To build any file in EnRoute I first imagine what it is I want to build... then work backwards from that point. i basically deconstruct the project, break it down into manageable pieces, keeping in mind the material thickness I am working with as well as the size and length of the bits I will work with on the MultiCam. In this case I designed the compass star so I could route it with a 3/8" ball nose bit keeping the run time pretty short.
For the lettering I knew I would require a smaller bit size. I designed the ring separately and tool-pathed this piece with a 1/8" ball nose bit. Both pieces were routed from 30 lb Precision Board and were run at 300 inches per minute.
As soon as the compass star was off the MultiCam I glued the two halves back to back on the metal frame I had welded up. I used my die grinder to cut some grooves in the back to accommodate the 1/2" steel bars which would give the piece some strength. The pieces fit together perfectly (as always) and it was together on the frame in less than a half hour. This morning I glued on the rings with the lettering... its in the clamps now. I'll be posting some more pics as it goes together.
Stay tuned...
-dan
