Designing Concurrent Engineering and Computer Integrated Manufacturing into a Manufacturing Engineering Technology Program

摘要

To better prepare graduates for a rapidly changing global market place, Concurrent Engineering (CE) and Computer Integrated Manufacturing (CIM) concepts have been fully integrated into the Manufacturing Engineering Technology (MET) program at Western Washington University. Freshman students are taught solid modeling, design concepts and basic CIM in their introductory graphics courses. Geometric design and tolerancing is also emphasized. Sophomore students are taught the basics of CIM with an introduction to Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machining, data file translation and the production of real tooling and parts. Junior students have an entire slate of design oriented basic engineering mechanics, fluid power and CNC machining courses. A real shop floor atmosphere has been constructed for the CIM, CNC and Robotics classes. Donations from local companies have purchased a new Haas CNC vertical mill with an automatic tool changer, a new Mazak turning center, a new Brown and Sharp coordinate measuring machine (CMM) and a used ASEA/ABB articulated arm robot for the laboratories. Senior students complete their studies with courses in robotics and automation, CIM, quality assurance, advanced CNC and a capstone senior project with industrial sponsors. This equipment supplements the Adept Technology robot, Bridgeport vertical CNC mill and an assortment of manual equipment already in place.Team projects and concurrent engineering (CE) are emphasized within courses and within departmental projects. Manufacturing students interact with electronics and plastics engineering technology students, industrial design students and industrial technology students. This paper describes the development of the CIM/CNC/Robotics laboratory, the integration of CIM and CE throughout the entire MET curriculum, the faculty development accompanying such changes, the faculty team effort to make these changes, course changes and examples of projects exemplifying CE and CIM in the past year.