Computer-Aided Drafting (CAD) and Engineering Design With Autodesk Fusion 360

Welcome to the world of Engineering Design!  Students will learn about the Engineering Design process and how to use the software tools to design and modify product prototypes.  

Students will work on a project from start to finish to model and modify a desk lamp.  They will then learn how to combine the separate lamp parts into an assembly file and how to export the finished project into industry-standard design documentation.  Students will acquire hands-on computer drafting skills which they can use for post-secondary education vocational goals or as a component of further engineering studies.

Lessons will be introduced and modeled by the teacher on screen.  Students will complete the steps with the teacher with plenty of time to check for understanding and troubleshoot problems. Students are encouraged to sign on with two devices, if possible (one to display Fusion 360 and one for the Zoom meeting, but this is not required).

There will be printed and video instructions for each step of the project available as supplemental resources.  The instructor will be available extensively for questions, help, and troubleshooting during the week outside of class time.  Students will be expected to complete the week's assigned project steps, with the time given both in and outside of class, and will receive grades and feedback on their progress, if requested. They will be able to improve and resubmit any projects at any time during the class.  

Lesson 1 - Introduction to software interface, basic shape creation 
Lesson 2 - Import a drawing and create a sketch, convert the lampshade sketch to 3D 
Lesson 3 - Create the supporting arm
Lesson 4 - Create a 3D base using forms
Lesson 5 - Learn how to assemble all three parts into one design 
Lesson 6 - Create construction documents, learn how to render and export file formats

Students do not need any prior engineering or drafting experience, but they do need good basic computer skills and a fast internet connection.  We will be using Autodesk Fusion 360, an industry-standard cloud-based design platform, which can run on 64-bit operating systems on either Windows or Mac-based PCs.  The system requirements for the software are listed here:  https://knowledge.autodesk.com/support/fusion-360/learn-explore/caas/sfdcarticles/sfdcarticles/System-requirements-for-Autodesk-Fusion-360.html

Students will be able to get the software free of charge by downloading the personal version for this class. Students under 13 will need to have a parent create their account with Autodesk to be able to download the software.  https://www.autodesk.com/products/fusion-360/personal?us_oa=dotcom-us&us_si=856365d4-f7ab-4884-bc38-a0fc411b5e1e&us_st=fusion%20360%20personal