Do you really need "smart" tools? The answer will SHOCK you!
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- Опубликовано: 19 авг 2023
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if i was to provide a service to ghana government and a petroleum company , industrial level , what 3d printer should i go for
With the traditional method, I think you should include a buffer for the fact that you did most of the thinking in CAD ahead of time. Even though you did hand layouts for the traditional, you had done most of the legwork before so that saved you time.
Another wrinkle would have been a hybrid approach, where you mock up paper layouts digitially and glue those to plywood so you dont have to do the tedious measuring with rulers. I think this approach is the most beneficial to the most people (80/20 right?). Sketchup is free, dead simple to learn for basic 2D layouts, and allows for MM level perfection. You can then print those 2d layouts to scale, so you get the benefit of computer design (precision) but not the steep learning curve of CAD. You get the cost effective (limited tools) of traditional, but don't have all the stack up of error from hand measuring everything.
Once you have the digital files, you can make more parts quickly.
This is the big win - if you want another identical (or nearly identical) holder 2 weeks later, you just have to send the file. With traditional methods, you have the setup, breaking down stock, and cleaning up you had for the original run.
Similarly, once you have jigs and methods down with the traditional woodworking, making additional parts is quick too.
@@JohnC1less traditional skills needed with modern technology, so in these times easier to teach to anyone making it a cheaper option for bigger organisations. For the smaller 1 guy operations handtools and semi cnc probably will still be the most efficient
@@JohnC1 Why would you want to do the work by hand? It's more work you have to do and is more hazardous.
Design was already sorted out from the cad version so add that to your woodworking 5 hrs.
Also a plus of the digital fabrication is that; you dont need as many tools to produce something. If you have a small home without a proper workshop you can still make most of the stuff you need in and around the house.
Yes, I dont have a lot of space in my apartment and a 3d printer for 80$ (Modified ender 3 Pro ) and a few regular tools work very well for me
I really like the purple and acrylic bit holder with the locking cleats. I could see you selling pairs of those cleats cut at both 45 & 90 degrees for people to design & put together their own tool holders.
I’m repeatedly impressed by your digital file build times, you’re like 2x as fast as I am.
I hear you. I can easily spend 5+ hours on a single part! Never mind if I tried to do that many. Curse my perfectionism. There's always something I'm not quiet happy with. lol
Honestly I was shocked. For me, the deciding factor (excluding price) is eliminating repetition on common tasks. Thanks Travis.
I'm not surprised by the results. A few things worth noting
1. Your experiment is mostly valid in terms of user expertise, as you're competent in both digital and traditional methods. But it's worth remembering that most people are going to have to invest time learning new tools. If you're starting from nothing, digital wins hands down as you need to learn only 1 thing.
2. Cost is a consideration. How much did you spend to buy your 3d printer and laser cutter, vs how much did you spend on a table saw, miter saw, and drill press?
3. Crowdsourcing. If you need a tool holder for router bits, it's as likely as not someone out there has already put the time in to design one for both methods, which cuts out the design phase. But cutting out that phase saves far more time in digital fab than it does for traditional.
All 3 excellent points here, thank you!
To number 2, you don't need the level of equipment shown in this video. You can get a desktop laser capable of this for well under a thousand these days, maybe even half that on sale. 3D printers that are decent are under five hundred. So, $1K for the 2, which isn't that steep if you plan on using them for other things. I'd venture you could skip the 3D printer, as you could create that locking mechanism other ways with lasered parts and a simple pivot (nail/screw).
True.
Travis is using high end tools in both fields. Buying lower end models will be cheaper but yield worse results or lesser capabilities. You can easily stand up a traditional woodshop for well under $1k, _especially_ if you're willing to shop on the used market.
My point wasn't that one is better than the other, just that it's a significant factor that should be considered, and Travis did not address it.
"You only need to learn one thing for digital", oh boy...
Have a look at the 100+ damn slicer settings for a simple printer. Leveling the damn thing, making sure it sticks, using the proper filament, etc, etc.
Same for the laser, a whole bunch of parameters, and things you have to take into account just to run the damn thing.
That's not to mention the whole CAD/CAM design process, along with using the proper construction methodologies, such as preventing overhangs and whatnot. "Design for manufacturing", basically.
I own a bunch of power tools, from planers, to tablesaw and basics drills.
I also own a pretty decent printer (artillery sidewinder x2).
