Subtractive Manufacturing Design, Methods and Processes

This module will begin working with synthetic and natural materials focusing more on automated subtractive manufacturing processes and their design challenges/opportunities. Projects will involve the design and prototyping of product, for production, within time, budget, and user constraints. Studio work will begin with Computer-aided design & Computer-aided Manufacturing (CAD-CAM) processes, with more of an emphasis on the subtractive screen to machine processes for wood, metal, plastics and other synthetic materials. Design thinking and practical skills will also be applied to project work. This module will also focus on the skills required to communicate ideas to multiple audiences, applying learning from design history, with practical skills of visualising concepts and presentation skills. The projects will also expose students to time, budget and user/audience constraints.

1. Evaluate and specify a variety of synthetic and natural materials for use in product design, prototyping and manufacture

2. Apply design thinking and design skills to the solution of more complex design problems and product configurations

3. Appreciate the health, safety and environmental considerations associated with the materials and processes

4. Apply a variety of basic screen to machine machining and assembly processes to a variety of synthetic and natural materials

5. Design 3D models and prototypes involving multiple materials

6. Interpret and apply the product development process in terms of commercial and consumer products