Although 3D printing and gadgets based on Free Hardware are the order of the day, there are many other interesting projects that attract the interest of many, such as the ZelosLaser, a cutter hardware libre that will not only cut our cardboard but will make professional cuts and engravings with his laser.
ZelosLaser is a project that has become known thanks to its successful crowdfunding campaign but that promises a lot since in addition to containing hardware libre, ZelosLaser offers almost professional results. ZelosLaser has a similar appearance to any printer from the RepRap project, it is more of a copy of the structure however ZelosLaser has a laser and not an extruder. Thus, thanks to laser software, we can not only cut but also engrave through the layered cutting that this laser can do.
ZelosLaser uses a plate arduino UNO together with a nema motor and a 405 nm laser diode. The software for this tool is called PicSender and not only does it allow us to use it with any hardware but it is also open-source so we can modify anything (hardware and software) for free and without problem.
ZelosLaser uses Arduino UNO and a laser for its operation
In the crowdfunding campaign, the creators requested money in exchange for construction kits that would allow us to create our own ZelosLaser. However, on their website we found the models and guides for building this curious cutter, so there's no need to wait for these kits to get one; we'll only need a 3D printer.
The truth is that when I heard about a laser, I wondered what for? But seeing the engravings and the possibilities of this cutter, the truth is that it is very interesting and offers many possibilities for little money, not only to engrave but also to work with the printed pieces that we make or customize almost any piece that bends to power. of the laser.
If you like it, don't hesitate to visit their website; it will surely impress you, and if you find it complicated, you can always finance it and wait for them to send you the kit.