This unit will guide students from basic sheet metal layout and forming through applications and utilization of CNC plasma cutting to develop a better understanding of how this technology is used in industry.  Prior to this unit, students would have an understanding of measurement and the use of the CNC plasma software, interface, and operation through a previous sign making activity.  Students would already have been taught welding (SMAW & GMAW) safety and this unit runs concurrently with welding activities to allow larger classes more access to the welding booths.

In this Public Service Design Seminar (PSDS), we will design and build products with developmentally disabled students at the Protestant Guild Learning Center in Waltham, MA. The class will work closely with community clients to make sure that what is developed is helpful and functional. These products will be built using the Hobby Shop equipment, the water jet machine in particular. Over the course of the seminar, this class will teach students how to use the water jet machine and associated OMAX software. The product development process will also be detailed in depth: determining customer needs, concept development, prototyping, design, and manufacturing.