Mastering Digitally Controlled Machines

​Jean-michel Molenaar helped create the first Fab Labs in the Netherlands, after which he moved on to other countries to do the same. He has managed a company in the UK selling tools internationally, implemented the use digitally controlled machines at Tufts University as a professor, and started the Resilience Collective, a humanitarian effort to use digital technology for the most vulnerable populations. He has created makerspaces in over 12 countries and has spoken about education and digital tools during various conferences around the world. He lives in the French alps with his wife and their 3 sons.     Daniele Ingrassia has taught at Fab Academy for 6 years, and served as a Fab Lab mentor since 2017. He is a Fab Lab Guru, permanent scientific staff member of the Rhine Waal University of Applied Sciences, and the owner of his own machine building company. With a background in computer science, he now implements local digital fabrication courses in official university programs and develops open source hardware. Leaving behind a long series of Fab Lab-made projects, Daniele managed to develop several open source machines, such as a dual source laser cutter and the largest open source 3D printer. With projects being replicated in many other countries worldwide, Daniele has held several fabrication and machine building workshops around the world. He lives in North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany.

“The book provides a handy reference appendix detailing tools, software, and materials, making it a practical guide for makerspaces and fabrication laboratories (fablabs). It also includes real-world examples of people using these tools to create innovative products and art. Whether you’re a beginner in digital fabrication or looking to expand your skills, this book offers a comprehensive and accessible guide to mastering the world of digitally controlled machines.” (Wael Badawy, Computing Reviews, October 7, 2024)

• Chapter 1: Computer Aided Design.- Chapter 2:  Laser Cutters.- Chapter 3: Vinyl Cutting.- Chapter 4: CNC Milling.- Chapter 5: 3D Printers.- Chapter 6: Other Machines.-Chapter 7: Design Approaches.-Chapter 8: Safety and Space Set Up.- Chapter 9: Maker Profiles.- Chapter 10: Where to go From Here.