The "Smithfield files"

• What kind of bit do I need and where should I zero my Z-axis?
  
  The included sbp files are zeroed at the top surface of the material and are cut with a 3/8" bit. We're partial to the 2-flute straight bits from Centurion Tools, but any bit that you're happy with will do just fine
  
  
• What material should I cut them from?
  
  We recommend the 15/32" thick AC AraucoPly that's available at Lowes...it's a great product for the price...but feel free to use any other plywood as long as it's actually .47" or less inches thick.
  
  
• Do I need any other tools beside a ShopBot?
  
  Since the files include tabs to help keep the pieces from shifting, these tabs will have to be cut to release the pieces. The easiest way is to turn the sheet over after the cutting is finished, and then use a router or laminate trimmer with a trimmer bit riding on the cut edge (now at the bottom of the sheet) to remove the tabs.
  
  
• Help! I don't have a vacuum holddown system on my ShopBot.
  
  We've included a file to cut shallow marker holes in your sheet of plywood first, in a safe location for placing drywall screws. You can use any bit that you want to do these...the 3/8" bit that you'll use for cutting will probably be easiest...and then drill in their center with a small drill bit as a pilot hole and drive in drywall screws. The PartWorks crv file has these screwholes on their own layer, so that you can move them around if you want and then create a new "drill" toolpath.
  
  
• I'm an independent sort and want to do things my way!
  
  You can download the PartWorks crv files if you want to toolpath the pieces yourself, or dxf files if you really want to be old-school.
  
  
• The slots in the pieces seem kind of loose...is that the way they're supposed to be?
  
  LinkerLogs were designed for kids to build with, so we wanted the fit to be a little loose to make it easier for them to put them together. If you have some way to accurately measure small distances, the slots should measure 0.48" wide. If not, check you machine for any play or looseness.
  
  
• Are there any restriction on using these (or any other) LinkerLogs files?
  
  LinkerLogs are licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 3.0 United States License, and as long as you stick with the standardized spacing and size of the notches and plank widths, you can add any kinds of pieces that you want...hooks or shelves to make a wall system out of them, architectural details like arches or flying buttresses to make building models, or just some interesting pieces to make it a more versatile toy system. In addition to the Creative Commons License we also require is that you make the files for your new pieces available so that others can add them to their sets, even if you are selling them. If you're not willing to do this please don't download the files or use them as a basis for your design. And please post picture of your LinkerLogs creations on the "LinkerLogs Creations" section of the LinkerLogs forum
  
  
• I'm convinced...where do I get the files?
  
  Download the ShopBot part files here
  
  Download the PartWorks crv files here
  
  Download the dxf CAD files here

   

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