The focus of this guide is on computer-aided design (CAD) and computer-aided manufacturing (CAM), the latter of which is sometimes known as computer-aided modeling or computer-aided machining.
Although they are separate processes in a production firm, the trend today is to integrate them, as CAD/CAM, which is the use of computers to perform functions in design and production of products.
CAD refers to the use of a computer system to facilitate the creation, modification, analysis, or optimization of a design. The CAD system generally includes the computer, graphics display terminals, keyboards, and other hardware, while the CAD software is the computer programs used to implement computer graphics on the system, along with any applications needed to facilitate the engineering functions of the user's company. These applications might include a stress-strain analysis of components, dynamic response of mechanisms, heat-transfer calculations, and numerical control part programming. Of course, the applications will vary from one firm to another, given differences in product lines, manufacturing processes, and customer markets.
CAM involves the use of computer systems to plan, manage, and control the operations of a manufacturing process through direct or indirect computer interface with the manufacturing plant's production resources. The two main applications of computer-aided manufacturing. The first is computer monitoring and control, which refers to a process in which the computer is directly connected to the manufacturing process, either for monitoring or controlling the production. The second refers to manufacturing support applications, which are indirect applications in which the computer is used in support of the production operations, but without a direct interface between the computer and the manufacturing process.
Although the earliest efforts in computer-aided design were in the 1950s, and the term itself was coined in 1959, modern CAD software began in the mid-1960s with the IBM Drafting System, which provided more capability than the mere ability to reproduce manual drafting with electronic drafting.
CAD is mostly used for detailed engineering of 3D models or 2D drawings of physical components, although it can also be used throughout the engineering process, through the design and layout of the product, analysis of assemblies, and the definition of manufacturing methods and components. Modern CAD software allows for advanced rendering and animation capabilities, permitting engineers to better visualize their product designs. Through CAD, designers can layout and develop their work on screen, then save it for future editing.
There are numerous commercial CAD applications, including Alibre Design, AllyCAD, AutoCAD, Autodesk Inventor, AxSTREAM, BricsCAD, CATIA, Cobalt, IRONCAD, KeyCreator, MEDUSA, Modelur, Onshape, ProgeCAD, Promine, PTC Creo, PunchCAD, Remo 3D, Rhinoceros 3D, RoutCad, Siemens NX, SketchUp, Solid Edge, SolidWorks, SpaceClaim, T-FLEX CAD, TurboCAD, and VariCAD. Free and open-source CAD applications include 123D, BricsCAD Shape, BRL-CAD, FreeCAD, LibreCAD, OpenSCAD, QCad, and SolveSpace.
Commercial applications of CAM were in large companies, largely in the automotive and aerospace industries. The integration of computer-aided design with computer-aided manufacturing and computer-aided engineering has not eliminated the need for CNC machinists or machine operators. CAM packages are not able to reason in the way that a skilled machinist can. As CAM software and machines become more advanced, the skills required of a machine operator and CNC machinist will need to advance to that of a computer programmer and engineer.
Major CAM software packages include APT, Bobcad, BricsCAD, CATIA, Cimatron, ColorCAM, Delcam, EXAPT, FORAN System, MazaCAM, Machining STRATEGIST, Mastercam, MaterialCenter, MPDS4, MSC Marc, MSC Software, NC Graphics, NC-CAM, NTT Data Engineering Systems, Siemens NX, OrthoGraph, PowerMILL, PTC Creo Elements/Pro, RoutCad, Sexcoi, SmartCAM, SprutCAM, Surfware, Tebis, Tecnomatix, Vero Software, VoluMill, and WorkNC.
Topics related to CAD, CAM, or related technologies, software, and applications are the focus of resources listed in this category.
Recommended Resources
Distributed under the Eclipse Public License, ArgoUML is an open-source UML modeling tool, with support for standard UML diagrams, that will run on any Java platform. The application may be freely downloaded from the site. Installation instructions and user documentation are included in HTML and PDF format, and a developer wiki offers further information about the project for those who may be interested in contributing to its continued development. Screenshots are included.
http://argouml.tigris.org/
Founded in 1982 by John Walker, the coauthor of the first versions of AutoCAD, the company’s flagship computer-aided design (CAD) software used by architects, engineers, and structural designers to design, draft, and model buildings and other structures. Known for AutoCAD and other CAD/CAM products, the company now develops a wide range of software for design, engineering, and entertainment. Its products are highlighted here, including free trials, training, and certification.
https://www.autodesk.com/
Since 1985, BobCAD-CAD has been developing CAD-CAM software, offering CNC solutions for mill, mill-turn, lathe, router, waterjet, plasma, laser, and wire EDM machines, integrating computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing functionality into a single interface. Its chief products are its BobCAD software and BobCAM for SolidWorks, each of which is featured here, along with promotional videos, support services, training, and an optional free demo.
https://bobcad.com/
Developed at the US Army Ballistic Research Laboratory (US Army Research Laboratory) in 1979, BRL-CAD is a cross-platform computer-aided design system created to support ballistic and electromagnetic analyses, although it can be used for a variety of engineering and graphics applications. Available for free under a BSD License or the Lesser General Public License, the application may be downloaded from the site, which includes support data and documentation.
http://brlcad.org/
CAD/CAM Consulting Services, Inc.
