CAD + CAM

What is CAD?

Computer aided design - the use of computer software to design new products in 3D.

What are some examples of CAD?

Fusion 360, Tinker Cad, Sketch up

What does CAD allow a designer to do?

Create, edit, view and move an object in 360, enabling visualisation. Can be sent to teams around the world for collaborative work.

How are CAD designs physically created?

They are sent to CAM machines

What is CAM?

Computer aided manufacture - involves using computers to control machines to produce goods.

What are the benefits of CAM?

Fast, accurate, and machines work 24/7 (unlike humans). Downtime and servicing must be considered.

How is CAM good for the environment?

Reduced materials wastage (cutting close to the edge, and only using necessary supports)

What is additive manufacturing?

Creating an object by building it one layer at a time (3D printing).

What is subtractive manufacturing?

Where an object is created by cutting away at a solid block of material (3D milling, laser cutting) until the design is achieved.

What can laser cutters engrave and cut?

Wood, plastic, acrylics, cloth etc.