Week 7: Digital Fabrication and Prototyping

What is digital fabrication?

Using computer-controlled machines to create physical objects from digital designs.

What is subtractive manufacturing?

Removing material to shape an object, such as CNC machining.

What is additive manufacturing?

Building objects layer by layer, as in 3D printing.

What is the role of G-code in CNC machining?

It provides instructions for machine tool movements.

What is CAM software?

Converts CAD designs into toolpaths for manufacturing.

What is the main advantage of 3D printing?

It allows rapid prototyping of complex geometries.

What is two-sided machining?

Flipping a workpiece to machine both sides.

What is SLA printing?

A 3D printing method that uses UV light to cure resin.

What is the purpose of slicing software in 3D printing?

To convert 3D models into layers and generate G-code.

What is toolpath simulation?

Testing CNC tool movements virtually to avoid errors.

What is photopolymerization in 3D printing?

A process using light to harden liquid resin layer by layer.

Why is support material important in 3D printing?

It prevents overhangs and complex structures from collapsing.

What are the limitations of binder jet metal printing?

It requires post-processing for full strength.

What is the role of MCUs in CNC machines?

To execute G-code and control tool movements.

Why is aluminum popular for CNC machining?

It is lightweight, machinable, and corrosion-resistant.

What is the difference between CAD and CAM?

CAD is for design; CAM is for manufacturing instructions.

What is laser cutting?

Using concentrated light to cut or engrave materials.

Why are vertical mills used?

For precise 3-axis machining of parts.

What is hybrid manufacturing?

Combining additive and subtractive techniques.

What are extruders in 3D printing?

Devices that deposit melted plastic layer by layer.

What is the purpose of heat beds in 3D printers?

To improve layer adhesion during printing.

What are some advantages of CNC over manual machining?

Higher precision, repeatability, and faster production.

What is the primary use of hollow extrusions?

To create tubes and lightweight frames.

Why are 5-axis CNC machines valuable?

They allow cutting of complex geometries without repositioning.

What is open-source 3D printing?

Sharing design files and printer setups for community use.

What is the difference between FDM and SLA 3D printing?

FDM uses melted plastic; SLA uses liquid resin and UV curing.

What is overmolding in digital fabrication?

Adding a secondary material layer to an existing part.

What is the main advantage of CO2 lasers in cutting?

Precision for thin materials like plastics and wood.

What is the significance of tolerances in digital fabrication?

They determine how precisely parts fit together.

What is the difference between prototyping and production?

Prototyping focuses on testing; production focuses on scaling.