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OpticWorks

Precision manufacturing

Compact VMC

Serious CNC machining, sized for smaller workshops.

A compact vertical machining center designed to make capable, automated CNC machining accessible to smaller workshops, with control software, sensing and automation integrated from the start.

Prototype in development

Prototype in development. The first machine is being built and has not yet been commissioned. Nothing below has been validated on hardware yet.

Schematic line illustration of a compact vertical machining center: column, spindle head, worktable and enclosure outline.
Schematic illustration, not to scale. Not a CAD render or photograph of the prototype.

01Overview

Why a compact VMC

Capable machining centers have traditionally assumed industrial floor space, industrial power and an experienced operator. Smaller workshops are left choosing between hobby machines and equipment they cannot install or run.

The compact VMC is our commercial entry point: a serious machine in a smaller envelope, designed around the people who will set it up and use it every day.

02Overview

The intended experience

Ordinary residential power is a design objective. The machine is built around an ISO20 tooling architecture with automatic tool changing, and its control software, sensing and automation are designed as one system rather than added afterwards.

The goal is easier setup, calibration and everyday operation: fewer specialist steps between installing the machine and making good parts.

03Overview

Part of a larger system

The VMC is the first machine in a longer-term vision of modular, automated manufacturing equipment that shares the same software and sensing foundation.

04Capabilities

What we are building, and how far along it is.

  • Compact footprint

    Sized for smaller workshops rather than industrial floor space.

    Design objective

  • Ordinary residential power

    Designed to run without an industrial electrical installation.

    Design objective

  • ISO20 automatic tooling

    ISO20 tooling architecture with an automatic tool changer, developed as its own subsystem alongside the first build.

    In development

  • Integrated control, sensing and automation

    One software environment for machine control, sensing and automated workflows.

    Design objective

  • Guided setup and calibration

    Setup, calibration and everyday operation designed to need fewer specialist steps.

    Design objective

  • Modular machine ecosystem

    Future machines and modules built on the same platform.

    Long-term vision
In development
Being built or tested now; not yet demonstrated.
Design objective
An intended property of the product; not yet built or tested.
Long-term vision
Long-term direction beyond the current product.