CCCS is a provider of design-through-manufacturing solutions for engineering and manufacturing companies. Based in Southern California, CCCS was founded in 1993, its core product including Mastercam, for mill, lathe, wire, router, and design, as well as Mastercam for SOLIDWORKS, and a line of add-on products, from Port and Blade Expert, to Art and File Translator Tools, and Mastercam Mill0Turn. Brochures are available for download, and training services are available.
https://www.cad-cam.com/
Providing 3D modeling and CAD conversion services worldwide since 1988, CAD/CAM Services’ clients have included Boeing, Amazon, the US Air Force and US Navy, as well as state and local governments, offering 3D CAD services, 3D scanning, 2D services, and engineering, as well as providing four types of engineering scanners, which are featured here, along with its services, client testimonials and case studies, same CAD drawings, certifications, and awards.
https://www.cadcam.org/
The industry informational site offers information on integrated computer-aided design (CAD) and computer-aided manufacture (CAM) software, discussing the reasons for the implementation of CAD/CAM technology into a CNC machining workflow process, and suggestions on choosing the right CAD/CAM software, including an offer for a free downloadable booklet on choosing a CAD/CAM product. Educational articles and videos are included.
http://cadcamsoftware.com/
Hosted by CAD Studio, the interactive online forum allows members to discuss Autodesk products, such as AutoCAD, LT, Inventor, Revit, Civil 3D, Map, and others, along with tips and tricks for the use of Autodesk and HP products. While anyone can read posted content, participation requires registration with the site and log in. Other resources include CAD file downloads, CAD/BIM blocks, converters, CAD videos, SW development, and links to related resources.
https://www.cadforum.cz/cadforum_en/
Offering free tutorials and articles on AutoCAD, 3ds Max, and other computer-aided design applications, along with an online discussion forum, the regularly updatesdCAD resource contains more than a hundred tutorials, as well as a feature, known as Michael’s Corner, that presents articles intended to help readers use AutoCAD more efficiently. Its forum includes a worldwide membership, whose members request and give support on various CAD topics.
https://www.cadtutor.net/
Developed by Geometric Americas, an HCL Technologies company, CAMWorks was introduced in 1997 and is available for machining centers, turning, mill/turn, and wire EDM applications. The parametric, solids-based CNC programming software system allows machinists to program smarter and machine faster and more efficiently. Its features and CAD integration with SOLIDWORKS and Solid Edge CAM software is included, along with its support services and resellers.
https://camworks.com/
The open-source 3D finite element mesh generator includes a built-in CAD engine and post-processor. Distributed under the GNU General Public License, with versions for Windows, Linux, and macOS, the project goals were to develop a fast, light, and user-friendly meshing tool with parametric input and advanced visualization capabilities, built around geometry, mesh, solver, and post-processing. Each of its versions may be downloaded from the site, and documentation is available.
http://www.gmsh.info/
Neco, Inc. is a Denver, Colorado company that provides 3D computer-aided design and support services, primarily for the manufacturing and consumer goods industries. Its engineering design consulting services can provide assistance from conceptual design to the manufactured parts. Its 3D routing, 3D modeling, 3D printing, and 3D scanning services are highlighted, including the software used and the inventor. Affiliated with Nivri Studios, contacts for the company are provided.
http://necoinc.com/
Created by New Wave Systems, Pilot3D is a full-featured, relational trimmed NURB curve and surface 3D modeling program for any version of the Microsoft Windows system, which may be purchased and downloaded from the site. Used in 2D and 3D computer-aided design and graphic arts, as well as other purposes, product information is put forth, along with tutorials, requirements, and a list of features. Development news, examples, and links to related resources are included.
http://www.pilot3d.com/
Polydynamics is a global supplier of PC-based software used for simulation, analysis, design, and troubleshooting of plastics extrusion and other polymer processing operations. The company is also involved in R&D and consulting projects with several corporations for process simulation, optimization, and equipment design. Its open-source OpenFOAM software is used for 3D molten polymer flow simulations. Other programs include NEXTRUCAD, CALCUTRUDE, RHEOMWD, and chillWARE.
http://www.polydynamics.com/
PLM is the process of managing the full lifecycle of a product from inception, through engineering design and manufacture, to service and the disposal of manufactured products. The orientation and benefits of PLM are stated, and several PLM solutions and good practices are reviewed, including standards and guidelines, industry standards, government regulations, military standards, and other government information. Example texts and references are included.
