Giocattoli elettrici, con funzioni come il movimento, suono, e leggero, fare molto affidamento su prototipi ad alta precisione per convalidare design e funzionalità. Lavorazione CNC stands out as a key method for creating these prototypes, garantire che strutture complesse e integrazione elettronica funzionino senza problemi. Questo articolo analizza l'intero processo di lavorazione CNC per prototipi di giocattoli elettrici, addressing common pain points for engineers and manufacturers.
1. Pre-Machining: Progetto & Selezione dei materiali
A well-planned design and suitable materials are the foundation of a successful electric toy prototype. This stage focuses on aligning functionality with machining feasibility.
1.1 Demand Analysis & 3Modellazione D
Before 3D modeling, clarify core requirements to avoid rework. Then use professional software to create detailed models.
Demand Analysis Breakdown
| Requirement Type | Dettagli chiave | Impact on CNC Machining |
| Function Definition | Confirm functions (per esempio., gear-driven movement, LED lights, sound modules); select core components (motori, batteries, controllers) | Determines space reserved for components (per esempio., motor slots, battery compartments) in machining |
| Structural Design | Design appearance, parti meccaniche (gear sets, joint moving parts), and electronic layout | Influences tool path planning (per esempio., avoiding undercuts in joint structures) |
| Standard di sicurezza | Ensure no sharp edges; design anti-reverse battery structures | Requires precise chamfering (≤0.5mm) and accurate slot dimensions during machining |
3Modellazione D & Engineering Drawing Tips
- Software Choice: Utilizzo SolidWorks O UG NX for 3D modeling—they support modular design, allowing decomposition of the toy into parts (shell, transmission structure, electronic bracket) for step-by-step machining.
- Detail Optimization:
- Reserve 2-3mm extra space for electronic components (per esempio., battery compartments) to accommodate assembly gaps.
- Add anti-slip textures (profondità: 0.2-0.3mm) on handles and snap structures (tolleranza: ±0,05 mm) for secure assembly.
1.2 Material Comparison for Core Components
Selecting the right material balances performance, costo, and machining ease.
| Component Type | Optional Materials | Vantaggi | Disadvantages | Machining Notes |
| Toy Shell | Plastica ABS | Basso costo, facile da lavorare, buona resistenza agli urti | Low heat resistance (≤80°C) | Use high rotational speed (10,000-15,000 giri al minuto) per evitare che si sciolga |
| PC Plastic | Resistente al calore (fino a 120°C), durevole | Costo più elevato, prone to cracking | Slow feed speed (150-200 mm/min) recommended | |
| Parti della trasmissione (Ingranaggi, Alberi) | Lega di alluminio (6061) | Alta resistenza, leggero | Needs anodization post-processing | Use coolant to prevent burrs |
| POM (Ingegneria plastica) | Self-lubricating, basso attrito | Low impact resistance | No coolant needed; finish with 800# carta vetrata | |
| Transparent Parts (Windows, Lights) | Acrilico | High light transmittance (≥92%), easy to polish | Fragile, prone to scratching | Use ball head cutter for smooth surfaces (Ra ≤ 0.8μm) |
2. CNC Machining Stage: Impostare & Execution
This stage transforms raw materials into components, requiring careful machine selection, programmazione, and precision control.
2.1 Machine Tool & Selezione dello strumento
Choosing the right machine and tools ensures efficiency and accuracy.
| Machining Need | Recommended Machine Type | Suitable Tools | Tool Size (mm) | Scopo |
| Small Precision Parts (Shells, Ingranaggi) | Small CNC Engraving Machine (per esempio., 3018 Pro) | Flat Bottom Cutter (Roughing), Ball Head Cutter (Finitura) | Φ4-8 (Roughing), Φ2-4 (Finitura) | Remove excess material; achieve smooth surfaces |
| Complex Metal Parts (Drive Shafts) | Machining Center | Twist Drill, Taper Cutter | Φ3-6 (Drill), Φ5-8 (Taper) | Drill holes; create tapered joints |
2.2 Programmazione & Toolpath Optimization
- G-Code Programming: Utilizzo Mastercam O PowerMill to generate toolpaths. Follow a two-step strategy:
- Lavorazione grezza: Remove 80-90% of excess material with a flat bottom cutter—set depth of cut to 1-2mm per pass to save time.
- Finitura: Use a ball head cutter for surfaces (per esempio., toy shells) to ensure no knife marks—set depth of cut to 0.1-0.2mm.
- Parameter Setting for Common Materials:
| Materiale | Rotational Speed (giri al minuto) | Feed Speed (mm/min) | Depth of Cut (mm) |
| Plastica ABS | 12,000 – 16,000 | 200 – 300 | 1.5 – 2.0 |
| Lega di alluminio (6061) | 8,000 – 12,000 | 100 – 150 | 1.0 – 1.5 |
| Acrilico | 15,000 – 20,000 | 250 – 350 | 0.8 – 1.2 |
2.3 Machining Precautions
- Fixing & Posizionamento:
- Use double-sided adhesive for plastic sheets (prevents surface damage) or clamps for metal blocks.