And I designed and built my own 24x48" 80W CO2 laser.
I can confidently say that hand/power tools are SIGNIFICANTLY easier to get started with. "Easy to learn, hard to master", whereas digital fabrication tends to be "hard to learn, harder to master".
I mean, in general, press a button on any given power tool, and it'll go "brrrr". Common sense generally tells you what you can do with said "brrr".
Press a button on a digital fabrication tool, and you'll be lucky it doesn't wreck itself 😅
I have some of Chris' earlier hangers that he made before moving to the robotics, so I can appreciate both sides of the form. The French cleat wall is a nice way to organize.
Loved the shout out to Chris’ channel, he’s a great guy making great products for makers! I’m lucky enough to have been gifted a CNC from a family member, so I got his digital files for the tool holder to cut them myself. Work great!
I do find myself using a mix of both. I do like the aesthetic of handmade, but also like the 3D printed in specific instances. As others have mentioned, digital does allow for utilizing the shop for other purposes while parts are being manufactured (this is true multi-tasking), but the ability to replicate quickly (growth and / or replacement) without all the upfront design work is huge.
I've noticed tool organization is a theme nowadays at the big box hardware stores. Every major brand is offering their own modular toolbox and shop organization system. I've also noticed these products are kinda pricey, so a DIY approach makes economic sense. In your video I actually prefer the aesthetic of your handmade, plywood tool hangers compared to the laser cut versions. IMHO the handmade hangers look more beefy and rugged. Thanks for the video; Great insights in your commentary!
You can also paint them to match a theme in your shop. Personally leaving them a natural plywood color isn't something I would do.
Personally, I think the Ryobi tool wall looks better than any DYI I’ve seen. I don’t know what the strength of the tool wall is as I’ve not tried it
Cool to see the times being so close. For me designing on a computer really helps so I know what I am making and can be sure to have the right materials on hand. I hate being halfway through and needing something that I have to get which is often after stores are closed. Once they are designed digitally you can then choose which method is fastest or available to you at that time.
Think twice, cut once.
New subscriber here. Your videos are awesome. The production of your videos reflects the efficiency of work of which you often speak. Clear, concise, efficient, no wasted movement, no wasted words, all the information it needs and nothing it does not. I found that, unlike with many videos, I am not skipping ahead or abandoning the video midway through. Every moment has useful information. I am glad I discovered your channel. I look forward to exploring all your other videos. Great job!!
Another advantage for digital: A bunch of people have already done the design work for tool holders and uploaded to the repositories, some even have made "generators" that will churn out custom bits by just filling in a spreadsheet...
I ended up on your channel because I was looking for X1C videos.
Good stuff.
You are obviously a smart and structured person.
Keep up the good work.
Love your print farm 🤗
Super helpful demo. I think every operator of a large shop understands that there are few absolutes when it comes to these evaluations. We all come to our final setup via trial and error, our own budget, time and space constraints and so on. But info like this is helpful and possible a time saver when trouble shooting ones own space.
Nice job Travis! I like the idea of painting the cleat wall. I'd take it a step further and do the back one color and the cleats another for some contrast. Like you said, whatever makes it more enjoyable to work in your shop.
As for the results, I like the 3d printed+acrylic bit holder, but prefer the look of the traditional versions of everything else. I've never been a fan of the burnt edges of laser cut wood. Painting them is one way to get past that, but more time and cost involved. I'll have one by the end of the year, but my preferred method would be CNC cutting all the parts. I'll get a laser later on just to do simple engravings, but a CNC is the priority for the next step of digital automation in my shop.
Travis what a great comparison. As you know the one thing about the digital design. If you at a later time want another holder of a design you have, just open file and run it vs building all over by hand. I as much as a lot of people prefer building my own tool holders. Just something satisfying about it. I have a laser (not the xTool P2 jealous) and I use that more for making crafts to sell. Great video
That was a very interesting comparison for me.
I am a trained industrial mechanic and love turning, milling and filing things. But only one piece. As soon as it is more than one piece, it becomes boring. This is where digital production comes into play. Some parts can be drawn in the CAD program, but are difficult to produce mechanically. That's where the 3D printer comes in.
I personally enjoy forming parts by hand or with machine tools. But I also get a lot of pleasure from drawing a part on the computer and then printing it.
The best thing is to find a compromise between the two worlds.
. . .
Now I just have to find a place where I can put a laser cutter.
