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Year 7 - Design and technology

CAD to CAM in Tinkercad

Prototypes with mechanisms: robotics and automation

Unit Summary

Pupils will model with paper and boards and learn about sources and stock forms. They will develop 3D computer-aided design knowledge and skills, applying this by designing and simulating mechanical systems using TinkerCAD.

Lesson Summary

You will learn to access, select and edit existing models and prepare them for 3D printing.

Key Notes

  • Pre-existing CAD models can be accessed, copied, and edited in Tinkercad using the gallery.
  • Designs can be modified by ungrouping, resizing, and combining parts to create more complex models.
  • CAD models can be exported and prepared for manufacturing through CAM.
  • Most 3D printers in schools use a process called fused filament fabrication (FFF).
  • Once prepared, the model is sent to a CNC machine, such as a 3D printer, which builds the object layer by layer.

Vocabulary To Learn

  • CAD: computer-aided design
  • CAM: computer-aided manufacture
  • CNC: computer numerical control
  • Tinkercad: an online computer-aided design application

Common Mistakes To Avoid

  • Any model can be 3D printed using fused filament fabrication 3D printing.

3 Quick Questions (With Answers)

1. Explain the lesson in two key points.

Pre-existing CAD models can be accessed, copied, and edited in Tinkercad using the gallery. Designs can be modified by ungrouping, resizing, and combining parts to create more complex models.

2. What does this key word mean in this lesson? 'CAD'

computer-aided design.

3. Correct this common mistake.

Mistake: Any model can be 3D printed using fused filament fabrication 3D printing. Correction: Design for manufacture rules need to be considered when 3D printing. Not all models are suitable.

More Lessons In This Unit

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