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
Choose 3 of your 4 projects
Find the files on computers
FIX the file names (most are wrong)
Upload to Drive
Take screenshots showing files exist
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.
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: 09.30.2025
Multi-Path Production
Choose one path:
• Bumper sticker designs → Illustrator
• Plasma CNC signs → Design finalization
• 3D printer cameras → Assembly/calibration
• Sheet metal → Layout and planning
Goal: Significant progress on chosen project
Solidworks Camera Creation
Follow in class instruction. Base dimensions are all metric.
Metals Agenda: 09.23.2025
Illustrator Fundamentals: 2D Design Foundation
Today's Focus: Vector Design Basics
Why this matters: Foundation for all 2D fabrication workflows
Fiber laser
CO2 laser
Vinyl cutter
Plasma CNC
Project Assignment
Task: Create bumper sticker design in Illustrator
Dimensions: 11.5" × 3" (standard bumper sticker)
Tutorial video: https://youtu.be/dDTo5Zz5b4Y?si=aQQXNUwDf5Sj2KVO 🔗
Pairing strategy: Sit with or near someone who has Illustrator experience
Submission: Each student uploads completed .ai file to Canvas
Skills Developed
Vector path creation
Text manipulation
Design layout for fabrication
File export for CNC/laser systems
Deliverable: Completed .ai file submitted by end of period
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
Production Day - Independent Work Focus
Today's objective: Complete a finished product through sustained, independent effort.
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)
Template Challenge: Execute flawless precision work
All cutting, drilling, and tapping → zero tolerance for error
Final inspection: Machinist Bob approval required
Formal Proposal Development - Choose one focus:
Path A: Monetizable fabrication project proposal
Path B: Comprehensive manual mill tutorial guide
→ LINK TO DETAILED INSTRUCTIONS
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.
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.