Course Description:

This course delves into CATIA (Computer Aided Three-Dimensional Interactive Application), a leading software suite for CAD, CAM, and CAE developed by Dassault Systèmes. The program focuses on equipping students with the skills to design, simulate, and analyze complex mechanical systems and products. From conceptual sketches to detailed parts and assemblies, this course covers the full spectrum of CATIA’s capabilities.

Course Objectives:

To provide comprehensive training in the use of CATIA for 3D mechanical design and engineering.

To develop proficiency in creating and managing detailed parts and complex assemblies.

To prepare students for industry applications of CATIA in mechanical design, aerospace, automotive, and other fields.

Introduction to CATIA • Overview of CATIA's interface and core functionalities • Project setup and file management • Basic sketching and 3D part modeling • Customizing the workspace and toolbars
Advanced Part Design • Detailed 3D part modeling techniques • Working with advanced features: lofts, sweeps, and fillets • Parametric and feature-based design principles • Managing part configurations and variants
Assembly Design and Management • Creating and managing complex assemblies • Applying assembly constraints and mates • Using advanced assembly features (e.g., interference checking, kinematics) • Exploded views and assembly sequences
Surface and Sheet Metal Design • Introduction to surface modeling in CATIA • Creating and editing complex surfaces • Basics of sheet metal design: bends, flanges, and cutouts • Converting solid parts to sheet metal designs
Detailed Drawing and Documentation • Generating 2D drawings from 3D models • Adding dimensions, annotations, and tolerances • Creating and managing drawing templates and standards • Bill of Materials (BOM) and design tables
Final Project and Review • Capstone project: Complete a comprehensive mechanical design and analysis • Peer review and presentation of projects • Course summary and Q&A
Assessment Methods: • Weekly quizzes and practical assignments. • Mid-term project evaluation. • Final capstone project presentation and report.

Learning Outcomes:

By the end of this course, students will be able to:

Navigate the CATIA interface and utilize its advanced design and engineering tools.

Create and modify complex 3D models and assemblies with precision.

Generate detailed 2D drawings and technical documentation from 3D designs.

Perform simulations to test and validate mechanical properties and behaviors.

Apply CATIA's tools for surface modeling and sheet metal design.

Integrate CATIA into broader engineering workflows and collaborate on multidisciplinary projects.