Computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) is a creative process that assists technicians to manufacture or prototype the product components. It makes use of software tools based upon Product Lifecycle Management Computers. The Computer aided design (CAD) software generates 3D models of various components that in turn generate CNC code for driving machine tools that are numerically controlled.
Depending on the software the various stages of machining like roughing, semi-finishing, finishing and contour-milling are implemented through many basic and sophisticated strategies. At times integration of CAM with CAD is done. CAD’s data exchange problem is initially solved by each piece of CAM software while the CAD system stores the data in its own typical proprietary format as with the word processor software. Forcing of the CAD operator to export data in any one of the usual data formats like IGES, etc that are supported by a range of software is done. A G-code simple text file is the usual CAM output.
The complication of CAM software requires the Machinist to have the skills of a computer engineer. Software from UGS Corp, Dassault Systems, PTC etc allow CNC tool path optimization through finite element analysis (FEA) of the machining parts. CAM finds application in the field of mechanical engineering, machining, in electric design automation where PCBs and ICs are made using CAM tools.
CAM software has drawbacks like it has to output codes for the lowest capable machine, improper software requires manual editing before running the program. It cannot reason as any skilled machinist and cannot enable optimization of tool paths as required for mass production. The human hand is essential for selection of the milling cutters and defining the various parameters and strategies to generate an efficient tool path and so CAM software that will run independently on its own is still a distant dream.
