# Key Points from IRC Log (Dec 26, 2010)

• Discussion of Wire EDM (Electrical Discharge Machining) technology, including a reference to using supercapacitors for pulsed discharge, with debate about voltage requirements and implementation approaches shared in an OpenManufacturing group thread.

• Kanzure shared information about converting 3D file formats (IGES, STEP, STL) and challenges with OpenCascade software for headless rendering, mentioning progress on reverse engineering the SolidWorks file format.

• DIY biology projects were discussed, with recommendations that gel electrophoresis would be easier than flow cytometry for a hackerspace project, with references to OpenWetWare.org resources.

• A robotic arm project was briefly mentioned, with Kanzure sharing an image of his PUMA500 robot that was currently being used as a lamp stand rather than for its intended purpose.

• A new CNC Zone subforum dedicated to 3D printers was announced, indicating growing interest in desktop manufacturing within the community.

• Discussion of DIY approaches to orthodontics as an alternative to expensive commercial options like Invisalign, reflecting the group's interest in applying maker principles to healthcare.