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Activity: How to use the hot wire foam cutter!

703 bytes added, 21:38, 20 March 2020
add links, expand on device, emphasize safety, modify cutting foam section
[[File:Hot Wire Foam Cutter.jpg|alt=Hot Wire Foam Cutter|thumb|DaBL's Hot Wire Foam Cutter Station]]
The Hot Wire Foam Cutter is a custom piece of equipment created by the DaBL staff to very rapidly produce a three-dimensional object. As the name suggests, this machine uses a hot wire to manually cut a piece of foam stock as a [[Manufacturing techniques#subtractive manufacturing |subtractive manufacturing]] technique. Some applications for this process include but are not limited to making a very rough prototype for a project or a proof of concept.
==Device Information ==This device is a custom designed and created machine in DaBL crafted by the DaBL director with the help of the [[Creative and Technical Specialist|CaTS]]. The device consists of a wooden cutting board under which house the electronics components for the device. Out of the back comes a metal post from which a piece of wire is spooled around and reattached at the bottom of the wood board. Power is fed from an outlet through the post which heats the wire. The amount of power can be controlled by the small knob in the front. It is advised that members '''<u>do not</u>''' fiddle with the knob as the desired setting is usually already in place.  ==Required Materials==
#Hot wire foam cutter
#FoamStock#ImaginationDesign of desired object == Safety ==The single vertical wire of this device is '''<u>extremely hot</u>'''. Keep in mind the following: * make sure hair, sleeves, and jewelry are tucked away.* avoid contact with hands, fingers, and other parts of the body when wire is in use.* only cut the approved foam on this device.
==Cutting foam==
Before you begin, ensure that nothing is in direct contact with In order to use the hot wire as it will get VERY HOT. Nextfoam cutter, place and hold your foot on the safety pedal located on the floor. Press and hold your foot on the pedal in order to heat up the wire. Note that the The wire will not heat up unless you hold your foot is on the pedal. It only takes a few will take about 20 seconds for the to heat properly. === Procedure === # Conceptualize 3D design.# Heat wire to get hot when on with foot pedal.# Place and subsequently cool when off. Once hot, drag your foam through the wire to cut and create your desired shape. Sophisticated cutting techniques can manipulate the foam to make curved surfaces and patterns. Be careful NOT to touch the wire with any part of your body while touching especially if you value that part of your body.

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