Product design, in development
Automated Gem Faceting Machine
A motorized faceting machine that positions a gemstone against a rotating lap with software-controlled angle and index. I designed the full mechanism in CAD and validated its motion in simulation before building anything.
- Mechanism Design
- Motion Simulation
- Automation
- CAD
- Prototype
Overview
Hand faceting is a skilled craft: the cutter holds a stone at a precise angle and index while grinding each facet by feel. Small errors in angle compound across a full cut, so repeatable results take years of practice.
This machine takes over the positioning. Motorized axes set the angle and rotate the stone between facets, so each facet lands where the cut diagram says it should. The goal is repeatable, precise cuts without relying on hand skill.
Software-controlled positioning
Angle and index are set from a cut diagram instead of by hand.
Designed for rigidity
The structure keeps the stone steady against the lap, where vibration ruins a polish.
Validated in simulation
Motion was checked in a kinematic simulation before the design was finalized.
How a facet is cut
-
Mount
The rough stone is fixed to a holder that locks into the machine.
-
Set the angle
The head tilts to the facet angle from the cut diagram.
-
Index
The stone rotates to the position of the next facet.
-
Cut
The head lowers the stone onto the lap, then lifts it away.
At a glance
- Axes
- Angle, index and depth
- Actuation
- Motorized, controlled by software
- Input
- Cut diagram from a file
- Design tools
- CAD and motion simulation
- Status
- Prototype in development
Renders and details
Interested in the machine?
I’m happy to talk about the design, the prototype and what comes next. This includes questions from buyers, collaborators and investors.
Get in touch