Award Type:

Certificate from IWCC

Learning Outcomes:

Advanced CAD/CAM

Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:

1. Design and Model complex 3D components and assemblies using advanced CAD features such as surfacing, parametric constraints, and design for manufacturability.
2. Develop and Optimize Toolpaths for 3-axis and multi-axis CNC machining operations with emphasis on efficiency, precision, and surface finish.
3. Apply Fixture and Workholding Strategies to support safe and accurate machining of complex geometries.
4. Generate and Edit Post-Processed Programs for CNC machines, including troubleshooting and verifying G-code.
5. Perform Simulation and Verification of machining processes to identify potential errors and optimize production time.
6. Integrate CAD/CAM Data into real-world manufacturing workflows, bridging the gap between design and production.
7. Evaluate Machining Strategies based on material properties, tooling, machine capabilities, and economic considerations.
8. Produce Complex Parts that meet design specifications and industry quality standards.
9. Communicate and Document Processes using industry-standard documentation, setup sheets, and digital file management practices.

Educational Objective:

Vocational - The objective of this course is to prepare students to apply advanced computer-aided design and manufacturing techniques in real-world industrial settings. Students will expand their technical knowledge of CAD/CAM systems, develop problem-solving skills in multi-axis machining, and gain hands-on experience in toolpath optimization, fixture design, and CNC program verification. By the end of the course, students will be equipped to design and manufacture complex components, integrate CAD/CAM processes into modern production environments, and demonstrate the professional competencies required for careers in advanced manufacturing and product development.

Tuition:

$1257.15

Fees: Books and testing fees

Length of Course:

11 weeks long 33 hours total

Course Outline:

Unit 1: Review of CAD/CAM Fundamentals

• Parametric modeling and design intent
• 2D/3D part modeling and assemblies
• Basic toolpath creation and verification

Unit 2: Advanced CAD Techniques

• Surface and solid modeling for complex geometries
• Design for manufacturability (DFM) principles
• Assembly constraints and motion analysis

Unit 3: CAM Process Planning

• Work coordinate systems and part setup strategies
• Tool library management and cutter selection
• Machining strategies for roughing and finishing

Unit 4: Multi-Axis Machining

• 3-axis vs. 4-axis and 5-axis toolpaths
• Rotary and indexing operations
• Collision detection and avoidance

Unit 5: Fixture and Workholding Design

• Custom fixture design using CAD tools
• Clamping methods and safety considerations
• Integration of fixtures into CAM simulations

Unit 6: Post-Processing and CNC Code

• Post-processor configuration and editing
• G-code/M-code verification and troubleshooting
• Machine-specific adjustments

Unit 7: Simulation and Verification

• Virtual machining environments
• Detecting tool collisions, gouges, and over-travel
• Cycle time optimization

Unit 8: Project-Based Applications

• End-to-end workflow: CAD model → CAM setup → CNC machining
• Production of a multi-part assembly with advanced features
• Documentation (setup sheets, tool lists, process notes)

Unit 9: Quality and Evaluation

• Inspection methods (CMM, calipers, micrometers)
• Dimensional accuracy and surface finish standards
• Continuous improvement in manufacturing processes

Capstone Project

• Students design, program, simulate, and machine a complex part/assembly.
• Final presentation of workflow, design decisions, and finished product.

Admissions Requirements:

Year 1 Tool & Die

Attendance Requirements:

If a student misses two or more classes their employer will be notified that they have missed two classes. IWCC will also notify the company every time that the same individual misses any other classes. The student can work with the instructor to make up the class work and class time.

Instructor Qualification:

Instructor is registered, certified, or licensed in the occupational area in which the state requires registration, certification or licensure for the occupational area in which the instructor is teaching.