Research in Advanced Prototyping with a Laser Cutter
From January 2013 to May 2014, I and three team members researched laser cutting as an advanced prototyping technique. Laser cutters are becoming cheaper for hobbyist use but documentation for laser cutting is spread across various sources. Our research group intended to create a consolidated source of laser cutter knowledge that covers existing and new laser cutting techniques. We believe that this make a positive difference in the lives of students, fabricators, and makers.
Over summer 2013, we worked on the design and formation of a library of fabrication models and methods associated with laser cutters. We explored the design and creation of classic and laser cutting-specific woodworking joints. We documented existing techniques and began to write some of the denser sections of the guide, such as how a laser cutter works. The research was largely self-directed and exploratory.
In fall 2013, we presented our research at World Maker Faire: New York. We treated the Maker Faire as a user exploration. We learned about the values, needs and requirements for makers. As we presented our research, we received great direction from the makers on possible directions we could take and were able to network with other laser cutting enthusiasts. Throughout this semester, we distilled what we learned to create preliminary personas and frameworks that could direct our future work. In fall 2013, I specifically researched and documented laser cutting of Delrin.
In spring 2014, we created a series of zines that covered basic laser cutting techniques to compliance and joints.
This research project taught me about self-directed learning, effectively scoping a project, and managing a team in a collaborative manner.
See a sample of technique documentation here.
Over summer 2013, we worked on the design and formation of a library of fabrication models and methods associated with laser cutters. We explored the design and creation of classic and laser cutting-specific woodworking joints. We documented existing techniques and began to write some of the denser sections of the guide, such as how a laser cutter works. The research was largely self-directed and exploratory.
In fall 2013, we presented our research at World Maker Faire: New York. We treated the Maker Faire as a user exploration. We learned about the values, needs and requirements for makers. As we presented our research, we received great direction from the makers on possible directions we could take and were able to network with other laser cutting enthusiasts. Throughout this semester, we distilled what we learned to create preliminary personas and frameworks that could direct our future work. In fall 2013, I specifically researched and documented laser cutting of Delrin.
In spring 2014, we created a series of zines that covered basic laser cutting techniques to compliance and joints.
This research project taught me about self-directed learning, effectively scoping a project, and managing a team in a collaborative manner.
See a sample of technique documentation here.