CAD/CAM Design and CNC Manufacturing Project: Opportunity to apply CAD/CAM principles in designing and manufacturing a tangible product using the CNC machining, fostering practical skills
Objective:
Provides students with a robust opportunity to apply CAD/CAM principles by designing and manufacturing a tangible product using CNC machining, enhancing practical skills and expertise in engineering design and production processes.
Design a product and create a digital model using CAD software, then generate a manufacturing program using G-code for CNC machining.
Document the design process and outcomes in a written report.
Project Overview: Product Design:
Select a product to design, such as a mechanical part, tool, component, or any other object of interest. The design should showcase creativity, functionality, and manufacturing feasibility.
CAD Modeling:
Use CAD software (Crew) to create a detailed 3D model of the chosen part on a workpiece with dimensions of 100x100x20 mm, including your name on the same workpiece (name should not exceed 80 mm in length and 10 mm in extrusion).
Ensure the model accurately represents the dimensions, features, and specifications of the part. If scaling is necessary, take into account the workpiece dimensions.
CAM Programming:
Generate a manufacturing program using Crew software, defining toolpaths, cutting strategies, feeds, speeds, and other parameters necessary for CNC machining, following these instructions:
Facing operation:
Tool diameter: 12 mm
Feed rate: 150 mm/min
Clear distance: 0.5 mm
Step depth: 4 mm
Spindle speed: 1000 RPM
Finishing operation:
Tool diameter: 4 mm
Feed rate: 200 mm/min
Step depth: 1 mm
Clear distance: 0.5 mm
Spindle speed: 1500 RPM
Coordinate system should be selected at one of the workpiece corners (mandatory).
G-code Generation:
Export the manufacturing program from Crew software in G-code format (TXT file), ensuring it is optimized for efficiency, accuracy, and safety during machining.
CNC Machining:
Operate a CNC machine to produce the designed product under the supervision of the instructor. Load the G-code program with instructor supervision, set up the workpiece and tooling, and initiate the machining process.
Throughout machining, monitor the operation, make any necessary adjustments, and ensure the quality of the finished part.