Unit 23: Computer Aided Design (CAD/CAM)

The capacity to quickly produce finished components from a software model is now
essential in the competitive world of manufacturing. Businesses now invest heavily in
Computer Aided Design (CAD) software, Computer Aided Manufacture (CAM) software
and Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machines to facilitate this, thus reducing
product lead times. CAD gives design engineers the platform to creatively model
components that meet the specific needs of the consumer. When these models are
combined with CAM software, manufacturing is made a reality.
This unit introduces students to all the stages of the CAD/CAM process and to the
process of modelling components using CAD software specifically suitable for
transferring to CAM software. Among the topics included in this unit are:
programming methods, component set-up, tooling, solid modelling, geometry
manipulation, component drawing, importing solid model, manufacturing simulation,
data transfer, CNC machine types and inspections.
On successful completion of this unit students will be able to illustrate the key
principles of manufacturing using a CAD/CAM system; produce 3D solid models of a
component suitable for transfer into a CAM system; use CAM software to generate
manufacturing simulations of a component; and design a dimensionally accurate
component on a CNC machine using a CAD/CAM system.

Learning Outcomes
By the end of this unit students will be able to:
1. Describe the key principles of manufacturing using a CAD/CAM system.
2. Produce 3D solid models of a component suitable for transfer into a CAM system.
3. Use CAM software to generate manufacturing simulations of a component.
4. Design and produce a dimensionally accurate component on a CNC machine
using a CAD/CAM system.