Ep 9. All-Terrain Vehicles, Alpine Skis, Laser Cutters and Marble Sculptures

How It's Made is a fascinating show that takes viewers inside the factories and workshops where everyday objects are created. In season 7 episode 9, titled "All-Terrain Vehicles, Alpine Skis, Laser Cutters, and Marble Sculptures," the show explores the manufacturing processes behind a variety of diverse products.

The first segment of the episode focuses on all-terrain vehicles, or ATVs. Viewers get a look at the design and production of these off-road vehicles, which are popular for those who love to explore rough terrain. The show takes viewers to a factory where the ATVs are assembled, starting with the frame. We learn about how the frame is welded together, and then how the engine and transmission are installed. We also see how the ATV's suspension system is put together, and how the tires are mounted and balanced. It's a fascinating look at the complex process of building a vehicle designed to handle rough terrain and extreme conditions.

The second segment of the episode explores the manufacturing of alpine skis. Viewers get to see how these skis are designed and created, from the selection of the wood and other materials to the shaping and finishing of the skis themselves. We see how the wood is cut and shaped into the overall ski shape, and then how the base and edges are added. The show also details how the ski is tuned for optimum performance, including how the angle of the edges is adjusted to provide better grip on the snow. It's a detailed and interesting look at the complex manufacturing process behind a popular winter sport.

In the third segment of the episode, the show explores the manufacturing process behind laser cutters. These powerful machines are used to cut and shape a variety of materials, from metal to plastic to wood. The show takes viewers to a factory where they build the machines themselves, starting with the assembly of the frame. We see how the various components are installed, including the laser itself. The show also explains how the laser is used to cut and shape materials, and how the power and speed settings are adjusted depending on the specific material being used. It's a fascinating look at the technology behind these powerful cutting machines.

Finally, the last segment of the episode takes viewers inside a marble sculpting workshop. We see how skilled craftsmen shape and chisel blocks of marble into beautiful and intricate sculptures. The show explains how the sculptors carefully study the marble to determine where to make cuts and what shapes to create. We see how the blocks are cut into manageable pieces using diamond saws and grinders, and then how the sculptors use various chisels and other tools to shape the marble into the desired form. The episode shows just how much skill and precision is required to create these stunning works of art.

Overall, "All-Terrain Vehicles, Alpine Skis, Laser Cutters, and Marble Sculptures" is a fascinating look at the complex manufacturing processes behind a diverse array of products. From off-road vehicles to winter sports equipment to high-tech cutting machines to beautiful works of art, the episode offers something for everyone interested in how things are made.