Intro
Table of Contents
About the Authors
About the Technical Reviewer
About This Book
Introduction
Chapter 1: Computer-Aided Design
Introduction
History
Some Basic Concepts and Notions
Parametric Design
File Formats
Open Source, Free, and Commercial Software
Open Source
GIMP
Inkscape
Blender
FreeCAD
OpenSCAD
Free Software
Commercial Software
So Get Creative!
Chapter 2: Laser Cutters
History
How They Function
Accessories
Filters
Air Assist
Cutting Beds
Types of Lasers
Materials
Running the Machine
Designing Objects
Sending Files to the Machine
Finding the Right Settings
Never, Ever, Launch a Long Job Without a Test
Maintenance
Cleaning Your Optics and Encoders
Alignment of Mirrors and Lens
Placement, Power
Safety
Applications of Laser Cutters
What Are the Professionals Making?
What Can YOU Make?
Snap-Fit, Just Assemble, and Go!
Folding Wood and Plastics, Snijlab, and Hasso Plattner
Stacking Layers
Engraving and Decoration
Printed Circuit Boards
Making More Machines
So Get Creative!
Summary
Chapter 3: Vinyl Cutting
History
How They Work
Types
Materials
Software: How to Run the Machine
Settings
Weeding
Finishing Your Product
Safety and Maintenance
Safety
Maintenance
Applications
Multicolored, Complex Designs
Wrapping
Stencils, Sandblasting
Multilayered Circuits
Screenprinting (Silk Screen)
Summary
Chapter 4: CNC Milling
History
How They Work
Types
Materials
Wood and Derived Materials
Plastics and Composites
Tougher Stuff
Aluminum
Tooling
Different Kinds of Cutters and Tools
Software: Running the Machine
Toolpath Generation
Milling Parameters
2D Milling
3D Milling
Toolpath Simulation
Setting Up and Running
Safety and Maintenance
Tools Spinning at High Speed Can Shatter or Start a Fire!
Keeping Your Machine in Good Shape
Applications
Small but Precise
Big and Powerful
Furniture
Houses and Shelters
Beehives
Boats
Skates and Skis
Guitars and Other Stringed Instruments
Summary
Chapter 5: 3D Printers
Introduction
History
How They Work
Material Extrusion
Photopolymerization
Material Jetting
Binder Jetting
Powder Bed Fusion
Direct Energy Deposition
Sheet Lamination
Materials
Software: Running the Machine
Safety
Maintenance
Applications
Usage in Industry and Commercial Applications
Bioprinting
What You Can Make
Master Yoda, or "Test Print Realize This, You Must"
Another Machine, or Machines Making Machines
Molds
Printing with Food
Metal Casting
Hold: Hooks and Holders
Timekeeping with Shadows and Lights
Helping Hands
Summary
Chapter 6: Other Machines
Plasma Cutting
Waterjet Cutting
Electric Discharge Machining
CNC Lathes
Hot-Wire Cutter