| Computer Aided Design and Computer Aided Manufacturing Part-1 Introduction to CAD/CAM CAD/CAM = Computer Aided Design and Computer Aided Manufacturing. It is the technology concerned with the use of computers to perform design and manufacturing functions. CAD can be defined as the use of computer systems to perform certain functions in the design process. CAM is the use of computer systems to plan, manage and control the operations of manufacturing plant through either direct or indirect computer interface with the plant’s production resources. From CAM definition, the application of CAM falls into two broad categories: Computer monitoring and control . Computer Process Process data Control signals Computer Process Process data Manufacturing support application . Control signals Computer Mfg operations Process data The Product Cycle and CAD/CAM In order to establish the scope and definition of CAD/CAM in an engineering environment and identify existing and . | Computer Aided Design and Computer Aided Manufacturing Part-1 Introduction to CAD/CAM CAD/CAM = Computer Aided Design and Computer Aided Manufacturing. It is the technology concerned with the use of computers to perform design and manufacturing functions. CAD can be defined as the use of computer systems to perform certain functions in the design process. CAM is the use of computer systems to plan, manage and control the operations of manufacturing plant through either direct or indirect computer interface with the plant’s production resources. From CAM definition, the application of CAM falls into two broad categories: Computer monitoring and control . Computer Process Process data Control signals Computer Process Process data Manufacturing support application . Control signals Computer Mfg operations Process data The Product Cycle and CAD/CAM In order to establish the scope and definition of CAD/CAM in an engineering environment and identify existing and future related tools, a study of a typical product cycle is necessary. The following Figure shows a flowchart of such a cycle. The Manufacturing Process The Design Process Synthesis Analysis The CAD Process The CAM Process Design needs Design definitions, specifications, and requirements Collecting relevant design information and feasibility study Design conceptualization Design modeling and simulation Design analysis Design optimization Design evaluation Design documentation and communication Process planning Order materials Design and procurement of new tools Production planning NC, CNC, DNC programming Production Quality control Packaging Marketing Shipping Typical Product Life Cycle Typical Product Life Cycle The product begins with a need which is identified based on customers and markets demands. The product goes through two main processes from the idea conceptualization to the finished product: The design process. The manufacturing process. The main sub-processes .