Author Archives: robertwilkie

simple ghetto CNC

Posted on September 7, 2018 by robertwilkie

This is a pretty simple CNC build, more of a “build it in an afternoon” style.  Could be a good one to do with kids. https://www.instructables.com/id/DIY-Universal-CNC-Machine/

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Convert a broken compressor into an air tank

Posted on September 6, 2018 by robertwilkie

Good idea for some of those cheap compressors that the motor dies off on you.  Author says its around $10 in parts to do, I am thinking closer to $20 if you are unable to re-use parts already on the … Continue reading →

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Cool CNC robot for sand (or spray gun)

Posted on September 5, 2018 by robertwilkie

Nice looking build for a robot (CNC based to write stuff out in sand, or adapted to use spray cans. Spraychalk Anoints your Sidewalks with Precision Sandprints main site https://openbuilds.com/builds/cnc-sand-and-spraycalk-drawmaschine.4792/

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Make a nerf bazooka

Posted on September 4, 2018 by robertwilkie

OK maybe not, its a nice build but…a bit more powerful than a normal nerf gun (dangerous). https://gizmodo.com/im-in-awe-of-this-four-foot-nerf-bazooka-that-fires-poo-1827360549

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Good ideas on power saving with Arduino

Posted on September 3, 2018 by robertwilkie

Nice write-up on how to use some libraries for the arduino to save on power. https://www.makeuseof.com/tag/arduino-power-saving-tips/

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Simple fix for slipping F-Clamps

Posted on September 2, 2018 by robertwilkie

Basically you are cutting the grooves on the bar deeper.  I wonder if you could speed this up with a dremel? https://www.instructables.com/id/Fixing-a-Slipping-F-clamp/

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Simple coat rack stand

Posted on September 1, 2018 by robertwilkie

Pretty simple build.  Figure about $30 in materials (not including the cone). https://www.instructables.com/id/Industrial-Freestanding-Coat-Rack/

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Make your own sand printing robot

Posted on August 31, 2018 by robertwilkie

Nice build.  Most of it was 3D printed and I like the use of the servo and a “stick” to write in sand.  Downside, it seems to move pretty slow. https://gizmodo.com/this-automated-sand-printer-is-ready-to-flood-your-inst-1827313521

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Hum…this looks like a good phone

Posted on August 31, 2018 by robertwilkie

Been looking for a decent “cheap” phone to recommend.  Something a bit more power than MotoG line.  This one (Pocophone F1) looks interesting (under $400). https://www.engadget.com/2018/08/22/pocophone-f1-hands-on/

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Interesting build for a swamp cooler

Posted on August 29, 2018 by robertwilkie

Interesting how the author re-uses an old water cooled CPU for this build.  Seems to work OK too. https://www.instructables.com/id/How-to-Make-Air-Cooler-With-Cold-Water/

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