03.00 Introduction
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Overview
This module introduces laser cutting as a digital fabrication process. Laser cutting can cut all the way through a material or etch on its surface. Laser cutting is a quick way to rapidly prototype and test ideas and concepts. It can make parts with high accuracy and repeatability. It is limited to creating flat pieces of relatively thin thickness.
Learning Outcomes
- Use Adobe Illustrator to make laser cut file for test cut
- Use Epilog laser cutting software to cut and etch wood and plastic
- Create iterative designs and ideation sketches
- Refine designs for assembly and fabrication
- Fabricate scale models in cardboard
Joints
- butt joint (glued)
- box joint (finger joint)
- lap joint or slotted cross joint (two slots slide together)
- hook joint
- keyed or pinned tennon
- mortise and tennon tab joint
- indexed t slot pin joint
Types of fit
- clearance or semi loose
- transition or the exact size
- interference or press fit