How to Laser Cut using the Epilog Fusion laser cutter from Illustrator Files.

Introduction

This tutorial will guide you through the process of laser cutting using the Epilog Fusion laser cutter, specifically starting from Illustrator files. It is designed for those who have created drawings in Inventor and want to translate those designs into actual laser-cut projects. By the end of this guide, you will understand how to prepare your files for the laser cutter effectively.

Step 1: Create Drawings in Inventor

• Open Autodesk Inventor.
• Use the sketching tools to create your desired designs.
• Ensure that your designs are precise, as they will be directly translated into cuts.
• Save your drawings.

Step 2: Create Title Sheets and Export as PDF

• In Inventor, create a title sheet for your project.
• Include essential details like project name, date, and designer.
• Once your title sheet is ready, go to the File menu.
• Select Export and choose PDF as the file format.
• Save the PDF in an accessible location on your computer.

Step 3: Open PDF in Illustrator

• Launch Adobe Illustrator.
• Open the PDF you exported from Inventor.
• Verify that all elements, including the title sheet and designs, are displayed correctly.
• Make any necessary adjustments to ensure proper scaling and alignment.

Step 4: Prepare Your Design for Laser Cutting

• Convert any text to outlines to avoid font issues during cutting.
  • Select the text and navigate to Type > Create Outlines.
• Ensure that the stroke weight is appropriate for cutting (typically 0.001 inches for line cuts).
• Check the color settings for your lines:
  • Use red for cuts and blue for engravings (this may vary based on your laser cutter settings).

Step 5: Save Your Illustrator File

• Save your prepared design as an AI or PDF file.
• Use the File menu and select Save As.
• Choose the appropriate format for your laser cutter.

Step 6: Set Up the Epilog Fusion Laser Cutter

• Power on the laser cutter and open the software interface.
• Import your AI or PDF file into the laser cutter software.
• Adjust the settings based on the material you will be using:
  • Set the correct speed and power for cutting or engraving.
  • Select the appropriate material type from the options available.

Step 7: Perform a Test Cut

• Before executing your final project, run a test cut on scrap material.
• Observe the results to ensure the settings are optimal.
• Make adjustments if necessary based on the test cut results.

Step 8: Execute the Final Cut

• Place your material securely in the laser cutter.
• Double-check all settings and the design placement.
• Start the cutting process and monitor it to ensure everything runs smoothly.

Conclusion

You have now learned how to prepare and execute a laser cutting project using the Epilog Fusion laser cutter from Illustrator files. Remember to always perform a test cut before working on your final project and to adjust your settings according to the material used. Happy cutting, and feel free to explore more complex designs as you grow in your laser cutting skills!