CNC workflow from concept to finished part, help!

[Shaocaholica]

I've had some experience manually machining simple projects and I also have quite a bit of experience working in 3D packages but not CAD or CAM.

Basically, I want to make some custom CNC'd bolt on parts for my camera hobby. I just need to find out what software tools I will need, what books/tutorials I should read and what kind of files most CNC shops will accept.

 

[white light]

Here is a link to a very helpful site.You should be able to find all your answers. http://www.cnczone.com/forums/index.php

 

[modamag]

If you're doing lathe job then pretty much anything will do.
Most lathe shop manually input their G-code.

However, if you want to do complex part with curve, off angle, etc. I highly recommend using CAD packages such as Solidwork Unigraphics, or ProE. Most mill shop I know will take these or plane IGES files.

If this helps, my current workflow is as follows:
1. napkin sketch of ideas & rough dimensions
2. Solidworks modeling and finite element analysis
3. FeatureCAM / MasterCAM import & tuning
4. Wax / Plastic prototype cut & retune
5. Final part with production speed / feed tuning.

Have fun Shao

 

[precisionworks]

You may want to visit some CNC job shops & ask how they prefer to get the information. Some want nothing more than an AutoCad .dwg file, others prefer SolidWorks.

You might want to try first drawing the parts in 2D, using Solid Edge 2D Drafting (google to find the free download link). A really cool program considering it costs nothing. They hope that you'll like it enough to buy their 3D software, which competes with SolidWorks.

 

[Shaocaholica]

Thanks guys.