Papers by Keyword: Computer-Aided Manufacturing (CAM)

Abstract: As the manufacturing industry rapidly evolves with the emergence of virtual and augmented reality technologies, engineering education must adapt to prepare students for these advancements. This paper proposes a comprehensive framework for integrating Virtual reality (VR and Augmented reality (AR) into computer-aided manufacturing curricula at the university level. The framework outlines strategies for incorporating immersive technologies into traditional CAD and CAM coursework, aiming to enhance student’s understanding of complex manufacturing processes and improve their practical skills. By leveraging tools such as Siemens NX VR module and AR platforms, the framework facilitates a more interactive and engaging learning environment, allowing students to visualize, manipulate, and test designs in a virtual space before physical production. The study also discusses the challenges of implementing VR and AR in educational environments, including technical, financial, and pedagogical considerations, and provides solutions to address these issues. The results suggest that integrating VR and AR can significantly enrich the educational experience, equipping students with the skills and knowledge necessary for the future of digital manufacturing.

Abstract: Both to determinate the maximum diameter of cutting tool for a pocket, which is a common operation in CAM and feature representation, and to search an Optional Cutter Diameter Sequence (OCDS) for roughing, we introduce an approach using the Integrated Geometric Characteristics and Processing Rules (IGC&PR) algorithm. In IGC&PR algorithm, geometric characteristics includes accessible section (AS) calculated with rolling disk motion approach, ASs conjunction and narrowest convex hull for AS, also processing rules contains first cutting into condition and three AS index. Besides, the implement of this algorithm just needs simple geometric and mathematical calculation such as points, lines and vectors, rather than complex intersection computation and loop construction, which are needed in traditional methods (e.g., Offset and Voronoi Diagrams). As well, the AS computation can be used for machining cell building in further application. Finally, two examples are proposed to illustrate this algorithm, and the results show that the IGC&PR is implemented and tested successfully on real-world data.

Abstract: Tool cutting envelope (TCE) and tool path (TP) for planar profile machining are calculated at the same time in the presented work, using a novel motion method called Rolling Disk Motion (RDM) method. RDM method employs a rolling disk (RD) as the manufacturing tool, and considers the disk running around profile boundaries as cutting process. During this RD motion, RD center locus is just TP for profile or contour-parallel manufacturing strategy. Also, the track of point on RD contracting with the profile is just TCE. Furthermore, the RDM technique can find a further application in the study for uncut areas in machining domains. As well, the calculation of TCE, TP and uncut areas, based on RDM, are finished only by simple point transformations and arcs creation. Finally, an example is included to illustrate TCE and TP computation by means of RDM, and the result shows that the approach is implemented and tested successfully on real-world data.