Mechanical implementation services for rapid prototyping

Inspired by the metal oxide system implementation service (MOSIS) project, CyberCut is an experimental fabrication testbed for an Internet-accessible, computerized prototyping and machining service. Client-designers can create mechanical components, generally using our web-based computer aided design (CAD) system (available at http://cad.berkeley.edu), and submit appropriate files to the server at Berkeley for process planning. CyberCut then utilizes an open-architecture, computer numerical control (CNC) machine tool for fabrication. Rapid tool path planning, novel fixturing techniques and sensor-based precision machining techniques allow the designer to take delivery of a component machined from high-strength materials with good tolerances, e.g. +/-0.002 in (0.05 mm). There are also instances where the complex geometry of a component cannot be prototyped on our three-axis machine tool. For these components use is made of solid freeform. fabrication (SFF) technologies such as fused deposition modelling (FDM) to build a prototype of the design. Based on experience with this testbed, a new characterization of types of relationship, or 'couplings', between design and manufacturing has been developed using the three classifications 'loose and repetitive', 'stiff and one-way' or 'strong and bidirectional'. These three couplings represent different trade-offs between 'design flexibility' and 'guaranteed manufacturability'.