Design for Additive Manufacturing

Course Number:
MFG 240
Transcript Title:
Design for Additive Manufacturing
Created:
May 01, 2026
Updated:
May 01, 2026
Total Credits:
3
Lecture Hours:
0
Lecture / Lab Hours:
66
Lab Hours:
0
Satisfies Cultural Literacy requirement:
No
Satisfies General Education requirement:
No
Grading Options
A-F, P/NP, Audit
Default Grading Options
A-F
Repeats available for credit:
0

Course Description

Trains the skills needed to navigate and design in a digital 3D space (Computer Aided Design, CAD), and to ensure effective usage of computer technology that is essential to additive manufacturing (AM). Focuses on pathways to creation of parts for AM; a deviation from traditional CAD workflows. Audit available.

Course Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:

  1. Utilize CAD software to analyze and prepare models and model features for additive manufacturing processing.

  2. Assess model structure, material properties, and orientations for additive manufacturing.

  3. Summarize the fundamental differences in model preparations for additive manufacturing compared to reductive manufacturing

  4. Select appropriate CAD software to be used to manipulate models to be produced in AM workflow based on model geometry.

  5. Use CAD software to alter 3D models to improve their suitability for AM processes without impacting

Suggested Outcome Assessment Strategies

The determination of assessment strategies is generally left to the discretion of the instructor. Here are some strategies that you might consider when designing your course: writings (journals, self-reflections, pre writing exercises, essays), quizzes, tests, midterm and final exams, group projects, presentations (in person, videos, etc), self-assessments, experimentations, lab reports, peer critiques, responses (to texts, podcasts, videos, films, etc), student generated questions, Escape Room, interviews, and/or portfolios.

Department recommended assessment strategies:

  • Lecture and in-lab coaching and direct instruction.

  • Full class demonstration of skills.

  • Written exams.

  • Student proficiency through demonstration of learned strategies and skills in industry standard environments.

  • Job readiness based on performance.

  • In class lab experiments and testing using the scientific process with written result reporting.

Course Activities and Design

The determination of teaching strategies used in the delivery of outcomes is generally left to the discretion of the instructor. Here are some strategies that you might consider when designing your course: lecture, small group/forum discussion, flipped classroom, dyads, oral presentation, role play, simulation scenarios, group projects, service learning projects, hands-on lab, peer review/workshops, cooperative learning (jigsaw, fishbowl), inquiry based instruction, differentiated instruction (learning centers), graphic organizers, etc.

Department required course activities: Cooperative learning, lecture-lab based experiential learning, guided learning pathways, peer review, hands-on lab, simulation, simulation scenarios, oral presentations.

Course Content

Outcome #1: Utilize CAD software to analyze and prepare models and model features for additive manufacturing processing.

  • Model for additive manufacturing
  • Additive process specific geometry
  • Modify geometry for additive
  • Change challenging geometry
  • Create beneficial geometry
  • Meet design parameters with additive technology
  • Process / workflow creation based on tooling availability

Outcome #2: Assess model structure, material properties, and orientations for additive manufacturing

  • Geometry for metal additive
  • Geometry for polymer powder additive
  • Geometry for FDM additive
  • Model for differing materials and end uses
  • Model for production orientation
  • Model for structural orientation
  • Model for prototyping orientation
  • Model for existing additive equipment
  • Model for other facilities additive and processes equipment
  • Material specific modeling for additive processes

Outcome #3: Summarize the fundamental differences in model preparations for additive manufacturing compared to reductive manufacturing

  • Test model strength in real world with additive processes
  • Test model strength in real world with non-additive processes
  • Data capture for modification of models
  • Create model that utilizes additive strengths
  • Create model that utilizes reductive strengths
  • Create model that exposes additive weaknesses
  • Create model that exposes reductive weaknesses

Outcome #4: Select appropriate CAD software to be used to manipulate models to be produced in AM workflow based on model geometry.

  • CAD software for Solid Models
  • CAD software for Generative Design
  • CAD software for organic shapes
  • CAD software for lattices
  • CAD software for additive manufacturing
  • Determine CAD software for specific print modality

Outcome #5: Use CAD software to alter 3D models to improve their suitability for AM processes without impacting the intended use of the part

  • Change geometry to suit metal additive, SLS, SLA or FDM printing
  • Check models in end-use scenario
  • Orientate datums for additive
  • Change hole and fasteners to suit AM applications
  • Pros and cons of changes for additive manufacturing
  • Post processing as it relates to original CAD design

Suggested Texts and Materials

Use of listed Texts/Materials is not required unless so noted.

Department Notes

Safety glasses are required at all times in the manufacturing lab, and are provided for students. Students may also purchase their own safety glasses from a local supplier. Long pants and closed toed shoes are required in the manufacturing labs at all times. Appropriate clothing must be worn to work in the lab (no synthetic materials, ect.). Safety requirements are covered prior to work in the lab.