For You Makers: Is anyone moving beyond 3D printing to desktop CNC?

Hi everyone,

I'm curious if any AT Act programs have started using a desktop CNC machine, or have thought about it.

At my former AT program, we had a bin of mounts that were mostly incomplete. Some were missing parts. Others were made for a desktop table and needed a different attachment to fit a wheelchair tube. 3D printing helps, but printed plastic parts aren't always strong enough for mounts and wheelchair adaptations.

So I'm looking at buying a desktop CNC machine myself to make AT prototypes. I'm considering the ToolDance X1, which is currently on Kickstarter. Making aluminum parts on demand seems like a game changer, but I don't know how well these machines work in real life.

I'd love to hear:

Your experience

• Has your program used or considered a desktop CNC?
• What have you made, or what would you make, with it?

How well it works

• Are desktop machines strong and accurate enough for AT work, or did you outgrow them?
• Are there machines you'd recommend or avoid?

Thanks!

Ryan