2D OR 3D SOFTWARE?
We live in a 3D world and therefore creating designs in 3D is an important activity. However, many of the shapes and images we see and work with are 2D. True 3D design is an intellectually challenging activity (remember a computer screen is 2D, as is the mouse input - not that different to a pencil and paper!). Conceptually, often the simplest way of introducing the 3D product design is to start with fabrication, ie., assembling a product, (such as a box) from cut out flat parts. Much CNC manufacturing in schools will necessarily be 2D, eg., cutting and routing, due to material cost and manufacturing times. In practice 3D and 2D data formats, structures, etc., are inherently very different, so it is difficult to make software work effectively in both. We therefore tend to split 2D and 3D design activities by software type (eg., designing a bottle label is best done on 2D software, designing the bottle is probably best done on 3D software). However, there is a lot of overlap and images can often be transferred from 2D software to 3D and visa versa, to utilise the strengths of each type.

In practice in schools, it probably pays to concentrate on 2D design and 3D assembly for younger children, and to think of true 3D design as an activity for older, more able children.

WHAT CNC EQUIPMENT DO I NEED?
There are primarily six main types of CNC systems in use in schools: knife cutting systems, milling/routing systems, laser cutters, 3D printers, computerised embroidery systems and Image Transfer systems.

The simplest and cheapest access point to CAD/CAM is knife cutting. Text and simple designs can quickly be created by even the most inexperienced pupils. Vinyl signs, decals, and logos applied to products, will provide an instant enhancement to the quality of finish. Recent developments mean that these machines can also be used for print/cut activities. Designs can be printed out on a standard colour printer or an Image Transfer printer, then put into the cutter for cutting out. This means that designs can easily be made into professional quality full colour decals, logos, tags, labels, garment decoration, etc.

The low cost entry into cutting is the Roland STIKA and the Graphtec Craft ROBO - TS. Both are great for all schools at all levels (including primary).

For schools on a tight budget or for larger primary schools a new mid size machine from Graphtec, the Craft ROBO - TS Pro II may be an attractive proposition.

The standard cutter for secondary schools, however, is the CAMM 1 (current model the GX-24E). These large, fast, powerful machines cut heavier materials such as card (great for full colour packaging for example).

TechSoft also supply a larger more specialist cutter with a built in print head (Roland VersaCAMM).

Milling and routing are key CNC activities. Miller/routers can be used for cutting out and profiling in sheet and block materials, and also for subtractive rapid prototyping of 3D objects. All schools should have some provision for this type of work.

The first choice for most schools is the RotoCAMM MDX-40E. This machine has a generous working envelope, easy setup and operation, the ability to cut a wide range of workshop materials and full 3D capability. With the additional options of a self-centering vice for producing full 3D objects, a rotary 4th axis for fully automatic production of 3D objects, and even a 3D scanner head, the MDX-40E is truly a great all rounder at an amazingly low price, and is one of the great workhorses of schools’ CAD/CAM.

To get started in CNC milling, or for individual project work, the MODELA MDX-15E/20E and EGX-350E are ideal. MODELAs are designed primarily for 3D and the EGX-350E for engraving, but with TechSoft’s enhancements, both make excellent light millers. It is worth noting that the EGX-350E has twice the bed size and four times the XY feedrate of an MDX-20E, for not much more cost.

For more ambitious users (or those with bigger budgets), the Roland MODELA PRO II MDX-540E is a large blisteringly fast servo driven machine. It is the state of the art for subtractive rapid prototyping, and must be the top choice for serious 3D design work.

For those who need large scale routing capability TechSoft have the new RouterCAM range. These machines have very large machining envelopes and powerful commercial router heads. They will appeal to users who want to produce large scale projects such as full size furniture, whilst still wanting to maintain a 3D capability.

2D DESIGN has been created specifically to be used in schools. It is now accepted as the standard educational graphic design and draughting product, being in use in over 5000 U.K. schools. It is sophisticated yet easy to use. The ability to be user-configured means that it can be used from year 7 through to A level and beyond. The built-in drivers for CNC equipment mean that it is at the heart of the vast majority of CAD/CAM systems in use in UK schools. TechSoft recommend that the software is used as the core drawing program for the entire school. This will maximise students’ exposure to it and hence reduce the Design and Technology teaching burden. A Student License allows pupils to use the software at home, radically increasing access times.

All Roland’s milling systems come complete with a suite of free software applications. For true 3D Design, Roland’s 3D Engrave is a good starting point. This allows simple shapes to be drawn then “popped up” into 3D. Shapes can be added and subtracted to build up complex shapes as desired.

WHAT ABOUT PRIMARY SCHOOLS?
It is important that children learn the principles of design drawing as young as possible. Therefore, a low cost simplified drawing program, Design Tools - Primary Design, has been created specifically for KS2 pupils. This also provides a natural path of progression as children move from Primary to Secondary, thus helping to bridge the KS2/3 divide in D&T. Of course the data is fully transferable so that students designing in primary schools can have their products manufactured in their secondary school. Many primary schools have already gone one step further and have bought their own STIKA - ideal for primary CAD/CAM.