Loving your new channel direction pushing on the boundaries of traditional vs digital. For me drills and saws have a weekend warrior learning curve where as graphic design is months of training. I am slowly learning 3D modeling and vector drawing and sometimes my cave man brain just wants to see it done and I turn to sawdust and glue to realize my project. Long term they are complementary but short term old school is easier and faster.
This shows the elements of production verses one offs. I think both are required personally. I remember setting up a DVD duplication system that would create 180 DVDs an hour which was great. 180 good or bad DVDs was based on the QC acturcy .
The biggest advantage you has is already knowing how to do both. For myself, trying to learn 3D modeling has been a slow arduous process. But yes, once you get where you can transfer whats in your head to the computer in a timely manner, digital has many advantages.
Excellent content. Always enjoyable and informative.
I liked the comparison, and they all three looked great. I do like the traditional method better because you can push yourself as a woodworker. You can practice different joinery and other skills you may not be comfortable with on a full scale project. I do see the advantages of all three methods.
I really enjoy the channel and like to seeing the various shop projects.
Yep. Great video. I was so worried the the digital process world be super fast. So glad we are still at a point where it is close. My budget just doesn't allow for digital machines yet.....yet.
Thanks Travis... Cool video
This is a great Idea for a video. It asks the underlying question everyone should be asking before investing money in multiple "Smart tools"
Thankyou for doing this head-to-head! I've worked in a machine shop for years and find if you have a 3d models or they are a complex design it is best to use computer controlled stuff. If its hand drawn on a napkin and only have a handful to do you're better off doing them on a manual machine or if you're well versed in hand programing/ using the conversational program, skipping cam software. The first design will dictate what tools to use.
An interesting point: most of the time for digital fab is in creating the models. Now that you've done so, creating another holder (assuming it's the same or very similar to one you already have) is very quick. The traditional method it's probably longer per holder to create a one off holder than it is to create several at a time.
Yes! Modifying a 3D design is quick, especially if you do it right with parametric inputs
I suspect that if you made 2x the amount of holders, digital production would be faster. The more repeats you have, the more traditional production has the disadvantage. The time spend on digital production is much influenced by complexity (of the part) and the experience of the user. Learning CAD is a lot harder then learning to use woodworking tools... Another question is, what are the upfront costs of both methods, how much space do both methods require and how much does it cost to produce (materials, power and consumables)...
@@Cergorach if you apply the same logic to traditional methods, making jigs, and templates would easily speed that process up as well.
@@awildeep Agreed. But now you'd have to add jig making time to the upfront design times. The design times for the digital fab is essentially replacing the jigs.
As with many things, it depends. I'd love to see the shop built ones sanded and made pretty. The mix of things is the most fun and we are all following our thought process to get there. I would also bring up that the design part is the most fun for me. Finding examples and deciding on the way you prefer is great fun.
Going down the rabbit hole that nicifying (new word, you read it here first) shop-made projects can suck up more time than making them. So the question becomes one of what the goal is. Quick / utilitarian, or longer / prettier. I think shop made will win if you want to go the pretty route, versus laser. Of course, throw a low end CNC in the mix and you've got a whole new battle to consider.
@@DavZellShop Greatness. I have a half pretty half garage chaos shop. It’s difficult to want to go out there without small things to do. It’s the little wins that help me get through the big projects. Especially once big projects have finishing steps that keep delaying the final assembly.
Without looking at the video description and you said french cleats, I thought A Glimpse Inside. He has the cleat game down pat. 👍🏻
Great job Travis! That is definitely a catchy setup and tool organization. You should definitely mass produce these items just like a Glimpse Inside. Or you guy should collaborate in the near future. Love the idea of a locking block under the French cleat system. Time for me to organize my organized chaos of tools. You can even accommodate custom tools for customers. Keep up the great work and if I decide to French cleat my shop, I’ll definitely check between the two of you guys.
I'm a welder, mechanic and machinist who bought a 3D printer purely for making tools and parts of tools. I certainly would not buy one BEFORE getting much more useful hand and power tools including air compressors and welders (which also help build tools and even workshops) but they're quite handy especially for disposable items because you can always print more.
Very cool locking mechanism!
Great video, explaining the difference. another way to show tools on a wall would be somthing Shadowfoam or similar. Trace round the tool, peel back a coupl elayers of foam, insert tools. You can even frame the foam with beading etc. You can also add a logo in the same fashion. Okay, note to self, watch entire video before adding comment. Just seen the Kaizan foam section.
