Grant: Idea to Innovation

The "Ornamental Wood Working System" (OWWS) is being developed to address the need for an automated wood working system using the novel approach of coupling a low cost CNC machine with easy to use web based modelling and tool path planning software. With this system, the user can design and machine complex parts with ease and no investment of money or training time. The OWWS is designed so that geometric models available can be continually upgraded to offer newer design features and more efficient machining methods. This system forms the basis of a new venture for making personalized table legs and other asymmetric wood components. In the new venture (to be named "Oneway CNC") the customer design their table leg on a web based software. Once designed the tool path is created automatically and the legs are built on a CNC lathe and sent to the customer. The level of personalization will increase with time and the components that can be personalized will also increase as the business grows. Canada is rich in forest resources. The OWWS enables ordinary Canadians to develop value added wood products and create artistic artifacts with commercial value in home building, furniture design and art. Introduction of such a system will open new markets to our Canadian talent.