9.6 Onshape: Design for laser cutter

Turn a sketch into something you can make

Design a small keyring in Onshape, check it, then export a file for laser cutting. Start with a simple shape. Add accuracy before adding detail.

Your four steps

1. 9.6.1 Start a Sketch: find the workspace, choose a plane and draw a closed outline.

2. 9.6.2 Make It Accurate: use dimensions and constraints to control size and position.

3. 9.6.3 Design for the Laser: plan cut lines, engraving and strong features.

4. 9.6.4 Export, Check and Make: export DXF, check scale, test and improve.

Your first outcome

A 65 × 25 mm keyring with a 5 mm attachment hole. Personalise it after the outline works. Your teacher chooses the approved sheet material and thickness.

What success looks like

• You can explain the difference between a sketch and a solid part.

• Your outline is closed and its important sizes and positions are controlled.

• Your exported file has the correct scale and clear cut/engrave instructions.

• You use a test or measurement to improve the result.

How this connects to Systems and Control

CAD helps communicate and test a component before it is made. Apply these skills later to a sensor mount, control-panel plate or bridge part. A keyring alone does not demonstrate a complete control system.

Tutorial support

The steps use Onshape Sketch Basics and the official Introduction to Sketching tutorial (Onshape account required). Written steps remain on each activity page so you can work at your own pace.