diff --git a/CNC Machine.md b/CNC Machine.md
index fe697f4..29ffc68 100644
--- a/CNC Machine.md
+++ b/CNC Machine.md
@@ -173,20 +173,30 @@ This section outlines the full workflow for using the CNC machine, from preparat
#### 3. Toolpaths: Cut
-- Choose **2D Profile Toolpath**.
+- Choose **Profile Toolpath**.
- Set:
- **Start Depth:** 0 mm
- **Cut Depth:** 13 mm (12 mm material + 1 mm into sacrificial sheet)
-- Select **Outside/Right** for vector machining to preserve size.
- Tool Settings (6 mm bit):
- Spindle Speed: 8000 RPM
- Feed Rate: 80 in/min
- Plunge Rate: 15 in/min
-- Click **Calculate**, then **OK** to confirm warnings.
+- Specify the Number of Passes:
+ - Press "Edit Passes"
+ - Number of Passes: 2
+ - First Pass Depth: 6.5mm
+ - Second Pass Depth: 13mm
+- Specify Machine Vectors:
+ - Select **Outside/Right** for vector machining to preserve size.
+ - Select **Inside/Left** for
+ - Select **On** for
+- Tabs: ++++++++
+
+- Click **Calculate**, then read the warnings, if it is within your expectations click **OK** to confirm.
---
-#### 4. Toolpaths: Pocket and Tabs
+#### 4. Toolpaths: Pocket
- **Pocket Toolpath:**
- Used to hollow out an internal region.
@@ -202,6 +212,13 @@ This section outlines the full workflow for using the CNC machine, from preparat
---
+#### 5. Preview Toolpaths
+
+Preview Visible Toolpaths
+Click on the 3D View tab
+Reset Preview
+Preview Visible Toolpaths
+
#### 5. ShopBot 3 Setup
- Open **ShopBot 3** software.
@@ -216,11 +233,11 @@ This section outlines the full workflow for using the CNC machine, from preparat
#### 6. Z-Axis Calibration
-- Clip the wire to the drill bit.
+- Clip the wire to the collet nut or the spindle body of the CNC machine.
- Place the **metal calibration plate** on the surface of the sheet.
- Run the **Z-zeroing command** (machine lowers bit to touch the plate).
- System detects contact and sets Z = 0.
-- Remove the clip and plate after calibration.
+- After calibration, remove the clip and plate, then return them to their original location with the clip still attached to the plate.This ensures smooth CNC operation.
---
diff --git a/Cycloidal Gearbox.md b/Cycloidal Gearbox.md
index f8541a6..b4f1ed4 100644
--- a/Cycloidal Gearbox.md
+++ b/Cycloidal Gearbox.md
@@ -37,6 +37,8 @@ To clearly illustrate the internal mechanics, structural design, and assembly st
- Included Media
- **Assembly Video** – starts with an exploded view and step-by-step buildup
+
+
- **Disassembly Video** – shows teardown process in reverse order
diff --git a/Laser Cutting.md b/Laser Cutting.md
index 58b8cb8..9016060 100644
--- a/Laser Cutting.md
+++ b/Laser Cutting.md
@@ -1,266 +1,136 @@
-# Two-Disc Cycloidal Gearbox Design
+# 🔲 How to Use the Laser Cutting Machine
-#### 1. Project Description
-The two-disc cycloidal gearbox is designed to convert high-speed, low-torque input from a stepper motor into low-speed, high-torque output. It utilizes two synchronized cycloidal discs that rotate in opposite phases, interacting with drive pins to transmit motion to an output shaft.
-
-This configuration minimizes backlash and distributes load across multiple contact points, offering smooth and powerful transmission. The system is fully enclosed and features multiple mounting options for external attachments.
-
-#### 2. Application & Use Cases
-
-##### Applications
-- Robotics joints and arms
-- CNC rotary tables
-- Precision camera mounts
-- Automated actuators
-- Small-scale industrial machines
-
-##### How to Use
-- Mount the gearbox base to your motor using the provided holes.
-
-- Connect the NEMA-17 motor shaft to the input via the motor shaft connector.
-
-- Attach your load or mechanism to the output shaft area.
