VIDEO: FreeD is a handheld, computer controlled Dremel tool
Dan Seitz A quick overview of modern manufacturing: most precision items, especially prototypes, are created using CAD (computer assisted design) software, computerized milling machines, and 3D printers. It’s great if you need something designed to within a tolerance of a few microns, but not so great when you, say, want to whittle something or otherwise be creative.
Fortunately, engineers at MIT have figured out how to make a tool that lets you think you’re a sculptor and maintains the integrity of the computer model without compromising your artistic vision.
Translation: they made a tool that sits halfway between actually sculpting or crafting something and making a machine do it.
If you want a demonstration, here’s the video:
Basically, you enter a model into the computer, plug the FreeD into the computer, and start cutting away at your solid block of material. If you impinge too closely on the computerized model, the computer retracts the bit, keeping you from screwing up.
It’s like whittling, only you won’t look stupid as you’re carving things out and wind up throwing a lot of failed attempts in the fireplace. True, you’re still technically not an artist, but at least now instead of failing miserably, you can use computers to make it look like you have a rough idea of what you’re doing.
A Handheld CNC Machine [Gizmodo]
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