CAD (Computer-Aided Design) - refers to the use of computers in converting the initial idea for a product into a detailed engineering design.

The evolution of a design typically involves the creation of geometric models of the product, which can be manipulated, analyzed, and refined.

In CAD, computer graphics replace the sketches and engineering drawings traditionally used to visualize products and communicate design information.

CAE –COMPUTER AIDED ENGINEERING

• The use of computer-based tools to assist in solution of engineering problems.

• For example, to analyze the robustness and performance of components and assemblies. The term encompasses simulation, validation, and optimization of products and manufacturing tools.

CAE areas covered include• Stress analysis on Element Analysis)• Thermal and fluid flow analysis

Computational fluid dynamics (CFD)• Multibody dynamics (MBD) & Kinematics• Analysis tools for pcomponents and assemblies

using FEA (Finite rocess simulation for operations such as casting, molding, and die press forming.

• Optimization of the product or process.• Safety analysis of postulate loss-of-coolant accident

in nuclear reactor using realistic thermal-hydraulics code.

• Pre-processing – defining the model and environmental factors to be applied to it. (typically a finite element model, but facet, voxel and thin sheet methods are also used)

• Analysis solver (usually performed on high powered computers)

• Post-processing of results (using visualization tools)

In general, there are three phases in any computer-aided engineering task:

CAMCAM (Computer- Aided Manufacturing) - Use

of computers to program, direct and control production equipment in the fabrication of manufactured items.

CAM may also refer to the use of a computer to assist in all operations of a manufacturing plant, including planning, management, transportation and storage.

As the model generated in CAD and verified in CAE can be input into CAM software, which then controls the machine tool.

Top 20 largest CAM software companies

Dassault SystèmesSiemens PLM SoftwareDelcamVero SoftwarePTCTebisOpen Mind TechnologiesCimatronC&G SystemsMissler Software

CNC SoftwareCG TechDP TechnologySolidCAMSesCoiNTT Data Engineering SystemsNihon UnisysBobCAD-CAMGeometric TechnologiesSurfware

• MRPII (Manufacturing Resource Planning) - A method for the effective planning of all resources of a manufacturing company.

CIM (Computer-Integrated Manufacturing) - The integration of the total manufacturing organization through the use of computer systems and managerial philosophies that improve the organization's effectiveness; the application of a computer to bridge various computerized systems and connect them into a coherent, integrated whole. For example, budgets, CAD/CAM, process controls, groups technology systems, MRPII, financial reporting systems, etc., are linked and interfaced.