FOCUS ON CAD / CAM
Image : Shutterstock . com .
DESIGN FOR PRECISION
We highlight the factors to consider when choosing CAD / CAM software to meet your needs , now and in the future .
“ A CAD / CAM software package offers the functionality of both CAD ( computer aided design ) and CAM ( computer aided manufacturing ) software .”
Computer-aided design and computeraided manufacturing ( CAD / CAM ) software is used to design and manufacture prototypes , finished products and production runs of products . CAD / CAM applications are used to both design a product and program manufacturing processes . A CAD / CAM software package offers the functionality of both CAD ( computer aided design ) and CAM ( computer aided manufacturing ) software . Consequently , rather than using two different software platforms to create and develop a design , an operator uses the same software .
Design processes for CAD and CAM are unique . Although they are part of the same manufacturing workflow , their process is quite different from each other . CAD design is used , for example , by architects , construction managers and engineers and has replaced manual drafting . It helps users to create designs in either 2D or 3D to visualise construction , and enables the development , modification and optimisation of the design process . 3D CAD also enables more efficient sheet-metal processing by ensuring rapid and reliable workflow that moves quickly from the design process into fabrication .
CAM software uses the models and assemblies created in CAD software to generate toolpaths that drive machine tools to turn designs into physical parts .
“ CAD software is used to produce , analyse and alter two- or three-dimensional designs and models in a digital environment instead of employing traditional drafting methods . Computer-aided design software is frequently used by architects , engineers , commercial and industrial designers , and artists to create multi-dimensional drawings and models . It is commonly utilised due to the numerous advantages it has over manual drawing . CAD software is more efficient , provides more
3D models of sheet metal parts ( image : CAD / CAM Services ).
precise designs , interacts seamlessly with digital workflows and allows users to build a searchable and widely available library of designs and design knowledge ,” explained analyst , Emergen Research .
CAD / CAM prototyping
Experienced metal fabrication companies will utilise CAD and CAM prototyping to create accurate prototypes with minimal waste .
“ CAD prototyping accurately and precisely models a product before the metal fabrication can take place . Using CAD , designers can create vector-based drawings . These drawings display the products ’ size , shape and texture . Since CAD is done on a computer , the modifications are endless . You don ’ t have to
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