METALS: 11.17.2025

DAILY JOURNAL: Why is the design phase just as important as the fabrication phase?

TODAY'S SCHEDULE:

1. Product Design Process Video (Start to Finish)

2. Continue Ongoing Projects

3. Clean-Up

See how professionals design products from concept to completion, then apply those principles to your current work.

⚠️ Every project starts with a plan - even when you're mid-build. ⚠️

💡 TIP: Good design thinking improves execution at every stage.

METALS: 11.13.2025

OBJECTIVE:

Advance current projects toward completion

ACTIVITIES:

Lab Time (50 min)

• Continue current fabrication work

• Apply proper line types to drawings

• Finish projects in progress

• No new starts without completed projects

Cleanup (5 min)

• Complete assigned area

• Tool accountability

• Pass inspection to leave

KEY POINTS:

Same projects as Monday
One to completion
Quality over quantity
Proper documentation required

MONDAY 11.10.25

DAILY JOURNAL: How can feedback on your alphabet of lines quiz improve your next technical drawing?

TODAY'S SCHEDULE:

1. Graded Sketches & Feedback Review (10 min)

2. Project Lab Work (70 min)

3. Shop Cleanup & Tool Return (10 min)

Block schedule means extended fabrication time. Apply your quiz feedback to current projects. Finish one project completely before starting another.

⚠️ CLEANUP REQUIRED: Complete your assigned area and return tools properly before dismissal ⚠️

💡 BLOCK SCHEDULE TIP: Use the extended time to achieve significant progress on ONE project rather than starting multiple things.

UPCOMING DEADLINES:

• Current Projects (ongoing - finish before starting new work)

New Tools Incoming! See images below!

METALS: 11.06.2025

OBJECTIVE:

Demonstrate line knowledge and maintain shop standards

ACTIVITIES:

Alphabet of Lines Quiz (10 min)

• Worth 10 points

• Draw 5×5×5 cube with all line types

• Keep on desk entire period

Lab Time (40 min)

• Continue current projects

• Apply proper line types to drawings

• Finish before starting new work

Cleanup (5 min)

• Complete assigned area

• GRADED by Mr. McAteer

• Must pass inspection to leave

IMPORTANT:

Quiz starts at the bell
Graded cleanup = points today
One project at a time

Project Work:

Finish these first:

• CNC plasma projects

• Sheet Metal Boxes

• Lego Solidworks Model

Starting new projects:

• Complete POP

• Technical drawings (printed)

• Mr. McAteer approval

• No starts without documentation

Cleanup:

• Complete assigned job

• Check with Mr. McAteer before leaving

REMINDERS:

• Finish before starting (no project pileup)

• Clean drawers → no old projects

• Printed POP + drawings = shop access

METALS AGENDA: 11.04.2025

OBJECTIVE:

Learn cleanup system. Finish current work before starting personal projects.

TODAY'S FOCUS:

• New cleanup assignments

• Wrapping up existing projects

• POP requirements for new work

CLASS ACTIVITIES:

Cleanup Assignments (10 min):

• Review new cleanup job system

• Get your assigned area

• Learn what "done" looks like

Project Work:

Finish these first:

• CNC plasma projects

• Sheet Metal Boxes

• Lego Solidworks Model

Starting new projects:

• Complete POP

• Technical drawings (printed)

• Mr. McAteer approval

• No starts without documentation

Cleanup:

• Complete assigned job

• Check with Mr. McAteer before leaving

REMINDERS:

• Finish before starting (no project pileup)

• Clean drawers → no old projects

• Printed POP + drawings = shop access

METALS AGENDA: 11.03.2025

OBJECTIVE:

Understand the alphabet of lines in technical drawing and recognize them on fabrication blueprints.

TODAY'S FOCUS:

• 🔗 Line types and their meanings 🔗

• Reading technical drawings

• Application in shop documentation

CLASS ACTIVITIES:

Alphabet of Lines Instruction (20 min):

• Object Lines - visible edges (thick, dark)

• Hidden Lines - dashed lines for obscured features

• Center Lines - locate centers of circles/symmetry

• Dimension Lines - show measurements

• Extension Lines - extend from object for dimensions

• Cutting Plane Lines - show section views

• When and where each appears on real fabrication drawings

Technical Drawing Analysis (25 min):

• Review sample shop drawings and blueprints

• Identify different line types in context

• Discuss what each line communicates

• Practice reading dimensions and hidden features

Application Practice (10 min):

• Quick sketch using correct line types

• Simple part or bracket concept

• Apply proper line conventions

REMINDERS:

• Line weight = communication - thickness conveys meaning

• Every line serves a specific purpose

• Essential skill for project documentation

METALS AGENDA: 10.28.2025

OBJECTIVE:

Advance isometric drawing skills through complex shapes and begin applying techniques to real fabrication project concepts.

