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Equipment and machinery: papers and boards

Lesson details

Learning outcome

I can use CAD/CAM safely to manufacture designs.

Key learning points

  1. 2-dimensional computer-aided design can be used to design accurately for manufacture.
  2. Laser cutting is a form of computer-aided manufacture.
  3. Laser cutters can be used to cut paper and board.

Keywords

  • CAD - computer-aided design

  • CAM - computer-aided manufacture

  • Net - the flat or opened out shape of an object such as a box

  • Lamination - the process of building objects by stacking and bonding multiple layers of material

Common misconception

Only 2-dimensional products can be manufactured using a laser cutter.

Lamination can be used to create more curved and organic shapes or to create strength in an object.

Teacher tip

All of the students will not be able to use the laser cutter at the same time so it is best to stagger this activity or split the class to be completing alternative elements of the manufactuing process whilst waiting.

Equipment

Access to IT equipment, 2D CAD software and laser cutter.

Content guidance

Risk assessment required - equipment

Supervision

Adult supervision required

Licence

This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2025), licensed on Open Government Licence version 3.0 except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions (Collection 2).

Lesson video

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Prior knowledge starter quiz

6 Questions

Q1.
What is SCAMPER?

a coding framework for developing interactive user interfaces
a software used for creating 3D prototypes and product models
Correct answer: a creative thinking tool that helps generate new ideas

Q2.
This is the Juicy Salif by Philippe Starck. What is it an example of?

An image in a quiz
Bauhaus
Correct answer: Biomorphism
Brutalism

Q3.
What is AI?

Correct answer: the simulation of human intelligence in machines
the physical components of a computer that process data
a programming language used to build software applications

Q4.
If something is drawn 10 times smaller than it is, what scale would it be?

10:1
Correct answer: 1:10
1:100

Q5.
What are papers and boards measured in?

Correct Answer: gsm, grams per square metre

Q6.
What does an orthographic projection represent?

a 3D object in 3D
a 2D object in 3D
Correct answer: a 3D object in 2D
Q2 Museum of Design in Plastics, Arts University Bournemouth

4 Questions

Q1.
What is does CAM stand for?

Correct answer: computer-aided manufacturing
computer-applied manufacture
computer-applied making
computer-aided making

Q2.
What type of CAM is pictured?

An image in a quiz
3D printing
CNC Turning
Correct answer: laser cutting

Q3.
What is the process of building objects by stacking and bonding multiple layers of material?

Correct Answer: lamination, laminate

Q4.
Put this process into the correct order.

1 - Draw 2D shape on CAD software.
2 - Send CAD drawing to laser cutter.
3 - Alter settings on laser cutter so they are suitable for the material being cut.
4 - Turn on extraction.
5 - Lay material on bed of laser cutter and close lid.
6 - Set job to run.
7 - Open lid and remove material and cut pieces.

To help you plan your 10 design and technology lesson on: Equipment and machinery: papers and boards, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...