SolidWorks

What is CAD/CAM?

Computer-Aided Drafting or Design (CAD) and Computer-Aided Manufacturing (CAM) is software that assists in the design, developing & optimization of parts. They are replacements for traditional detailed engineering. CAD enables designers to lay out and develop work on screen, print it out and save it for future editing, saving time on their drawings. As a general rule, one CAD operator could readily replace at least three to five drafters using traditional methods. Consequently, CAD produces benefits such as lower product development costs and a greatly shortened design cycle.

How does CAD/CAM work?

3D parametric solid modeling requires the operator to use what is referred to as "design intent". The objects and features created are adjustable. Draft views are able to be generated easily from the models. Assemblies usually incorporate tools to represent the motions of components, set their limits, and identify interference.

Any future modifications will be simple, difficult, or nearly impossible, depending on how the original part was created. One must think of this as being a "perfect world" representation of the component. If a feature was intended to be located from the center of the part, the operator needs to locate it from the center of the model, not, perhaps, from a more convenient edge or an arbitrary point, as he could when using "dumb" solids. Parametric solids require the operator to consider the consequences of his actions carefully. What may be simplest today could be worst case tomorrow. The CAD operator's ultimate goal should be to make future work on the current project as simple as possible.