TODAY'S FOCUS:

• Review and critique isometric fundamentals

• Drawing complex multi-part assemblies

• Connecting isometric skills to actual projects

• Visualization as a fabrication planning tool

CLASS ACTIVITIES:

VIDEO EXAMPLE

Isometric Review & Donuts (15 min):

• Each student shows completed Google Doc to Mr. McAteer

• Must display all 4 exercises before receiving donut

• Quick feedback on line quality and 30° angles

• Discuss common mistakes from yesterday

Advanced Isometric Practice (30 min):

• Complete two challenging exercises on new grid paper:

Exercise 5: T-Bracket Assembly (15 min)

• Base plate: 8×6×1

• Vertical support: 2×6×5 (centered on base)

• Top brace: 6×2×1 (perpendicular connection)

• Show all edges, add shading

Exercise 6: Corner Joint (15 min)

• Two pieces meeting at 90°

• Piece A: 8×3×2

• Piece B: 3×8×2

• Draw as assembled unit with bolt holes indicated

Real Project Application (10 min):

• Sketch your own simple fabrication idea in isometric view

• Examples: tool holder, phone stand, small bracket

• Quick concept - doesn't need to be perfect

• This bridges to your upcoming POP work

DUE TODAY:

• ✅ Completed exercises 5 & 6 photographed

• ✅ Personal project concept sketch

• ✅ Add to existing Google Doc: LastName_FirstName_Isometric_Intro

REMINDERS:

• 🍩 No completed Google Doc = No donut

• Grid paper keeps your angles accurate

• Darker lines = better readability

• These skills directly support your fabrication POPs

• Shop access available after drawing session for approved projects

WHY THIS MATTERS:

You're building the visual vocabulary needed to communicate fabrication ideas. Before cutting metal, you sketch the concept. Before welding assemblies, you visualize how pieces fit together. Isometric drawing = thinking in 3D.

METALS AGENDA: 10.23.2025

THURSDAY 10/23

DAILY JOURNAL: Why is accurate dimensioning critical when creating technical drawings? What problems occur when dimensions are missing or unclear?

CLASS INTRODUCTION:

Mr. McAteer will demonstrate isometric sketching techniques for POPs. Loose leaf paper and isometric grid paper available for those who need drawing support.

PRIORITY WORKFLOW:

PRIORITY 1: SolidWorks Lego Man Assignment

This is your primary task.

• Complete the "Learn SolidWorks" Lego Man modeling assignment

• Follow all dimensional specifications

PRIORITY 2: CNC Name Plaques

Start only after Lego Man is complete.

• Design personal name plaque for CNC plasma cutting

• Prep for powder coating after cutting

PRIORITY 3: Plan of Procedure (POP) Development

Start only after Priority 1 & 2 are complete.

Mr. McAteer will be checking POPs today.

Your POP must include:

• Detailed sketch (loose leaf or isometric grid paper available)

• Bill of materials with specific metal types and dimensions

• Step-by-step procedure with numbered sequence

• Safety assessment identifying hazards and precautions

⚠️ Sketches must show dimensions and multiple views — front, side, and top when applicable ⚠️

💡 Sketching Help: Isometric grid paper makes 3D objects easier to draw. Ask Mr. McAteer for a sheet if you need one.

UPCOMING DEADLINES:

• SolidWorks Lego Man (DUE 10/25)

• CNC Name Plaques (DUE 10/28)

• POP Draft for Personal Project (DUE 10/28)

END-OF-CLASS CHECKLIST:

✓ SolidWorks files saved and submitted
✓ POP sketches started with dimensions
✓ All work areas cleaned and organized
✓ Computer stations logged out

METALS AGENDA: 10.21.2025

DAILY JOURNAL: What safety precautions are essential when using the powder coating oven? Why must the workspace be clean before powder coating?

TODAY'S SCHEDULE:

1. Daily Journal & Project Status Check (10 min)

2. Powder Coating Station Setup (15 min)

3. Production Work: Plasma Signs → Powder Coating → Assembly → POP (65 min)

Students will work through a priority sequence based on project completion status. Move to the next task only after completing and submitting your current work.

