Computer Aided Design (CAD) is the process of converting a three dimensional object or idea into a numerical computer model. Computer Aided Manufacturing (CAM) utilizes numerical codes to generate a physical part. Currently, manufacturing businesses are integrating these two systems to shorten the product development process. The benefits of CAD/CAM systems include decreased time to market, lower development and design cost, and the ability to rapidly translate ideas into models. It is the integration of these two systems that allows the engineer to increase the rate at which high quality products are designed and produced. CAD allows a design to be produced with the combination of both the computer and the engineer (or designer). Historically, engineering designs were created using pencil and paper. Drawbacks to this system are immediately obvious. With the computer, the design can be formulated, modified, and transported at the click of a button. The CAD system is comprised of five different characteristics:
1. Creativity and Innovation - the engineer has the capability to create and control the design. Various parts can be worked on by the designer at the same time and comparisons can be made between different drawings.
2. Effective communication - the computer allows todayÕs designers to communicate, coordinate, and share designs rapidly by using the Internet and the World Wide Web systems.
3. Modification and Redesign - design modifications can be made easily with the CAD system and integrated into the design of the part. For example, the computer can detect design errors and can automatically make the corrections.
4. Incorporation of engineering analysis - numerical analysis can be done quicker and more accurately by the computer than the designer. This relieves the designer from performing time consuming tasks and allows more time for creativity.
5. Integration of CAM - allows the use of computers to manufacture components therefore, reducing the companies production costs while increasing productivity, flexibility, and quality.
The CAM system is usually coupled with the CAD system, and is sometimes referred to as the ÒCAD/CAM systemÓ. Industry has dedicated considerable effort to link the CAD/CAM systems. The system is linked by converting design data into digital form. Process planning is the first step in the manufacturing process. This process includes selecting manufacturing processes, evaluating tool and machine requirements, and estimating production costs.
The process of CAM is the production of a part utilizing a computer model. The CAM system could use G or M codes to define tool paths of Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machines. The CAD/CAM integration process involves the merging of two separate, but related, technologies.