Initial Proposal

Justification

Current technology consists of CAD/CAM systems and CNC machines with different program codes. In order to program the CNC machine to machine the desired part, a program must be composed of the CNC language. Modern CAD systems, although containing CAM abilities, create a program code to display the CNC process, but it differs from that of the CNC machine. As a result, the CAD/CAM created code cannot be utilized by the CNC machine. Integration between the CAD/CAM program and the CNC machine language is needed to improve accuracy and decrease development time. Current CNC machining practice requires a dry run through the program to ensure a correct program. The integration of the CAD/CAM systems and the CNC machine will eliminate the need for dry runs.

Objectives

To create documentation, machining specimens, and a computer program to complete the integration of CAD/CAM systems with a CNC machine. The transfer of data between the three CAD systems and with that of the CNC machine will be analyzed. A three dimensional project model will be created.

Basic Methodology

Familiarization with the CNC machine program language and the CAD/CAM program languages will be necessary to implement integration between the two. The team will need to become fluent in the CAD/CAM operations on all three CAD systems; CADKey, AutoCAD 13, and Pro/ENGINEER 18.0. It will be necessary to also contact personnel from all three CAD companies in order to understand their current CAD/CAM programs and any future projects they might have concerning the issue. An analysis of the current CNC machine computer hardware will also be needed to understand its limitations and capabilities. A complex test specimen will be created to test the integration of the three CAD/CAM systems into the CNC machine. The specimen will test various simple and complex shapes and also address wireframe models and surface data. Success will be based on accuracy, speed and reliability. The projection model will display the results from all three CAD/CAM systems. Documentation of all aspects of this project is vital. Should time permit, transference of data between the three CAD systems will be examined.

Work Planned

To be determined after conference with Dr. Zhang.