digital design

DESIGN

using digital design allows a more streamlined process with a higher efficiency and accuracy. files can be shared quickly between manufacturers and clients. digital design has reduced the need for skilled labour and a loss of artisans. digital design has a high setup cost and requires training, it may also increase wages for designer and some times files can be stolen and copied

CAD is repeatable and quick, it can easily be shared to clients via email, it also has shortcuts to minimise wasted time, working drawings can have measurements automatically calculated and labelled, additionally different view can be generated simultaneously due to automation. over time hand-drawing has become less convenient

2D CAD can be used as an input for a CNC lathe, router, laser cutter, vinyl plotter cutter or printer, it allows for quick modifications using arrays, mirroring, undoing and scaling. You can also layer files to show integration and to hide elements

3D CAD can be done to show aesthetics, it also allow research and development to show clients and get feedback, they can also utilise VR to show products to customers. you can also easily change a 3D model’s colour and size, it is also quicker than a real 3D model

MAUFACTURE

using digital manufacture means a higher speed and accuracy with CIM. CAM allows more precision and consistency, with more control and an increased output, it reduces waste and increases efficiency, however it can take jobs causing redundancy

geometric code (G-code) can be used to give coordinates to control a CNC machine. laser cutters cut and engraved on x and y coordinates, there are controls for the speed and power to allow flexibility with different materials, it requires extraction but doesn’t require clamping/securing but it has a high precision and self-finishes a product

CNC routing can be used when a z axis for more detailed work, they can also be multi-headed to preform lots of tasks quickly, the work does need to be clamped and have extraction but it can create very intricate shapes

CNC milling can be done for complex forms, it can require a cooling lubricant for a better finish on metal and this can be used for complex shapes using different tools such as an engine part. this produces swarf as a waste product

CNC turning can be used for pieces with rotational symmetry, it can cut, bore, knurl and cut threads, this can produce swarf but is highly accurate

plotter cutting can be done to cut thin materials such as paper and vinyl, it uses a blade and pen to cut as rollers move the material, they can print, cut and score, this can be used of self adhesive vinyl to make signs