Even if you think you’re pretty handy with a chisel, often all it takes is one wrong angle or strike of the hammer to ruin an entire sculpting project. MIT’s media lab has a solution – the FreeD is a handheld smart milling device that gives the artist creative control, but won’t let you totally screw up your project with one wrong move.
The FreeD basically functions the same as any other handheld milling device – the on-board computer only intervenes when the bit approaches the edge of the planned 3D CAD model. If the bit gets too close to violating the underlying planned object shape, the computer slows down the spindle or draws back the shaft – otherwise, the FreeD allows for complete creative freedom while working the shape.
via Gizmag
February 15, 2012