-
-- Power the motor through a driver board and microcontroller (e.g., Arduino).
-
-- Control the motion using programmed step sequences.
-
- - Ensure lubrication (grease) between the discs and drive pins for smoother performance and longer lifespan.
-
-#### 3. Engineering Drawings
-
-##### Description
-The design is a compact, scalable two-disc cycloidal gearbox intended for high-torque, low-speed applications. Its parametric structure makes it easy to adapt in size and material. The current prototype has a 90 mm diameter and 54 mm height.
-
-To clearly illustrate the internal mechanics, structural design, and assembly steps, the following visuals are provided:
-
-- Included Media
- - Assembly Video – starts with an exploded view and step-by-step buildup
-
-
-
-
-
- - Disassembly Video – shows teardown process in reverse order
-
-
-
-
-
- - Transparent Body Image – reveals internal components without hiding the casing
-
-
-
-#### 4. List of Materials & Components
-
-- ##### Standard Components
-
-| Part | Quantity | Approx. Size |
-| ------------- | -------- | -------------------------------------------------- |
-| Bearing | 2 | Ø65 mm (outer) × Ø50 mm (inner) × 7 mm (thickness) |
-| Bearing | 4 | Ø32 mm (outer) × Ø20 mm (inner) × 7 mm (thickness) |
-| Stepper Motor | 1 | NEMA-17 |
-
-- ##### Bolts & Nuts (*with available size approximations*)
-
-Note: If a bolt is slightly longer than needed, it can be trimmed using a saw. Nut sizes should fit snugly but not too tight.
-
-1. (A) Connecting Base to Base Cover
- - 7 × Flat Head Machine Screws (Type B)
- - Size: M4 × 45 mm
- - Head Diameter: ~7.5 mm
- - 7 × M4 Hex Nuts
- - Edge-to-Edge: ~6.9 mm
- - Thickness: ~3.2 mm
-
-2. (B) Drive Pins Area (Replaces 5 mm Pins)
- - 4 × M3 × 50 mm Bolts (hex or socket head)
- - Head Diameter: ~5.5 mm
- - 4 × M3 Hex Nuts
- - Edge-to-Edge: ~5.5 mm
- - Thickness: ~2.4 mm
-
-3. (C) Mounting Points on Top of the Gearbox
- - 7 × M4 Hex Nuts
- - Edge-to-Edge: ~6.9 mm
- - Thickness: ~3.2 mm
-
-4. (D) Shaft Connector
- - 2 × M3 × 40 mm Bolts
- - Head Diameter: ~5.5 mm
- - 2 × M3 Hex Nuts
- - Edge-to-Edge: ~5.5 mm
- - Thickness: ~2.4 mm
-
-5. (E) NEMA-17 Shaft Connector
- - 1 × M3 × 6 mm Bolt (may require sanding)
- - Head Diameter: ~5.5 mm
- - 1 × M3 Hex Nut
- - Edge-to-Edge: ~5.5 mm
- - Thickness: ~2.4 mm
-
-6. (F) NEMA-17 Connector
- - 4 × M3 × 15 mm Bolts
- - Head Diameter: ~5 mm
-
-- ##### 3D-Printed Components
- - Material: PLA (tested), PETG (recommended for durability)
- - Parts: Housing, base cover, discs, shaft connectors, output caps, circlips
- - Infill: Suggested 40% or more for torque applications
-
-#### 5. Cycloidal Drive Strength Analysis
+*(This page provides step-by-step instructions for students on how to prepare and operate the laser cutter. Insert images where noted to enhance clarity and guidance.)*
---
-##### **1. Motor Output Torque**
+#### 1️⃣ Preparing the File
+**Software: SolidWorks / Illustrator / CorelDraw / etc.**
-* **Motor Stall Torque**: 0.45 Nm
-* **Gear Ratio**: 21:1
-* **Estimated Efficiency**: 85%
-
-$$
-\text{Output Torque} = 0.45 \times 21 \times 0.85 = \boxed{8.03 \, \text{Nm}}
-$$
+- Export the design as a **DXF (.dxf)** file.
+- Send the file to the designated **email account** (e.g., instructor's Gmail or lab email).
