Machine Shop Project Ideas - Get Creative!

[G01]

Hi Guys,

I'm taking a machine shop class this summer, and need a project for the next month.

Unfortunately, I've been horribly uncreative this summer and am out of ideas. (All of my ideas are too easy or too small. Ex. Spring loaded guitar capo, some parts for the lab...)

Anyone have any cool ideas or anything you've built with a mill or a lathe?

 

[Jack21222]

Some chaotic motion generator, like a double pendulum or something a little more complicated.

 

[QuarkCharmer]

Make a set of tuning forks! That would probably be more difficult than you would think.

 

[zoobyshoe]

Hi Guys,

I'm taking a machine shop class this summer, and need a project for the next month.

Unfortunately, I've been horribly uncreative this summer and am out of ideas. (All of my ideas are too easy or too small. Ex. Spring loaded guitar capo, some parts for the lab...)

Anyone have any cool ideas or anything you've built with a mill or a lathe?

When I took machine shop our project was assigned and the same for everyone. We had to make a little machine vise. On the mill the vice required the ability to square up stock, accurately locate and drill holes, and accurately machine an angle. On the lathe it required the skills of turning stock to diameter with a good finish, and, also the ability to cut a screw thread. In other words, it was a demonstration of all the basic machining skills.

Unfortunately, I no longer have the plans, and I don't see any online. You'd have to design it yourself.

 

[LudusRex]

Hi there!

I understand the importance of creativity in problem-solving and project development. Here are a few ideas that may spark your creativity for your machine shop project:

1. Create a wind turbine using the mill and lathe to generate electricity. This project will not only test your machining skills but also your knowledge of renewable energy.

2. Design and build a mini CNC machine using the mill and lathe. This project will challenge your programming skills and give you a deeper understanding of how these machines work.

3. Build a working model of a steam engine using the mill and lathe. This project will allow you to explore the principles of thermodynamics and mechanics while also honing your machining skills.

4. Use the mill and lathe to create a custom tool or part for a specific task or project. This will require you to think critically about the specifications and functionality of the tool and how to best achieve it through machining.

5. Create a puzzle or game using the mill and lathe, such as a maze or a Rubik's cube. This project will not only test your machining skills but also your ability to think creatively and design a functional and entertaining product.

I hope these ideas inspire you to think outside the box and come up with a unique and challenging project for your machine shop class. Good luck!