Custom Mechanical ClockCombining 3D printing, CNC milling and laser cutting

Up until now, a design project combining differentproduction technologies and materials would requirethe use of several different machines – separate for3D printing, CNC milling, and laser cutting.

Instead of these machines, Matt Olczyk was able to use a single ZMorph multitool 3D printer with interchangeable toolheads allowing him to easily switch between fabrication methods. This way Matt saved time and significantly lowered the manufacturing costs while the entire workshop fit on his desk.

When 3D printing is not enough, the obvious choice is to reach for a different technology.

Challenge: Building a working mechanical clock

Solution: Combining 3D printing, CNCmilling, and laser cutting.

In order to assemble his clock, Matt collected over 80 different parts, which with only a few exceptions, like bike chains and screws, were all manufactured with ZMorph multitool 3D printer and the Voxelizer software.

Small and medium gears were 3D printed in order to make them prone to mechanical wearing. Bigger gears were CNC milled to make them both lightweight and sturdy.

Translucent plexiglass was also CNC milled in order to make the whole design more aesthetically pleasing while it properties allowed the designer to combine it with adhesive foil for laser cutting. The beam went through the plexiglass and precisely cut the numbers on the clock face.

Results: Custom Mechanical Clock

Matt Olczyk – holds a Master Degree in Architecture and Urban Planning. Co-founder in Laboratorium of Digital Fabrication (LabDigiFab) at Wroclaw University of Technology. Designer – his main interests are focused on parametric design, digital manufacturing using 3D printing and CNC fabrication.

,,ZMorph not only did a great job with handling different technologies and materials but also remained very precise. All parts fit together perfectly as designed: CNC parts, 3D printed parts and parts produced with industrial technologies like bearings, bike chains. The clock turned out great!”

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