CAD/CAM Systems -2

CAM utilizes computers in the control and operations of the manufacturing process. There are two main applications for Computer-Aided Manufacturing: Where the computer directly controls a manufacturing operation. Where the computer is used to support the manufacturing process, for example inventory Control and CNC part programming. The application most commonly associated with CAM is CNC part programming. Generally, the application involves either defining the part geometry or retrieving it from an existing file and then describing the tool path including the feed rate , coolant, and work holding. Next, the program is run through a process called post-processing in which a CNC file is generated.

A direct link between product design and manufacturing can be established using CAD/CAM software. Product engineers use a CAD system to establish the part geometry, dimensions, and tolerances. This design data can be transferred to the CAM system where the part programmers develop the CNC program to machine the part.

 A CAD/CAM system can consist of separate or integrated CAD and CAM software. For a system using separate CAD and CAM packages, transfer of drawing geometry using either direct or indirect translation is required. In this case, part geometry is first created on the CAD system and then transferred to the corresponding CAM system. After the geometry has been recreated in the CAM system, the programmer specifies the tools that will be used. Detail information for each tool, such as material, diameter, number of flutes, and length, will be specified (top of page). Next the order of the machining process will be established (above). And finally a tool path with proper feed rate information is provided (below) .

 Most CAM systems provide interactive graphic animations as above to verify the NC part program
.An integrated CAD/CAM system is a dedicated system that will allow the user to create product geometry and generate CNC programs all in one package. Data transfer from CAD to CAM is not required, and there is no data compatibility problem. This feature is important since it ensures the accuracy and reliability of the data.