Skip to docs navigation

12.00 Introduction

On this page

Overview

In the design process, once a sketches and a simple prototype are made we assess our original assumptions by testing the prototype. In this case the prototype is a scale cardboard model. Seeing and holding the prototype will show strengths and weakness of the design that can be kept or corrected before final fabrication. The goal is to improve the design while making a 3D digital model for CNC fabrication. Additional user parameters will be used to make the model easier to maintain and edit. CNC fillets will be added in the manufacture workspace so the CNC router can clear out inside corners. Tolerances will be added so the parts fit together well.

Learning Objectives

  • Examine a scale prototype to test design assumptions
  • Write down parts of the design as well as needed changes
  • Translate a prototype / model into a 3D digital model
  • Make a robust parametric 3D model with multiple user parameters
  • Use manufacture model to lay parts flat
  • Learn about the ShopBot

Key Terms

Overview

We will continue learning parametric modeling in Fusion 360. Parametric modeling allows us to change our design depending on the materials that will be used to fabricate it as well as certain parameters that we might want to change for different users. In the previous project we learned about user parameters. We will continue to use user parameters in our designs and learn how to use formulas to make other dimensions driven by parameters. We may want to easily customize a design and fabricate it at a different height without actually remodeling everything. With parametric modeling we can set the height of a stool or table as a user parameter in our model and then have other dimensions of the design driven by that height. Simply typing a new value for the height will update the rest of the model.

Everything is not a nail, so don’t always use a hammer. We will combine 3D printing and CNC machining to focus on the strengths and weaknesses of each digital fabrication process.

Learning Objectives

  • Conduct design research on existing CNC fabrication and design solutions
  • Use ideation sketches and iteration sketches to design a structure for CNC fabrication
  • Understand the difference between laser cutting, 3D printing, and CNC machining

Key Terms

  • Parametric Modeling
  • CNC
  • Scale Factor
  • Prototype Model
  • Pocket Cut
  • Lap Joint
  • Mortise and Tenon Joint