Final Project

Initial Experience

For the culmination of my final project, I was very excited to make the surfboard key chain holder... however I encountered a lot of challenges with the project. The goal of this project was to use 3 out of 4 of the machines that we've used over the quarter. My final

Design Process

I began by designing surfboards and the wave cutout for the key chain holder for over an hour on Inkscape. I also designed the stripes I wanted to put on the surfboards using Silhouette. Lastly, I found a hook I wanted to 3D print and then using Fusion 360 I carved a hole for a screw to keep them attached to the board.

Figure 1: Charred Wood from a couple passes on the laser cutter

Laser Cutting... Adaptation

With everything prepared, I proceeded with the cutting process. Something I had not anticipated for was the laser cutter not cutting through the board. I went with a thicker board than the ones I had previously used for my 2D to 3D project. After a couple passes, no success, and a charred piece of wood (as seen in Figure 1), I pivoted and decided to use the Carvey. I had to redesign the surfboards, and wave cutout and adapt to the differences in the machine (seen in Figure 2). This took me around 45 minutes, and a little longer measuring the thickness and selecting materials, etc. Something I also had not anticipated was the extended time for Carvey since the wood was so much thicker. The carve for the waves took around an hour and 45 minutes. Seeing as cutting out the surfboards would be a 4hour endeavor I ended up pivoting to using the laser cutter to raster "Basecamp" the name of my house here at Santa Clara and with the extra time I drilled the hooks and attached a sawtooth hanger for the back, as seen in figure 3.

Figure 2: Redesigned Project on Easel with Wave Cutout and Surfboards

Reflection and Learning Outcomes

This quarter reinforced the importance of integrating creativity with functionality, balancing aesthetics with practical application. I learned to adapt by pivoting designs based on resource constraints, simplifying when necessary or optimizing timelines in the face of challenges. Precision and attention to detail were crucial, especially when managing tolerances and anticipating user interactions. Collaboration and feedback played a key role in refining my work. Moving forward, I aim to prioritize design thinking, focusing on user-centered solutions while pushing creative boundaries.

Figure 3: Back of the Project with the Sawtooth Hanger

Total Time Log:

• 1hr making the initial design on Inkscape

• 45min redesigning on Easel

• 1hr 45min Carvey cutout time

• 2 hours 3D print

• 10 min Rastering/Design 

• Total: 5hr 40min