Lesson Four: Glass laser engraving

Learning Objectives

Students will learn how to create a design that can be laser cut on to a round object. Students will make an image in the computer and engraving an image or text into a glass object using a laser cutter.

Learning objectives: Learn how to make the image using image software and using a laser cutter. Medium level knowledge that can later on be transferred into bigger ideas.

B&T dimensions and types covered

Dimensions

  • Dimension 1: self-confidence in science and technology and Dimension 2: Confidence in technopolitical progress: By combining technical and art elements the students can build up confidence through small successes and then apply their skills to construct bigger items.
  • Dimension 3: Interest in new technology: Students explore and engage with both technical and hands on activities depending on their creative proses.
  • Dimension 7: Practical orientation: By learning this creative way the student can have the confidence of finding other practical ways to apply this technology and art expression to future projects.

Types

  • Creative makers: Engage with the designing in a technical manner.
  • Social implementer: Through small steps the student can experience a feeling of I can do this.
  • Explorer: Can also feel a feeling of I can do it and make possible connections to other inventions.

Grade Level

  • Middle school / junior high school (grades 5/6/7–8/9) from 11 to 15 years old. Group of 8 students. 
  • High School / College Level / Girls, Women 16 -30 Art, Design, Human tech. Group of 14 students. 

Subjects

  • Design
  • Art
  • Computer science
  • Digital fabrication

Materials

Materials Needed:

  • Laser cutting machine, with a rotational option.
  • Computer with software (for example Inkscape)
  • Paper, if the students want to draw out their ideas before making the image in the computer.
  • Rulers and markers
  • Class object for example class, jar or similar simple rounded shapes.

 

Safety Precautions:

  • Whan Laser cutting there must always someone stand by the machine whilst work is in progress.
  • Take note that the object doesn’t have a reflective surface.

Duration

2 hours depending on the number of students and complexity of designs.

Lesson Plan

Introduction (15 minutes)

  • Welcome students and explain the objective of the lesson.
  • Ask everyone to open up a computer
  • Show examples to show what they will be aiming for in the end, but emphasizing it will be their idea they make in the end.

Step-by-step development

 

Designing (30 min.)

  • Students open up the computers and either make their own text (here is a good time to talk about copyright material)
  • Provide students with information on how to navigate inside the design program.
  • Make sure they have the image and measurement correct
  • Proceed to make a pdf document
  • Move to Laser cutter

Engraving  (45 minutes)

  • Demonstrate the proper and safe use of the laser cutting machine.
  • Place your glass item in the machine
  • Use the laser cutting machine to engraving the designs

Wrap-up & reflection

Review and Showcase (15 minutes)

  • Have students share their finished project with the group.
  • Discuss the process and any challenges faced.
  • Encourage students to think of other ways to use the laser machine.

Cleanup (10 minutes)

  • Teach student how there can be small shards of glass as a residue from engraving. So it is important to clean well before use.
  • Ensure all materials and tools are properly cleaned and stored.
  • Make sure the workspace is tidy.

Extension activities

Students can in continuation of this try more complex designs and laser cutting ideas.

Additional Resources

Next Lessons

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