MIT Creates “FreeD” Smart Milling Device

Here at Rapid Ready, we like to keep you up to date with the current state of rapid technologies, which include more than just additive manufacturing. In this case, we’d like to share a piece of subtractive technology that shows promise for industry and hobbyists alike.

The creative folks at MIT’s Responsive Environments Group have created a smart milling device they’ve dubbed the FreeD. The FreeD is a handheld tool that uses CAD files to assist in the creation of milled objects.

Essentially, the FreeD oversees the creation of whatever object the user is carving, ensuring a slip of the hand doesn’t destroy the design. Whenever the user would carve into a bit of the model that is intended to stay in one piece, the programming of the FreeD kicks in and either stops the spindle or draws back the shaft.

As long as the invisible line designated by the CAD file isn’t crossed, the device allows the user complete freedom in their creative process. The end result of this process allows for a variety of carved objects that mimics hand worked pieces, all drawn from the same generic CAD source.

In traditional crafts, the craftsperson’s tool techniques and creative decisions immediately influence the final artifact, making the output a reflection of the fabrication process. The same applies to digital fabrication through use of the FreeD. Several users may use the same CAD model, but end up with a different result, reflecting each person’s unique process. –Amit Zoran & Joe Paradiso, MIT Responsive Environments Group

Currently the FreeD requires a dedicated workspace with access to a computer to run the CAD program and a Polhemus Fastrak motion tracking device to assist with guidance. The FreeD itself is pretty much a standard milling device that has been fitted with a process control block to communicate with the computer. The creators hope to increase the control of the device in future iterations, as well as perhaps adding an additive feature that allows the user to add to the object similar to how a 3D printer works.

Below you’ll find a video of the FreeD at work.

Source: Make