Florian Hu
Process
Half the fun of making something can be to figure out how to make it.
I find it really exciting to experiment with processes, especially when they appear to be unachievable without a large factory or expensive equipment. Sometimes the sole purpose of my next project is just to try out a new process. Other times, mastering a new process can be the inspiration for the next project.
Here are a few techniques in my tool box.
Art Tools Electronics Devices Knick-nacks
CAD & CAM
I do most of my CAD and CAM work in Fusion 360 these days. It has become a such a powerful tool while still being very affordable (free for hobbyists and startups).
Parametric modeling is extremely helpful when it comes to prototyping.
Machining, Milling, Turning
Having a CNC mill in the shop opens up so many exciting possibilities and materials.
The same is true for my lathe. It is not CNC but it is still possible to make very precise parts on it.
Just takes a little more effort. I mostly machine plastics and aluminium, less often brass and steel.
3D Printing
The late 3D printing boom has made affordable printers accessible to everyone.
I have owned two FDM 3D printers for several years now and am continuously using them to
quickly create parts that are otherwise very hard or time consuming to manufacture.
Casting
Casting plastic parts is a great way to create multiple copies of a part
without the penalty to machine them separately.
Once a mold is created the the resulting parts are very durable
and have an excellent surface finish.
Anodizing
I have only recently started to experiment with anodizing aluminium
and I have to say, there is no better way to give your parts that extra little kick.
Not only does it give the part a professional look but it also protects the surface finish
much better against every day handling.
Electronics
Electronics are the glue that holds most of my projects together. Circuits, micro controllers, displays give projects the smarts we’ve come to expect from everything around us. Most of my projects are gadgets and very focused on electronics.
Nowadays you can find cheap boards to do almost anything very easily and it is becoming less important to be able to manufacture your own boards, however it doesn’t hurt to know how the little buggers tick. Also, most of the time I just don’t want to wait for the snail mail to arrive at my door.
