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03. computer-controlled cutting

Class Week 03

Lesson03 computer-controlled cutting

Review02 computer-aided design

Recitation03 how to make (almost) anything usable

Note: To view Neil's screen in your computer -> Neil's Screencast

Laser Cutting

Assignment

  • Characterize your lasercutter, making lasercutter test part(s), making test part(s) that vary cutting settings and dimensions(group project)
  • Cut something on the vinylcutter
  • Design, make, and document a parametric press-fit construction kit, accounting for the lasercutter kerf, which can be assembled in multiple ways

Learning outcomes

  • Demonstrate and describe parametric 2D modelling processes.
  • Identify and explain processes involved in using the laser cutter.
  • Develop, evaluate and construct the final prototype.

Student should have

  • Explained how you parametrically designed your files.
  • Shown how you made your press-fit kit.
  • Included your design files and photos of your finished project.

Vinyl Cutting

There is no specific project that is focussed on this very useful tool. There are a range of ways you might utilise it throughout the programme, or your local instructor may set a specific project. You might make:

  • stickers
  • flexible circuit boards
  • a textured surface/relief pattern
  • screenprint resists/stencils
  • Ensure that you have used it in some way during this time and met the objectives below.

Learning outcomes

  • Identify and explain processes involved in using this machine.
  • Design and create the final object.

Student should have

  • Explained how you drew your files.
  • Shown how you made your vinyl project
  • Included your design files and photos of your finished project

FAQ

What does 'characterise' mean?

describe/understand the nature and features (of your particular laser cutter)

Can I use the Inkscape clone tool for my pressfit kit?

No. The clone tool is not a real parametric software.

Is it compulsory to design my own file in Vinyl cutting?

Yes. Or modify existing one, and acknowledge where you found it.

Tutorials

Laser Cutting

Paper Models

Computer-Controlled Cutting, a good assignment documentation

How to use a caliper

Tutorials Vynil Cutter

Tutorials MULTICAM 2000 Laser Cutter (2D CAM)

Please, visit FAB LAB BCN Wiki :

  • technical specifications

  • materials and configuration ( wood, playwood, cardboard... )

  • how to prepare and send files

  • how to turn on the machine

  • how to cut

  • what not to do

EnRoute Software

  1. Learn EnRoute: Youtube EnRoute Channel

Downloads

  1. EnRoute Instructions

  2. Multicam Instructions

  3. Multicam Material Settings only suggestions!!!!

Tutorial: Trotec Speedy 400 (2D CAM)

Trotec Speedy 400 - Menual

Please, visit FAB LAB BCN Wiki for:

  • technical specifications

  • materials and configuration ( wood, playwood, cardboard... )

  • CAM

  • machine workflow (how to cut)

  • commands

Tutorial: Spirit GE Laser Cutter

Spirit GE Laser Cutter - Menual

Please, visit FAB LAB BCN Wiki for:

  • technical specifications

  • materials and configuration ( wood, playwood, cardboard... )

  • CAM

  • machine workflow (how to cut)

  • commands

Softwares

  • Sketchair is a free, open-source software tool that allows anyone to easily design and build their own digitally fabricated furniture.
  • Pepakura

Origami:

http://www.tsg.ne.jp/TT/software/

http://www.langorigami.com/article/treemaker

http://www.curvedfolding.com/group/freeformorigami

Machine Software

Inspirational Ideas

Test files