HAAS CNC
The Haas Tool Room Mill is a three axis, servo controlled, vertical CNC mill that uses an industry standard programming language to machine a part. It features a color LCD graphical interface, a 10-station automatic tool changer and the ability to do rigid tapping. It may be programmed at the control panel or off line through a USB port or computer network connection and internal hard drive. An intuitive tool probing system allows the machine to automatically measure tool offsets and locate fixture reference points.
The Tool Room Mill allows a student to learn firsthand the basic operation and programming of an industrial grade CNC machine. Its features also allow it to be used for advanced study in the field of computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM).
Motoman Robot
The Motoman SSA2000 is a six-axis arc welding robot that is interfaced with a Miller Auto Axcess power supply. It has a payload of 3 kg (6.6 lbs) and is currently the highest speed robot in its class. An integrated torch cable improves wire feeding and efficient design permits access into tight spaces. The arm is controlled by a Motoman NX100 controller which results in a machine which is well known in the industry for its performance and reliability. The programming pendant features a color touch-screen display as well as keypad control.
This robot will be used for classes in robotics and welding. Students will learn the characteristics of a robot and how it operates. They will also learn teaching and programming techniques that are used in industry. Since welding is the most common industrial robotic application, this will give students the opportunity to learn valuable skills and knowledge that are in high demand.
Dimension 3D Printer
Also known as a rapid prototyping machine, a 3D printer is able to create an actual physical model from a virtual part. The Dimension SST 1200es works by successively building up thin layers of a part using ABS plastic. It is used by product designers, engineers, and architects to turn a computer model into an actual part that can be used to test form, fit, and function. This allows proof of concept studies and functionally testing that only a physical part could provide. An advantage of the Dimension SST is that parts created by it are able to be sanded, painted, tapped, drilled, and even plated to give an accurate representation of a finished product. It is used mostly in manufacturing and design visualization, but also has applications in the healthcare and retail industries.
The 3D printer will be used in design courses where a student can turn a three dimensional cad drawing into an actual model. Previously, a student had to rely on drawings printed on paper or displayed on a screen to communicate their work. The 3D printer allows a student to turn their ideas and imagination into reality.