This instructable project is an exploration of laser cut based on our master course assignment of TfCD. Laser cut is a quite developed technology and it becomes more and more popular. With application of arduino, it can help achieve many kinds of prototype easily. Our box is a decoration for Christmas. Unlike other disposable and immutable product, our layers can be replaced for doing your personalized image which is also following the trend of laser cut as it brings high precision and used various materials.

Step 1: Step 1 Making Digital File

- Better to find a scenario with some different items in it instead of only one image.

- Decide the size of the whole frame

- Underlay the picture and drawing the outline in AI

- Separate into each layers

- Make sure the line is visible and continuous

(not independent because it should be connected to the outer frame.）

Here attaches the ai file for example

lazor.ai
Download

Step 2: Step 2 Prepare for Laser Cut

- Choose materials and thickness depends on the effect you want

- Make the correct AI file for laser cut

(According to different machine, the cutting line should be in different color)

Step 3: Step 3 Laser Cutting

- Waitng for laser cut and do first part of step 4

- Make an order relationship for each layers for best shadow light performance

Step 4: Step 4 Make a Box

- Prepare the correct sized plastic panel

- Pick up waste form and cut into cuboid

- Make groove with certain distance (1cm as in our example) on the foam

- Use foam as a connection and stick it with the plastic panels

- Insert each layer within groove on form

Step 5: Step 5 Arduino LED Set Up

- Write code in arduino

int led1 = 13 ;
int led2 = 8 ;
void setup() {
  
  pinMode(led1, OUTPUT);
   pinMode(led2, OUTPUT);
}

void loop() {
  digitalWrite(led1, HIGH);   	// turn the LED on (HIGH is the voltage level)
  delay(1000);                       	// wait for a second
  digitalWrite(led1, LOW);    	// turn the LED off by making the voltage LOW
  delay(1000);  		// wait for a second

  
   digitalWrite(led2, HIGH);   	// turn the LED on (HIGH is the voltage level)
  delay(1000);                       	// wait for a second
  digitalWrite(led2, LOW);    	// turn the LED off by making the voltage LOW
  delay(1000);  		 // wait for a second
}

- Stick LED strip and connect to power supply