A Team-Based CAD Project Utilising the Latest CAD Technique and Web-Based Technologies

Abstract

This paper describes a newly created third-year CAD project in the Department of Mechanical Engineering at Bristol University which brings together the most current CAD practices and web-based technologies to provide a stimulating and dynamic learning environment for the students. The project involves the design of a machine that sorts chips of different materials. The main objective is to provide a complete and up-to-date CAD experience for the students. The CAD project provides the opportunity for students to practise geometric modelling, mechanism design, assembly modelling, product visualisation (simulation and animation) and product customisation in an active learning environment. It also teaches the students parametric modelling and how quickly and efficiently to build, visualise and animate a CAD model of a proposed design, with further customisation using CAD principles.