With newer technologies coming up and changing the way we lead lives, there are many functions that have gone digital. The following article will discuss about computer-aided functions like design, manufacturing and engineering which make use of computer software to support their respective tasks.
About CAD/CAM/CAE
CAD/CAM/CAE is a branch of engineering. In today’s age where the business environment is highly competitive, it is important for a manufacturer to sustain error-free production and decrease the ‘time to market’ frame to outdo competition and stay ahead.
This has given rise to the need for efficient procedures that provide high-quality products within stringent development schedules at reduced costs. Here, Computer-aided design (CAD,) Computer-aided manufacturing (CAM,) and Computer-aided engineering (CAE) have emerged as useful applications for the manufacturers.
CAD/CAM/CAE plays a vital role as it starts from ideation and designing of the product to its development, analysis and validation. The process has become an integral part of a product’s development and lifecycle. The various features of the application allow engineers to create efficient products through data handling tools and better visualization.
Computer-Aided Design (CAD)
Computer-Aided design or CAD is the utilization of computer systems to support the creation, alteration, assessment, and optimization of a design. CAD is a three dimensional designing tool that develops 2 and 3 dimensional models that can eventually be made into a product. In the fashion industry, marker making and automated pattern design is done through CAD.
The main tools of CAD are –
- Mass property calculations
- Tolerance assessment
- Finite-element visualization and modeling
Computer-Aided Manufacturing (CAM)
Computer-Aided Manufacturing or CAM is specially designed for computer systems in order to plan and control all manufacturing functions. It is used on the direct as well as indirect computer interface with the factory’s production resources. It also manages numerical controls of the machine tools.
This is a training tool used for improving productivity. Those concerned for designing products and research areas can adopt CAD CAM as they both offer valuable support. All design focused production organizations and 3 D animation works require professionals with knowledge of CAD CAM.
Computer-Aided Engineering (CAE)
Computer-Aided Engineering or CAE is the use of computer systems to assess CAD geometry. It lets the designer simulate and analyze how the product will operate and allow for optimization.
The Components
The major components of CAD/CAM/CAE are the hardware and software that help in manipulation of shape. The hardware consists of graphic devices and peripherals for output and input operations, while software comprises packages that analyze shapes based on user interaction.
CAD/CAM/CAE Courses
For individuals seeking to join this field, there are various courses that can acquaint you with the technology and its usage. There are under-graduate courses like the three-year Bachelor of Business Administration-Computer Aided Management (BBA-CAM) or six-month long PG Diploma in CAD/CAM/CAE. There are also post graduate degrees like the two-year M. Tech in CAD/CAE/CAM and M.E. in CAD/CAM. Apart from this there are also many certificate courses available at various CAD/CAE/CAM institutes and coaching centers.
CAD/CAM/CAE courses offer bright career prospects in the following realms–
- Automotive industry
- Sheet metal industry
- Foundry
- Plastics mold making industry
- Pressure die castings
- Press tools / dies
- Reverse engineering
- Software developers for CAD/CAM applications
- CAD/CAM consultants
- Customization projects
Author bio: Devika Arora is a prolific writer who compiles relevant facts and analyzes the current state of affairs pertaining to the domain of education such as . She is currently writing informative articles, news stories and blog posts on CAD/CAM/CAE programs and institutes.
