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The Technology
The Tool-Less technology is a CNC machining
and fabrication process using assembly
and machining techniques borrowed from
the sheet metal fabrication and (wood)
cabinet making industries.
The technology is used to make fabricated
enclosures, “hog-out” enclosures, bezels,
machined parts and assemblies.
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| Step 1. Design the enclosure
starting from a dimensioned drawing
or CAD file showing the circuit boards
and electronic components oriented in
space. |
| Step 2. Generate the CNC code
that drives all the machining and bending
operations. |
| Step 3. Machine
the sheet to add openings, vents and
recesses. |
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| Step 4. Cut
individual pieces from sheet. |
| Step 5. Prepare
joint and edge details on routing machines.
All joints feature a modified tongue-and-groove
design. |
| Step 6. Score
the sheet with bending cuts on a custom
table saw. These v-shaped bending cuts
extend halfway through the sheet and
boost the bending precision.
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| Step 7. Bend
the pieces in a computerized thermal
bending machine that resembles a sheet
metal brake press. |
| Step 8. Heat
stake metal inserts into bosses. Install
the bosses into machined recesses in
the sheet. |
| Step 9. Assemble
the pieces using a solvent-bonding process. |
| Step 10. Perform
secondary operations like painting,
EMI shielding, and latch or hinge installations. |
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