Table of Contents
What is CAD/CAM and why should a Ham care?
Overview of process
CAD Options
What is CAD/CAM and why should a Ham care?
Overview of process
CAD
Software to draw/design your model (2D or 3D)
Will leave you with some sort of picture/model file:
2D: Vector file – NOT bitmap
Yes: SVG, DWG,
possibly
PDF
No: JPG, PNG, screenshot, scanned paper drawing…
At least not like that: can be traced, inspiration, etc.
3D: SCAD, STEP, IGES, SLD*, F3D, etc.
PCB: Gerber (though you'll probably have a .BRD, .kicad_pcb, etc.)
Purpose of model: describe “outline” of what you've designed
Think home rendering
Tells us lots about what we want to build
“A panel of this by this, with a hole with this dimension here, and missing a square there with that dimension…”
Definition of shape and how everything is positioned relative to each other
No idea of how to actually
build
the model, just the (exact) shape.
Nothing about how to actually
get
a panel of that shape, or how to create those holes or missing squares…
CAM - Software to translate model into paths (cutting lines) - GCode
Often overlooked part of the process!
Not File/Print!
From home rendering to architectural building plans
Even detailed rendering doesn't care about (most) details!
Materials (studs, joists, wiring, plumbing, etc.)
Structure (How does the house stand up?)
Process (Need foundation, then framing, then surfaces, then finish)
Interference (Multiple items may try to occupy the same space!)
CAM not a generic process
Specific for each type of machine and process!
Additive:
3D printer (plastic extrusion)
DMLS (metal sintering)
SLA/DLP (light/resin)
SLS (light/powder)
Subtractive
Flat (2D / 2.5D)
Router (tool-based)
Laser/Waterjet/Plasma/EDM (non-tool-based)
Rotational
Lathe
3D (Extra DOF)
Mill
Each machine has specific details it needs
beyond
simple shape and dimensions
Specific path details
Machine capabilities/limitations
Material details
Speeds and limitations
Tooling details (size, shape, etc.)
Change the tool, literally change
everything
At this point, presentation becomes much more use-case specific
Additive (3D Printer) much different than Subtractive (CNC Router)
Machine, material, techniques, limitations, etc.
My perspective: desktop CNC router in wood or PCB
3D printing similar
concepts
but very different details
Purpose: to create detailed instructions
how
to build your model
Reflecting details of your tools and material as well as your model
Additive: Slicer
Effectively fill-in layer-by-layer
What is the footprint in this fraction of a millimeter layer? Draw it!
Not quite so simple: Overhangs, underhangs, support material, bonding
Other subtleties: direction of strength/shear,
GCode Sender - Software to take
CAD Options
3D
Free as in freedom
OpenSCAD (For us wierdos)
FreeCAD (For power-user types)
Blender (For artistic/graphical types)
Free as in beer
TinkerCAD (For a simple start)
OnShape (Great for collaboration)
I've got a budget and I'm gonna use it
The pay-for versions of the free-as-in-beer…
Fusion360 (Low-end professional CAD)
SolidWorks/CATIA/UG (Why are you even listening right now?!?)
2D
Resources:
https://www.craftsmanspace.com/free-software/free-2d-cad-software.html
Free as in freedom
Inkscape (For those used to graphics design over CAD)
QCAD (Includes some CAM functions as well)
LibreCAD (For power-user CAD types)
Free as in beer
NanoCAD (Legacy version is free but still needs yearly renewal)
SketchUp (For those who want easy)
I've got a budget and I'm gonna use it
The pay-for versions of the free-as-in-beer…
Adobe Illustrator (If you've got it, use it)