Very interesting comparison. Personally I like the traditional style as the laser cut/snap together looks more like a child's toy than a woodworkers effort. Of course being retired means I'm not looking for time savers or fast results. Thank you for showing this.
Me too!
Here to.
So true, I think the laser looks so incredibly ugly.
Agreed.👍🇺🇸
Agreed!
The takeaway: traditional tools for one off projects. If you need to manufacture dozens or hundreds…obviously digital fabrication. The only thing you left out was the bootstrapped cost of CNC, laser cutters and 3d printers. Often you’d need to breakdown your materials with traditional tools so digital is a net cost not a replacement cost. I don’t hobbyists need all the digital fab. All that said, I’m eyeballing a shaper to make templates because that’s definitely an efficiency edge and I don’t have space for a CNC in my single garage 😀. Great video!
What digital design tools did you use for both the laser and 3d printer? Have you considered doing a video on that side of things?
I’ve been involved in lots of analog to digital conversions in the work space over my career. Just a function of my age I guess. The benefit to using software is in the editing functions and the repeatability. In other words, it’s not the use but the reuse that pays off. In this case it was a one off project of about equal time. Do it all again and the digital drops significantly while the manual stays about the same. For my little home projects I won’t even take the time to draw it up in software so I have a plan to go by. I just use a pencil and graph paper.
Have you tried Lazer cutting the foam? Tracing around a photo of a calapers on what ever on a computer then letting it go to town on the foam might be an interesting thing to try
Another thing to consider, while your robots work for 5+ hours, you can be on the shop working on an additional piece at the same time. Like you said, leverage is the winner. Thanks for sharing.
I was very surprised at the time similarity.
keeping a clean shop = shop greatness
Just an FYI, when I am tackling a project like this using laser cutting or a CNC, I take a photo with a reference and can import that directly into fusion 360 where you can trace the items. I find this super fast and easier to do small precision items! Great video!
I have 4 3D printers and a laser in my shop and my tool organization is a mish-mash of digitally fabricated, off the shelf, and traditionally made solutions. And honestly I’ve found the same thing. It’s not really a time save either way. It’s more about what’s convenient. I find myself using more digital tools during times when my shop is either too cold or too hot to be comfortable because I can do the computer work part inside my house. and using my regular tools when it’s nicer in the fall and spring.
I had two thoughts: the traditional way benefited from the thought process from the digital planning, so it might have gone faster than if it were done alone or first. Second, now run off 10 more.- does the digital pull ahead without the planning process included in each? Ooops, third thought: you dont have to stand over the laser engraver - just be nearby - so this isnt lost time. Even cheap machines have flame detection these days and sound an alarm. Putting a camera on it with a monitor in clear view can help, too.
Machinist by trade here...could have told you the "initial runs" would be pretty close. The digital advantage will be when you do the 2nd/3rd/4th run etc...all the design/testing is done so just a matter of "pushing the button"
Great giving Chris a cameo on your video, he deserves it.
Heck yeah he does!
One of your best videos yet in terms of helping me with ideas for my shop. Thx
Minor point: those aren’t Kaizen tool holders, they’re more like 5S shadow boxes. Kaizen is more of a technique for rapid improvement than a term for a physical thing.
The product is called “kaizen foam” that I used. Agree though that is much more 5S
@@ShopNation Fair enough!
Great video it kinda surprised me figured the digital fabrication would’ve been a lot quicker . Great to see a video from you can’t wait to see what you do next.
I think you hi it on the he'd with Repeatability, if you want another bit holder for example, it is easily quicker now digitally as you have done the ground work. a laser cutter would be so good in my workshop, however I don't quite have the need for it enough (yet)
This really was a fun experiment. I personally like the traditional style wooden holders over the laser cut ones but I also think the 3d printed ones are really sleek looking. And just as everything else in the world, skill level plays a part. What took you 3 hours to model in 3d might take someone else 5. I love the idea of combining both though to create the most efficient use of anyones time.
On the other hand, had he done the jobs in reverse order, he likely would have used more time designing on the traditional route and less on the "smart" route. And often, you don't need to design but can just download the models - that's where the digital way starts shining.
What I like is to mix both of fabrication styles, usually go with the traditional method for the main/core parts then enhancing/finishing them with custom made 3D printed parts.
