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      Utilizing Arrays in Lightburn for CO2 Lasers

      This guide explains how to use the array tools in Lightburn for CO2 lasers to create regularly spaced copies of a shape or graphic. These tools are useful for large production runs or creating patterns for other projects. There are three types of arrays: Grid, Circular, and Virtual. This article will detail each type and their functions.

      Grid Array

      1. Creating a Grid Array

        • Draw a shape (e.g., a 1x1 inch box).
        • Hover over the Grid Array tool and left-click the icon.
        • The Create Grid Array wizard will pop up. You can move this window to see your array as you adjust it.

      2. Adjusting Grid Array Settings

        • Columns and Rows: Select your desired number of X columns and Y rows.
        • Total Size: Set the total width and height; Lightburn will fill in the shape as many times as possible based on the total size.
        • Spacing: Determine spacing using either Padding Between Edges (spacing from the edges of shapes) or Distance From Center (spacing from the center of the shape).

      3. Additional Options

        • Reverse Direction: Flip your graphic in either the X or Y column.
        • Shift by Half: Shift every other row by 50% in either the X or Y column.
        • Mirror Alternate Columns: Flip your graphic in every other column in the X or Y direction.

      4. Variable Text Option

        • The array tool also includes a variable text option, which will be covered in a separate training video.

      Virtual Array

      1. Creating a Virtual Array

        • Import a graphic and select Virtual Array.
        • Build your grid and click OK.

      2. Characteristics of Virtual Arrays

        • Virtual arrays are not actual graphics; you cannot ungroup and select individual elements. They are grayed out to indicate their virtual nature.
        • Any changes made to the original graphic will reflect across the entire virtual array in real time.

      3. Converting to a Real Array

        • Right-click the original graphic and select Flatten Array from the dropdown menu to convert the virtual array into an actual array with selectable and adjustable elements.

      4. Editing Virtual Arrays

        • Edit Array: Re-enter the array wizard to make further adjustments.
        • Duplicate Array: Make an exact copy of your existing array.
        • Remove from Array: Remove specific items from the array.
        • Exit Array: Remove the virtual array from the graphic.

      Circular Array

      1. Creating a Circular Array

        • Select a shape or graphic and hover over the Circle Array tool. Left-click to duplicate the graphic and stack all duplicates on top of each other.

      2. Adjusting Circular Array Settings

        • Number of Copies: The default number is eight or the last used number.
        • Pivot Point: The tool uses the center of the graphic as the pivot point. For specific designs like clock faces, create a center shape to act as the pivot.

      3. Setting the Distance and Pivot

        • Create a center shape and set the distance from the graphic to this shape, which will be the radius or half the circle’s diameter.
        • Select the graphic first, then the pivot shape. Enable Use Last Selected Object Position as Center in the Circle Array wizard.

      4. Additional Options

        • Rotate Object Copies: Useful for designs like clock faces to ensure easy reading.

      5. Variable Text Option

        • Similar to grid arrays, circle arrays also have a variable text option, detailed in another video.

      Conclusion

      You have now learned how to use the grid, circular, and virtual array tools in Lightburn. These tools help you maximize material use and create intricate designs efficiently. For further assistance, refer to Lightburn documentation or support channels. Happy laser engraving!