Integrating Rp Technology Into Tennessee Tech’s Design And Manufacturing Curriculum

Abstract

The rapid advances in computer technology opened new horizons for the faculty who are teaching in CAD/CAM technologies and will continue to do so in the future. Tennessee Tech University (TTU) took the advantage of this opportunity provided by NSF-CCLI-A&I program grant to adapt and implement successful Rapid Prototyping (RP) experiences, and educational practices that have been developed and tested at various engineering schools. RP capabilities affect the pedagogy in the core design and manufacturing curriculum. RP adds excitement and realism to the curriculum by enabling the students to build physical models directly from CAD data. The prototype communicates important information about parts, including engineering data such as fit and limited functional testing, labeling, highlighting, and appearance simulation. Undoubtedly, students who have an understanding of the realities of the relationship between CAD tools and design principles will be much more attune to the realities of the industrial standard in RP. TTU RP objectives have been implemented by integrating new hands-on laboratory experiments into two current junior level required courses; CAD for Technology and CNC Machining Practices. This paper will report the current RP curriculum enhancements accomplished in both courses.

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