Topic 6 - ICT & Business
CAD / CAM
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Welcome to A-level ICT
CAD is used to design an object using a computer.
CAM is used to produce the object using computer controlled/guided machines.
Examples of CAD
Design a model car and cut it out using computer controlled lathes
Design clothes using a CAD package and then cut out correctly and stitched by a CAM package.
CAD_CAM.pptxAdvantages of CAD
Advantages of CAD
Provides 3D representation of designs / help visualise the final product
Produces part lists
Costing - Saves money as you do not have to build models / prototypes
Higher output as time-consuming tasks are removed
Can create simulations to test product / can help spot flaws in the design before it is built
Zoom in for fine detail / greater accuracy
View from many angles
Hatching / rendering / can find the best finishes / materials
Tension / strain tests to look for weaknesses
Allows you to walk through a design e.g. in 3D
Gives you access to already designed elements
Allows collaborative working on designs
Disadvantages of CAD
Disadvantages of CAD
Commercial CAD systems need complex, powerful and expensive hardware
Need training in using the specialised software
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