Learning Targets
- Create or revise CAD parts connected to the prototype plan.
- Use dimensions and constraints to control part geometry.
- Check parts for fit, manufacturability, and prototype purpose.
IED Unit 5 • Lesson 5.8
CAD Modeling and Prototype Part Development
Focus question: How do engineers turn a fabrication plan into accurate parts that can be built, assembled, and tested?
Mission Briefing
Today’s Plan
Use this page with the lesson presentation, your engineering notebook, and the tools or evidence assigned for Develop Accurate Prototype Parts.
Success Looks Like
You can develop CAD parts or fabrication drawings that support the capstone prototype.
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Opening Prompt
How do engineers turn a fabrication plan into accurate parts that can be built, assembled, and tested?
Connect your response to the decision, evidence, or quality standard required for Develop Accurate Prototype Parts.
Reveal: useful engineering move
This lesson is ready to move forward when the evidence meets this standard: The developed parts match the approved concept and can be fabricated and assembled using the planned process.
Core Skill
What We Are Practicing
CAD parts should support the prototype function, not just look complete.
Dimensions and constraints protect design intent.
A part should be reviewed before it is fabricated or integrated.
Your Task
Develop Accurate Prototype Parts
Create the CAD models, fabrication drawings, or templates required by the approved build plan and check their interfaces.
- Create or revise the assigned part geometry.
- Apply critical dimensions and material thicknesses.
- Check fit between connected parts or subsystems.
- Prepare the files or drawings for fabrication.
Quality check: The developed parts match the approved concept and can be fabricated and assembled using the planned process.
Lesson Interactive
Build a Stable CAD Feature Sequence
Arrange the features so dependent geometry references stable parents and finishing details do not break earlier features.
- Add fillets and chamfers
- Create the primary cut and mounting hole
- Model the fully constrained base form
- Pattern repeated holes from the original feature
CAD quality rule
Stable parent geometry should be created before features that depend on it. Cosmetic finishing features are usually safest near the end.
Use the arrows to create a robust parametric sequence.
What You Will Submit
Prototype Part Package
Submission standard: The developed parts match the approved concept and can be fabricated and assembled using the planned process.
Resources
Lesson Resources
Lesson 5.8 PowerPoint
Use the lesson slides for guided practice, interactive checks, and the exit ticket.
Introduction to Engineering Design
Return to the IED course hub for units, resources, certifications, and current course information.