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| ====Overview==== | | ====Overview==== |
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− | The Fablight is a simple machine to use for cutting flat stock. A part is saved as a dxf file and then imported to FabCreater where features can be set to cut, engrave, raster, or just be reference geometry. In FabCreator, tabs can be added to make sure small parts don't fall to the bottom of the machine along and material properties are set as well. Once the part is set up correctly it is saved to a USB drive to be transferred to the machine. Most of the interactions with the machine happen through the touchscreen which makes previewing and cutting the job a simple task. Cutting tube stock is more intricate. The Fablight Solidworks extension is used to make a 2d dxf out of the 3d Solidworks model by essentially unwrapping the tube until it is one flat piece. This dxf is then wrapped back up into a 3d part in FabCreater before being sent to the machine. | + | The Fablight is a simple machine to use for cutting flat stock. A part is saved as a dxf file and then imported to FabCreater where features can be set to cut, engrave, raster, or just be reference geometry. In FabCreator, tabs can be added to make sure small parts don't fall to the bottom of the machine along and material properties are set as well. Once the part is set up correctly it is saved to a USB drive to be transferred to the machine. Most of the interactions with the machine happen through the touchscreen which makes previewing and cutting the job a simple task. Cutting tube stock is more intricate. The Fablight Solidworks Plugin is used to make a 2d dxf out of the 3d Solidworks model by essentially unwrapping the tube until it is one flat piece. This dxf is then wrapped back up into a 3d part in FabCreater before being sent to the machine. Only use the Fablight Solidworks Plugin when cutting or engraving tube stock. |
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| ====Demonstration==== | | ====Demonstration==== |
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| # Close the door. | | # Close the door. |
| Performing the cut: | | Performing the cut: |
− | # Insert the USB drive below the key. | + | # Insert the USB drive below the key. |
| # Using the touch screen, press [New Job] > your file name > [Select Job]. A preview window will then open up where the model can be checked to make sure everything is correct. | | # Using the touch screen, press [New Job] > your file name > [Select Job]. A preview window will then open up where the model can be checked to make sure everything is correct. |
| # Hit the green checkmark to exit the preview. | | # Hit the green checkmark to exit the preview. |
| # Hit the green checkmark again to move to the next step. | | # Hit the green checkmark again to move to the next step. |
− | # Set the origin by moving the x and y slider bars. The laser head will move with the sliders and the exact position can be seen by the red guide laser. The location of the red dot will be the origin used in the fabcreator software and it should be placed where the use of material can be maximized (usually the corner of the material). | + | # Set the origin by moving the x and y slider bars. The laser head will move with the sliders and the exact position can be seen by the red guide laser. The location of the red dot will be the origin used in the fabcreator software and it should be placed where the use of material can be maximized (usually the corner of the material, furthest away from the chuck.). |
| # Press [Run Job] on the touchscreen. | | # Press [Run Job] on the touchscreen. |
| # Press the [Start] button to the top of the touchscreen to begin the cut. | | # Press the [Start] button to the top of the touchscreen to begin the cut. |
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| *There are often sharp edges left on the material from the cutting process. Be careful handling a fresh cut piece and use the deburring tools to remove any sharp edges. | | *There are often sharp edges left on the material from the cutting process. Be careful handling a fresh cut piece and use the deburring tools to remove any sharp edges. |
| *On a similar note a fresh cut piece is usually hot so check the temperature with the back of your hand before picking it up. | | *On a similar note a fresh cut piece is usually hot so check the temperature with the back of your hand before picking it up. |
| + | *They can start fires in regular operation! Be wary. |
| + | *Before opening any covers, turn off the machine to make sure no cutting operations will happen while you are handling the inside the the laser cutter. Be safe kids. |
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| ==Certification== | | ==Certification== |