Sheet Metal Lamp Fabrication
Location
CoLab, COM 308
Start Date
30-4-2026 2:30 PM
Document Type
Poster
Description
Sheet metal is an important material used to create many everyday objects such as lamps, vehicles, appliances, and tools. It is strong, versatile, and can be cut, bent, and shaped into precise forms for both functional and decorative purposes. For this project, I plan to design and manufacture a modern desk lamp made entirely from sheet metal to explore how digital design and fabrication processes work together in product creation. I will start by creating a layout pattern for the lamp using computer-aided design (CAD) software. This pattern will guide the cutting process, where the flat metal sheet will be laser-cut into the correct shapes. Afterward, I will form and bend the parts using a press brake to give the lamp structure and shape. The pieces will then be joined with rivets or screws to form the full lamp body. An important part of the project will be optimizing the layout pattern to reduce material waste when cutting multiple pieces and calculating the percent of sheet metal used efficiently. Finally, I will apply a metal finishing process, such as sanding and painting, to improve appearance and safety. This project will demonstrate how careful planning, design optimization, and manufacturing techniques can turn a flat sheet of metal into a functional and visually appealing product.
Image
Sheet Metal Lamp Fabrication
CoLab, COM 308
Sheet metal is an important material used to create many everyday objects such as lamps, vehicles, appliances, and tools. It is strong, versatile, and can be cut, bent, and shaped into precise forms for both functional and decorative purposes. For this project, I plan to design and manufacture a modern desk lamp made entirely from sheet metal to explore how digital design and fabrication processes work together in product creation. I will start by creating a layout pattern for the lamp using computer-aided design (CAD) software. This pattern will guide the cutting process, where the flat metal sheet will be laser-cut into the correct shapes. Afterward, I will form and bend the parts using a press brake to give the lamp structure and shape. The pieces will then be joined with rivets or screws to form the full lamp body. An important part of the project will be optimizing the layout pattern to reduce material waste when cutting multiple pieces and calculating the percent of sheet metal used efficiently. Finally, I will apply a metal finishing process, such as sanding and painting, to improve appearance and safety. This project will demonstrate how careful planning, design optimization, and manufacturing techniques can turn a flat sheet of metal into a functional and visually appealing product.
Comments
The faculty mentor for this project was Susan Johnson.