Assignments

Group Assignment:
- Do your lab’s safety training.

- Characterize your lasercutter’s focus, power, speed, rate, kerf, joint clearance and types.

- Document your work to the group work page and reflect on your individual page what you learned.

Individual Assignments:
- Design, lasercut, and document a parametric construction kit, accounting for the lasercutter kerf, which can be assembled in multiple ways.

- Cut something on the vinyl cutter.

Week 3. Computer-Controlled Cutting

🔗 View Group Assignment Page

Reflection on Group Work and Personal Learning

This week, the group work allowed me to dive deep into the laser cutter, adjusting parameters such as power, speed, focus, and joint clearance. I learned how important it is to calibrate the machine well and properly adjust these parameters to achieve precise cuts. I also understood how factors like kerf or mirror cleanliness can affect the results.

The most valuable part of this group work was the exchange of knowledge with my teammates. Through collaboration and joint testing, I was able to learn from their experiences and apply best practices to adjust the cutter’s parameters. This collaborative approach helped me improve my technical skills and gain a deeper understanding of the challenges we face when working with computer-controlled cutting technology.

However, there were also challenges. One of the main ones was ensuring that all team members consistently followed safety and calibration protocols. There were some variations in the results due to errors in the calibration process or incorrect parameter adjustments. These problems taught us the importance of strictly following procedures to guarantee optimal results and avoid risks during the cutting process.

In summary, this group work provided me with a clearer understanding of how to efficiently and safely characterize and use a laser cutter. I learned that the key to success in these processes lies in proper calibration, precise parameter adjustments, and, above all, teamwork to share knowledge and continuously improve procedures. Without a doubt, this learning will be fundamental for my future digital fabrication projects.

Laser Cutter Safety Training


At the FabLab of Universidad EAN, a series of safety measures have been implemented to ensure the proper and safe use of the 150W laser cutter. These measures include:

Ventilation and Air Extraction

The machine is equipped with a cooling system (chiller) to maintain the appropriate temperature during the cutting process. Additionally, a dust collector extractor has been installed to capture the particles and fumes generated during cutting. Furthermore, there is a room extractor to ensure adequate ventilation and prevent the accumulation of gases or toxic fumes.

Prohibited Materials

A clear list of materials that should not be processed in the laser cutter has been established, such as PVC, polycarbonate, and other materials that release toxic gases when cut. The use of metallic, reflective materials, or materials that may generate sparks is also prohibited.

Fire Prevention

Due to an incident that occurred a year ago, in which a material caught fire during the cutting process, safety measures have been reinforced. A fire extinguisher has been placed near the machine to act quickly in case of an emergency. In addition, a surveillance camera has been installed, allowing for remote and real-time monitoring of the laser cutter, which helps us detect any anomalies or fire risks immediately.

Training and Key Guidelines

All users of the laser cutter must complete a safety training before operating the machine. This training includes:

  • Understanding the ventilation rules and proper use of the extractors.
  • Identifying materials and their associated risks.
  • Learning how to use the fire extinguisher and follow fire protocols.
  • Constantly supervising the cutting process, either in person or through the surveillance camera.

Characterizing the Laser Cutter Parameters


CO2 laser machine


Before starting to operate in the laboratory, the FabLab team performs a brief calibration or verification of the mirrors to reduce variations in the width of the cut. This step is crucial, as it ensures the laser is properly aligned and that the cut is precise. During this week, the group members designed our own cutting, power, and engraving tests to make an accurate comparison. We also conducted fit tests to determine the necessary clearances in the materials.

This test can be applied to different materials, but this time we worked with MDF as the base material. Using a common design, we all tested and adjusted the clearances to determine the exact measurement that will allow us to correctly design or model projects in this material. This process was essential to understand how the results vary depending on the power, speed, and focus of the laser.

Use of Multiple Machines During the Week

This week, I used several machines: the laser cutter, a fiber laser engraver, and a vinyl cutter. Prior to this, we had a discussion about the safety of the laser cutter in the group assignment (group page). Thanks to this analysis and discussion with my teammates, we determined the correct and adequate powers for using the machine, as well as the necessary measures to prevent and avoid accidents. I learned that factors such as the prior calibration of the mirrors and their cleaning are essential, as they directly affect the final result of the cut. Some teammates had variations in their results when skipping this process, which reinforced the importance of following the established protocols.

