M Musaed AlKout

Computer-Aided Design (CAD)

This week focused on using 2D and 3D modeling software tools for fabrication workflows, especially laser cutting/engraving and 3D printing.

Week

Computer-Aided Design

Focus

2D + 3D Modeling

Output

Laser + 3D Examples

Platform

macOS

Assignment Summary

What I aimed to demonstrate in this documentation.

  • Explore multiple CAD tools

    Compare 2D vector tools and 3D modeling workflows.

  • Document a fabrication-ready workflow

    Laser cutting/engraving and 3D printing preparation.

  • Show results

    Include at least one laser example and one 3D example.

Tools & Software

I use different software depending on the output (laser cutting vs 3D printing). Over time, I have mainly worked with the tools below:

  • Tinkercad — quick and simple 3D modeling
  • Inkscape — vector design for laser cutting and engraving
  • Adobe Illustrator — advanced vector illustration and 3D conversion workflows
  • Bambu Studio — slicing and preparation for 3D printing
  • RevoPoint 3D Scanner — scan a physical model and modify it
  • MeerK40t — handles vector workflows and is useful for laser control

I feel very comfortable using Inkscape and Illustrator for laser-cut designs and Bambu Studio for printing. Some professional CAD tools like SolidWorks require licensing; I plan to explore them once installed.

2D Workflow — Laser Cutting & Engraving

Since I use laser engraving frequently, my typical workflow depends on the design complexity:

  • Inkscape — clean vector design for cutting/engraving (SVG, DXF, PDF)
  • Adobe Illustrator — detailed artwork and layered vector composition
  • MeerK40t — control software that works well with vector jobs

Result — Laser Art (Inkscape)

Example of a vector artwork prepared for laser engraving/cutting.

Laser Art
Laser Art — designed in Inkscape (replace with your real screenshot/image).

3D Workflow — Illustration to 3D Print

I recently created an illustration in Adobe Illustrator, converted it into a 3D model within Illustrator, then exported it to Bambu Studio for modification and printing.

  1. Step 1 — Design Create vector illustration in Adobe Illustrator.
  2. Step 2 — Convert Convert the vector to a 3D model inside Illustrator.
  3. Step 3 — Prepare Export and refine the model in Bambu Studio for printing.

Result — Eagle Art (Converted to 3D)

Illustration converted into a printable 3D object.

Eagle art converted into a 3D model and prepared in Bambu Studio
Eagle Art — Illustrator → 3D conversion → Bambu Studio (replace with your real screenshot/image).

Reflection — What I Learned

  • The CAD tool I choose depends on the fabrication method (laser vs 3D printing).
  • Vector-based design is essential for accurate laser cutting and engraving.
  • 2D artwork can be transformed into 3D printable objects depending on the workflow.
  • File formats and clean geometry improve compatibility across different machines and tools.