PRIORITY WORKFLOW:

TIER 1: Plasma Cut Signs (Powder Coating Ready)

If your plasma sign is complete and prepped:

• Report to the powder coating station

• Complete surface prep checklist with Mr. McAteer

• Apply powder coat and cure in oven

• Document with before/after photos

TIER 2: Lego Man Solidworks Introduction

If powder coating is unavailable or you're waiting for oven time:

• Complete Lego Man assembly project

• Follow dimensional specifications from original assignment

• Take final documentation photos

• Submit via Canvas

TIER 3: Plan of Procedure (POP)

LINK TO TEMPLATE FOR PLAN OF PROCEDURE (POP)

If all fabrication projects are complete:

• Begin drafting your personal project POP

• Reference the POP TEMPLATE from 10/16 agenda

• Focus on: project sketch, bill of materials, step sequence

⚠️ POWDER COATING SAFETY PROTOCOL ⚠️

• Parts must be completely clean and grease-free

• Wear heat-resistant gloves when handling oven

• Never open oven door during cure cycle

• Work area must be clear of flammable materials

💡 PRODUCTION TIP:

Powder coating requires a 30-35 minute cure cycle. Use this time productively—start your Lego Man assembly or sketch your POP project concept. Time management is a critical fabrication skill.

WHAT SUCCESS LOOKS LIKE TODAY:

✓ Plasma signs are powder coated and curing/baking
✓ Lego Man projects are complete in Solidworks
✓ POP drafts show clear project vision with sketches
✓ All work areas are cleaned and organized before dismissal

METALS AGENDA: 10.14.2025

DAILY JOURNAL: What are the primary safety concerns when testing a new piece of equipment like a powder coating system for the first time?

TODAY'S FOCUS

Project Completion (Priority) → Focus on finishing all outstanding projects.

System Testing (Group Task) → We will be conducting the first tests of the new powder coating system.

THE TASK

1. Finish Outstanding Projects: This is your last chance to complete and submit any late or incomplete work.

2. Lego Man Assignment: Continue working on the new Lego man project. The arm tutorial is a known challenge.

   1. 1. BONUS HAND CREATION VIDEO

3. Powder Coating Demo: Participate in the testing and demonstration of the powder coating system.

INCENTIVE

Donut Prize! → The Lego man's arm tutorial is difficult. Any student who successfully completes it today and shows Mr. McAteer will earn a donut.

EXPECTATIONS

✓ Prioritize completing and submitting old projects first. 

✓ Help keep the fabrication area clean and ready for new work. 

✓ Pay close attention during the powder coating demonstration. 

✓ Ask for help if you are stuck on a specific step.

METALS AGENDA: 10.13.2025

DAILY JOURNAL: Why do professional standards matter in fabrication work?

TODAY

Portfolio Completion (Remaining class) → Final deadline

THE TASK

Submit 3 files + 3 screenshots

Per project (25 points each):

• File named correctly: LastName_FirstName_ProjectName.ext

• File uploaded to Drive - 5 pts

• Screenshot showing file open - 5 pts

Total: 75 points (3 projects)

FILE NAMING FORMAT

LastName_FirstName_ProjectName.extension

Examples:

• Smith_John_BumperSticker.ai

• Garcia_Maria_PlasmaSign.dxf

• Johnson_Alex_Camera.SLDPRT

SUBMISSION

Google Doc with:

• Project 1: File name + screenshot

• Project 2: File name + screenshot

• Project 3: File name + screenshot

Submit to Canvas

EXPECTATIONS

✓ Fix file names before uploading
✓ Verify format is exact
✓ Submit before leaving

DEADLINE

Due: Tonight at midnight

Late: 10% penalty after midnight

No Longer Extra Credit Assignment

After portfolio submitted: Lego-compatible parametric modeling challenge youtube.com/watch?v=zLAjmTCLPUg&feature=youtu.be

• Design in SolidWorks

• Must connect to actual Lego

• File: LastName_FirstName_LegoExtra.SLDPRT

• Keep your printed pieces

METALS - PORTFOLIO SUBMISSION DAY

75 Points | Simple Task: Screenshot + Correct File Names

Mr. McAteer is out. Be kind/respectful to the sub please.

YOUR MISSION TODAY

1. Choose 3 of your 4 projects

2. Find the files on computers

3. FIX the file names (most are wrong)

4. Upload to Drive

5. Take screenshots showing files exist

6. Submit screenshots to Canvas

EXTRA CREDIT OPPORTUNITY (15 Points)

Finished early? Want more SolidWorks practice?

