CAM, automation and laser cutting
Lesson details
Learning outcome
I can prepare and transfer a file for laser cutting.
Key learning points
- Laser cutters use concentrated beams of light to cut or engrave materials, requiring precise vector files.
- Designs must be lowered through the Tinkercad workplane before exporting.
- Laser cutters must be used with extraction systems to remove harmful fumes and ensure safety.
- Efficient use of materials can be achieved through tessellation, which reduces waste by tightly arranging shapes.
Keywords
CAM - computer-aided manufacturing
Automation - the use of CAM, machines and software when manufacturing
SVG - 2D file format used with laser cutters
Common misconception
Laser cutters burn or melt the materials they are cutting.
Laser cutters actually vaporise the material with high precision.
Teacher tip
Having examples of laser cut products that the pupils can interact with will help emded the learning.
Equipment
Computers/laptops, mice, access to Tinkercad. Access to a laser cutter.
File needed for this lesson
RobotSVG new 1.16 KB (SVG)
Download this file to use in the lesson.
Licence
Lesson video
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Prior knowledge starter quiz
6 Questions
Q1.CAM stands for …
Q2.What is the material used with 3D printers?
Q3.What are the axes called on a 3D printer?
Q4.What part of a 3D printer does the material come out of?
Q5.Which of these layer heights would be considered as a draft print?
Q6.What degrees should overhangs not exceed?
Assessment exit quiz
4 Questions
Q1.Which of the following is a major benefit of using CAM in manufacturing?
Q2.Identify the challenges of using CAM.
Q3.What are the common file types used for laser cutting?
Q4.What type of manufacture is laser cutting?
To help you plan your 7 design and technology lesson on: CAM, automation and laser cutting, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your 7 design and technology lesson on: CAM, automation and laser cutting, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs.
The starter quiz will activate and check your pupils' prior knowledge, with versions available both with and without answers in PDF format.
We use learning cycles to break down learning into key concepts or ideas linked to the learning outcome. Each learning cycle features explanations with checks for understanding and practice tasks with feedback. All of this is found in our slide decks, ready for you to download and edit. The practice tasks are also available as printable worksheets and some lessons have additional materials with extra material you might need for teaching the lesson.
The assessment exit quiz will test your pupils' understanding of the key learning points.
Our video is a tool for planning, showing how other teachers might teach the lesson, offering helpful tips, modelled explanations and inspiration for your own delivery in the classroom. Plus, you can set it as homework or revision for pupils and keep their learning on track by sharing an online pupil version of this lesson.
Explore more key stage 3 design and technology lessons from the Prototypes with mechanisms: robotics and automation unit, dive into the full secondary design and technology curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.