Chapter 1: Intro to CAD/CAM

Computer aided manufacturing (CAM)

The use of computer technology in manufacturing planning and control, especially in functions such as process planning and NC part programming

What is the primary purpose of computer aided design (CAD) in the context of product design?

To support the design engineering function using computers

In the design process, what is most emphasized by CAD technology?

Enhancing information flow for design engineering activites

What does “design intent” mean in CAD?

It captures how geometry should update when design requirements change.

Poor parametric model

-Uses fixed coordinates

-Does not properly capture relationships

Robust parametric model

-Uses relationships

-Captures design intent

-Updates properly when dimensions / requirements change

What does modern CAD include?

Geometry, parametric & feature modeling, engineering, documentation, data

what is the basic CAD to CAM manufacturing workflow?

CAD model → process planning → tool path → post processor → NC / CNC Code → Machine Tool

CAE

stress, thermal, motion

CAPP

Operations, sequence, resources

CAI

Inspection, measurement, feedback

What is the CAD model → finished component workflow?

1. 1. CAD Model → dimensions, holes, fillets

• 2. CAM Setup → stock, fixture, WCS

• 3. Tool Paths → roughing, drilling, finishing

• 4. Simulation → collision, gouging, material removal

• 5. Postprocess → controller-specific NC code

• 6. Part + Inspection → machine, measure, verify

Digital Thread

Continuous flow of product and process information across the lifestyle

Digital Twin

Digital representation connected to physical product or process data

What are the 4 most important takeaways about CAD/CAM

-CAD is not just drafting, it establishes digital product definition
-CAM is not just G-code, it transforms engineering info into manufacturing operations
-Integration is the central theme

-Product information flows across a lifecycle

Why is CAD/CAM integration important?

It allows engineering information to remain connected throughout design and manufacturing, reducing:

-Redrawing/recreating information

-Re-entering information

-Revision mismatches

What do parametric and feature based modeling provide?

Parameters, constraints, features: Engineering structure