Flip Board Maker

Flip Board

Input Parameters

Dimensions:
Max Outside Width (X):
Max Outside Height (Y):
Qualifier Max Outside Dimensions
Min Inside Dimensions

Geometry:
Number of Fingers (Horizontal):
Number of Fingers (Vertical):
Finger Clearance:
Tool Diameter:


Version 0.0


Description

This gadget is used to create workpiece with integrated flip geometry. Integrating this geometry into a 2D project allows the work piece to be flipped without the use of index pins, work stops, or other reindexing techniques during the flip.

This gadget only creates the 2D flip board geometry vectors. The tool paths must be created separately. The tool path should be a profile cut made on the flip board geometry centerline using a straight end mill. The end mill diameter selected for the tool path must match the tool diameter indicated in this gadget. Clearance may be added/removed by indicating a small (e.g. 0.001") positive/negative value in the Finger Clearance field. Adjusting the finger clearance will change how tightly the flip board fits into the waste frame on the flip. Cuts should fully penetrate the material. If desired, tabs may be created to hold the workpiece in place during the profile cut. Once the flipboard is created, it must not be resized. This gadget is intended for use with wood, plastic, or other soft materials.

The image below shows a flip board with two fingers cut into each side of a flat piece of stock using a 1/4" down cut end mill. When the inner board is flipped, the fingers on the inner board make a friction fit contact with the fingers on the outer "waste"board". If there is a tight fit between the inner and the outer waste boards, and the outer waste board remains stationary during the flip, then the inner board should be properly indexed in X and Y for tool operations on the reverse side of the board.

Care must be taken when creating designs for the top and bottom of the board. One strategy is to:
  1. Set the Material XY Datum Position at the stock center.
  2. Create designs centered on the origin.
  3. Ensure the design for the bottom of the work piece is a mirror image around the X or Y axis as required for a flip about the X or Y axis respectively.

Flip Board

Inspired by GRÜNBLAU DESIGN STUDIO, Brian Oltrogge, Soap Dish
See:
  http://www.grunblau.com/SoapDishBMO.htm
  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BLD4dFoXC7o