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Orchard Park Central School District

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Computer Integrated Manufacturing (Project Lead the Way)

Welcome to Computer Integrated Manufacturing!

Computer Integrated Manufacturing (CIM) is a STEM course which starts from the ground up by teaching basic robotics and then microprocessors and programming.  Students learn about logic and analogue inputs and control circuits.  From this experience, the students model, design, test and fabricate a computer-controlled machine.  CAD models of the machine parts are used by CAM software, such as LaserWorks or MasterCAM used to generate numerical code that a CNC laser or router needs to fabricate the parts.  Some of the parts may be fabricated from CAD models utilizing a 3-D printer.  The parts are used to construct the microprocessor-controlled project.  This real life experience teaches teamwork, logical thinking and problem solving skills that are essential for the student interested in engineering.