Week 3¶
Chatgpt was used for the definitions used here and google for the images.
Laser Cutter Terms¶
Kerf¶
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What is Kerf? Kerf refers to the width of material that is removed during a cutting process. In laser cutting, it’s the amount of material that the laser vaporizes or melts as it moves along the cutting path. This width can vary depending on several factors like the machine, material, and cutting settings. In simple terms: Kerf = Material lost during the cut.
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Why Does Kerf Matter? Precision in Design: Kerf plays a crucial role in ensuring that parts fit together as intended, especially in pressfit designs or interlocking pieces. If kerf isn’t accounted for, the parts may be too loose or too tight, affecting the overall fit and function. Material Waste: Knowing the kerf allows you to design cuts with minimal material wastage. If you don’t account for kerf, the cut piece may be smaller than intended, leading to inefficiency.
Parametric design¶
Parametric Design is a design methodology that uses parameters or variables to define and control the geometry of a design. These parameters can be adjusted, allowing designers to easily modify the shape, size, or other aspects of a model by changing specific values or inputs. It’s widely used in fields like architecture, engineering, industrial design, and digital fabrication.
Tools Used for Parametric Design: - Rhinoceros (Rhino) with Grasshopper: Grasshopper is a visual programming language integrated into Rhino that allows for parametric design, ideal for creating complex forms and relationships. -Fusion 360: A CAD tool that supports parametric modeling and allows designers to define parameters for the dimensions, shapes, and features of their models. - SolidWorks: Widely used in mechanical and product design, it allows users to create parametric models that are fully controlled by adjustable parameters. - Autodesk Revit: Primarily used for architecture and construction, Revit allows parametric design of building systems and structures.