Computer-Aided Design and Manufacturing (CAD and CAM) Pathway

As the name implies, “Computer-Aided Design” is the utilization of computers to support engineers and designers in the design process. CAD is commonly used to create two-dimensional drawings or three-dimensional models of a product or system for students ages 13+. Specific to Aerospace, CAD can be used by engineers to create aircraft models and aerospace systems for demonstration, testing and commercial purposes.

Intro to Computer-Aided Design (CAD)

In our Intro to Computer-Aided Design course, students learn the fundamentals of CAD design and engineering drawing creation. This course prepared students to take the CSWA (Certified SolidWorks Associate) certification exam. A large portion of the course is dedicated to the fundamental concepts of 3D printing and therefore includes access to 3D printers so that students can craft and create their own designs. The class will also introduce functional 3D printing to have students create mechanical designs for real-world applications.

During the course, students will learn drafting and drawing techniques and gain an understanding of how to translate deisgns into the CAD environment. Students will work on various projects and exercises to improve their design skills and develop a thorough understanding of the software.

No prerequisites or prior experience is necessary for students to enroll in this course. All computer equipment and software are provided.

In this course, students will:

Learn the lifecycle of 3D printing including setup, configuration, maintenance, and best practices for reliable and consistent results
Learn how to create, design and produce real-world parts and models via 3D printers
Learn transferable skills for different CAD environments
Learn how to prepare to take the CSWA exam including a mock test that emulates the actual exam
Hone teamwork and collaborative communication skills

CAD Advanced (Computer Aided Design)

Prerequisite: CSWA Certification

This is the intermediate level of CAD and CAM. Students will take the basics of SolidWorks learned in Intro to CAD and expand upon them. Students will develop proficiency in advanced part modeling, multi-body parts, configurations, equations, and assembly modifications. Emphasis is placed on design intent and efficiently updating models to meet changing requirements.

Additional focus is placed on best modeling practices, mass property analysis, and real-world problem solving to prepare students for practical engineering and design applications.

The basics of MasterCAM will be introduced to compliment the designing skills students will walk away with from this course.

All computer equipment and software are provided.

In this course, students will:

Will have learned how to manipulate and edit advanced assemblies.
Configuration based model and assembly editing.
Advanced assembly mates and mass properties usage.
An understanding of how parts are go from the virtual design to physical parts using MasterCAM.
Have the opportunity to prepare for and attempt the CSWP exam.

CADx-(Computer Aided Design)

Prerequisite: CSWP Certification

This is the highest level of CAD and CAM and is the final course in the CAD program. Before enrolling in the expert course, students should have advanced experience in SolidWorks and be proficient at multi-bodied modeling, advanced sketching techniques, and advanced assemblies.

This course prepares students to complete four of the professional certifications needed to attempt the CSWE (Certified SolidWorks Expert) exam. This is the highest level of certification that SolidWorks currently offers.

Students will be introduced to manufacturing processes through the use of Computer Aided Manufacturing (CAM) using SolidWorks and MasterCAM to create a solid model, program a Computer Numerically Controlled (CNC) machine, and machine a part.

Additional focus on materials, strength testing, and design for manufacturability will be included in the course to prepare students for real-world application of their CAD certifications.

All computer equipment and software are provided.

In this course, students will:

Walk away with more advanced techniques and a deeper understanding of complex designs and assemblies
Work together on detailed blueprints and drawings
Learn how to use MasterCAM to be able to program and operate CNC machines.
Create parts from different materials such as aluminum, steel. Students will also be able to analyze and refine designs using simulation and real-world performance testing.
Prepare for and attempt 4 of the prerequisite tests for in preparation for the CSWE.
Prepare for and attempt the CSWE once the 4 perquisite test have been completed.

Lab Fees: $375 per semester/ $750 per year, Lab fee assistance program available by application available during registration (April).

Lab Fees Support: