The Shaper Origin is a handheld computer guided router that acts as a portable CNC machine. Unlike a traditional CNC machine, it is entirely portable, allowing the user to guide the tool while its computer controlled system continuously corrects the cutting path. This type of approach allows for the freedom of manual routing to be combined with the accuracy of digital fabrication.
The Shaper Origin contains an onboard camera which tracks a patterned adhesive called ShaperTape, which is applied to the working surface.
Through its computerised system, the Shaper Origin consistently knows its exact position on a piece and can make micro adjustments to keep the cutting bit on the exact digital cutting path. The results of this tool is highly accurate manufacturing with a small portable machine.
How the Shaper Origin integrates into your workflow
The Shaper Origin can complement a workflow that has existing CNC machinery, or one that only uses manual production methods.
For manual production methods, it allows for CNC accuracy without the need of extensive CNC programming knowledge, or the other software requirements that come with this type of machinery. For smaller workshops, the Shaper Origin adds possibilities, depth, and accuracy for a fraction of the cost of a CNC machine set-up.
Additionally, its companion software, Shaper Studio, allows for SVG import and custom hardware creation to align with a factory’s existing library and manufacturing requirements.
For factories that already use CNC machinery, imagine having the possibility of CNC production on-site. The Shaper Origin allows for the addition of hardware, inlays, or other routing actions on-site, eliminating the need to return to the factory to rectify faults, mistakes, or for any other adjustments for fit out work.
What possibilities does Shaper Origin allow?
The Shaper Origin opens a wide range of manufacturing possibilities that sit in between traditional manufacturing methods and industrial CNC machines. These include:
- Complex joints
- Dados
- Decorative inlays
- Engraved text
- Logos
- Repetitive patterns
- Hardware details
With its portability, the machine can excel in situations where large CNC’s are impractical. Modifying pre-assembled cabinetry, built in furniture, and fixed large panels can all be machined without the need to transport or disassemble for static machinery.
How the Shaper Origin complements PolyBoard cabinet software
When paired with either PolyBoard Pro PP or Pro (CNC and non CNC versions), the Shaper Origin becomes a very powerful tool for executing a user’s manufacturing requirements.
PolyBoard excels in parametric design, cabinet construction and production logic, generating accurate models for furniture components. Custom PolyBoard libraries when paired with the custom libraries of the Shaper Origin allows for a portable production tool when static CNC machinery is not practical.
Simply put, the Shaper Origin manufactures what PolyBoard defines when a CNC machine is not a practical option. Pairing these tools supports workflow flexibility, accuracy, fault resolution, and overall efficiency.
To better understand how PolyBoard can pair with the Shaper Origin, talk to us today. We offer comprehensive online software demonstrations and free demonstration software trials so that you can understand what you need, and how our software will support you.
