Demonstration of a computer-aided design and manufacturing process through the application of CAM technology. Preparation and production of analytical and non-analytical surfaces (translation surfaces, line surfaces, sculpture surfaces). Another goal is to learn about the applicability of the “Reverse Engineering” and “Rapid Prototyping” techniques (“RP”).

Lectures

Computer Aided Technology Design Process. The structure of the CAD module: canned molds, element formation, mold formation, transformations. The process of mechanical design. Life stages and product models. Basics of shape-based design. Structure of the CAM module. Defining 2-2,5-3-4-5 axis machining, the purpose of “rotational motion”. The post-processing of the CNC program, the process and animation of the production animation. Surface description and modeling. Characterization of wireframe, body, and surface models. Interpretation of translational, line, and sculptural interfaces. Description of planar geometric shapes, analytical and non-analytical curves (Bézier curve, string, spline, polynomial). Description and derivation of surfaces. The digital design and manufacturing process defines and groupes digital manufacturing (manufacturing and assembly, synchronous modeling, manufacturing design, manufacturing logistics, manufacturing automation, etc.). Introducing the relationship between digital design and digital manufacturing. Machine tool modeling (machine tool digitization), production modeling in virtual space (examples from the department related to the topic). Basics of shape-based design: limitations of body modeling, feature-based modeling, basic concepts. Classification of manufacturing process shape features. Geometric and semantic interpretation of shape features. Handling attributes, types of shape features, grouping. The principles of modeling with features are the essence of the name “Design with features”. Smoothing Strategies in “CAM”. Interpretation of the theoretical and real toolpaths as well as the basic concepts used in finishing. Factors influencing surface roughness during smoothing. Smoothing techniques in various CAM software (eg based on raster pattern, radial, spiral pattern, 3D offset smoothing, “Z” direction smoothing, residual milling principle, etc.), gripping techniques. Projection smoothing (flat, straight, circular), smoothing 4-5D surfaces. Finishing of free space with ball end mill (smoothing of hardened and unhardened surfaces). 3D scanning steps. Processing a scan result. “Reverse Engineering” design process (use examples). Aim and grouping of rapid prototype manufacturing technique. Presentation of each process (SLA, SLS, DLP, FDM, LOM, PolyJet, Slicing, Etc.). Competitive product development process. The steps of competing product development, the relationship between life stages and the product model. Computer techniques in mechanical design.

Labs

The aim of the labs is to gain confidence in the use of the CAD/CAM software environment in practice, from modeling to production documentation. The knowledge base includes the design of 2D turning processes, where students learn to program contour-following roughing and finishing cycles. During milling tasks, students progress from basic 2.5D operations (pocket operations, drilling cycles, contouring) to more complex 3D milling strategies involving free-form surfaces.

The educational materials and lecture notes are made available on Microsoft Teams.