• Grades: 10, 11, 12
    Credits: SHS: 1 per semester (2 total yearly)
    College: Possible to earn 3 credits towards an engineering degree at over 70 colleges
    Prerequisite: Introduction to Engineering Design also PREFERRED: Principles of Engineering
    Fees: $25 + additional fees to cover the cost of extra materials
    Teacher:  Mr. Mainhardt
     
    Computer Integrated Manufacturing (CIM), prepare yourself to take your engineering and Inventor skills to the next level. CIM builds off the Introduction To Engineering course and shows students how to build the models they have designed on the computer using cutting edge technology such as laser engravers and CNC equipment. In this course you will learn four major skills: how to build models virtually in Autodesk Inventor, how to machine models designed on the computer, how to program a robotic arm and how to imitate a manufacturing plant using VEX Robotics (Lego’s on steroids). This is yet another PLTW course that allows you to earn 3 credits from the University of Minnesota.
  • Unit 1 Principles of Manufacturing: Students will explore the history of manufacturing and understand how manufacturing components are interconnected within a system.  Students will learn to use input and output devices as a foundation to model manufacturing processes. 

  • Unit 2 Manufacturing Processes: Students learn about design processes, develop products, and finally how to manufacture products using the various tools we have in the Tech Ed area.  The following are some students projects that have been done in the past.

  • Unit 3 Elements of Automation: Students will create programs for a robot to  move material similarly to pick and place operations typically used in an automated manufacturing setting.

     
    Hydraulic Part feeder at the Saber showcase  
  • Unit 4 Integration of Manufacturing: Students will create a system that incorporates all they have learned in CIM, in order to make a product of their choosing. 

Important Links for Class

  • The following programs are used in this class and are available for free download, click the links below: