I'm excited to present my latest project: a modern, layered napkin holder that merges the precision of 3D printing with the elegance of laser cutting which is designed using CATIA’s visual scripting.

The goal was to create a layered structure that offers both aesthetic appeal and structural integrity. Using CATIA's visual scripting, I developed a parametric design where each layer is thoughtfully separated and aligned. By carefully choosing materials, I created a striking contrast: solid white PETG for the 3D-printed layers and transparent acrylic for the laser-cut layers. This combination gives the napkin holder a sleek and modern look, enhanced by the depth created between the materials.

Design & Fabrication Workflow

The design process was streamlined through automation, optimizing both time and precision:

3D Printing: Thanks to visual scripting in CATIA, I could easily manipulate design parameters, allowing for quick experimentation with different design choices. Odd-numbered layers were then exported as STEP files for 3D printing in white PETG, ensuring a solid and clean finish.

Laser Cutting: Even-numbered layers were exported as 2D PDF files for laser cutting from transparent acrylic. The combination of solid and transparent materials creates a striking contrast, adding depth and making the design stand out from every angle.

This efficient process, powered by visual scripting, allowed me to seamlessly separate and export layers for both fabrication methods, ensuring accuracy and maintaining high quality throughout the production.

Structural Integrity and Vertical Alignment

To ensure the layers fit perfectly, I also designed 3D-printed vertical connectors in visual scripting . These connectors maintain the alignment of the layers, providing both structural stability and an aesthetically pleasing design. The precise placement of these connectors ensures that the entire structure holds together seamlessly, resulting in a balanced and elegant final product.

3D Printing Timelapse

The Final Product