Task: Design and 3D print Lego-compatible pieces using parametric modeling using the following tutorial. 

🔗 https://youtu.be/zLAjmTCLPUg 🔗

Requirements:

• Use SolidWorks/Onshape to create design

• Must be Lego-compatible (proper dimensions/connections)

• Submit design file: LastName_FirstName_LegoExtra.SLDPRT

• Print your design

Bonus: You keep the printed pieces you create

Why this matters: Parametric modeling is required for most equipment in this shop. Sub day = perfect practice time.

Collaboration encouraged: Each class has skilled parametric modelers. Ask for help, share techniques, work together.

Worth: 15 extra credit points (on top of 75-point portfolio)

Only available today while sub is here.

METALS AGENDA: 10.07.2025

TODAY:

Quick Finishing Video (First) Watch: https://youtu.be/pmZKkieFbzE
Top 10 mistakes to avoid when powder coating.

Learn what NOT to do before we fire up the system.

Lab Time (Remaining class)

• Hands-on work continues

• Choose one path:

• Bumper sticker designs → Illustrator

• Plasma CNC signs → Design finalization

• 3D printer cameras → Assembly/calibration

• Sheet metal → Layout and planning

• Powder coating setup nearly operational (waiting on new hopper)

⚠️ SAFETY CRITICAL: Powder coating without knowledge = unwanted shocks. Watch. Learn. Stay safe. ⚠️

💡 Coming soon: Full powder coating capability in the plasma room

Ask Mr. McAteer for your cleaning assignment

"Learn from others' mistakes. They're cheaper than your own."

Metals Agenda: 10.02.2025

Completion Deadline

Critical: One project completed and submitted today

Options:

• Bumper sticker

• Plasma CNC sign

• 3D printer camera

• Sheet metal box

Sheet Metal (New Project): Watch tutorial + use dimensioned drawing

• Video: https://youtu.be/4eXnYqNkF2o?si=oIPqGFz5vgnbu_Cj

• Why: Prevents fail box—follow video process exactly

Submission: Upload to shared Google Drive with proper file naming

• No name = No credit

Metals Agenda: 09.23.2025

Continuation from Thursday

Today: Grinding operations outside

PPE Required:

• Safety glasses + face shield

• Full protective equipment

CNC Projects:

• Must approve before cutting

• Cost: $11.00/sq ft

Metals Agenda: 09.22.2025

CAD Introduction & Supply Management

Start: TinkerCAD

• Create account at www.tinkercad.com

• Complete basic tutorial

• Design a simple object

When Supplies Arrive:

• Unload metal stock and gas cylinders

• Return to work from 09.18.2025

Outcome: Submit TinkerCAD screenshot to Canvas

Metals Agenda: 09.18.2025

Production Day - Independent Work Focus

Today's objective: Complete a finished product through sustained, independent effort.

Metals 1: Skill Development

Choose one path to completion:

• Option A: Finalize CNC plasma design → cut-ready status

• Option B: Complete MiG welding practice coupons → full set

• Option C: Free Design Thursday (TINKERCAD DESIGN CHALLENGE)

Metals 2: Precision Execution

Template Challenge: Execute flawless precision work

• All cutting, drilling, and tapping → zero tolerance for error

• Final inspection: Machinist Bob approval required

Metals 3: Project Proposal

Formal Proposal Development - Choose one focus:

• Path A: Monetizable fabrication project proposal

• Path B: Comprehensive manual mill tutorial guide

→ LINK TO DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS

Metals Agenda: 09.16.2025

Today's focus is on developing a core fabrication skill: laying consistent beads with the MIG welder. Productive work is expected from all students, whether in the shop or the design lab.

• Welding Group (Shop): Obtain a 4”x6” 12-gauge steel coupon and practice laying straight, consistent beads.

• Design Group (Computer Lab): Continue working on the design for your CNC plasma name placard.

• Expectation: We will rotate between activities. Stay on task in your assigned location until instructed to switch.

• Outcome: End the period with either a completed welding practice coupon or significant progress on your CNC design file.

Metals Agenda: 09.15.2025

Today's focus is on effective design. We will translate your initial concepts into a functional digital file for the CNC sign project.

• Systems Check: Log in, confirm virtual account access, and launch SolidWorks & Illustrator.

• Design Principles: We will analyze examples of good versus bad sign design to establish clear standards.

• Design Session: Begin creating the digital file for your CNC sign, applying the principles from our discussion.

• Outcome: End the period with a saved preliminary design file.