CME340 CAD/CAM
UNIT 1: BASICS OF DESIGNS
CO1: To Introduce and understand the Basic of Design.
1. Projections
Projections are methods of representing 3D objects on 2D planes. The two main types are:
A. Orthographic Projection
• Represents different views (top, front, side) on a single 2D drawing.
• First Angle Projection (ISO Standard): Left view is on the right side.
• Third Angle Projection (ANSI Standard): Left view is on the left side.
B. Isometric Projection
• A pictorial method where three axes are equally inclined at 120°.
• Helps in visualizing the object in 3D.
C. Perspective Projection
• Mimics human vision with a vanishing point for depth perception.
• Used in architectural and artistic representations.
2. Scales and Units
A. Scales
Scale is the ratio of the drawing size to the actual size.
• Full Scale (1:1) → Actual size
• Reduced Scale (1:2, 1:5, etc.) → Smaller representation
• Enlarged Scale (2:1, 5:1, etc.) → Larger representation
B. Units
• SI units (millimeters, meters) → Common in mechanical drawings.
• Imperial units (inches, feet) → Used in the US and some industries.
3. Geometric Dimensioning & Tolerancing (GD&T)
GD&T is a symbolic language used to define part geometry, allowable variations, and ensure
interchangeability in manufacturing.
A. The 14 GD&T Symbols
GD&T symbols are categorized into five groups:
1. Form Tolerances (Shape-related)
• Straightness – Ensures a feature is straight within limits.
• Flatness – Controls the flatness of a surface.
• Circularity – Ensures a circular feature is truly round.
• Cylindricity – Controls the roundness and straightness of a cylindrical part.
2. Profile Tolerances (Surface shape)
• Profile of a Line – Controls shape variation along a line.
• Profile of a Surface– Controls shape variation over an entire surface.
3. Orientation Tolerances (Angular positioning)
• Perpendicularity (⊥) – Ensures a feature is 90° to a reference.
• Parallelism (∥) – Ensures a feature remains parallel to a datum.
• Angularity (∠) – Ensures a feature is at a specific angle.
4. Location Tolerances (Positional accuracy)
• Position (⌖) – Defines exact location of a feature.
• Concentricity (◎) – Ensures central alignment of circles.
• Symmetry – Ensures a feature is symmetrical about a centerline.
5. Runout Tolerances (Rotational consistency)
• Circular Runout – Controls circular variation of a rotating part.
• Total Runout – Controls overall surface variation during rotation.
Special Characteristics in Engineering Drawings & Manufacturing
In Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T) and quality control, special
characteristics are features that significantly impact product functionality, safety, performance,
or manufacturing processes. These characteristics are typically marked with symbols or notes in
technical drawings to ensure strict control during production.
3. Types of Special Characteristics
A. Critical Characteristics (CC or ✱)
• Features that directly affect safety or regulatory compliance.
• Often require 100% inspection and detailed documentation.
• Example: Brake system components in automobiles.
B. Significant Characteristics (SC or ▲)
• Features that affect functionality but not necessarily safety.
• Require controlled process monitoring but may allow statistical sampling.
• Example: Gear dimensions affecting smooth motion.
C. Key Characteristics (KC or ◇)
• Features that have a direct impact on fit, function, or manufacturability.
• Require process capability studies and strict tolerance control.
• Example: Bearing seat diameters in rotating assemblies.
A. Symbols & Notation of Special Characteristics
Special characteristics are often marked with unique symbols in engineering drawings, which
may vary by industry and standards (ISO, ASME, Automotive Standards like AIAG & VDA).
• Automotive Industry (AIAG/VDA) → Uses CC, SC, and KC symbols.
• Aerospace & Defense (AS9100, MIL-STD) → Uses flagged dimensions, critical feature notes.
• General Manufacturing → Uses boxed dimensions, tolerances with process control notes.
B. Importance of Special Characteristics in Manufacturing
• Ensures safety & reliability in critical applications.
• Reduces defects & improves quality through controlled processes.
• Aligns with Six Sigma & Quality Standards (ISO 9001, IATF 16949).
• Helps in Failure Mode & Effects Analysis (FMEA) to identify risks early.
4.Title Block Readings in Engineering Drawings
A Title Block is an essential part of engineering drawings, providing key details about the
drawing, its purpose, and the organization responsible for it. It is usually located in the lower
right-hand corner of a technical drawing.
