Week 3: Embedded Programming

This week I learned how to use the Thunder Laser Cutting-NOVA 24 to make a phone stand.

Week 3 Group Work

Team collaboration: test the laser cutter tolerances

1.Design a tolerance test gauge in a 2D software

2. Export the file and send it to the laser cutter for cutting, then measure how the machine performs at different dimensions

3. Identify the minimum gap that the laser cutter can cut accurately

4. Adjust laser cutting parameters to achieve the best cutting results (power, speed, etc.)Document the process from designing the test gauge to obtaining the optimal results

Reflection of what I learned

This week, I learned how to use the Thunder Laser Cutting-NOVA 51 to make a phone stand.

While using the laser cutter, I learned the safety rules and how to use the laser cutter safely. Here are a few key takeaways.

Design a phone stand using LaserMaker software based on the tolerance tested in the groupwork.

I tested the tolerance of the laser cutting machine with my team members using different sizes of holes and bars, both horizontally and vertically. I performed the laser cutting twice due to the machine’s tolerance issues, and as a result, the plywood could not be inserted into the socket holes at the first time. The second time， the width was adjusted from 2.9mm to 3.2mm， so that the plywood could fit into the socket hole properly.

About the safty training:

• We should always wear the laser safety goggles at all times when operating the laser cutter.
• There is a camera on the laser cutter. After the laser cutting is completed, we can check the cutting results by watching the camera. Do not move the board until the laser cutting is completed.
• After the laser cutting is completed, we should wait for the board to cool down for a few minutes before removing it from the laser cutter.
• A higher speed is not always better; we should choose the appropriate speed for the material. When cutting a corner, if the speed is too fast it can cause excessive charring that weakens the wood fibres. When setting the parameters, the angular power should be tested at about 60% of the total power.

Safety Training

• Inspect the machine – Check for any damage, loose cables, or debris inside.
• Check ventilation – Ensure exhaust/fume extraction is working to remove hazardous fumes.
• Use approved materials only – Never cut PVC, vinyl, ABS, polycarbonate, or reflective metals (e.g., bare copper, brass) – they release toxic gas or damage the laser. Use wood, acrylic, paper, cardboard, or manufacturer‑approved materials.
• Focus correctly – Set the correct focal distance for the material thickness.
• Close the lid – Always operate with the protective cover fully closed.
• Wear laser safety goggles at all times when operating the laser cutter.
• Fire extinguisher location — a CO₂ extinguisher is mounted next to the machine; never use a water extinguisher near electrical equipment.
• Know the emergency stop — the big red button on the machine immediately halts the laser and the motion system.

Individual Assignment

This week, I designed a phone stand and made a press-fit constrciton kit by using the laser cutter. Also explored the parametric design using Fusion 360.

Parametric design using Fusion 360

What are parameters in Fusion

Parameters in Fusion are predefined values — such as length, width, or hole count — that control features and dimensions throughout your model. These values can function as single numeric values, equations, or variables tied to other parameters. Whenever a parameter changes, every dependent feature updates instantaneously, saving hours of manual rework and minimizing the risk of human error.

Why use parametric design?

Parameters in Fusion are essential for making designs more efficient and adaptable. Whether controlling basic dimensions or managing complex relationships between parts, parameters in Fusion automate key aspects of the modeling process. Using operators, functions like floor and round, and conditional statements, you can create responsive models that adapt easily to changes. Additionally, configurations allow you to manage multiple design versions without rebuilding from scratch.

How to create parameters in Fusion

• Access the parameters dialog: To get started, navigate to the Design workspace and go to Modify > Change Parameters
• Create a new user parameter: Click the “+” icon next to User Parameters. Enter the Name, Unit (mm, cm, degree, count), Expression/Value (number or formula), and an optional Comment. Press OK. Example: Name: height, Unit: mm, Expression: 3, Comment: “Cabinet height”. You can now utilize the ‘height’ parameter in sketch dimensions and features (extrusions, patterns, etc.). Any changes to its value will result in live updates to your model.
• Back to the sketch,the different is when you change the parameter value, the sketch will update automatically, you only need to fill in the name of the parameter, the value will be updated automatically.Here we can also add the tolorence value to the parameter, so that the model will be more accurate.
• Array the sketch to circular patterns.And then extrude the sketch.
• Export the model to STL file.

1.Laser Maker cutting & assemble practice

Designing a press-fit constrction kit using LaserMaker software.

Open LaserMaker software and create a new project.Cleck circle button to draw a circle.Then choose a heart shape from the shape library and draw a heart shape. Use the alignment tool to align the centers of the two shapes.