Computer-Controlled Cutting Assignment

1. Explaination of How I Created My Parametric Design

To create my parametric design, I used Solidworks, which allows for the use of parameters to define dimensions. This ensures that changes can be easily made by updating the parameter values, maintaining consistency across the design.

Steps:

Screenshot of the parametric design setup:

2.How I Made my Press-Fit Construction Kit

I designed and fabricated a press-fit construction kit using a laser cutter. The kit consists of interlocking pieces that can be assembled into different structures without adhesives or fasteners.

Steps:

  1. Created a design in Solidworks, ensuring the slot dimensions matched the material thickness (2mm).
  2. Exported the design as a DXF file.
  3. Imported the DXF file into LightBurn and set the laser cutter parameters for plywood (speed: 20mm/s, power: 50%).
  4. Tested the cuts and adjusted the slot size for a snug fit.
  5. Assembled the pieces to form various shapes.

Photos of the press-fit construction kit:

3. Documented How You Made Something with the Vinyl Cutter

For this part of the assignment, I used a vinyl cutter to create a custom decal. The process involved designing the graphic, cutting the vinyl, and applying it to a surface.

Steps:

Photos of the vinyl cutting process and the final result:

Vinyl Cutter in Action Final Vinyl Decal Final Vinyl Decal Final Vinyl Decal

4. Included Your Original Design Files

All original design files used in this assignment are included for reference:

5. Included Hero Shots of Your Results

Here are the hero shots showcasing the final results of each task:

Press-Fit Construction Kit:

Hero Shot of Press-Fit Kit

Vinyl Cutter Decal:

Hero Shot of Vinyl Decal

Conclusion

This assignment covered parametric design, press-fit construction, and vinyl cutting. By following systematic processes, I was able to create precise designs, fabricate components, and document the workflow effectively.