A. Key Elements of a Title Block
1. Company Name & Logo
• Identifies the organization responsible for the drawing.
2. Drawing Title
• Provides a brief description of the part, assembly, or system being represented.
3. Drawing Number (DWG No.)
• A unique identifier for tracking and referencing the drawing.
4. Revision Level (REV)
• Indicates the current version of the drawing; changes are documented with revision
letters or numbers.
5. Scale
• Specifies the ratio of the drawing size to the actual size of the object (e.g., 1:1, 1:2,
2:1).
6. Sheet Number
• Shows the current sheet and total number of sheets (e.g., 1/3 means sheet 1 of 3).
7. Date of Issue
• The date when the drawing was created or last revised.
8. Drawn By (DWN or DRN)
• The name or initials of the person who created the drawing.
9. Checked By (CHK)
• The name or initials of the person who reviewed the drawing for accuracy.
10. Approved By (APP)
• The name or initials of the person who authorized the drawing for use.
11. Material Specification
• Defines the material(s) to be used for manufacturing the part.
12. Tolerances & GD&T Notes
• Lists general tolerances and specific GD&T requirements that apply to the drawing.
13. Projection Method Symbol
• Indicates whether the drawing follows First Angle (ISO) or Third Angle (ANSI)
projection.
B. Importance of Title Blocks
• Standardization: Ensures consistency across engineering documents.
• Traceability: Helps in tracking revisions, approvals, and responsible personnel.
• Clarity: Provides all necessary information for manufacturing, inspection, and quality control.
5.Revision & ECN (Engineering Change Notice) Status of Drawings
In engineering and manufacturing, maintaining revision control and tracking
Engineering Change Notices (ECNs) is crucial for ensuring accurate and up-to-date
documentation.
A. Revision Control in Drawings
A revision indicates a change made to a drawing after its initial release. It is recorded in
the Revision Block (or Change History Table) on the drawing, typically located in the
title block or near the bottom right corner.
B. Common Revision Naming Conventions:
Letters (A, B, C...Z) → Used for small updates, preferred in mechanical design.
Numbers (0, 1, 2...9) → Used in electronic schematics or software-related drawings.
Combination (A1, A2...B1, B2) → Used in industries with frequent minor updates.
Key Notes:
The latest revision is always used for manufacturing.
Outdated revisions are marked "Obsolete" or "Superseded."
C. Engineering Change Notice (ECN) in Drawings
An ECN (Engineering Change Notice) is a formal document used to request, approve,
and implement changes in an engineering drawing or process.
D. ECN Process Flow:
I. Change Request (ECR - Engineering Change Request)
Engineers request a modification due to design issues, cost reduction, or manufacturing
improvements.
II. Review & Approval
The change is evaluated for feasibility, impact, and cost.
Approval is granted by the design, quality, and production teams.
Implementation in Drawing (ECN Issuance)
3.The drawing is updated with a new revision level.
The revision block and title block reflect the change.
4.Distribution & Communication
Updated drawings are distributed to manufacturing, suppliers, and quality control
teams.
E. Typical ECN Information Includes:
• ECN Number (Unique tracking ID)
• Description of Change
• Reason for Change (Error correction, cost reduction, new standards)
• Affected Parts/Drawing Numbers
• Approval Signatures
• Effective Date
F. Importance of Revision & ECN Control
• Prevents manufacturing errors due to outdated drawings.
• Ensures traceability of all changes for quality audits.
• Standardizes communication between design, production, and suppliers.
• Reduces rework and improves efficiency in the engineering process.
6. Customer Specific Requirements (CSR) in Engineering & Manufacturing
Customer Specific Requirements (CSR) refer to unique specifications, quality expectations,
and standards set by customers beyond general industry regulations. These requirements ensure
that products meet the functional, safety, and performance needs of specific clients.
A. Why Are CSRs Important?
• Ensure compliance with customer expectations.
• Reduce defects and improve product quality.
• Prevent rework and manufacturing delays.
• Strengthen relationships with customers by meeting their exact needs.
B. Types of Customer Specific Requirements
I. Design & Engineering Requirements
• Material Selection (e.g., specific grades of steel, aluminum, plastics).
