Godin:Protocols/Laser cutter: Difference between revisions

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==Safety==
A Class I enclosure protects the user from laser irradiation during normal operation. Be sure read the ''LG-500'' Training Manual for additional safety precautions. '''Users must complete equipment training prior to use.'''
==Description==
==Description==


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==Design==
==Design==


The laser cutter recognizes files in its ''.mol'' format. These are generated by a [http://www.corel.com/servlet/Satellite/us/en/Product/1191272117978#versionTabview=tab1&tabview=tab0 CorelDRAW] extension that converts vector-based designs into milling instructions. We can cut holes, engrave shapes or mill holes. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:
The laser cutter recognizes files in its ''.mol'' format. These are generated by a [http://www.corel.com/servlet/Satellite/us/en/Product/1191272117978#versionTabview=tab1&tabview=tab0 CorelDRAW] extension that converts vector-based designs into milling instructions. You can cut holes, engrave shapes or mill holes. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:


*Shapes/Lines of the same color will be cut/engraved at the same time. Since shapes will “fall out” as they’re milled, be sure to order them so that inner patterns get cut first, outer ones get cut last.
*Shapes/Lines of the same color will be cut/engraved at the same time. Since shapes will “fall out” as they’re milled, be sure to order them so that inner patterns get cut first, outer ones get cut last.
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*Be sure not to exceed the dimensions of the laser cutter, as this will generate an error.
*Be sure not to exceed the dimensions of the laser cutter, as this will generate an error.


*Files must be exported using CorelDRAW into a .mol filetype.
Once a pattern is draw, proceed by clicking the ''Laser Cut'' icon to the top left of the screen. To 'has modify data', you click yes. To the 'AI format can't support image' you click 'ok'. You're then lead to a 'Laser Output' screen. First, make sure your design is as pictured to the left. In the 'Layer' tab, you then chose the desired speeds/powers associated with each type of cut/engraving. You can also modify the order by using the arrows. Finally, you enter the 'Stand-alone' tab and click on 'Export file' to generate a ''.mol'' filetype.
 
 




==Operation Procedure==
==Operation Procedure==


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Revision as of 11:32, 12 May 2011

Safety

A Class I enclosure protects the user from laser irradiation during normal operation. Be sure read the LG-500 Training Manual for additional safety precautions. Users must complete equipment training prior to use.

Description

The laser cutter is a versatile tool to cut or engrave materials such as wood and acrylic. The full list of materials can be found here. Be sure NOT to use PVC or Vinyl, as released fumes are toxic and will damage the optics.

Design

The laser cutter recognizes files in its .mol format. These are generated by a CorelDRAW extension that converts vector-based designs into milling instructions. You can cut holes, engrave shapes or mill holes. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:

  • Shapes/Lines of the same color will be cut/engraved at the same time. Since shapes will “fall out” as they’re milled, be sure to order them so that inner patterns get cut first, outer ones get cut last.
  • Engravings have to consist of closed shapes. For lettering, make sure the fill is blank with only the contour showing.
  • Be sure not to exceed the dimensions of the laser cutter, as this will generate an error.

Once a pattern is draw, proceed by clicking the Laser Cut icon to the top left of the screen. To 'has modify data', you click yes. To the 'AI format can't support image' you click 'ok'. You're then lead to a 'Laser Output' screen. First, make sure your design is as pictured to the left. In the 'Layer' tab, you then chose the desired speeds/powers associated with each type of cut/engraving. You can also modify the order by using the arrows. Finally, you enter the 'Stand-alone' tab and click on 'Export file' to generate a .mol filetype.



Operation Procedure

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