The SmartBench is a portable CNC router designed for precision cutting and carving. It is available in Standard, Precision, and PrecisionPro versions (V1.3). The device is manufactured by Yeti Tool Limited, based in Portishead, Bristol, UK.
Function Description:
The SmartBench is a computer numerical control (CNC) machine that automates the cutting of various materials based on digital designs. It allows users to perform tasks such as routing, carving, and engraving with high accuracy. The machine is designed for portability and ease of setup, making it suitable for workshops, job sites, or educational environments. It integrates with CAD/CAM software for design and job execution, and features a console for control and monitoring.
Important Technical Specifications:
The SmartBench V1.3 adheres to several EU and UKCA directives and standards, ensuring its safety and performance.
- EU Declaration of Conformity:
- Product Name: SmartBench
- Model Number(s): SmartBench V1.3
- Part Number(s): 21321, 21322, 21323, 21324, 21325, 21326, 21327, 21328, 21329, 21330, 21331, 21332, 21339
- Directives: 2006/42/EC (MD), 2014/53/EU (RED), 2011/65/EU (RoHS2)
- Essential Requirements (Health & Safety - RED article 3.1a): EN 62368-1:2014, EN 60950-1:2006+A1:2010+A12:2011+A2:2013, EN 62311:2008, EN 62061:2005, EN ISO 19085-1:2017
- Essential Requirements (EMC - RED article 3.1b): ETSI EN 301 489-1 V2.1.1 (2017-02), ETSI EN 301 489-17 V3.1.1 (2017-02), EN 55032:2012/AC:2013 Class A, EN 55035:2017, EN 61000-3-2:2014, EN 61000-3-3:2013
- Essential Requirements (Spectrum - RED article 3.2): ETSI EN 300 328 V2.1.1 (2016-11), ETSI EN 301 893 V1.8.1 (2015-03)
- Essential Requirements (RoHS2): EN 50581:2012
- Essential Requirements (Other): EN IEC 63000:2018
- UKCA Declaration of Conformity:
- Specifications: [230 Volts, 6 Amps] or [110 Volts, 12 Amps]
- UK Statutory Instruments: S.I. 2017 No. 1206 (The Radio Equipment Regulations 2017), S.I. 2008 No. 1597 (Machinery Regulations), S.I. 2012 No. 3032 (The Restriction of the Use of Certain Hazardous Substances in Electrical and Electronic Equipment Regulations 2012)
- Essential Requirements: Same as EU Declaration of Conformity.
- Power Supply: Class 1 machine, requiring an earthed power supply. Only the supplied power cable should be used.
- Extraction System: Dedicated power outlet for extractors, automatically switching on/off. The extractor must not draw more than 13 amps. If it exceeds 13 amps, it must be powered from a separate outlet and operated manually.
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi for software updates and file transfer, USB for file transfer and software updates.
- File Types: Supports .nc and .gcode files.
Usage Features:
- Assembly: The SmartBench is designed for straightforward assembly, involving fitting leg sets, X beams (lower and upper), Z Head, console, link cable, extractor, and power cables.
- Console: The console is the primary interface for controlling the SmartBench. It attaches to the end of the Upper X Beam and connects via an XLR cable. A safety bond is included for the console, though its use is not mandatory.
- Power On/Off: To turn on, release the Emergency Stop button by twisting it clockwise. To turn off, power down the console via the power button in the UI, wait 60 seconds, then push the E-Stop button inwards.
- Software Updates: Can be updated via Wi-Fi (requires a stable connection) or USB (requires a USB stick with the latest software saved to its root). The system automatically reboots after updates.
- Homing: The SmartBench can be homed using either Manual Square or Auto Square methods. Manual Square involves manually pushing the X beam against the bench legs before power-up, while Auto Square automatically drives the lower beam into the legs.
- File Transfer: Files can be transferred via Smart Transfer app (PC to SmartBench via Wi-Fi), USB stick, or the legacy FileZilla (PC to SmartBench via Wi-Fi).
- Datum Setting:
- Set X/Y Datum: Involves moving the cutter to the intended job start point using the console's move screen and setting the datum. Double presses of arrows allow infinite movement, while an infinity icon allows setting exact distances.
- Set Z Datum: Registers the router cutter tip relative to the material surface. This is done using a Z probe plate. The process involves placing the probe plate under the cutter, moving the cutter close to the probe, and pressing the 'ZO' button to automatically lower the cutter until it touches the plate.
- Laser Datum (Optional): If fitted, the laser datum tab in the maintenance app allows adjustment and activation of the laser crosshair offset. This helps in accurately calculating the distance between the tool center and the crosshair.
- Job Execution: Jobs are initiated by pressing the play button on the console and confirming with the 'GO' button.
- Spindle Management: The spindle can be removed and replaced for maintenance or cutter changes. This involves disconnecting power and speed control cables, loosening the spindle cage collar with a 6mm hex driver, lifting the spindle, and then reversing the steps for replacement. Proper tightening of the clamping bolt is crucial (extra ½ turn maximum after initial tightening to avoid bearing damage).
- Status LEDs: LEDs on the Z Head indicate the machine's status: Green (good, job running), Yellow (needs homing, action required), Red (alarm state, action required).
Maintenance Features:
- Automatic Reminders: SmartBench includes built-in automatic reminders for maintenance tasks.
- Maintenance Guide: A comprehensive article on the Yeti Tool website provides details on all required maintenance, including timeframes and reference help.
- Troubleshooting Guides: The manual includes troubleshooting steps for common issues such as:
- SmartBench not powering on (check power connections, E-Stop, fuses, console connection, Z Head cables, connection pins).
- Console not booting (check Z Head cables, console connection, storage fault).
- SmartBench not homing correctly (check for obstructions, limit switches, X/Y axis stalling, Z-axis lead screws, Z-Head engagement).
- Software not updating (check Wi-Fi connection, USB file location).
- Console not connecting to Wi-Fi (check network selection, password, country code, hotspot instructions).
- USB not reading (check file type, USB stick format).
- SmartBench in an alarm state (clear alarm via resume button or purple reset icon).
- Spindle not powering on (check spindle power/speed control cables, spindle switch, brush wire, USB-B and M8 connectors).
- Extraction not powering on (check extraction cable, extractor switch, all three cables for automatic extraction).
- Issues with CAD designs (refer to Vectric first project, YouTube tutorials, feed/speed guidelines).
- Accuracy issues (check spoilboard thickness, toolbit diameters, extraction system performance, calibration application, X/Y axis wheel adjustments after 320 hours, general machine maintenance).
- Support Ticket System: Users can submit a support ticket on the Yeti Tool website for any unresolved issues.