A rapid design and manufacturing process of high-integrity components without final, three-dimensional models

摘要

A rapid design and manufacturing process of high integrity components without final 3D models has been presented. This process focuses on reducing 3D modelling time by using CAD/CAM software, high-speed machining and reverse engineering technology. The advantages of this process are that 1) the final 3D surface model can be generated in a significantly reduced time; 2) the manufacturing method has been considered in the design stage, this reduces the manufacturing time and cost as well; 3) reverse engineering technology used in the process provides an advanced metrology method to inspect geometrical errors and 4) a machined prototype provides designers visual observation, this makes it easier for designers to do 3D modelling. A real aircraft component was selected to validate the proposed process. It has been found that the product development cycle time has been significantly reduced. For the example component, the design and manufacturing time has been reduced about 6 months to 2 to 4 four weeks.