https://www.product-lifecycle-management.com/
Developed by progeSOFT, which was the name of its flagship product until it was changed to progeCAD in 2005, the Microsoft Windows-based CAD software program is used for editing and printing DWG and DXF files from most versions of AutoCAD. Its products include progeCAD Professional, progeCAD Architecture, and ICADMAC, each of which is highlighted and made available for purchase and download from the site. Documentation and a video tutorial are included.
https://www.progesoft.com/
Released under the General Public License, the free and open-source application is designed for 2D computer-aided drafting, allowing the user to create technical drawings, like plans for buildings, mechanical parts, or schematics. Supporting the Linux, macOS, and Windows platforms, it may be downloaded from the site. Its main features are listed on the site, along with a reference manual, tutorial, and the official QCAD book, available in PDF format. There is also a support forum.
https://www.ribbonsoft.com/en/qcad
Available in a free trial version, or for online purchase and download, Raster to Vector is a standalone program to convert scanned drawings, maps, and raster images into accurate vector files, such as DXF, HPGL, WMF, EMF, and so on, suitable for editing in any computer-aided design (CAD) application. Installation instructions are given, along with examples of its use, a list of key features, screenshots, and the text of an end-user license agreement.
https://www.raster-vector.com/
In development since 1997, the first Windows version of the software as released in 1999, and it is currently available only for the Windows platform. Its chief product, RasterVect, was created for those who work with scanned drawings, allowing users to transform raster drawings into vector format, targeting vector formats that are supported by most CAD applications, such as AutoCAD, Corel Draw, and others. Its production history, features, and an online purchase page are included.
http://www.rastervect.com/
Sequence Enterprise Work Instruction Software allows companies doing complex manual assembly to easily author, review, approve, deploy, and validate the work instructions required to manufacture their products. Including Enterprise WinSequence, Enterprise WebSequence, Breeze WebSequence, Enterprise MRPUltra, and Enterprise MESUltra, its solution is described, along with documentation. Other products include LockStep Desktop and LockStep Free Work.
http://www.sequencesoftware.com/
Based in Norway, Software Companions develops applications for viewing, printing, and conversion of file formats commonly used in the CAD/CAM market, including custom programming and development. Its flagship product is ViewCompanion, available as three editions, Standard, Pro, and Premium, which converts files to several different file formats. Other products include GerbView, scViewerX, and scConverter, each of which is described in detail.
http://www.softwarecompanions.com/
SolidCAM’s computer-aided manufacturing software, for all CNC applications, integrates with SOLIDWORKS, running directly inside SOLIDWORKS with a single-window integration, full tool path associativity of the SolidCAM tool path to the SOLIDWORKS model. A product brochure may be downloaded from the site, and a demo can be scheduled. Case studies are discussed, and promotional and instructional videos are available, a schedule of webinars is posted, and subscriptions may be obtained online.
https://www.solidcam.com/en-us/
In business since 1990, Tailor Made Software creates software for the conversion, extraction, manipulation, and display of computer-aided design (CAD) data. Its products include CadXChange, CadServer, VizQuery, CADViewer Pro and Enterprise, DgnXchange, Hp2Xchange, RasterXchange, and AcroXchange, as well as custom solutions. Product features are highlighted, including Google GSA integration, a price list, and supported operating systems.
http://www.tailormade.com/
TCI has been in business since the late 1980s, offering software products and mapping services, including drone services in Eastern Oregon and Southwestern Idaho. Its software products include a variety of mapping products compatible with BricsCAD, including MapTools Pro Pack and BricsCAD Pro, a fully-functional CAD platform for much less than the cost of AutoCAD. Its products, services, videos, white papers, and client testimonials are posted.
http://tcicorp.com/
Offering global distribution, TopSolid is a publisher of CAD/CAM software. Targeting the mechanical sector, sheet metal, and wood products industries, the company offers fully integrated CAD/CAM solutions, marketed as TopSolid’Design, TopSolid’Cam, TopSolid’Wood, TopSolid’Sheetmetal, TopSolid’Mold, TopSolid’Progress, and TopSolid’Education, each of which are highlighted here, along with its reseller program, trial offers, customer testimonials, and purchase options.
https://www.topsolid.com/
Established in 1985, Trix Systems originally focused on the development of custom software solutions to extend the functionality of AutoCAD. Still a registered AutoCAD developer, the company now offers solutions that operate independently of AutoCAD, including the Trix Systems line of software that includes Trix Organizer, Trix FastDoc, Trix RasterServer, Trix ImageMaker, TracTrix, and Trix DrawingCenter, each of which is featured here, and made available for online purchase.
http://www.trixsystems.com/
VariCAD is 3D/2D computer-aided design (CAD) software intended for mechanical engineering design, allowing designers to create, evaluate, and modify their models. Sold as a fully loaded, integrated package, the system includes 3D modeling, 2D drawing, and editing, optional support of parameters and geometrical constraints, shells modeling, pipelines, and wires, crash tests, 3D assemblies and groups, surface development, mechanical part libraries, calculations of 3D objects or 2D sections.
https://www.varicad.com/en/