- For symmetrical parts (per esempio., toy arms), use the “one side and two pins” method—position pins 5-10mm from edges to ensure ±0.05mm accuracy.
- Controllo di precisione:
- Maintain tolerance of ±0.1mm for plastic parts (per esempio., conchiglie) E ±0.05mm for metal transmission parts (per esempio., ingranaggi).
- For thin-walled structures (thickness ≤1mm), add temporary supports during machining and remove them post-processing.
3. Post-elaborazione & Assemblea
Post-processing improves appearance and durability, while assembly verifies functionality.
3.1 Trattamento superficiale
Proper treatment enhances aesthetics and safety.
| Component | Surface Treatment Process | Scopo | Parameters |
| Toy Shell (ABS/PC) | Levigatura (80#→2000#) + Spraying Matte Paint | Rimuovere i segni di lavorazione; prevent scratches | Sand in circular motions; paint thickness: 0.1-0.2mm |
| Aluminum Alloy Parts | Ultrasonic Cleaning + Anodization (Black/Silver) | Remove oil/chips; prevent rust | Anodization layer thickness: 5-10µm |
| Transparent Acrylic Parts | Lucidatura (1000#→3000# Sandpaper + Polishing Paste) | Improve light transmittance; remove scratches | Polish until surface is mirror-like (Ra ≤ 0.2μm) |
| Logos/Patterns | Serigrafia | Add brand logos or decorative patterns | Ink thickness: ≤0,05 mm; dry at 60°C for 30 minuti |
3.2 Electronic Integration & Assemblea
Follow a logical sequence to ensure components work together.
Step-by-Step Assembly (Linear Narrative)
- Mechanical Assembly: First install gear sets and joint moving parts—test movement smoothness (no jamming when rotated 360°).
- Electronic Installation: Solder motors, batteries, and controllers to the PCB board; fix the PCB to the CNC-machined bracket (use M2 screws, coppia: 0.3 N·m).
- Shell Encapsulation: Attach the top and bottom shells with snaps or screws—check for gaps (≤0.1mm) to prevent dust entry.
Functional Testing Checklist
- Mechanical Function: Test motor speed (per esempio., 500-1000 RPM for toy cars) and torque—adjust gear ratios if movement is too slow/fast.
- Electronic Function: Verify LED lights (no flickering) and sound modules (clear audio)—check circuit stability by running the toy continuously for 1 ora (no overheating >45°C).
- Safety Test: Inspect for sharp edges (use a feeler gauge: no protrusions >0.1mm) and test the anti-reverse battery structure (battery cannot be inserted backwards).
4. Post-elaborazione & Ottimizzazione
Refine the prototype based on test results to prepare for small-batch production.
4.1 Aspetto & Structural Optimization
- Appearance Repair: Fill small scratches (depth ≤0.1mm) with putty; use 3D printing to patch missing parts (per esempio., broken snap structures).
- Structural Improvement:
- Lightweight Design: Add hollowed-out areas (diametro: 3-5mm) in non-load-bearing parts (per esempio., toy body) to reduce weight by 10-15%.
- Strength Enhancement: Add stiffeners (larghezza: 1-2mm) to stressed parts (per esempio., connecting shafts) or switch from plastic to aluminum alloy if cracks appear.
4.2 Small-Batch Validation
- Replica Production: If the prototype passes tests, utilizzo silicone replica molds (vacuum pouring) fare 10-20 small-batch prototypes—this reduces CNC machining costs for repeated tests.
- Iterative Improvement: Adjust the design based on user feedback (per esempio., modify gear tooth count if the toy is too noisy; increase battery compartment size for longer runtime).
Yigu Technology’s Viewpoint
For CNC machining of electric toy prototypes, precision and safety non sono negoziabili. Yigu Technology suggests prioritizing modular design in the early stage—breaking the toy into small parts simplifies machining and reduces rework. Material selection should align with use cases: ABS is ideal for low-cost, non-heat-exposed shells, while aluminum alloy works best for high-stress transmission parts. Post-elaborazione, like acrylic polishing and aluminum anodization, not only improves aesthetics but also extends the prototype’s lifespan. Looking ahead, as electric toys become more intelligent (per esempio., adding sensors), CNC machining will need to handle smaller, more complex components—requiring tighter tolerances (±0,03 mm) and advanced tooling like micro-mills.
Domande frequenti
- What CNC machine is best for small electric toy prototypes (per esempio., 5-10cm size)?
Small CNC engraving machines (per esempio., 3018 Pro) are ideal. They offer high precision (±0,01 mm), are cost-effective, and can handle small parts like toy shells and gears without occupying much space.
- How to prevent plastic parts from melting during CNC machining?
Use high rotational speeds (12,000-16,000 RPM for ABS) and moderate feed speeds (200-300 mm/min). Inoltre, use compressed air to blow away chips and cool the material—avoiding heat buildup that causes melting.
- Why is “one side and two pins” positioning used for symmetrical toy parts?
This method ensures consistent accuracy across multiple prototypes. The fixed “one side” acts as a reference, while the two pins prevent lateral movement during machining—critical for symmetrical parts like toy arms, where even a 0.1mm misalignment can cause assembly issues (per esempio., uneven joint movement).