topic 4- digital technologies Flashcards
what are computer aided designs
Use of computer to develop 2D and 3-D drawings and computer models
Range of file types
Often used to facilitate transfer into CAM
What are positives of CAD
faster and more accurate design processed due to advantage of editing rather than drawing
Facilitates collaborative work across places
Highly accurate files sent to range of CAM
Can be sent to 3-D printers to model
what are the negatives of CAD
Expensive to set up and training
Requires regular updating
Not always convenient for quick drawing
What are the capabilities of CAD
high-quality 3-D CAD presentation design with rendering
Design can be rotated and can use editing tools
Viewed from any angle
Client feedback as possible
Virtual models are quicker than actual models
Original art can be scanned into CAD
Can show layers of a design for production
what is virtual modelling
This is the use of 3-D CAD files to stimulate aspects of the performance of products before they are manufactured
E.g. mechanical designs such as car engines can be checked for Fitt and clearance
To ensure error free machining production system planning is possible before investing in new equipment
What are simulations
A CAD or CAM simulation is a computer runthrough of camp processes which can be viewed by the designer who also receives appropriate reports on its success
E.g. the cutting path of a CNC laser
What are advantages of simulations
highlights potential problems and shows if production will be as suspected
Indicates how long the item will take to be machined
Facilitates nesting of multiple parts to reduce the wastage of the sheet material
what is finite element analysis
An example of using CAD virtual modelling to test our product component will withstand conditions which it’s likely to be subjected to
Analyses stress elements of design
Allows designers to simulate forces vibration or shock on product or components and weak points are highlighted
This saves money and time
What are the disadvantages of virtual modelling simulations and FEA
expensive to set up and costs in training
Regula updating and ongoing technical support
what is CAM and how does it work
Using computer controlled equipment to machine materials
CAD files are downloaded to Computer numerically controlled machines for cutting and shaping materials
Machine generates a control program
Simple and seamless transfer files from CAD to CAM
What is computer numerical control
The use of a program converted from cad files which special codes to control CAM equipment
What are the different types of CNC equipment and processes
CNC laser cutting
CNC routing
CNC milling
CNC turning
CNC plotter cutting
what is CNC laser cutting and how does it work
2-D CAD files are converted into a CNC program
Speed and power of programmed to cut an engraved range of materials
Lasers use high energy laserbeam to cut or vaporise materials
Compressed gas or air blows the waste material away leaving a clean edge
How does CNC routing work
CNC routers use high-speed cutters to machine 2D CAD files in sheet materials such as MDF
3-D cad files can also be used to machine models models and other 3-D forms in materials like timber
how does CNC milling work
mini machine moves the work up down and diagonal and sometimes additional axis of movement for cutting head and work pieces
Slower speeds to suit metal cutting
Can shape complex surfaces and edges
Usually totally enclosed to improve safety
Operate more quickly accurately with greater endurance than human operators
how does CNC turning work
CNC leaves usually turn metals and plastics in bar form
Can automatically change tools which often use disposable tips
Often teamed with milling machines and arms
how does CNC plotter cutting work
used to cut out shapes in compliant materials such as vinyl
Generate cutting path from 2-D CAD files
Pieces produced used for graphics applications
Usually pull the sheets in and out of machine
what is rapid prototyping
The use of computer operated machines to produce realistic 3-D models from CAD files
Can be made from a range of materials
Fast and needs minimal human input modelling used to be expensive and time-consuming
how does fuse deposition modelling and 3-D printing work
Built from 3-D CAD files
CAD file model is sliced into layers that are built on the product from bottom up layer by layer
Uses very thin thermoplastic and sometimes an additional support material to build the model
Can be used to make things like custom grips for people with disabilities or custom-made prosthetics
