4. Computer Controlled Cutting
This week the objective is to complete our labs safety training, analyze our laser cutters performance by characterizing its focus, power, speed, pulse rate, kerf, and cut types. Moreover, the goal is to create and cut a design using the vinyl cutter: Design, laser cut, and document a parametric construction kit.
Safety Protocols
General Lab Safety Rules (All Age Groups)
- Wear Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) – Safety goggles, gloves, and ear protection when required.
- Maintain a Clean Work Area – Keep tools organized and remove debris.
- Follow Instructor Directions – Always ask before using unfamiliar equipment.
- Report Issues Immediately – Alert staff about damaged tools or injuries.
- No Loose Clothing or Jewelry – Tie back long hair and avoid baggy clothes.
- Observe Safe Distances – Stay clear of machines while in operation.
- Never Leave Machines Unattended – Turn off equipment when finished.
Safe Distance Guidelines
1. 3D Printers
Safe Distance: Stay at least 1 foot away from the printer while operating.
2. Laser Cutter
Safe Distance: 3 feet away unless you are the operator.
3. Vinyl Cutter
Safe Distance: 2 feet away unless loading material.
4. CNC Router (ShopBot, Large CNC Machines)
Safe Distance: 6 feet away unless you are the operator.
5. Soldering Station
Safe Distance: 2 feet away unless you are working at the station.
6. Hand Tools (Screwdrivers, Pliers, Wrenches, etc.)
Safe Distance: Keep a workspace of at least 1 foot between students using tools.
7. Power Tools (Drills, Sanders, Jigsaws, etc.)
Safe Distance: 4 feet away unless operating.
8. Electronics & Circuitry
Safe Distance: 1 foot between workspaces to avoid short circuits.
Vinyl Cutting
It appears that the Vinyl Cutter is currently inoperable, with a service call error 0380 preventing its use. While troubleshooting the issue, efforts were made to diagnose potential causes, but the problem persisted, necessitating further support or maintenance.
Fusion Edge: Laser Cutter
The Fusion Edge Laser Cutter also proved to be challenging. Initially, the printer was experiencing a connectivity issue. When attempting to connect to the building WiFi, it had spotty connection and would not maintain connectivity. Next, a wired connection was established. After the configuration was updated, the printer was still inoperable. Finally, we decided to connect the printer to a hotspot, and a successful connection was established! From there, we sent a silhouette to the Epilog for engraving, and the laser application was successful.
Parametric Construction Kit
Parametric Construction Kit Attempt
For this assignment, I set out to design, laser cut, and document a parametric construction kit that accounted for the laser cutter kerf. My goal was to create interlocking pieces that could be assembled in multiple ways while maintaining a precise fit and flexibility.
Challenges Faced
File Transfer to the Epilog Laser Cutter
I attempted to use parametric constraints in Fusion 360 to make the design adaptable, but I encountered difficulties. After finalizing my design, I experienced issues transferring the file to the Epilog laser cutter. Some file formats did not retain the correct dimensions or line properties, causing errors during the cutting process. Additionally, communication issues between the software and the laser cutter delayed my ability to complete the project efficiently.
Conclusion & Next Steps
I experienced difficulties producing a fully functional parametric kit. The primary obstacles were difficulty in defining proper constraints, file transfer issues with the Epilog laser cutter, inconsistent kerf adjustments, and material-specific challenges. Moving forward, I plan to refine my parametric model, troubleshoot file transfer issues, conduct more precise kerf testing, and experiment with alternate joint designs to improve fit and flexibility. This weekend, we hope to reconvene with the Past Innovation Lab in Columbus for further clarification (weather permitting).