Because the laser is now so quiet we should have a visible indicator to show that it is on.
Fun project for someone to do:
Take one of the big traffic lights from the freecycle shelf
Put it in the dome on top of the laser filter, pointing up
Wire a cord long enough to reach the power bar near the water chiller, which is switched along with the rest of the laser system
Then we’ll have a big light to show when the laser is on. Because now without the noisy air compressor, it’s pretty quiet and I’m worried someone might lock up and leave the laser turned on!
Will probably want to amend the training to make a purposeful check that the air is running before cutting. Proper air flow impacts cut quality depending on what you are cutting.
This may also open up an opportunity for more advanced uses of the laser for cutting without air assist (e.g., when doing paper or cardstock).