+- On the laser cutting computer, **download** the file and **import it into RDWorks**.
---
-##### **2. Load Handling Capability (Based on PLA Disc)**
+#### 2️⃣ Setting Up in RDWorks
+📌 *Insert screenshot of RDWorks interface here*
-###### PLA Parameters:
+- **Arrange the parts** on the virtual sheet using directional arrow buttons.
+- **Assign colors** to each part depending on whether it’s for cutting, engraving, or marking.
+- **Double-click the selected color** from the left color bar to adjust settings:
+ - Input appropriate **Speed** and **Power** values based on material type and thickness.
+ - Alternatively, use **Parameter Library** to select preconfigured material profiles.
-* **Yield Strength of PLA**: 50 MPa
-* **Safety Factor**: 3 → Allowable stress = 16.7 MPa
-* **Contact Area (per lobe)**: 5 mm²
-* **Lobes in contact**: 4
-* **Radius from center to lobe force point**: 33.5 mm = 0.0335 m
-* **Infill Density**: 25%
-
-###### Calculations:
-
-* **Force per lobe**:
-
-$$
-F_{\text{lobe}} = 16.7 \times 10^6 \times 5 \times 10^{-6} = 83.5 \, \text{N}
-$$
-
-* **Total force from 4 lobes**:
-
-$$
-F_{\text{total}} = 4 \times 83.5 = 334 \, \text{N}
-$$
-
-* **Torque handling at 33.5 mm radius**:
-
-$$
-\tau = 334 \times 0.0335 = 11.2 \, \text{Nm}
-$$
-
-* **Account for 25% infill**:
-
-$$
-\tau_{\text{safe}} = 11.2 \times 0.25 = \boxed{2.8 \, \text{Nm}}
-$$
+✅ After setting all values, click **“Download”** to transfer the file to the machine.
---
-##### **3. Drive Pin Strength (Bolts with PLA Sleeves)**
+#### 3️⃣ Operating the Laser Cutter
+📌 *Insert image of laser cutter with labeled parts here*
-###### Assumption:
-
-* Bolts used instead of precision 5 mm mild steel pins
-* Outer diameter maintained at **5 mm** using **PLA sleeves**
-* Inner bolt shaft assumed 4 mm (typical M4 bolt shank)
-* Steel Yield Strength: 260 MPa
-
-- **Cross-sectional Area (4 mm bolt)**:
-
-$$
-A = \frac{\pi D^2}{4} = \frac{\pi \cdot 4^2}{4} = 12.57 \, \text{mm}^2
-$$
-
-- **Force per bolt**:
-
-$$
-F_{\text{bolt}} = 260 \times 12.57 = 3,268.2 \, \text{N}
-$$
-
-- **Total force (4 bolts)**:
-
-$$
-F_{\text{total}} = 4 \times 3,268.2 = 13,072.8 \, \text{N}
-$$
-
-- **Torque capacity**:
-
-$$
-\tau = 13,072.8 \times 0.0335 = \boxed{437.9 \, \text{Nm}} \quad \text{(Safe✅)}
-$$
-
-> Note: **PLA sleeves** do not contribute significantly to strength — they act as spacers or guides. Only **steel bolts** are load-bearing.
+1. **Turn on** the machine and main power switch.
+2. **Insert the material** (e.g., 3mm plywood, 6mm acrylic).
+3. Flip the **light knob** to activate internal lighting.
+4. On the machine panel:
+ - Press **“File”** and select the file
+ - Press **“Enter”** to load it into memory
+5. Use **arrow keys** to move the laser head to the desired starting point.
+6. Adjust the **Z-axis** (height) of the laser:
+ - Use a **spacer tool** (e.g., LEGO brick) for low thickness.
+ - For thicker materials, keep around **2mm distance** between the laser head and the material.
+7. Press **“Origin”** to set the starting position.
+8. Press **“Frame”** to preview the cutting boundary.
+9. Once confirmed, press **“Start”** to begin cutting.