I have done some digital fabrications and getting to the point of being efficient and quick to get good reliable fabrication is not a short easy step. How many hours to learn CAD, and then to learn all the quirks of the 3d-printer and fighting off the 3d-print-spaghetti-trolls .. but when you get there it is really next level results, really beautiful holders you made, good job!
Great idea to compare both approaches. Awesome video!
You're right, the bit holder with the acrylic does look pretty rad!
I didn't see references to space and intention in the comments I read. Effectiveness has a sweet spot in terms of shop space. Too small and you're moving stuff all the time. Your shock at the time spent changing drill bits is a nod to this. Too big and you spend lots of time moving around between work areas. This is also true brought down to individual work stations or areas. Then there's good old-fashioned intention. Cranking widgets to turn a profit is at the other end of a spectrum with folks using hand tools only for the sensory, meditative, or artistic benefits shop work and production can provide. On that spectrum, you seem around the median with the bulk of the experiment focused on efficiency. Aside from all that, it was useful and fun to watch. Thanks!
As a metalworker, I believe, it very much depends on the part you're Making.
If it's a one off, you can manually mill it faster, than you can program it to cnc, but make 3, you're better off letting the machine make it.
Would love to see a large scale collab between you and chris. "Glimpse Nation"!
I was surprised :) Thought that 3D print and laser would have been faster. However the most important part is, that they are now proven and that does mean you can repeat or alter it slightly it again, with same drawings you have made on the computer :)
Given the automation involved, I was surprised that the time differential was not more significant. The most significant advantage 3d printers and laser cutters is repeatability. If I had to build 20 tool holders and have them be exactly the same, a 3d printer or laser cutter is the way to go. Aesthetically though, I found your hand-built holder much more pleasing to the eye than the 3d/laser equivalents, but there is no accounting for taste :) Thanks for making this video.
Great Video. I must say that I am a bit surprised how fast digital tools are...
You could eaven easyly tilt the outcome more in favor of the digital:
1. Use more 3d Printing and less laser cutting -> shave off the 1hr supervision time (or at least use the laser time to design other holders).
2. Repeat production. If you use the same (3D printed) holder several times this drasticly cuts down on your time compared to classic tools
3. Ready made designs. If you use designs that somebody already has made ad published you can cut down the design time drasticly.
In conclusion you could in theory cut down the digital time to 1hr if all of the above is done (in a perfect storm) that is not possible with classic. And that is a huge benefit of the digital tools...
Great work. I wonder how that design time would amortize if you were making, say, 40 units. I suspect that the "digital" process would win in that case. But, if you were making that many of these, it would make sense to set up jigs, etc. for the "traditional" process. I value CNC for precision, repeatability, and BS tasks like drilling 200 equally-spaced holes in a piece of plywood, or crazy curves that I can't do by hand. This was really informative.
I think it comes down to personal preference. I wouldn't go buy all the tools to 3d print and laser cut a 1 off item, but if you already have them go for it. It's just a matter of do you want something made by machine or made by your own 2 hands? First time building something? Do it by hand for the experience. Already have files for printing/cutting? Do it way faster by machine.
Great Video, I always enjoy watching your content Thank you.
in my opinion digital fabrication is still faster, because now if you want to repeat the process again you can do it in 2 hours and 15 minute only because you have all the files ready but in the traditional way if you want to repeat it, it will take again 5 hours so for the long run its always faster and more efficient to go the digital way, I know a lot of people out there they will disagree with me but I look at it on a business point of view now easily you can sell the plans or even sell the physical product and you literally design it once for 3 hours and you don't have to do it ever again.
Another thing to consider is your current skill set, I am much better at designing things in cad than building them as I go. I'm younger and have grown up with Cad at my disposal. Personally i'd much rather to use digital tools over traditional tools to build something. However Traditional tools are dam handy when you need to make clearances for something you hadn't considered in your 3d model.
For me, im not computer savy, it would take me forever to learn the programs. Also i really enjoy working with the wood, you know, hands on stuff.😂
I don’t know CAD/CAM so traditional it is for me. The learning hours required plus the additional software and tools are not justifiable, and I’m saying this as a networking/computer guy.
So I am also a hybrid worker, with shop tools, printers, lasers and a CNC. I think I would have made the design for the laser cut materials first and sent them to the laser before moving on to the 3D printed stuff, especially because I can import the SVGs into fusion to start off with the profiles needed for the cleats. My laser cutter is next to my computer so I would be watching the laser as I designed the 3d parts. I currently use peg board and I hate it so I may convert to French cleat in the future. Great video, thumbs up.
