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Pattern Maker's Planes
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The modern pattern maker has far more user friendly tools available
to work with compared to a similar tradesperson of the past.
A plastic model can be sprayed out layer by layer by a machine
that takes a computer drawing and then directly replicates the
design. When the design is approved, a pattern can be generated,
fully compensating for draft angles and the shrinkage factor
of the casting medium. If a more permanent metal pattern is
required, the same drawing can be converted to a file, and a
CNC machine can replicate the part exactly the same every time,
endlessly. In essence, the trade has gone from the bench to
a machine, with computer dropdown menus replacing the various
steps used in the past to produce a product that can be employed
on the foundry floor. These are different skills for a different
time.
In any large pattern shop of the past, there were long-standing
traditions. For example, it was customary for retirees to offer
their tools to remaining workers, and often entire kits were
willed to a budding apprentice. Also, when a new tool entered
the working envelope, workers commonly made copies for themselves.
(As with all pattern makers' tools, a great number were made
by the tradesperson.) It was considered extremely poor form
to make a replica for resale, but owners and foremen encouraged
the practice for personal use. In many ways, the pattern maker
stood above some of the other trades, as the learning process
guided the apprentice through many skill sets — woodworking,
foundry, machining and drawing being but a few of the disciplines
employed.
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| Plane with the base removed |
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Underside
of the plane |
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