Despite the risks, the laser cutter has great potential, allowing me to create large-scale projects with high precision and quality.

Personal Process with the Laser Cutter

Machine used: Bodor 150W Cut Laser (does not cut metals).

Software: Initially, the machine operates with RDWorks, but due to its limitations and lack of additional tools, I used LightBurn, a software for which I already have a personal license. This software allowed me to operate the machine more easily and make the necessary configurations in a more intuitive way.

Preparation and Configuration

I selected the material (MDF) and placed it on the machine bed.

I configured the parameters in LightBurn, adjusting the power, speed, and focus based on the tests previously performed.

I verified that the mirrors were properly aligned and clean to ensure a precise cut.

Parametric Kit

For the design of my parametric kit, I used SolidWorks software. I set parameters that define the dimensions and shapes of the parts, which allowed me to create an adaptable model. Inspired by the bee, the university's mascot, I designed panels with hexagonal shapes and intersections, as well as joining pieces. I cut several of these parts to build volumetric objects or toys. This process allowed me to explore the possibilities of parametric design and the versatility of the laser cutter.

Fiber Laser Engraver


Machine used: F1 Ultra

Software: XTools.

This machine has specialized software for its operation, which includes Wi-Fi connectivity, making it easier to transfer files. It allows working with materials such as steel, which I experimented with.

Engraving Process

I performed small power tests to determine the appropriate configuration.

I imported the FabLab logo of the university into the XTools software.

I configured the appropriate power and speed settings for the material (MDF).

I placed the material in the machine and executed the engraving.

The result was a clean and precise engraving, which added a professional finish to my parametric kit.

I also performed engraving on steel, with its calibrations and tests.

Vinyl Cutting


Machine used: Cricut Maker 3

Software: Cricut Design Space.

The design I set out to cut is the FabLab logo, which I had previously created in Inkscape in vector format, as required by the vinyl cutter. I already have an account in the software, so when I logged in, I selected "New Project" and verified that the machine was correctly configured.

Steps for Cutting:

  • I imported the file into the software and adjusted the design size.
  • I selected the square mat for the material, as the logo I wanted is circular.
  • I placed the white vinyl on the cutting mat, ensuring it was properly stuck.
  • In the software, I selected "Make" and adjusted the material settings. Since I have experience with the machine, I knew that the standard pressure is not always sufficient, so I selected the highest pressure.
  • The machine indicated that I should press the button to receive the mat with the material and then pressed "Play" to start the cutting.

Material Preparation

  • I cut the white vinyl to an approximate size of 30.5 cm.
  • I checked the blade’s edge to ensure it didn’t have any residue from previous cuts.
  • I placed the material on the cutting mat and secured it properly.

Final Result

Once the cutting was completed, the design wasn’t very noticeable, but I proceeded to transfer it onto transfer paper to apply it to a wall. With the help of tools, I adhered it, and the final result was a clean and professional logo.

This process allowed me to explore different techniques and machines, from laser cutting to engraving and vinyl cutting, which enriched my experience in the FabLab. Each machine has its own characteristics, but with practice and the right knowledge, amazing results can be achieved.

Personal conclusions from this week

Week 3 was a very important learning experience, as I detailed the importance of safety regulations and the precautions to take when handling these types of machines. This was further reinforced by experience: no one is exempt from accidents, but following the proper steps and paying attention to the details can prevent them. Personally, I didn’t have any problems during this assignment, as laser cutting is one of the techniques I am most skilled in. To carry out the work in the best possible way, I always calibrated and checked the machine's condition before starting, which helped me avoid mistakes in this area, though not in the design phase. Sometimes, due to oversights or not noting certain measurements, I made mistakes that later caused my pieces not to fit. However, I solved this by taking notes and making reminders while working, which helped me avoid these issues. The vinyl cutting process was similar. I know my strength is not in design, which is still my weakest area, but in manufacturing, I was able to highlight my skills. What I could improve in this is by preparing more and strengthening my design skills to create truly amazing things.