Objective: To create a plywood box without fasteners (by making t-slots) using a laser cutter
Resources:
- 1/4″ x 8″ x 11″ cardboard (test cut)
- 1/4″ x 8″ x 11″ plywood (test cut/etch)
- 1/4″ x 24″ x 48″ plywood (final cut/etch)
- Masking Tape (To prevent laser burn marks)
Tools Used:
- MakerCase (To obtain the SVG files of the box)
- Digital Caliper (To measure the width of the plywood)
- Adobe Illustrator (To set cut dimensions, select laser settings, and transfer SVG file to the laser cutter)
- Laser Cutter (To cut the plywood)
Operation Costs:
- 1 hour of laser cutter training
- 2 hours of labor
- 288 in^3 worth of plywood
- Sleep… (Training Day and Work Day both started at 8 A.M.)
Operation Rewards:
- One 4″ x 4″ x 4″ box put together without any fasteners (includes etching of personal information and Hanszen Crest)
- Proficiency in using the laser cutter
- Knowledge that masking tape can create a unique colorway on an etch
Process:
- Make test cuts of a 0.5″ square on cardboard and plywood
- Create and Download the SVG file on MakeCase
- Open the SVG file on Adobe Illustrator
- Set laser cutter settings on Adobe Illustrator, then send print job to laser cutter
- Select the print job on the laser cutter, then wait 5 minutes
- Retrieve box pieces on the laser cutter bed (make sure that the cuts are completely through first)
- Assemble the box by hand (make sure to take note of the correct sides/orientation)
Reconnaissance:
Initial SVG of the box
Laser Cutter in action (Etching the Hanszen Crest)
Final Product Front Side
Iconic Hanszen Logo (Back Side)
