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ABOUT THE DESIGN
ABOUT THE DESIGN
Utilizing seven sheets of material, the Cellular
Screen is by far the largest project in this book.
Despite its size, the screen employs the same
basic digital techniques introduced in earlier
projects. When multiplied, the screen’s repete-
tive joinery forms a substantial compound
structure far larger than the dimensions of a
standard plywood sheet. This chapter introdu-
ces organizational methods and workflows,
which are essential for producing large projects
and complex pieces.
BEFORE YOU BEGIN A LARGE
PROJECT
As a project, the Cellular Screen gives you a
chance to fully internalize the steps of your
CNC workflow and perfect your basic digital
technique. By taking a single cell, then multiply-
ing it to form a complex and substantial struc-
ture, this project demands advanced planning,
good organization, and methodical coordina-
tion throughout the process.
Smart organizational systems for measuring
materials, preparing your CAD file, defining
toolpaths, cutting, finishing, and finally assem-
bling will help you manage the steps with effi-
ciency, consistency, and even pleasure.
Whether it’s measuring physical sheet material
or programming toolpaths in the CAM file, it
helps to work methodically by performing tasks
in a consistent order across all seven sheets.
MATERIALS
The Cellular Screen’s function is to partition
space, and as a free-standing object, it requires
little coordination with other furniture and
objects. As a large structure, the Screen can
have a significant impact on its surroundings.
Before selecting an actual material, think about
the material properties and effects you’re after.
Review “Selecting Materials” on page 128 and
“Finishes for CNC Projects” on page 210, with
an eye on how materials will enhance or alto-
gether transform the features of your Cellular
Screen. Materials have the ability to amplify the
screen’s light-reflecting properties or feature
its modular structure. Materials determine
whether it makes a big visual impact on its
environment or serves as a dignified, quiet
piece in the background.
Consider the effects of natural materials versus
applied color, whether light values are prefera-
ble to dark, or how a high-gloss finish contrasts
to one that is rough. Will all parts have the
same material and finish, giving the Screen a
monolithic appearance? Or might you differen-
tiate the frame from the front and back infill
with color, finish, or material? Don’t overlook
small details like hardware. The screen’s
numerous exposed fasteners also provide an
opportunity to add subtle or significant details,
while facilitating disassembly for storage or
transport.
Self-tapping screws, which don’t require pre-
drilling, are an excellent choice for this project
that uses ½″ thick material and 210 fasteners.
The Cellular Screen requires seven sheets of
½″ plywood, but there is plenty of surplus
material for test pieces. Look for seven sheets
that have uniform faces and minimal variation
in thickness (TMAX). On larger projects, it’s sen-
sible to purchase an extra sheet of material, as
the chance of unanticipated errors seems to
increase with job size.
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DESIGN FOR CNC
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