Week 3 — Computer Controlled Cutting
Fab Academy — Week 3 documentation (Laser Cutting + Vinyl Cutting).
Instructors
Daniele Ingrassia, Debabra Goswami
Machines
Laser + Vinyl Cutter
Focus
kerf + Parameterics
Learning Objectives
- Demonstrate and describe parametric 2D modelling processes.
- Identify and explain processes involved in using the laser cutter.
- Develop, evaluate, and construct a parametric construction kit.
- Identify and explain processes involved in using the vinyl cutter.
Assignments
Individual Assignment
-
Parametric construction kit
Design, laser cut, and document a parametric kit, accounting for laser kerf.
-
Vinyl cutting
Cut something on the vinyl cutter and document it.
Group Assignment
-
Safety training
Ensure all team members working with any type of Laser to follow the complete safety training for laser cutting.
-
Laser characterization
Characterize focus, power, speed, rate, kerf, joint clearance and cut types.
-
Document to group page
Each team member will publish the group results on their individual page.
🛠️ Tools & Materials
| Category | Items |
|---|---|
| Software | On-Shape (Parametric Design), SignMaster Pro v5 (Vinyl Design) |
| Machines | xTools S1 Laser, Skycut Plotter Cutter |
| Materials | 4mm Cardboard, Vinyl sticker roll |
👥 Group Assignment
The objective of the group assignment is to ensure understanding the safe operation of any Laser Cutter and to characterize how different Power and Speed settings affect cutting results, including measuring the kerf of the machine.
Safety
Before operating any Laser Cutting Machine, we need to make sure we have all the safety equipments next to us such as (Fire Extinguisher, Goggles) and well ventilated workspace. Moreover, the team member should adhere to the following:
- Never leave the Laser Cutting Machine unattended while in operation.
- Ensure proper ventilation and out-exhaust is turned on.
- Monitor flammable materials at all times.
- Know the location of the fire extinguisher and the emergency stop.
Fire Safety Setup
Fire extinguisher near the laser cutter (replace image filename below).
Next Steps
- Add laser characterization results (power/speed tests + kerf calculation).
- Document my parametric construction kit design (Onshape) and final laser-cut assembly.
- Document Vinyl cut design (SignMaster Pro 5).
- Reflect on what settings worked best and what I learned from failures.