This week, we learned how to use two-dimensional materials and designs to make a three-dimensional box. To accomplish this, we used the laser-cuter Epilog Fusion and the Epilog Fusion Pro. This was a fun project that took a couple of iterations and some trial and error.
Step I: Getting the Kerf Right
To get the correct fit in the box, I used the tool in MakerCase to select three different kerfs for my design. So, I cut three different tests for the kerf. I tried using 0.005, 0.006, and 0.007 and selected 0.007 to use on my box because it had the tightest fit without it being too hard to assemble.
Step II: The Design
For this design, I chose to add 4 pictures, along with my name. I used Adobe Illustrator to fit the images within the sides of the box. I then set the difference of the lines and the images to distinguish from the parts I wanted to cut, antd the parts that I wanted to engrave.
Step III: Cutting and Repeating
From this piont on, it was time to follow the instructions provided on the side of the laswe cuter. I used the Epilog Fusion Pro and followed the instructions.
I first did a test cut of the entire piece to see if all the settings were correct and ideal. Thans to this, I realized the suggested speed was too fast, so the cuts were not going all the way through, and it wasn’t engraving. So I set the speed lower, and tried another smaller test-cut; this time I was satisfied and confident so I moved on to taping the area I wanted to work on, and cutting.
Test-cut 1: The Rice shield did not engrve correctly and ineffective cuts
Test-cut 2: adusting speed and power for cutting and engraving
Cutting over the selected area
After successfully cutting in the correct area, I extracted my pieces, but I realized I made a mistake by engraving over the tape. I re-cut two of the sides (LAGSA and PAGSA logos) to have a clear engraving.
Step IV: Assembly
Lastly, I lifted all the tape from all the pieces and assembled it together using my adobe file as reference. I also made 2 nameplates to have different options! 😀
And voilà! I made my second box of the semester!
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