Week 7 Computer controlled machining

This week, I began to learn Computer controlled machining. I was very excited to make some simple furniture to sort out the messy desk.

Learning Objectives

Group assignment:

1. Introduction to CNC

1.1 What is CNC?

CNC (Computer Numerical Control) is a technology where machines are controlled by computers using numerical data. It is a type of subtractive manufacturing.

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1.2 Working Principle

The machine follows G-code instructions, which are commands that dictate the tool's movements and actions. Once programmed, the machine can run autonomously, reducing human intervention and increasing efficiency.

1.3 Common Materials

The commonly used materials include metals (such as aluminum alloys, stainless steel, brass, titanium alloys), plastics (such as ABS, polycarbonate, polyoxymethylene, nylon), wood (such as solid wood, MDF), and composite materials (such as carbon fiber reinforced plastic, glass fiber reinforced plastic).

1.4 Surface Finishing Methods

2. Types of CNC Machine

2.1 By Shape

2.2 By Axis

3. Applications of CNC Machining

3.1 Industrial Applications

4. Safety Training

4.1 Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

4.2 Emergency Procedures

4.3 Machine Safety

Individual assignment:

1. Draw Sketches

1.1 Start SOLIDWORKS
Open the SOLIDWORKS software and select "New" > "Part" to create a new part file.

1.2 Draw Sketches
Click on the "Sketch" button to enter sketch mode. Use various drawing tools (like rectangles, circles, polygons, etc.) to draw the basic outline of the furniture.

1.3 Add Dimension Constraints
Use the "Smart Dimension" tool to add precise dimensions to sketch elements.

1.4 Add Geometric Constraints
Apply geometric constraints (such as horizontal, vertical, tangent, etc.) to ensure the accuracy and stability of the sketch.

1.5 Complete Sketch
Click "Exit Sketch" to finish the sketch drawing.

图片草图

3. Build 3D Models

3.1 Extrude Operation
Select the recently drawn sketch and click on the "Stretch|boss" tool. Input the extrusion height (Thickness of board,12mm) to form the solid entity of the furniture.

3.2 Chamfers and Fillets
Use the "Chamfer" and "Fillet" tools to refine edges, making the furniture look more aesthetically pleasing and safe.

图片3D拉伸

4. Perform Assembly

4.1 New Assembly
Select "New" > "Assembly" to create a new assembly file. Insert previously created parts into the assembly.

图片;组装后的作品

5. Output

5.1 Export Model
Use "File" > "Save As" to export the model in different formats (such as STL, STEP, IGES, etc.), ensuring compatibility with other software or for 3D printing.

5.2处理成G代码文件
Use the "Drawing" tool to create 2D engineering drawings, labeling dimensions and tolerances for manufacturing and processing.