Open Source 2d Cutter

Printing objects from computers holds the promise of shifting manufacturing to the corner store--or your garage.  Today's 3d printers and laser cutters are great, but costly.  To speed the implementation of this form of technology, I think a 2d mechanical cutter (similar in function to a laser cutter--but no engraving) could be the interim step that could quickly show up in garages and high schools.

I propose to design and build such a machine, fully documented and open source. I will produce a few kits and a few assembled units--making them available at the 2013 San Mateo Maker Faire.

Estimate for a single kit:

Servos   $50.
Processor  $25.
Cutting Tool  $50.
Power Supply  $25.
Frame/Misc.  $50.

Total  $200.

I'm speculating that the assembled kit would cost $400.

Proposal:

20 kits ($4,000.)
20 assembled  ($8000)

Transportation to Maker Faire with units ($3000)
Laser Cutter and development tools ($10,000)