THAT ICE CREAM IS AN IMPORTANT TOOL! But why no link in the description for that tasty handy dandy treat!? 🙂 Cheers!
HI
I liked the look of the printed holders, and I think for someone who is going to need multiples of the same sort of holder the 3d method is the way to go. However, it doesn't surprise me that the hand tool method was just about the same time as the machine fabricated models. I knocked out over a dozen (14) french cleat holders for my shop in just under four hours. I did a fair amount of batch cutting and the holder designs are all variants of my original idea. I like that you included shop clean up in your process as that is something that would be included in a carpenters hourly rate if you were to hire it out. Did you check the amount of filament (or resin) for your printers before you started, that wouldn't be a lot of time I am sure, but it might have added 5 - 15 minutes to your total time, then again so would have checking the wood used for knots, checks or other defects.
All in all a great video, interesting subject that might start a lot of debate. My opinion, if someone wants to build tool holders for their shop they should use what ever method they want and go for the look they want.
Cheers
Glenn
If you would have changed the order in which you executed in the digital tools phase, you could have worked on other things while the laser was working.
If you’re still scared of fires, get a camera and feed it to a screen you can watch instead of having to stand over the laser.
I remember when Chris was making everything out of ¾ baltic birch, now its all ¼ snap together cookie cutter items. Personally im not a fan of burnt edge look but can see the merit in having automation for mass batch products
The biggest benefit of digital IMHO, is that if you made a measurement mistake or need to make an adjustment, it is very easy while working with traditional material may mean that you need to start over.
This was quite a surprise to me. I’ve been back-and-forth on the decision to get a 3D printer. I don’t do any production stuff, but the ability to produce a bespoke part that I need is appealing. I haven’t much thought of the time required for the design, This was an eye-opening video. I’m still on the fence, but this is one more argument to save the $$$$ and come up with pieces/parts made in more traditional ways. And, for the tool holders, I will definitely be going to “A Glimpse Inside” to purchase some. The quality of the products he offers is very good!
Cool vid! Definitely guessed wrong. Your backdrop is kick ass by the way.
That cleet you made look nice. Thinking about building one. Thanks for sharing.
Great content bro! I think for me I just don’t want to learn the digital software to be that efficient and traditional seems more fun, working with your hands than being behind a computer. Thanks for this!
Very cool
It didn't surprise me as it takes time to build the digital files. That being said, digital advantage is big when it comes to needing another item made again, or like you said if you are mass producing. It would also seem to be more cost effective on the material as it was thinner (and lighter) for the digital version.
A Smart man combines ALL the methods together for the best possible outcome. Using a 3d printer to make Jigs that let you work more precise and faster with traditional methods for example. Printing custom holders for things that you just couldn't do at all (because of geometry) or do easily with traditional methods.
In my experience using digital methods versus manual is that digital is much more precise, easily repeatable and is like a good paint job. All the work is in the prep and set up the actual painting or fabrication is easy. Depending on the task I would do manual if it's something really simple and would take more time going through the software design versus just cutting and drilling.
As a way to make the tool cut out go faster the digital way, just use a flatbed scanner. Set the contrast high and the profile of the tool should be visible. Import the scan without any scaling and trace the bitmap file with your software of choice. Now you can have a DXF profile of any tool without measuring.
I run a computer and cell phone repair shop and stumbled along this video looking for ways to organize my repair bench and workshop.
I might have to look into 3D printing some custom organization stuff. I have a used Ender 3 Pro printer that I got from a friend to play... I need to start experimenting with that thing.
Cut wood smells way better than burnt wood or melted plastic.
That said, I had a chunk of pegboard on the side of a cart... just some leftover stock. After staring at it for a while, I though some pegboard tool holders might be useful. Found some thingiverse holders, printed a few, then spent the next week designing and printing my own custom designs. Damn, that's addictive. That one little chunk of pegboard is now packed with hand tools at the ready. A very satisfying project.
I've recently bought a cheap laser head for my cheap CNC. 95% just for learning. I actually don't like the burnt-edge aesthetic and I've recently discovered the lingering smell on the parts isn't exactly pleasant either. But, it is fascinating what can be done with them. I suppose I'll find some addictive project for that as well.
