and the like. Because of this, when running at higher speeds, it could sometimes have minor errors and inconsistencies. Despite this, however, it was still a great tool for larger parts with more tolerance for error, all while only costing about $400. We now use our MPCNC for demonstrations, with a marker attached instead of a router.
About a year ago, we built our third CNC machine, another open-source design called a PrintNC, a far more durable and reliable design with a steel frame. Although it has many advantages over the MPCNC, including part quality, speed, and reliability, it is quite large and heavy, making it difficult to demo at events. Additionally, it is more expensive to construct than the MPCNC, as it uses more high-quality materials.
Given the success of our own CNC endeavors, we realized that many teams may not know where to start with acquiring a CNC machine, or that affordable options even exist. To help rectify this issue, we launched a project to find teams in need and get them the materials and instruction required to assemble their own V1 Engineering MPCNC. We have already brought 2 FTC teams to the final stages of assembly on their machines throughout the summer. As we know its good reliability, lower cost, and ease of transportation from personal experience, the MPCNC is the optimal choice for introducing FTC teams to CNC machining.
Our journey into CNC machining has helped us improve our robot design and prototyping, as well as introduce CNC machining to other teams. We’re committed to helping out the larger FTC community and fanning the flame of collaboration that is at the heart of the FIRST core values.