16. Wildcard week¶

Group assignment:¶

None

Individual assignment:¶

Design and produce something with a digital fabrication process (incorporating computer-aided design and manufacturing) not covered in another assignment, documenting the requirements that your assignment meets, and including everything necessary to reproduce it.

Overview¶

This week's project focuses on 3D crystal laser engraving. The workflow is organized into four parts:

1. Introduction to the 3D laser engraver
2. Designing the 3D model
3. Generating the engraving file
4. Engraving the crystal

1. Introduction to the 3D Laser Engraver¶

A 3D laser engraver is a device that uses a focused laser beam to engrave three-dimensional patterns inside transparent materials such as crystal or glass. These machines combine laser precision with the ability to create stunning volumetric engravings without altering the surface of the material.

Our Fab Lab is equipped with the Perfect Laser model.

Specifications¶

2. Designing the Model & Generating the Engraving File¶

Two software tools are used in this workflow:

• 3D Crystal Converts 2D/3D models into a Point Cloud and exports them in .cad format.
• Laser Control Interfaces with the machine to engrave the .cad file into the crystal.

Step-by-Step Workflow¶

Opening the 3D Model File¶

1. Launch the 3D Crystal software.
2. Go to File > Open, select your 3D model file, and click Open.

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Setting the Crystal Size¶

• Adjust the crystal size by modifying the Size field: 50 × 80 × 50 mm.

• Use the directional buttons in the interface to adjust the view orientation.

• Resize the model to approximately 90% of the crystal size so the model stays fully inside the block.

Here is the 3D model positioned inside the crystal volume in the software:

Generating the Point Cloud¶

1. Right-click on the model and select Generate Point Cloud.
2. Configure the parameters as follows:

Once generated, combine the model points with any text annotation if needed.

Exporting the File¶

1. Go to File > Export.
2. Name your file and save it in .cad format.

3. Engraving the Crystal¶

Opening the File in Laser Control Software¶

1. Launch the Laser Control software.
2. Go to File > Open, select your .cad file, and click Open.

Setting Up the Machine¶

1. Since we are using a 50 × 80 × 50 mm crystal block, press X/2, Y/2, and Z/2 to set the laser to the center position.

1. Place the crystal block on the machine bed.

1. Click the Light button to preview the laser alignment on the crystal.
2. Press Start to begin engraving.

Hero Shots¶

The final result: a 3D laser-engraved crystal with a precise volumetric model captured inside the transparent block.

Files¶