CAM Machining

Introduction

This week, we explored the process of PCB milling and fabrication using the Bantam Tools Desktop PCB Milling Machine. My goal was to design and create a functional PCB for a simple electronic circuit, specifically a distance sensor using the VL53L1X Time-of-Flight sensor. The project involved several steps, including designing the schematic and PCB layout in Autodesk Eagle, milling the PCB, soldering components, and testing the final product.

Recitation

Making the

• Click post process to generate the gcode (.tap)

Making the

How to Make a Double-Sided Board

• Use a rivet (tiny red piece with a circle on the end) to connect the two copper plates by smashing it into a hole.
• For double-sided boards, use the fixture and locate feature:
• The fixture is a U-shaped bracket you screw in to locate the board.

Software

• Using Bantam software for PCB milling.
• Three types of milling: holes, outline, and traces (set the tool for each type).
• 1/32 inch tool for holes and outline.
• 1/64 inch tool for traces.

UI Notes

• Red areas on the design indicate parts the selected tool cannot cut.
• White lines in the traces visualize the path of the selected tool.

Group Assignment Notes

• Input to Bantam software: Gerber file or .brd (Fusion 360).
• Input settings: Plated Through Holes, Front & Bottom Copper, Etched Cuts.
• Sending a board to a board house: JLCPCB.

Individual Assignment

I designed a PCB for a distance + light sensor using the VL53L1X Time-of-Flight sensor. This is the first step of one of my final project ideas, making a

The design process involved creating a schematic and PCB layout in Autodesk Fusion, ensuring proper connections and component placements.

After milling the PCB using the Bantam Tools machine, I soldered the components onto the board, including the VL53L1X sensor, resistors, capacitors, and headers for connectivity.

Links

• Setup SEEEED XIAO ESP32S3
• VL53L1X Library Code