Alex Reyes

Fab Academy 2026

Week 3: Computer-Controlled Cutting

Learning laser cutting, kerf compensation, vinyl cutting and parametric design workflows.

Assignments

Group Assignment

Individual Assignment

Machines

CO₂ Laser Cutter and Vinyl Cutter.

Software

SolidWorks, Inkscape and laser cutting software.

Main Skills

Parametric design, kerf compensation and vector cutting.

Group Assignment

In this group assignment, we characterized the laser cutting machines available at FabLab Puebla.

We reviewed the lab safety procedures, analyzed the specifications of the CO₂ laser cutters, and tested different materials such as wood, MDF and acrylic.

We evaluated parameters including power, speed, focus and kerf to understand how they influence cutting quality and precision.

This process allowed us to determine optimal machine settings for future projects and ensured safe and accurate operation.

Group Assignment – Laser Cutter Characterization

I learned how to calibrate the laser height, how to safely turn the machine on and off, how to properly use the software and how the machine functions internally.

Parametric Construction Kit

Since we were in the month of love, I decided to design a 3D heart model as a gift for my girlfriend.

To make the model parametric, I used the Equations tool in SolidWorks.

This tool allows dimensions and formulas to automatically update the model when changing parameters.

Global Variables

Used to control dimensions and proportions automatically.

Kerf Compensation

Slot dimensions were adjusted to compensate for laser material removal.

Parametric Scaling

The heart proportions remained consistent when resizing the design.

I created global variables for:

The Equations tool can be found in:

SolidWorks Path

Tools → Equations

I also created an assembly in SolidWorks to verify that all pieces fit correctly before manufacturing.

Laser Cutting Process

After finalizing the design, I exported the files and sent them to the laser cutting machine.

Laser cutting software

Laser Cutter Parameters

Material

2.5 mm MDF

Kerf Compensation

+0.2 mm

Speed

18 mm/s

Power

Max: 65% / Min: 55%

Why Max and Min Power?

The laser cutter uses both maximum and minimum power values to maintain energy consistency during acceleration and deceleration.

The minimum power prevents incomplete cuts in corners and curves where the machine slows down.

Final laser cut heart
Final assembled heart model.

Vinyl Cutter

For the vinyl cutter assignment, I used an anchor design inspired by the name of my final project, “Ancora,” which means anchor in Latin.

I used Inkscape to vectorize the image and exported it as an SVG file to prepare it for the vinyl cutting software.

Inkscape Official Website
Vinyl cutting process 1 Vinyl cutting process 2 Final vinyl result

Extra Credit

Multiple Configurations

I created a parametric construction kit that allows multiple assembly configurations.

Flexible Structure Experiments

I tried creating non-flat flexible elements by designing a bendable structure.

Initially I placed the lines horizontally instead of vertically, so the part bent incorrectly.

Then I corrected the direction of the lines, but I left too little spacing between them.

Because the spacing was too small, the material broke when I tried bending it.

Engraving

For the engraving assignment, I reused the SVG vectors from the vinyl cutter and imported them into SolidWorks.

Then I configured engraving parameters in the laser cutting software.

Engraving settings

There was a scaling issue in SolidWorks, so I manually adjusted the size inside the laser cutting software.

Cutting design Scale adjustment

Final engraved and assembled project:

Final assembled project 1 Final assembled project 2

Downloadable Files

DXF Laser Cutting File

Parametric heart construction kit.

SVG Vinyl File

Anchor vector used for the vinyl cutter.

Extra Credit DXF

Flexible and engraved experimental design.