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MANUFACTURE OF PRODUCT 1 - BATCH PRODUCTION - CNC - PAGE TWO

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There are two types of Computer Aided Design software. 2D design software allows the designer to design shapes with very limited three dimensional properties. Do not underestimate the designs that can be achieved through 2D software. In this case the software will control the CNC router as it cuts out the table top and four legs from a board of teak or similar material.

 
   

1. The design is drawn using software such as TechSoft 2D Design. This software looks basic but, depending on the skill of the designer, quite complex designs can be produced.
The example shown is the teak board with the table top and legs drawn in place.

   

2. When the design is complete the drawing is processed. This converts the drawing into a detailed series of X, Y and Z coordinates. Processing must take place before the CNC machine can cut the design from the selected material.

When the CNC machine cuts the material the cutter follows the coordinates, in sequence, until the various shapes have been manufactured.

     

3. Most CAD/CAM software allows the designer to test the manufacture of his/her design on a computer rather than actually making it. This saves time and materials. Testing designs is carried out using ‘simulation’ software (Boxford use ‘CAD/CAM Design Tools’ software). When the design is run through simulation software the computer displays the manufacturing on the screen. It also checks whether the design can be manufactured successfully. Many designs have to be altered before they can be made by a CNC machine. Here we see the software simulating the cutting of the table top and four legs.

 
   
After all the testing and improvements to the design, it can finally be manufactured on a CNC machine.
QUESTION:
1. Draw a flow chart showing the stages of designing a 2D product and it’s manufacture on a CNC machine. (See next Page for example).
     
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