Boxford UK CADCAM Initiative

What is the CADCAM Initiative?
How do I become part of the CADCAM Initiative?
What other software and/or hardware will I need?
Training Course Details

What is the CADCAM Initiative?

It is a DfES funded initiative, managed by DATA, which aims to ensure all secondary schools have access to CADCAM by freely distributing 3D design software and ensuring teachers are trained in its' use. The two software packages that are currently available are Pro/Desktop (a 3D engineering solid modelling package from PTC) and ArtCAM (a 3D art based package, suitable for decorative work, from Delcam).

How do I become part of the CADCAM Initiative?

The following flow chart explains the sequence of events for joining the initiative.

	School wishes to be part of the CADCAM Initiative

	School decides if they wish to acquire software licence for Pro/Desktop and/or ArtCAM (Boxford can advise a school on the right choice for their individual curriculum needs)

	Teacher contacts Boxford and formally applies for the relevant software licence(s) (contact us and ask for a fax back form).

	Boxford formally accepts the teacher for training and arranges for a 90-day evaluation licence of the software to be sent to the teacher.

	On receiving the software, the teacher arranges to attend a Boxford training course (see enclosed information for course details) and is sent a Tutorial pack they must complete before attending the course.

	Teacher attends the Boxford training course and meets the required competencies.

	Teacher completes targets for curriculum implementation form and sends to Boxford.

	Boxford arranges for formal licence registration and certificate to be sent to teacher. Software License is a full 300-seat site license for school and home use by students and teachers.

What other software and/or hardware will I need?

The Pro/Desktop and ArtCAM software packages are powerful design packages, which do not have in built drivers for manufacturing devices. Boxford can provide a variety of manufacturing solutions for both those people with existing equipment and those with none. These are detailed as follows:-

I have existing CNC equipment.
Boxford can provide a software package called MiniCAM which takes a design from Pro/Desktop or ArtCAM and, through a question and answer Wizard, creates a machining routine to drive a CNC machine. Drivers for Boxford, Denford, Roland and other equipment are included. The cost is £150 for a site licence.

I have a Vinyl Cutting Machine.
Boxford can provide a unique Rapid Prototyping software package which cleverly slices Pro/Desktop designs and cuts them out of sticky back paper. The slices are assembled using a peg referencing system to create a 3D part. This method of manufacture is able to manufacture parts that are practically impossible to create by any other method. The Roland CAMM1 range is ideally suited to this method of manufacture. This method of manufacture provides a very cost-effective way of realising prototype parts.

I have no Manufacturing Equipment.
Boxford can provide manufacturing solutions to suit every individual need. CNC machines have long been able to machine 3D sculptured surfaces in a smooth and continuous motion and are ideal for manufacturing parts from resistant materials. For those on a limited budget, a complete Rapid Prototyping manufacturing solution can cost as little as £1500

Pro/Desktop, ArtCAM and 3D Manufacture Course Details

Tutors:	Paul Barraclough . . . Accredited Trainer Number A003 Steve Bowers . . . . . . . . . .Accredited Trainer Number A0 Nick Wallace. . . . . . . . . .Accredited Trainer Number A0
Dates:	Courses are held monthly with the number of courses per month being dependent on demand.
Venue:	Training courses are normally be held at the new Boxford training facility although on-site training anywhere in the UK may be possible if sufficient numbers are interested.
Duration:	Pro/Desktop - 2 Day Day 1: 9.30 am until 7.00 pm - Day 2: 9.00 a.m. until 5.00pm ArtCAM - 2 Day Day 1: 9.30 am until 7.00 pm - Day 2: 9.00 a.m. until 5.00pm Manufacturing - Optional 1 day : 9.30 a.m. until 5.00pm, follows avery Pro/Desktop course and is highly recommended. Note: Included as part of every 2 Day ArtCAM course.
Details:	The 2 day Pro/DESKTOP concentrates on teaching proficiency in all the software features available. Implementation in schools and general CADCAM issues are discussed. As part of the course, attendees are given a CD ROM containing example training materials and resources for use in school. Attendees will be expected to have a basic working knowledge of the software. The 2 day ArtCAM course follows a similar format to the Pro/DESKTOP course but also incorporates practical hands on machining using CNC equipment. Boxford has a wealth of 3D manufacturing experience and is able to offer this 1 day manufacturing course which follows on from the Pro/DESKTOP course. The course provides practical hands on experience of manufacturing Pro/DESKTOP files using CNC machining and Rapid Prototyping. CNC machining will utilise MiniCAM software (see above for details) and Boxford Mills/Routers. Rapid Prototyping utilises a unique low cost educational system called RapidPRO which uses a vinyl cutters and sticky backed paper to manufacture parts that can not be produced by any other method (see above for details).
Costs:	£200.00 for a 2 day Pro/Desktop or ArtCAM course. £100.00 for a 1 day Manufacturing course. £250.00 for a 3 day combined Pro/Desktop and Manufacturing course. Prices include a buffet lunch tea and coffee. A recommended list of local accomodation is available if required.