Digital Design and Manufacture Flashcards
Advantages of CAD
Design and development process is faster and more accurate
Networking facilitates collaborative work
Files can be sent to 3D printers to make models
Disadvantages of CAD
Expensive to set up due to hardware and software costs and training
Software requires regular updating and ongoing technical support
CAD isn’t always convenient for quick recording of ideas
Capabilities of CAD
Photo realistic rendering for high quality drawings
Designs can be rotated and viewed from any angle
Client and marketing feedback can be achieved without having to produce a physical model
Original artwork can be scanned into CAD software for digital development
Can incorporate standard component files
2D working drawings with multiple layers to show various elements of a design, such as the internal structure
Execute simulations
Simulations
Computer run through of a CAM process viewed by the designer with reports on how successful the process is
E.g. Cutting path of a CNC laser, a series of turning tools creating a profile for a part made on the CNC lathe
Advantages of simulations
Highlights potential problems and shows I’d production will be as expected
Indicates manufacturing time
Will flag up any clashes with clamps or vices holding the material
Facilitates nesting of multiple parts to reduce wastage
CNC plotter cutting
Used to cut out shapes in compliant materials such as self-adhesive vinyl
Generate an X and Y co-ordinate cutting path from 2D CAD files
Pieces produces are often used for graphics applications
Usually pull the sheet material in and out of the machine (Y axis), while the cutter moves from side to side in the X axis
Virtual modelling
Use of CAD files to simulate aspects of the performance of products before they are manufactured
Can be used to check fit and clearance
CAM processes can be simulated to ensure error free machining
Can be used to plan a new production system before investment
Computational fluid dynamics (CFD)
A 3D CAD simulation tool for fluid or gas flow in or around a product
Vehicle drag can be tested using a simulated wind tunnel
Test results can be used to make aerodynamic improvements
Marine craft designers can use a simulated wave tank
Designers save time and money that would be required for physical testing
Finite element analysis (FEA)
Analysis of stress in elements of a CAD design
Allows designers to simulate forces, vibration or shock loads on products or components
Highlights weak points using colour coding
Money and time can be saved as designers can be modified and re-tested
Both static and dynamic testing
Rapid prototyping and its benefits
The use of machines to produce realistic 3D models from CAD files
Benefits:
Fast process - needs minimal human input
Saves time, money and expertise
Rapid prototypes can serve as moulds for casting and making production dies
The model can be used to gain client feedback and market research
Stereolithography
Where a UV laser solidified layers of photopolymer (light sensitive resin)
Used by potteries
Stereolithographic models can be realistically sprayed and decorated for appraisal by designers and potential consumers
Fused deposition modelling (FDM)/ 3D printing
3D CAD model is ‘sliced’ into layers that are extruded to build the product from the bottom up
Uses very thin extruded thermoplastic filament
3D printers are now used for one off production of bespoke items such as jewellery
Customised grips for people with disabilities can be produced from ABS
Metals can be 3D printed to produce highly bespoke engineering components - use electron or laser beams to fuse metal powder
Titanium, stainless steel and aluminium
Electronic point of sale (EPOS)
Computer-based scanned barcode system for capturing data when consumers purchase goods
Monitors stock levels and triggering stock reorders
Collects sales data and customer details for marketing departments
Product life cycle status can be gauged to indicate when extension strategies or replacement might be appropriate
Email addresses and loyalty cards facilitate additional marketing opportunities
Radio frequency identification (RFID) tags
Scannable electronic devices used to track parts and products
Kanban
Factory material and component monitoring and reordering system central to JIT
Kanbans are signal cards
