This practical, user-friendly reference book of common mechanical engineering concepts is geared toward makers who don't have (or want) an engineering degree but need to know the essentials of basic mechanical elements to successfully accomplish their personal projects. The book provides practical mechanical engineering information (supplemented with the applicable math, science, physics, and engineering theory) without being boring like a typical textbook. Most chapters contain at least one hands-on, fully illustrated, step-by-step project to demonstrate the topic being discussed and requires only common, inexpensive, easily sourced materials and tools. Some projects also provide alternative materials and tools and processes to align with the reader's individual preferences, skills, tools, and materials-at-hand. Linked together via the authors' overarching project -- building a kid-sized tank -- the chapters describe the thinking behind each mechanism and then expands the discussions to similar mechanical concepts in other applications. Written with humor, a bit of irreverence, and entertaining personal insights and first-hand experiences, the book presents complex concepts in an uncomplicated way. Highlights include: Provides mechanical engineering information that includes math, science, physics and engineering theory without being a textbook Contains hands-on projects in each chapter that require common, inexpensive, easily sourced materials and tools All hands-on projects are fully illustrated with step-by-step instructions Some hands-on projects provide alternative materials and tools/processes to align with the reader's individual preferences, skills, tools and materials-at-hand Includes real-world insights from the authors like tips and tricks ("Staying on Track") and fail moments ("Lost Track!") Many chapters contain a section ("Tracking Further") that dives deeper into the chapter subject, for those readers that are interested in more details of the topic Builds on two related Make: projects to link and illustrate all the chapter topics and bring individual concepts together into one system Furnishes an accompanying website that offers further information, illustrations, projects, discussion boards, videos, animations, patterns, drawings, etc. Learn to effectively use professional mechanical engineering principles in your projects, without having to graduate from engineering school!

Get started in the world of CNC machining with this hands-on guide that tells you exactly what you need to know without overloading you with useless theory Key Features * Get started with the basics of CNC machining and set up your own computerized workshop * Explore loads of do-it-yourself projects to practice what you've learned * Take advantage of the potential of home machining thanks to the power of CNC Book Description Until recently, Computer Numerical Control machines belonged to the realm of heavy industry, but as technology becomes cheaper and smaller, these machines can be used in home workshops. It's not easy to get started, though, but luckily for you, you've picked up this book. A Tinkerer's Guide to CNC Basics contains everything you need to get set up at home with computer-controlled machining and fabrication. Sparing you the theory, this project-laden guide helps you learn by doing. Once you've got grips with the principles of CNC and installed the 3018 Pro CNC machine, you'll gradually move from simple projects such as basic engraving to more complex milling and machining techniques. You'll even learn how to upgrade your machine to accomplish more sophisticated designs. The plethora of projects in this book will keep you busy and give you the practice you need to get started with your computerized workshop. By the end of the book, your computerized home workshop will be one step closer to realization, and your machining skills will be taken to the next level. What you will learn * Configure, calibrate, provision, and test your CNC machine * Add a laser engraver to your machine for finer precision cutting * Use the machine to fabricate new components for itself * Explore the design impacts of carving on a rotary axis * Adapt other machines for CNC * Engrave opaque and semi-opaque materials * Cool your machine with an air assist system * Design and develop a customized laser mount Who This Book Is For The typical reader is a tinkerer, hobbyist or craft-person comfortable with using hand tools, aspiring to accelerate or develop more complex and challenging projects. The reader should be comfortable around basic shop tools, as well as have a basic understanding of computers. While the book will speak to the specifics around the electronics of CNC machines, the terms used, such as motherboard, USB, positive/negative terminal and power supply should not be too daunting to understand.