Objective: Understand the CAD-to-CAM process and Unigraphics NX interface.
Topics:

• What is CAM and its role in manufacturing

• NX environment overview (Modeling, Manufacturing, Simulation)

• CAD–CAM workflow: part → setup → toolpath → NC code → simulation

• File formats and industry relevance
  Lab: Explore NX workspace and load a sample CAM project.

Objective: Prepare 2D drawings and clean geometry for CAM operations.
Topics:

• 2D sketching, constraints, and profiles

• Importing/cleaning DXF & DWG files

• Creating contour sketches and defining boundaries
  Lab: Draft a 2D part, clean geometry, and prepare for CAM.

Objective: Model CAM-ready parts and define machining stock.
Topics:

• Solid/surface creation tools (extrude, revolve, fillet)

• Datum planes and reference geometry

• Defining workpiece, stock, and blank size
  Lab: Model a simple component and define stock geometry.

Objective: Create machine coordinate systems and fixture setups.
Topics:

• Work coordinate system (WCS) and orientation

• Zero point selection, fixturing, and setup management

• Stock alignment and safe tool clearance zones
  Lab: Create a valid machine setup for a 3-axis part.

Objective: Manage tools and cutting data for accurate toolpath generation.
Topics:

• Tool creation (end mills, drills, taps, etc.)

• Feed, speed, depth, and step-over parameters

• Tool length offset and tool life basics
  Lab: Build a tool library and assign tools to operations.

Objective: Generate and edit toolpaths for different machining operations.
Topics:

• Facing, pocketing, contouring, drilling cycles

• Z-level roughing/finishing and freeform surface machining

• Entry/exit moves and collision avoidance
  Lab: Program a 2.5D and 3D part and simulate toolpath motion.

Objective: Generate machine-ready NC programs.
Topics:

• Post-processor selection and customization

• G-code/M-code review for different controllers

• Header/footer format and dwell/coolant commands
  Lab: Post-process CAM operations and inspect NC output.

Objective: Validate NC programs before production.
Topics:

• Toolpath, material removal, and collision simulation

• Machine envelope checks and tool/holder interference

• Verification reports and error correction
  Lab: Run simulation and verify stock removal accuracy.

Objective: Refine toolpaths and generate manufacturing documentation.
Topics:

• Feed/speed tuning and strategy optimization

• Generating setup sheets, tool lists, and operation reports

• Process planning and time estimation
  Lab: Optimize a toolpath for cycle time and output setup sheet.

Objective: Complete an end-to-end manufacturing simulation project.
Project Scope:

• Model a part → Define setup → Create toolpaths → Generate NC → Verify simulation

• Include facing, pocketing, drilling, and contour finishing operations.
  Deliverables:
  NC code, setup sheet, simulation screenshots, and short report.
  Outcome: Students gain complete confidence in automated code generation and verification using NX CAM.