1. “The evolution of manufacturing” Lesson 1

2. CNC : C omputer N umerical C ontrol; refers to a computer “controller” that reads instructions written in code that directs a machine tool in strategically removing material for the fabrication of components. CNC Milling Machine : a machine capable of simultaneous cutting motion along at least two axes, typically using an endmill as the primary cutting tool.

3. CNC technology as it is known today emerged in the early 1950s. The technology was developed for the military; machining helicopter blades by John T. Parsons. The first NC machines were hardwired; the parameters could not be modified. They were fed instructions via punch cards or tape. CNC machines were first applied in a commercial manufacturing setting in the early 1960s to help produce goods in high demand.

4. The boom of CNC technology came in the early 1970s with the introduction of affordable micro computers. Today, many different types of CNC machines are offered by multiple manufactures. There are milling, turning, laser, water, plasma & measuring CNC machines, etc. Many manufactures offer numerous variations of machines; some extremely complex which should be programmed and operated by experienced personnel.

5. Accuracy and Repeatability Contouring of Complex Shapes Simplified Tooling and Work Holding Decrease in Cutting Time Increase in Productivity

6. Milling Machines can be categorized by three main characteristics: Milling Machines can be categorized by three main characteristics: By the number of axes – two, three, four or more By the orientation of axes – vertical or horizontal By the presence or absence of a tool changer

7. Post processing refers to the process by which the toolpaths in your Mastercam part files are converted to a format that can be understood by your machine tool’s controller. A special program called a post processor reads your Mastercam file and writes the appropriate NC code. Generally every machine will need its own Post to produce code formatted to meet that specific machine’s criteria.

8. CAD: C omputer- A ided D esign; refers to the use of computer tools to assist engineers, architects and other design professionals in design activities. CAM: C omputer A ided M anufacturing; refers to the use of computer systems for the control CNC machines during the manufacturing process. These systems are used to simplify the machining and designing process. CAD/CAM Software: offers clean, easy to use and time saving methods for evaluating the design and manufacturing process, resulting in virtually perfect parts.

9. Mastercam has predefined toolpaths which allow machinists and engineers to create parts on screen and then cut them efficiently and accurately. Mastercam has grown to be the most widely used CAD/CAM package in the world, with about 136,000 seats installed. Mastercam is available in over 10 product levels offering a wide range of functionality.