Great video and great way to show the strength of each. Now go do the same thing again. with all the files the digital can just pump it all out again while with that traditional you have to repeat the step and take the time again
Digital also allows for selling of the files to other DIY folks who maybe looking for similar things that they can print/cut out themselves but maybe aren't the fastest at the keyboard. Great vid. Thanks.
Great video. Also I think you are going to be faster at designing 3D and laser cut files than most so I would add additional time to that than what the average user could do.
After i've built a project i'm always left with a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction. Do you get that from digital work? I've never used a CNC etc so wouldn't know to be fair. And with the traditional style I like the fact i'm learning different techniques and skills that can be applied to other applications. Great video
Loving the content, midway through the video, but I'd like to offer some advice - turn your hair/rim light down to like 1%. I do the same lighting my set and it comes out a little more natural
That is a super, interesting experiment and yes, I was a little shocked on the results.
Hey. you added the time to design the holders to the digital versions, but not the traditional ones. in fairness, you should have added the time to both as the design was used in the traditional holders as well. yep, I could have banged out the traditional ones in 2 hrs, start to clean up, but that is because that's how I build things like that. I would have a lot of opportunities for learning if I was to 3D print them (meaning I'd make a lot of mistakes). this video has convinced me that I need to invest in a 3D printer and laser cutter. those looked sharp. thanks for doing this video.
Very interesting. As you said, it depends on the project a great deal - some lean heavily in one direction or the other. I'm a bit surprised that this one came out about even, figured hand building would be faster than it was.
2 more factors i havent seen addressed:
First, the handmade items are much beefier and likely stronger. That material would have been much more challenging with home shop level lasers.
Second, you put way more design into the laser designs than needed. None of the cutouts were needed technically (like on the handmade). That would have saved design and cutting time.
Great video! The last minute of your video says it all. For repeatability or volume work, the digital version will be quicker in the long run, unless you tool up properly for traditional production. The argument could also be made that, without the laser engraver and digital printers (a significant capital investment... certainly more than the price of the table saw and drill press used for the traditional method) the digital method is moot. For sheer accuracy, the digital method has an edge, whether for a one-off project or production work. QC is important in production, and double checking your work eats time. Machines generally don't fatigue or forget a step... Once the prototype is confirmed correct, you can hit play and make a million more knowing they will all be correct. I am certain there was a measurable amount of stress or anxiety using the traditional method, working out the problems and hoping the parts fit properly using less than exacting measuring tools and techniques. Sure, the parts looked fine, but were they really as perfect as the laser cut bits?
Ultimately, when looking for production efficiency gains, clean organization and reduced movement are the two biggest things to focus on, regardless of what equipment you have. Human movement is 100% variable, yet controllable... you set the desired pace. After that, choosing equipment that can maximize output while minimizing human effort is paramount, so long as it fits in your space. Material handling and efficiency consultants make big bucks for a reason, and there are engineering degrees for just this aspect of production manufacturing.
Also, regarding the laser cutting of the wood... so long as you are using laser grade materials (laserable plywood uses special glue to laminate the plys, making it easier to cut and less flammable), and your air assist and exhaust are functioning properly, you should never have a flare up in your machine. I have owned and operated a company using Eplilog lasers for about 15 years and never had a fire. But if you are still worried and want to babysit the machine, I always set up a small assembly table next to the laser so I could do two tasks at once. Time is money, baby... why not double dip!
This was amazing! A couple of comments. For those of us that have worked with vector graphics and 3D modeling 3 hours might be a bit long. On the other hand if you are a beginner 3 hours is WAY, WAY too short. When I first started I could see this taking me 5, 6, 7, hours at least. The comment was spot on about leaving you laser cutter. We had one of our Epilogs burst in to flames. I was not a subscriber when I first watched this but I am now. The was incredible!!!
a little gripe with the end time estimate, the difference here is that making it manually means it was actually done in 5 hours. on the machines you still had to wait for it to finish on its own, sure you could use that time doing something else, but it's still time on the clock ticking down. I've seen prints go for days for something tiny. where as the equivalent in a shop could be made in a few hours.
you can actually use those toggle bolts inside of a steel stud for even more holding power, which is typically how one would hang something off steel studs if there is no blocking behind the drywall.
Really interesting experiment! Thanks for trying this.
One question, I know you have access to many 3D printers, so did you print multiple items in parallel? Or did you just use one printer in a set of linear actions?