Embedded Files
Fusion Works
Before I did anything with Fusion, I first measured the different dimensions of my piece of wood, using a calibrator for the depth and a meausuring tape for length and width.
I downloaded the pre-made model of the picture frame into fusion, and then inserted all of my specific measurements into fusion through the parameters tab to edit the exsisting model already in fusion. I also tested out some different length options for the front frame, but ended up sticking close to the original. Then I created my NC Program in the manufacutre window by hitting post process after right clicking my folder with the contour/ cut lines. Also making sure that my tool paths are the correct path by hitting command G. I also spray-painted my piece of wood before cutting.
CNC Machine
Once I got to the CNC machine, I used the green tape to connect the wood board to the machine by taping my wood and taping on the machine, then hot glueing the tapes together. Then I went through to set my x, y, and z, coordinates. Then finally, I went through the 6 tests to make sure I was ready to cut. I checked if the fan was on, I checked my x, y, z, I made sure my job was loaded, and I made sure that my wood was secure, then I cut.
Back Board + Glass
To create the back board and the acrylic glass I created a sketch in Fusion using the 2 inside rectangles. Then I exported it as an dxf file into Adobe Illustrator where I rounded the corners to 0.25, then offset path (0.04/-0.04) so that the glass/wood would properly fit into the frame. Then I used my new line to print into the epilog laser and cut it out, either as the glass (1/8th in) or the wood (1/4th in). Making sure that all the steps were done correctly for the laser cutter, checking that the fan was on, that the cutter was auto-focused, the lid was fully sealed, and that my cut would fit correctly on the wood.
Image and Final Touches
Finally, by using the same reference line, I grabbed an image I wanted to print then put it into adobe, making sure it fit, or overlapped my reference lines. I used the perf-cut contour color as the reference line so that when sent to the machine, it would make it able to be cut out. Then I sent this to the makerspace and ran the job. For some finishing touches, I sprayed my wood with gloss. Finally I assembled everything to create my finished picture frame.
Reflection:
1. The major steps to go from the 3d to the CNC is first, making sure that your parameters are correct for each part, making sure that your tool path follows the correct way/making the NC Program. On the cut side, correctly lining up the wood to be straight is what I found to be the hardest part. On top of that, getting the Z-axis can be challenging.
2. I found that CAD wasn't too complex, but creating my NC Program was confusing first time doing it and also I find that the play part when it shows you how it will cut is a little difficult to get the right speed.
3. One of the biggest lessons that I learned was to remember to save my work. I had to re-input all of my parameters because I had forgotten to save my work in fusion, and it was back to the original size. I also had to recreate my adobe sketch because my computer had restarted, and removed all of my work in adobe because I forgot to save.
4. Practically all of the tools that we used for this project was my first time using them. For example fusion, I had never used before and the same goes for the CNC machine. This made is a little difficult since I didn't know my way around anything.
5. I chose to use a photo of my dog because I don't have a lot of photographs of people/things or pets in this case around my room and desk, so I wanted to add something personal to my space. He's also pretty cute.
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