Shaper Origin

Learning the Shaper Origin

In the Creative Labs, we have a Shaper Origin. This is a Computer vision-guided, handheld CNC machine. It is probably the coolest tool in the Creative Labs! It has limitless possibilities. Origin uses computer vision to understand its location relative to a workpiece. Its precision motors fine-tune the router spindle's position in real-time using sophisticated sensing and control algorithms that keep you accurate to within 1/100th of an inch of your intended path.

Wide range of materials

An Origin can cut materials such as wood, soft metals, plastics, and composites. Acetate, Acrylic, Aluminum, Brass, Copper, Corian, Cork, Delrin, Hardwood, HDPE, Linoleum, MDF, Plywood, Polycarbonate, PVC, PVC foam, Soapstone, Softwood

Shaper Studio

The Shaper Origin comes with a cloud-based application called Studio. https://studio.shapertools.com/ This link will take you to the software. The Origin is connected to the account for the Creative Labs so you can design in the software and immediately have your designs available to you on the Shaper Origin Tool itself. The login details for the cloud software is:

Your First Learning Task

Watch the videos shown above to familiarise yourself with the Shaper Origin. There is a little bit of learning to do before you feel comfortable with this tool but once you have mastered the basics, you will be ready to go. Once you have watched the videos, visit the software https://studio.shapertools.com/ and sign in. Explore the software to familiarise yourself with it. This video is helpful to learn more about the software.

Scan, Design, Cut

The Shaper Origin follows a very basic workflow of Scan, Design, and Cut. In the first step, we teach the Shaper Origin about the physical world around it. In the second step we either import or create your design on the tool. In the final step, we secure the material and prepare to cut.

Learning the Workflow - Teacher Demonstration

Once you have familiarised yourself with the tool. You will need to book a session with your teacher to take part in a live demo of the tool. Your teacher will walk you through the basics and will guide you through your first scan, design, and cut.

Shaper Origin Community

The Shaper Origin has its learning community where people share and collaborate. The YouTube channel is an excellent place to explore and understand the tool more and get inspiration for your creative ideas. The other great resource is the Shaper Origin Tutorials Center which is great for developing your learning further.

After your induction and learning on this page you will be ready to consider how the Shaper Origin can support you with your creative priojects.

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