Computer-Aided Manufacturing Design (CAD/CAM) software is no longer a luxury but a necessity for many companies. They are used, among other things, for technical drawing and vector graphics. The diversity of models and the sensitivity of the task force you to choose your software carefully. We are going to tell you more about the subject in this article. But before that, let’s define what CAD/CAM software.
What Is A CAD/CAM Application
The objects used in everyday life are born from the imagination of industrial designers. To do this, they use professional software such as CAD/CAM software. It is a solution that combines CAM and CAD functionalities. The use of a computer system in designing an item is called Computer-Aided Design (CAD).
CAD software converts a simple idea into a production-ready product. 2D or 3D modelling emanates from the use of this software package. The CAM or Computer Aided Manufacturing software makes it possible to plan the manufacturing process. Machines can thus transform the idea into a physical object. CAM and CAD applications are therefore rather complementary.
The CAD/CAM software allows companies to:
- Reduce human intervention in their design process;
- Increase precision during manufacturing;
- To save time.
Thanks to this type of software, companies can finally integrate customer requests more quickly to stimulate production more efficiently.
What Are The Criteria For Choosing A CAD/CAM Tool?
The choice of a CAD/CAM program is made by taking into account specific essential parameters. It is indeed necessary to find answers to several questions.
What Type Of CAD/CAM Application Do You Need
This question is one of the first to answer when choosing the right CAD/CAM tool. To do this, you must have a clear idea of your needs. For example, many production plants find it difficult to optimize their manufacturing time. In this case, it will be necessary to identify a CAD/CAM application that is efficient enough to reduce the cycle time. It must quickly grasp the shapes of the part to be produced and then optimally allocate the optimum machining ranges to it.
But usually, you decide to buy a CAD/CAM device to solve quite a variety of problems. This may be the search for precision in product designs, such as the refinement of simulation techniques. Choose a CAD/CAM tool that will offer you relevant solutions. There is no point in accumulating functionalities that will not be used in your field of activity. It is also essential to ensure that the CAD/CAM software package you wish to acquire can technically meet your expectations, especially when modelling a complex part.
Do You Have The Right Equipment
To install a CAD/CAM tool and then use it to produce a product, you must have reasonably efficient computer equipment. The part is manufactured utilizing the machine on which it was designed. Suppose you do not have the means to acquire a racing car. At least opt for a material compatible with the CAD/CAM tool that you choose. Consider adding a more powerful PC model to your budget if you don’t.
What Budget Should You Plan For Your CAD/CAM Software
A CAD or CAM application is quite expensive. This can be understood when we know that manufacturers generally include in their invoices, in addition to purchasing costs, those for training, maintenance or other incidental charges. In addition, these software packages are under license, which induces the latter’s renewal after a certain periodicity, often annual. It would help if you also estimated the profitability of your investment before you decide. Finally, note that the most expensive CAD/CAM tool is not necessarily the most suited to your needs.
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