Forums » Off-Topic Discussions
Learning about CNC machining prototype parts
-
Learning about CNC machining prototype parts
When it comes to making prototypes, the two manufacturing technologies most likely to be used are CNC machining and 3D printing. Everyone has their own understanding of what a prototype is, and this can vary significantly from one person to the next. For a word commonly used by engineers and designers, it is surprisingly ambiguous! In this article, we explore what's meant by 'prototype' and how CNC machining can be used within the product development cycle.Get more news about Prototype Cnc Machining,you can vist our website!
What is a prototype?
Everyone has their own understanding of what a prototype is, and this can vary significantly from one person to the next. For a word commonly used by engineers and designers, it is surprisingly ambiguous!We find customers use ‘prototype’ in a number of different ways. To summarise, we work with any of these common interpretations and others:
An early iteration of a design: as part of the product development process, the design will evolve through several iterations. Here, a prototype is any physical embodiment of a design iteration.
The first physical embodiment of the final design: if the product design has been developed digitally and/or with the aid of physical models, the designer may have a high degree of confidence. A prototype is made to prove the design or identify flaws that must be addressed before committing to series production.
The first and (likely) only physical embodiment of a part: this definition tends to be applicable in situations such as when building special-purpose machinery, or one-off test rigs or pieces of research equipment.
CNC machining can be ideal for producing any of the above types of part. With no need for specialist tooling and a wide choice of materials and finishes, the versatility of CNC milling and CNC turning comes into its own for prototyping.How many prototypes?
You might expect a prototype part to be a one-off but that is not always the case, depending on your interpretation of ‘prototype’. Maybe a prototype of a product is required for usability trials by a number of individuals or in a number of geographical markets. If so, multiple prototype products could be required.As well as CNC machining being versatile for one-offs, it also lends itself very well to the production of small batches. In particular, the technology’s inherent accuracy means part-to-part repeatability is excellent, which can be invaluable when prototyping.
Our two newest CNC machines are five-axis Haas vertical machining centres (VMCs), which are equipped with automatic tool changers, programmable vices and robots. Consequently, they can machine parts without an operative having to reposition the workpiece in the vice, and the robots can load blanks and unload finished parts automatically so the machines can produce batches of parts unattended.