Week 1 - Computer Controlled Cutting
Characterizing the Laser Cutter
I worked with a group in the MIT Architecture Shop to characterize the laser cutter I will use for the rest of the class.
Laser Cutting
![](images/week1/cardboardz1.jpg)
![](images/week1/cardboardz2.jpg)
![](images/week1/cardboardz3.jpg)
![](images/week1/cardboardz4.jpg)
My design for a parametric construction kit incorporates the letter Z nestled within a square frame, featuring three distinct types of joints: press-fit, finger, and snap. I was drawn to the concept of offering multiple assembly options, thus I crafted a minimalist design that not only reflects my name but also complements the logo I created for vinyl cutting.
I invested significant effort into implementing constraints for all the components to achieve full parametric functionality, but it proved challenging to make every element entirely parametric. In the initial iteration, I successfully prepared the design for laser cutting by simply scaling it proportionally to accommodate the cardboard's width. However, after gaining valuable insights into constraint-based design through this first attempt, I chose to embark on a complete redesign from scratch.
Attempt 2
![](images/week1/parametricz2.jpg)
Attempt 3
![](images/week1/parametricz3.jpg)
Attempt 3.5
![](images/week1/parametricz4.jpg)
As I continued to add the details of the points, I learned that trims and fillets break EVERYTHING. So I’m just going to ignore them now
![](images/week1/parametricz5.jpg)
Tadaa!
It should be parametric now because all the lines are black!
Time to test my parametric design
![](images/week1/parametricz7.jpg)
My design cut on cardboard
![](images/week1/cardboardz5.jpg)
Vinyl Cutting
I designed a logo for my website (top left) and I vinyl cut the design using a Cricut. I have experience using this so everything went smoothly. Most time was spent sketching ideas for the logo.