Laser Cutting

 Task: Competency Test and Parametric Construction Kit

Dr. Noel had us prepare a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) as pre-practical task for the coming practical. The steps designed for the SOP are extracted from the tutorial videos and slides from the tutorial slides. 

During the practical, I was tested by Mr. Walter for the competency test. The test requires me to follow the SOP designed by our group. Before it was my turn, I have cross checked with other students that had done the test as assurance. However, during the test, I was given a different SOP to work on. 

Updated Standard Operating Procedure:

Laser Cutting Process:

Images from the laser cutting practical

Pressing the play button (left) and Hero Shot (right)

Test product for the Competency Test conducted by Mr. Walter

Images for Parametric Construction Kit:

Reflection

On the 11th November, our team was tasked with a competency test as well as to laser cut the parametric drawing that was designed by the group. The group was split into different teams for the competency test and later regrouped to do the laser cutting for the parametric construction kit.

The competency test was essential in ensuring that we are able to operate the laser cutter on our own. This will become an important skill even outside of the campus. To be able to be familiar with the procedure and the things to take note during the laser cutting is important as safety is very important. As for the parametric construction kit, I think the more important lesson is how the kerf is made as well as the adjustments required to be made to the parametric table in order for the pieces to be tightly fitted. I think the more interesting parts of the practical are the laser cutting of the pieces for the construction kit as many of us do not own a laser cutter.

I used to think that the Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) is not that useful when operating the laser cutter and that it is easy to operate the laser cutter even if I am a amateur at operating the laser cutting. Now I think that operating the laser cutter and setting up for the laser cut is harder than I thought. So next I will go back to FabLab in attempts to use the laser cutter to create my own project.