This page provides only a quick overview of Jim's use of the Fadal. Future pages will provide much more detailed information about the many tools and fixtures Jim has produced with it. Work on the Fadal starts on the 2nd floor, far away from the Fadal itself, on this computer. The programmer has to draw the part to be cut with mathematical precision. This screen shot shows the outline of a peghead and its volute.
Colored lines can indicate various cutting paths or layers of the workpiece.
This screen shot shows a bridge. The Fadal has its own computer that only understands a rather primitive CNC command language. The CAD software produces these commands from the drawing, but they have to be transferred to the Fadal downstairs. Jim uses an old laptop for the transfer. Here is another view of the Fadal at an angle that lets you see the many tool bits in a turntable next to the cutting head.