Week # 1 - Journal

Toast DXF FILE 

Cat STL File 

I downloaded an open-source 3D model of a Cat  from Thingiverse. After downloading the STL file from the site. I opened it in Ultimaker Cura to prepare models for 3D printing. I followed the designer’s recommendations for print settings, which were provided on the Thingiverse page. These included:

Rafts: No

Supports: No

Resolution: 0.150

Infill: 20% Rectilinear (lines on Ultimaker Cura)

Nozzle Temp: 210 ℃ 

Bed Temp: 60 ℃ 

Scaled the model by to 105% to fit with my Phone

I downloaded an open-source DXF file from open source site then I opened it in Autocad to Check the dimensions and scale it before opening in in RDworks

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I changes the setting for cutting speed Cut:

Cut setting

Speed: 40

Power : 40

for Speed Cut

Speed: 300

Power: 20

This was my first time operating both a 3D printer and a laser cutter. I exported the G-code using Cura and used the lab’s SD card to transfer the file from my laptop to the printer. After selecting the file on the machine, I cleaned the printer bed with alcohol before starting the calibration process and beginning the print .

For the laser cutter, I first placed the file on the lab’s laptop and adjusted the necessary settings. Then I downloaded the file to the machine and made sure the file name appeared correctly on the laser cutter's screen. After selecting the correct file, I adjusted the frame and set the origin. I double-checked that the focus was properly aligned with the plywood sheet and secured it in place. I also made sure the frame wouldn’t go outside the board’s edges, and I set the origin at the corner to minimize material waste 

Did you ask for feedback?
Yes! I had feedback on my first laser cutting .dxf file which was a multi layer ornament and wasn't allowed.

How did you help your peers?
When we got split into teams to tweak the dog file in the lab, I helped by having some background knowledge about laserCAD, helping within the team to achieve the goal.

How did your peers help you?
Together my peers pointed our mistakes in the design and the settings.

MY magician link Click here!!! 

This week, I gained hands-on experience with both the 3D printer and the laser cutter for the first time. Learning how to prepare, export, and operate files on both machines gave me the confidence to independently fabricate components for my final project.

For the 3D printer, I learned how to slice models in Cura, export G-code, calibrate the printer, and ensure proper bed preparation for a successful print. These skills will be essential for prototyping detailed or customized parts in my final project—especially any components that require precise dimensions or mechanical assembly.

For the laser cutter, I learned how to prepare files, adjust machine settings, check focus, and align material properly on the bed using frame and origin tools. This is directly useful for producing structural parts of the prototype (such as panels, supports, or enclosures), especially if I use plywood or acrylic in the design.

In short, the skills from this week will allow me to bring my digital designs into the physical world with accuracy and independence—critical for realizing an interactive architectural prototype.

Cleaning the laser-cut dog keychain with alcohol after cutting worked great—it gave it a perfect finish! 

Toast DXF FILE 

Cat STL File