• Dimensional Accuracy & GD&T (tighter tolerances than industry standards).
• Surface Finish & Coatings (e.g., anodizing, painting, chrome plating).
• Special Testing Requirements (e.g., vibration, fatigue, thermal tests).
II. Manufacturing & Process Requirements
• Process Capability (Cpk, Ppk) Standards (e.g., Cpk > 1.33 for critical dimensions).
• Supplier Quality Standards (e.g., IATF 16949 in the automotive industry).
• Specific Inspection Methods (CMM, ultrasonic, X-ray, etc.).
• Packaging & Labeling Guidelines (customized barcodes, RFID tagging).
III. Quality & Compliance Standards
• Automotive Industry (IATF 16949, AIAG PPAP, APQP, FMEA, MSA).
• Aerospace & Defense (AS9100, NADCAP, ITAR regulations).
• Medical Devices (ISO 13485, FDA 21 CFR Part 820).
• General Manufacturing (ISO 9001, Six Sigma, Lean Manufacturing requirements).
IV. Documentation & Reporting
• First Article Inspection Reports (FAIR).
• Production Part Approval Process (PPAP) submissions.
• Control Plans & Work Instructions.
• Traceability Requirements (Lot tracking, Serial Numbering).
C. Managing CSRs in Engineering & Manufacturing
• Integrate CSRs in Drawings & BOMs – Clearly document customer-specific
materials, tolerances, and quality checks.
• Use a Quality Management System (QMS) – Ensure compliance with standards
like ISO 9001, IATF 16949.
• Regular Audits & Feedback Loops – Conduct supplier and internal audits to
meet customer expectations.
• Leverage PLM & ERP Systems – Track changes and manage CSR-driven
revisions efficiently.
D. Industry-Specific CSR Examples
• Automotive (Ford, Toyota, BMW, etc.) – Require PPAP, APQP, FMEA, and SPC
(Statistical Process Control).
• Aerospace (Boeing, Airbus, Lockheed Martin, etc.) – Require AS9102 First Article
Inspection (FAI), NADCAP-certified processes.
• Medical Devices (Medtronic, Johnson & Johnson, etc.) – Require ISO 13485, FDA
approvals, biocompatibility testing.
7.Drawing Grid Reading in Engineering Drawings
A drawing grid is a reference system used in engineering and technical drawings to help locate
specific features, notes, and sections on large or complex drawings. It functions similarly to a
map grid, allowing quick navigation and communication of locations.
A. Purpose of a Drawing Grid
• Helps locate specific details in large engineering drawings.
• Facilitates communication among engineers, manufacturers, and inspectors.
• Used for referencing parts, views, or dimensions in design reviews.
• Aids in quick identification of revisions, components, and issue tracking.
B. Structure of a Drawing Grid
• The grid divides the drawing into rows (letters) and columns (numbers).
• Rows are labeled alphabetically (A, B, C, D, etc.).
• Columns are labeled numerically (1, 2, 3, 4, etc.).
• The combination of a row and column (e.g., B3, D5) pinpoints a specific location on the
drawing.
Example:
• If a revision note is at C4, you can quickly find it at the intersection of Row C and Column 4.
• If a dimension is marked at A2, you refer to the section in Row A, Column 2.
C. How to Read a Drawing Grid
I. Find the Grid Labels – Look at the borders of the drawing to identify lettered rows and
numbered columns.
II. Locate the Section – Match the given grid reference (e.g., B2) by finding Row B and moving
to Column 2.
III. Identify the Feature or Note – Look at what is inside the section, whether it is a part feature,
dimension, or annotation.
IV. Use the Grid for Communication – When discussing a specific part of the drawing, mention
its grid reference for clarity.
D. Applications of Drawing Grids
• Large Assembly Drawings – Helps in locating components and subassemblies.
• Revisions & Engineering Change Notes (ECN) – Revision changes can be referenced
using grid locations.
• Inspection & Quality Control – Enables CMM operators and inspectors to quickly
find critical tolerances and features.
• Troubleshooting in Manufacturing – Makes it easier to discuss issues and fixes with
teams.
E. Additional Enhancements
• Some drawings color-code or highlight critical grid sections.
• Detailed section views (e.g., A-A, B-B) may be referenced in the grid for clarity.
• 3D CAD software often includes interactive grid references for digital navigation.