CAD-to-CAM Process Development
The transformation of product from manufacturing to production is always due to the use of 3D design, data tools, and 2D compatible drawings. As designers and production engineers use different tools to manage and design data — one uses CAD software to design the product and the other uses a CAM system to create tools. Both of these software requires data entry, translation, and conversion. During product development, differences can arise between the design and production teams. This lack of communication is a fundamental
problem solved by the integrated CAD / CAM platform. However, the positive effects of the CAD-CAM are far-reaching.
CAD focuses on product design or components. What it looks like, how it works. The beginning of the engineering process begins with the construction of the model; a machine design engineer uses 3d cad conversion software to identify their part, also known as a model, represented as a CAD data file drawing. CAD software is used to further filter the component, focusing on the construction of a component; this includes model revision and adjustment and importantly to increase productivity tolerance. In this phase, the engineer will also design a specific part of the mold, repair, or other necessary tools that will assist during
the process. Once the model is imported into the CAM software, the engineer or builder of the CNC system uses it first to prepare the machine model. Preparing a machine model involves:
● Review the model for any geometric defects that may lead to improper use.
● Create a set of machine links that you will follow during the process.
● Setting machine-specific parameters, such as traditional point, speed, and feed, material size.
Once the engineer is satisfied that the piece is ready for the machinery, the details are then sent to a designated machine to produce that part physically. The information is sent to the machine in a language that is detected by the machine such that the machine can convert the raw material into a finished part with one click of a button. A critical factor that underpins this enhanced design through workflow production is the standard data format and critical auxiliary communications. The integrated CAD / CAM system provides a single model that supports the design and product functions instead of having multiple file-formats, multiple data/conversion conversions, and various types of CAD and CAM. This more organized, collaborative approach incorporates the knowledge and experience of production workers at the beginning of the process where their input can make a significant contribution to identifying and addressing potential cost and production problems. Putting it first in a common visual environment is faster, less expensive, and produces better products. It also helps designers and production engineers to work more closely together, better
understand each other's ideas, and ultimately benefit from the growth of expertise that can encourage new ideas and innovations. Therefore, the combined benefits of CAD / CAM workflow include avoidable data translation,
secure data accuracy, uniform architecture promotion, less time than export/import, and more costly as it incorporates fewer programs.
The integrated CAD / CAM solution also helps to save costs due to faster development through production cycles, which speeds up construction through production cycles, saving time and money. Early identification of cost-
effective production strategies also helps to evaluate cost-effective production strategies and equipment at the beginning of the process, which can lead to significant cost savings. Low levels of waste disposal and recycling including solving geometric, cost, and production issues very early lead to eliminating unnecessary costs. Operating on an integrated CAD / CAM system also reduces the need for training and maintenance requirements and associated costs. If the component is built-in CAD, it must be uploaded to CAM. Depending
on the software this can be a simple process as both CAD and CAM are on the same platform and no import/export is required. Another alternative of this integration requires the use of separate, unified CAD and CAM software that creates a barrier to communication between design and production and thereby results in cost, time, and quality.
When using a CAD / CAM system that is not integrated with the flow of work and the continuity of the line then the CAD model that has been completed is handed over to the production engineer who must modify the file and translate the design data that can be read through the CAM program. If an error in the design geometry is opened in this section, the error will be returned to the design engineer who will need to resolve the issue, which requires a process reset. These changes often occur late in the process, adding potential
costs and delays.
The introduction of integrated CAD and CAM processes has transformed the engineering and manufacturing industries and will continue to transform the future of engineering. While the original CAD / CAM applications were reserved for special aerospace applications, today this amazing technology is available in engineering plants of all sizes.