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Week 3

Assignments

  • [ ] Task 1: [Design and cut with the laser cutter an object that can be used in your classroom ]
  • [ ] Task 2: [Document in the learning diary what you did and include two pictures of the final object。Explain how are you planning to use it]

Process

1.I ues MEITU APP to design the “Maker” word with logo

  1. Then I use LaserMaker to redesign what I want . To be frank, I found out that english word with a little girl at side is really amusing. So I try to use the function of LaserMaker to complete my design.

3.Laser Cutter Parameter Testing The laser cutter at Litchee Lab is a small Laser Engraving Machinethe. TR-6040

I conducted a systematic test of the following key parameters of the laboratory’s laser cutter: * Focus Distance: By adjusting the height of the laser head, we identified the optimal focal point to ensure cutting precision and efficiency. * Power: We tested the cutting effects at different power levels to determine the optimal power settings for achieving the desired cutting depth and edge quality. * Speed: Multiple cutting tests were conducted to determine the best cutting speed for different materials, ensuring efficient and high-quality cuts. * Rate (Frequency): For specific materials, we tested how different frequencies affected the cutting results. * Kerf (Cut Width): By cutting small-sized samples, we accurately measured the kerf width to provide data for subsequent parametric design. * Joint Clearance: We tested various clearance gaps to evaluate the assembly fit and determined the optimal gap to ensure tight and secure joints. * Cutting Types: We experimented with different cutting and engraving methods to understand the variations in cutting results and their potential applications.

The size of the machine is : TR-6040 106cm x 73cm x 54cm(41.7″x 28.7″x 21.3″)

  • Challenges and solutions Different versions of laser cutting vary in size. Many parameters and principles are unclear, and the actual production process needs to be completed with the guidance of a mentor.

Reflection

-Key learnings

Before preparing to operate the laser cutting machine, I used design software, many functions of which require gradual exploration to achieve my design goals.

During the exploration process, I encountered several instances of the machine freezing, which forced me to either switch computers or adjust to a lower version of the software to perform some basic compositions (such as tracing and cutting functions).

In addition, when creating images through LaserMaker, I also encountered text format mismatches during the process of linking with the laser cutting machine. The icpx file needed to be converted to dxf format.

Finally, with the instructor’s assistance, I connected the laser cutting machine via USB, checked the distance between the wooden board and the probe according to the operating procedures to ensure that the content of the image was within the wooden board, and then carried out the operation. In the end, I completed my own cutting work.

  • How it applies to your teaching / context Before assisting students in designing their own works, it is important to first establish a good mode of mutual communication with them. This helps students understand the purpose and significance of their design, and envision the work they most want to complete.

Then, proceed to the design phase through the process of digital fabrication, smoothly guiding them to the use of machines. At the same time, ensure the students’ safety during the production process and check the safety of the equipment before operation.

  • Next steps or improvements Next step is to improve my familiarity with various design software and my skills in operating machines, and to be more patient in inspecting every part of the machine. In addition, complete students’ design requirements through communication and collaboration with them, paying attention to the control of details.

Tools

Tools or software used： * 美图（https://www.meituxiuxiu.com/） * LaserMaker（https://www.lasermaker.com.cn/） * Laser Cutter-Laser Engraving Machinethe TR-6040 References or tutorials followed： -https://fabacademy.org/2025/labs/litchee/students/lynch-li/week03.html