CAD Level 1 - Fundamentals

Learning Objective

Master the CAD software interface and navigation, create fully-constrained 2D sketches using geometric and dimensional constraints, generate basic 3D parts through extrusion and modification features, and establish proper file management practices for collaborative design work.

Prerequisites

None

Primary Resources

• OnShape Learning Center: Fundamentals Course
• FRC Design Basics tutorials
• OnShape mobile app for design review practice

Tasks

1. Interface Navigation & Setup

• Complete OnShape account setup and team workspace creation
• Complete OnShape Learning Center "Fundamentals Course" (Parts 1-3)
• Navigate all major OnShape toolbars and feature tree without assistance
• Customize workspace and shortcuts for efficient FRC workflow
• Demonstrate 15+ keyboard shortcuts for common OnShape commands
• Assessment: Navigate OnShape interface and demonstrate shortcuts to mentor in <5 minutes

2. 2D Sketching Mastery

• Complete OnShape "Sketching" learning path modules
• Follow FRCDesign.org "Sketching Best Practices" tutorial
• Create fully constrained sketches using lines, circles, arcs, and splines
• Apply geometric constraints (parallel, perpendicular, tangent, concentric)
• Use dimensional constraints and parametric relationships
• Validation Project: Create 5 progressively complex fully-defined sketches from FRCDesign.org practice library
• Assessment: Sketch a complex bracket profile (provided drawing) in <15 minutes with full constraints

3. Basic 3D Features

• Complete OnShape "Part Design" learning modules (Extrude, Revolve, Sweep)
• Follow FRCDesign.org "Basic Part Modeling" tutorial series
• Create extrusions and revolves from 2D sketches
• Perform cuts, holes, and boolean operations
• Apply fillets, chamfers, and draft features
• Use patterns (linear, circular) for repeated features
• Capstone Project: Design and model a simple FRC intake roller using OnShape
  • Must include: extrusions, cuts, fillets, and circular pattern
  • Follow FRCDesign.org mechanical design principles
• Assessment: Mentor review of roller design for manufacturability and FRC compliance

4. File Management & Collaboration

• Complete OnShape "Collaboration" learning modules
• Set up FRC team document organization system in OnShape
• Use proper naming conventions for FRC parts (follow FRCDesign.org standards)
• Practice version control and branching in OnShape
• Share documents with appropriate permissions
• Export files in multiple formats (STEP, STL, PDF, drawings)
• Team Integration: Set up shared FRC parts library with standard hardware
• Assessment: Demonstrate proper file organization and sharing to mentor

Level 1 Completion Requirements

• Pass OnShape fundamentals assessment (available in OnShape Learning Center)
• Complete all FRCDesign.org basic tutorials
• Submit portfolio of 5 progressively complex parts
• Mentor sign-off on interface proficiency and file management

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