CAD and CAM Software

Computer-Aided Design is a number or suite of computer software tools, which are used in such design applications as architecture, engineering, and manufacturing. CAD can be used for tasks such as creating blueprints of electrical and plumbing installations, to performing complex calculations to determine wind drag on new auto body design. CAD can also be used to create such things as landscape designs, as well as shoes.

Computer-Aided Manufacturing or CAM is the process of using dedicated computers to control, monitor, and utilize tools and machinery in manufacturing. CAM is used extensively in machining process and is achieved with the aid of either 2D and/or 3D CAD systems that graphically represent plant layout, as well as specific and detailed machine geometry libraries, and layout tools.

When you see of hear 'Integrated CAD/CAM' what this means is that the same brand of CAD and CAM products is being used. The process came about as an idea to assist engineers using CAD to draw layouts and then using CAM systems to program from these diagrams. The process was both time-consuming and inefficient as it created many areas that were subjected to human error. When CAM/CAD integrated software came about, it enabled the products that it designed to automatically be manufactured by the same products, saving time and reducing the risk of human error, thus becoming a more efficient process. In addition, companies no longer have to hire a third party to design or build the product as it could now be accomplished with the help of a CAD/CAM program in-house, saving the corporation even more money.

However, as perfect as CAD/CAM software sounds, it does have several disadvantages, the first being that in order for the CAD/CAM software system to be used efficiently, the programmer must have an extensive knowledge of each program. The second disadvantage, is that no mixing and matching of products is allowed, therefore once a CAD product has been selected, the company is stuck with the available CAM software without any other options. Therefore, before settling on a particular CAD program, make sure that you are as pleased with the CAM program that the software company produces.

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