A totally free index of Internet resources for the K-12 Community.
At a recent conference, Jim Merrel mentioned that he bought a laser cutter rather than a 3D printer for his STEM lab at LabRats in San Diego. When asked why, he responded you can produce things faster on a laser cutter. Laser cutters can reduce “print times” to minutes, not hours.
Here are some resources to give you an idea of what a laser cutter can do and how to use it.
Joel Hall goes thru the steps needed to convert a 3D file (STL or OBJ) using Slicer for Fusion 360. When done, you have a set of 2D slices that can be passed on a laser cutter. learn more
Perhaps the biggest advantage of a laser cutter is its versatility. Because a laser cutter's power allows it to cut through a wide range of materials, it's one of the most versatile pieces of fabrication equipment a school can have. This post looks at 6 uses: appliqués & fabric cutting, graphic imaging, packaging development, school… learn more
Cardboard is an inexpensive medium for use with laser cutters. Check with your local appliance stores. Most will be glad to let you take some off their hands. If you're lucky, the may even deliver it to your school. learn more
Laser Cutters are great tools that can be used to create simple boxs, sengrave detailed graphics into wood, or build complex three-dimensional objects. This beginners guide explains the basics of how a laser cutter works, shows examples of things that can be made and how to create designs for laser cutting or engraving. It covers… learn more
Make sure your laser cutter has a lid and the laser beam is completely enclosed. Lasers powerful enough to cut thru cardboard can damage eyesight. Much easier to close a lid than hope everyone in the area is wearing laser rated safety goggles. Have a good venting system with a fan or blower. Someone is eventually going to cut something they shouldn't or use the wrong settings. Having the laser vented to the outside or into a good filter box will keep minor errors minor. learn more
Having written safety instructions for all your Maker gear is important. It's especially important for a laser cutter. While safe in normal use, you are dealing with lasers, smoke and fumes. Here's an example safety sheet for a Full Spectrum desktop laser cutter. It gives you an idea of the areas to cover and what… learn more
This tutorial from Sculpteo shows the different ways you can slice your 3D model, creating everything from a solid 3D looking model using stacked slices to interlocked slices, curves, radial slices and even folded panels, giving your "print" a solid skin. Part of a wider rang of tutorials covering all areas of laser cutting and… learn more