Automated devices for shaping wood range from simple desktop hobbyist units to large industrial-scale equipment utilizing computer numerical control (CNC). These tools use rotary cutters, lasers, or other methods to remove material precisely, creating intricate designs, reliefs, and sculptures. A common example is a CNC router configured for woodworking.
Such technology offers significant advantages over manual carving, including increased speed, precision, and repeatability. This allows for greater efficiency in production environments and enables the creation of complex designs that would be extremely difficult or impossible to achieve by hand. The evolution of these devices represents a pivotal advancement in woodworking, transforming both artisanal craftsmanship and industrial manufacturing.