Vocabulary and Software

Vocabulary

NOTE: I asked chatgpt to explain these following terms to me simply.

Throughout the course I am learning so many new vocabularies that were initially alien to me. I think these vocabularies are a must in order to complete this course.

Git stands for Global Information Tracker, which tracks changes in source code or other files.
GitLab is a web-based platform for DevOps (Development and Operations) that provides tools for software development, version control, continuous integration/continuous deployment (CI/CD), and project management.
CLI (Command Line Interface) allows users to interact with software by typing commands.
GUI (Graphical User Interface) uses visual elements like buttons and icons for interaction.

Basic Electronics Terms

  1. Development Board – A small circuit board with a tiny computer (microcontroller) used for building and testing projects. Example: Arduino.
  2. GPIO (General Purpose Input/Output) – Pins on the board that can send or receive signals, like turning an LED on or reading a button press.
  3. MCU (Microcontroller Unit) – The tiny computer inside the board that runs programs and controls everything.
  4. Peripherals – Extra parts that connect to the board, like sensors, motors, and displays.
  5. PWM (Pulse Width Modulation) – A way to control things like LED brightness or motor speed by turning power on and off very fast.
  6. Firmware – Special software inside the microcontroller that helps it work.
  7. Parameters – Values you give to a function to change how it works. Example: delay(1000); waits for 1 second.
  8. Function – A small piece of code that does something useful, like turning an LED on.
  9. Library – A ready-made collection of code that makes programming easier. Example: A library for controlling sensors.
  10. Command – An instruction you give to the computer or microcontroller. Example: print("Hello") shows "Hello" on the screen.
  11. Variable – A container that stores information, like a number or a word. Example: temperature = 25; saves the number 25.

Basic Words for 3d printing machine

  1. FDM (Fused Deposition Modeling) –Additive manufacturing is basically a process of creating 3D objects by adding layer by layer of a material based on a digital model. This allows for complex geometries and customization.
  2. Additive Manufacturing: –A 3D printing technology where a thermoplastic filament is melted and extruded through a nozzle to create objects layer by layer.
  3. Subtractive Manufacturing: –It is removing material from a solid block to achieve the desired shape, usually through processes like milling or laser cutting. It can create a lot more waste than the additive manufacturing process.

CNC Machining Terms

  • Runout: The amount of deviation or wobble in a rotating tool or spindle. Excessive runout can cause uneven cuts, poor surface finish, and premature tool wear.
  • Alignment: Ensuring that the CNC machine's components (spindle, bed, fixtures, and tools) are properly positioned and calibrated to maintain accuracy in machining.
  • Fixturing: The method of holding and securing the workpiece in place during machining. Good fixturing prevents movement and ensures repeatability.
  • Speeds: The spindle speed (measured in RPM – revolutions per minute) at which the cutting tool rotates. Proper speeds depend on the material, tool type, and desired finish.
  • Feeds: The rate at which the cutting tool moves through the material, usually measured in inches per minute (IPM) or millimeters per minute (mm/min). It affects surface finish and tool life.
  • Materials: The type of material being machined (e.g., wood, aluminum, steel, acrylic). Different materials require different cutting speeds, feeds, and tool types.
  • Toolpaths: The programmed paths that the cutting tool follows to shape the material. These are created in CAM (Computer-Aided Manufacturing) software and include different strategies like contouring, pocketing, and drilling.

NOTE: these definitions were also generated by Chatgpt and the prompt was "Explain these terms to me simply."

Software used

Throughout the course I have learned how to use and used many softwares that were truly incredible. I believe that these are some of the softwares you must have to tackle all of the challenges fab acaedemy throws at you. You can go to the links to download the softwares.

I would like to thank Mr. Adrián Torres as his documentation really helped me a lot and I got the idea to use Phantom template for my website thanks to him.

  • Git Bash – A command-line interference tool for Git version control.
  • Flameshot – A screenshot tool with editing features.
  • Fusion 360 – A 3D CAD[ Computer-aided design ] and CAM[ Computer-aided manufacturing ] software.
  • Inkscape – A vector graphics editor.
  • KiCad – A schematic and PCB[printed circuit board] design software.
  • GIMP – A free image editor.
  • Fab Library for KiCad – A component library for KiCad.
  • ImageMagick – A tool to convert and edit images.
  • Prusa Slicer – To export files for 3d printing.
  • Brackets – A lightweight code editor.
  • WSL – enables linux tools making it easier to use open-source software for Fab Academy. Prof. Neil and other instructors repeatedly asked the Windows Users to download it.
  • Arduino IDE – used to write, compile, and upload code to Arduino microcontrollers for electronics and embedded system projects