Week03: Computer-Controlled Cutting

Individual Assignment:

1. Design, Laser cut and document a parametric construction kit.
2. Application of vinyl cutter.

Assignment Problem statement

Design and prototype mobile phone stand and spinning top using MDF.

About the Laser cutting machine

CO2 laser cutting machines are versatile tools used in various industries for precise cutting and detailed engraving on a variety of materials.  

How they work:

CO2 laser machines use a gas laser powered by CO2 (carbon dioxide) to emit a focused beam of infrared light. This beam is directed through mirrors or fiber optics onto the material to be processed. The intensity of the beam can be controlled to either cut through the material or engrave its surface.  

Materials they can cut:

CO2 laser cutting machines can cut a wide range of materials, including:

• Wood: Plywood, MDF, solid wood, etc.  
• Acrylic: Clear, colored, cast, extruded, etc.  
• Fabric: Cotton, silk, polyester, leather, etc.  
• Paper: Cardboard, paperboard, etc.  
• Plastic: ABS, PVC, PET, etc.  
• Glass: Engraving only
• Stone: Engraving only

Applications:

CO2 laser cutting machines are used in a variety of applications, including:

• Signage and advertising: Creating signs, displays, and promotional items.
• Prototyping: Making prototypes for product design and development.
• Art and craft: Creating intricate designs on various materials.  
• Fashion: Cutting fabric for clothing and accessories.  
• Packaging: Creating custom packaging for products.  
• Woodworking: Cutting and engraving wood for furniture and other products.  

Advantages of CO2 laser cutting machines:

• Precision: CO2 lasers can produce very precise cuts and engravings.
• Versatility: CO2 lasers can be used to cut and engrave a wide range of materials.  
• Speed: CO2 lasers can cut materials quickly and efficiently.  
• Non-contact: CO2 lasers do not come into contact with the material being cut, which reduces the risk of damage.

CorelDraw

image from CorelDram

CorelDRAW is a vector graphics editor used for creating and editing images. It is developed and marketed by Corel Corporation. CorelDRAW is used for a wide variety of graphic design purposes, including logo design, illustration, page layout, and web design.

CorelDRAW was first released in 1989 and has since gone through many versions. The latest version, CorelDRAW 2021, was released in March 2021. CorelDRAW is available for Windows and macOS operating systems.

Design and fabrication of mobile stand:

Design and fabrication of a spinning top