FreeD- handheld digital milling with force feedback

The FreeD is a hand-held, digitally controlled, milling device that is guided and monitored by a computer while still preserving the craftsperson's freedom to sculpt and carve. The computer will intervene only when the milling bit approaches the planned model. Its interaction is either by slowing down the spindle speed or by drawing back the shaft; the rest of the time it allows complete freedom, letting the user to manipulate and shape the work in any creative way.

The idea of the FreeD is to allow designers to engage with the physical material and not just with the CAD environment, and to let them do their interpretations to the virtual model. By that, designers can create something that is one of a kind, unique based on a generic design.

 Check out the MIT Media Lab Site for more Information