The client already had a previously used cash draw which they wanted the new one to match with some added modification. The old draw was sent to us by our client where our first job was to obtain the dimensions enabling the cash draw to be produced into a 3D CAD format.
Using our CMM (coordinate measuring machine) several dimensions were taken on both the outside shape of the draw as well as the many inside pockets. From here the 3D model was created with in SolidWorks. Several modifications were required from the client for their new design. These were easily added to the model, with either screen shots or drawings within Solid-Works sent to the client for their approval of these changes.
The final steps
To double check both the measuring and 3D CAD was correct a 1:1 scale print out was produced of the outside profile and checked against the old part. Once everything had been approved the stock material could be acquired from one of our suppliers. A .step file was then created within SolidWorks to be imported into our CAM software PowerMill. This allowed our CNC engineer to create the machining tool paths.
With the design engineer and CNC engineer working closely during the design stage to ensure the ease of manufacture. This allows for speed and simplicity of machining while not affecting the quality of the part. The part was then fully machined on one of our many CNC machining centres. Once machining was completed the part was inspected to our clients’ original part and the new data ready for dispatch.
