Production Aids

Question 1

All points can be defined asrelative to a reference point.

Answer 1

A reference point is a point where measurements are made from, this could be the corner, or specific reference lines.
Using reference points, lines and surfaces can control accuracy.
When X,Y,Z coordinates are used, the reference point is often the datum, where the points meet, (0,0,0)
Reference points are important in CAM machines, so they can be aligned with the materials they are working with.
Reference points are also useful with scaling e.g drawings and prototypes

Question 2

Templates are used for drawing and cutting round.

Answer 2

Templates are easy to make, and simple to use.
You can draw around or cut around them to produce a drawing or model exaxtly the same as the template
Easier and quicker than measuring each time
As long as the template is accurate, so will the final piece, templates make consistant products
Must be strong and hard-wearing so that they can be used for long periods of time
Useful in quality control, to compare products to.

Question 3

Patterns are used with textiles and casting

Answer 3

Textiles

In textiles, patterns are used to cut pieces of fabric that can then be sewn together to make a product.
Patterns are usually made from tissue paper so you can cut round them.
CAD CAM can also be used with coordinates plotted instead of a hand drawing.

Casting

The shape of the end product is the exact replica of the pattern you make
Can be made from wood, metal or resin
Can be used many times to consistently make products/

Question 4

Jigs simplify and speed up production

Answer 4

A Jig guides the tools that are working on the material
Jigs can come in a wide varitey of shapes and sizes, usually designed for a specific puropse.
They are designed to speed up production and simplify the process.
Drilling Jigs allow for precise hole drilling, whilst Dovetail jigs allow complex joints to be made easily.