Physics & Engineering
The theory that makes the shop work. Each course teaches the math and physics through real workpieces and machines. Every concept connects to something you build.
Machine Design
The basics of mechanical design: loads, materials, and machine elements. Then the kinematics of linkages and arms, through to inverse kinematics, the joint angles that put a tool in a given position. Includes live notes and an interactive simulation.
In this course
- > Loads, stress & factor of safety
- > Machine elements & tolerances
- > Forward & inverse kinematics
- > Workspace & manipulability
Statics for Makers
Load paths, trusses, moments, and joinery. Learn why one beam carries its load and another fails. Each student designs and load-tests a timber joint.
- > Forces, free-body diagrams, equilibrium
- > Trusses & the timber frame
- > Beams, bending, and the safe span
Materials: Wood, Metal & Stone
Grain, grit, and crystal structure. Why oak splits along the ray, why steel work-hardens, why granite carves the way it does. The science behind the traditional trades.
- > Wood: grain, moisture, movement
- > Metal: phases, heat treat, fatigue
- > Stone: bedding, cleavage, weathering
Electricity & Magnetism for the Shop
Circuits, motors, and the physics behind every tool with a plug. Wire a shop safely, understand VFDs and steppers, and read a schematic without fear.
- > Voltage, current, and safe wiring
- > Motors, VFDs, and steppers
- > Sensors & the CNC feedback loop
CAD & Parametric Design
Geometry, tolerance, and design intent. The bridge course from physics to the fabrication workshops: model a part, then cut it on the CNC or print it. The perspective study shows the projection math that CAD viewports use.
- > Sketching, constraints, parametrics
- > Tolerance & fit for real machines
- > CAD to CAM to G-code
Ready for the shop floor?
Courses build the theory; the hands-on workshops put tools in your hands.