If you design a part in Solidworks it can be saved as an Iges,Sat,or Parasolid file and then Mastercam can generate a part and code can be produced for CNC. We have Autocad, Unigraphics and Mastercam that I use. I started off by learning G code which is fine for 2d work but when you get into 3d and machining with 3 or more axis simultaneously you have to have some kind of CAM software.

 

That's along the lines of what we did in my class, but for ProE. You draw the part, then you have to do machining/manufacturing ops to tell the CNC what to do. You have to tell it what tool, feedrate, rapt to depth, rpm, path etc. Then after you tell the tool(s) where to go and what to do, it converts it to g-code. But it's usually not right. At least for me its not, you have to run through it with a fine tooth comb. I learned a lot in that class, it was only a 200 level class, and they canceled due to budget cuts.

Anyway, that's really awesome your high school has a CAD class. I thought you were talking college. I wish mine had that! Very cool man, good luck!

 

Anyway, that's really awesome your high school has a CAD class. I thought you were talking college. I wish mine had that! Very cool man, good luck![/QUOTE]


I am 51 an old fart lol

 

I am 51 and old fart lol