A Prototype of a Bitmap CNC Engraver

The proposed paper deals with two main ideas. The first is focused on design and realization of CNC engraving machine prototype where are described the principles of its mechanical construction focused on measurements of an electromagnetic diamond percussion tool prototype used for stone engraving describing its basic features and potential applications. The paper includes also chapters about electrical connections design and software/firmware implementation. The second part presents design and implementation of new algorithm for searching the shortest path connecting all bitmap pixels that need to be engraved with respect to specific constraints given by hardware of bitmap CNC engraver. New algorithm considered as a heuristic approximation of Hamiltonian shortest path was implemented and tested on a real prototype of a bitmap CNC engraver. Results of experiments are listed. Concerning a set of 17 real-life bitmaps, the new algorithm saves from 7% up to 17% of overall engraving time compared to original line-by-line tool path.