---
-##### **4. Max Load at 50 mm Arm**
+#### 🛡️ Safety & Efficiency Tips
+📌 *Insert image of safety guidelines and PPE here*
-$$
-F = \frac{\tau_{\text{safe}}}{r} = \frac{2.8}{0.05} = 56 \, \text{N}
-$$
-
-$$
-\text{Mass} = \frac{56}{9.81} = \boxed{5.7 \, \text{kg}}
-$$
+- Always wear **safety goggles** during operation.
+- Never leave the machine **unattended** while it's running.
+- Use **tape or weights** to hold down curled or uneven sheets.
+- Use **Frame preview** to avoid cutting beyond the material area.
+- **Organize parts efficiently** on the sheet to reduce material waste.
---
-##### Final Summary Table
+#### ✍️ Engraving Notes
-| Category | Value | Safe? |
-| --------------------------- | -------- | ------------------------ |
-| Motor Stall Torque | 0.45 Nm | ✅ |
-| Output Torque | 8.03 Nm | ❌ Exceeds PLA safe limit |
-| PLA Torque Limit | 2.8 Nm | ✅ |
-| Bolt + PLA Pin Torque Limit | 437.9 Nm | ✅ (way overbuilt) |
-| Max Load (at 50 mm arm) | 5.7 kg | ✅ |
+- Use **lower power and higher speed** for engraving.
+- Perform a **small test area** first to avoid burning the material.
+- Ensure the surface is flat and clean for consistent engraving quality.
---
-##### Final Conclusion
+#### 🧪 Cutting Efficiency Test Example
+📌 *Insert photo of test squares with labels*
-The **cycloidal drive system is likely to fail at the PLA disc lobes under full output torque**, especially if printed with only **25% infill**. Although the **bolts (with PLA sleeves)** acting as drive pins are structurally sufficient, the **PLA disc is the mechanical weak point**.
+**Objective:**
+Determine the optimal speed and power settings for clean cuts on 2.45mm plywood without manual force.
-##### If tested:
+---
-* The drive **will function under light loads (below \~5.7 kg at 50 mm arm)**.
-* Under full load or high-torque demand, **plastic deformation or cracking is expected at the lobes**.
-* The bolts will hold without issue, but **localized PLA wear or failure around the lobes and sleeves is likely.**
+**Test Parameters:**
-##### Recommendations:
+- **Speeds (mm/s):** 15, 20, 30, 40
+- **Powers (%):** 15, 27, 40, 52, 65
-* Increase **infill to at least 75%** or use a stronger material like **PETG**.
-* Consider **fillet reinforcement** around lobes to distribute stress.
-* Reduce gear ratio or torque output if high load isn't needed.
\ No newline at end of file
+⚠️ *Do not exceed 70% power. It may damage the machine.*
+
+---
+
+**Successful Cutting Combinations:**
+
+| Speed (mm/s) | Power (%) |
+|--------------|------------|
+| 15 | 40 |
+| 20 | 30 |
+| 10 | 52 |
+| 20 | 52 |
+| 30 | 52 |
+| 15 | 65 |
+| 20 | 65 |
+| 30 | 65 |
+| 40 | 65 |
+
+---
+
+**Conclusion:**
+Higher power settings (52–65%) combined with moderate to low speeds produced clean cuts. This combination allows the laser sufficient energy and time to fully penetrate the material without excessive scorching.
+
+---
+
+#### 🔍 Focal Point Experiment
+📌 *Insert photo of inclined test setup with cuts*
+
+**Objective:**
+Understand how varying the laser's focal height (Z-axis) affects the quality of cuts.
+
+---
+
+**Setup:**
+
+- A wooden plate was placed at an **inclined angle** on the cutting bed.
+- The laser cut along the slope, testing multiple focal heights.
+
+---
+
+**Observations:**
+
+- When **too far**, the beam was unfocused, producing wide and burnt edges.
+- When **too close**, the beam was concentrated but often failed to cut through fully.
+- The **ideal distance** created precise, clean lines without burn marks.
+
+---
+
+**Conclusion:**
+The laser’s **focal point** plays a crucial role in cut quality. Proper Z-axis alignment ensures effective energy concentration, minimizing burns and maximizing precision.
+
+---
+
+#### 📎 Add Barcode Below
+📌 *Insert a QR code here that links directly to this documentation page on your website*
+
+---
\ No newline at end of file
- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
-