SKCA 120 - Introduction to CAM

Credits: 3

Introduces the basics in computer geometry creation including line, arc, curve creation and manipulation. Gives a foundation to build on advanced CAD/CAM techniques. Instructs students on file transfer systems from CAD to CAM with emphasis on proper drawing techniques, including file type-save-transfer. Projects will be drawn, checked and created on appropriate equipment. Shows links between CNC machines on the shop floor and their relationship with the design process. Generates code from created drawings to be run on Computer Numerical Controlled equipment. Credit may be earned in CAD 120 or SKCA 120 but not in both.

Prerequisite(s): DRF 104 or DRF 105 or SKDR 101; and CST 103 or CAD 114 or permission of instructor
Corequisite(s): None
Lecture Hours: 30 Lab Hours: 30
Meets MTA Requirement: None
Pass/NoCredit: Yes

Outcomes and Objectives

Demonstrate the ability to draw a part based on a specific blueprint
1. Interpret blueprint symbols and relate their meaning to a specific part print.
2. Complete 2 and 3 dimensional part drawings for specified manufacturing applications.
Demonstrate the ability to process a part configuration into G and M code for acceptance into the controller.
1. Recognize printed G and M code.
2. Conceptualize the process of G and M code formatting and its function in the CNC process.
3. Explore the role of post processors and understand their use.
4. Evaluate the part configuration for transference into G and M code.
5. Generate G and M code commonly used in the manufacturing process.
6. Edit G and M code so the Controller can understand it.
7. Post part configurations out to respective vertical milling equipment.
Understand the relationship of CAD to CAM formation and processing.
1. Demonstrate the correct manner in which to hold down and cut a given part configuration.
2. Visualize the design intent versus practical machining ability.
3. Relate Computer Aided Drafting to Computer Aided Manufacturing processes.
Demonstrate a working knowledge of CAM's ability to create, modify, rotate, mirror and transform part geometries.
1. Create computer graphically generated lines, arcs and curves for a CAD/CAM format.
2. Manipulate and edit graphically created lines, arcs and curves for a CAD/CAM format.
Demonstrate the ability to create toolpath from CAD drawing
1. Identify tooling offsets and compensations to created part geometries.
2. Use simulation and backplotting as a verification tool.
3. Send the part configuration to a CNC milling machine controller and understand the transfer process.
Demonstrate ability to load NC file to proper machine tool for part creation.
1. Examine common tooling and set-ups used in the machining process.
2. Operate a CNC milling machine controlling.
3. Change tool values as needed to make the part.
4. Replace tooling as needed and requalify the machine after the tooling has been replaced.
Demonstrate the ability to load and export parts to optional CAD/CAM formats for further processing.
1. Identify various CAM Controller code formats used by manufacturers.
2. Create computer graphically generated lines, arcs and curves for various CAD/CAM formats.
3. Manipulate and edit graphically created lines, arcs and curves for various CAD/CAM formats.
Demonstrate the ability to print out projects and machine code.
1. Use problem-solving techniques to transfer the part blueprint configuration to workable machine code.
2. Print given projects in 2 and 3 dimensions.
3. Print out machine code for the project.