CAD/CAM
Digital production pipeline
CAD/CAM stands for computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing—the use of software to design products and control the machines that produce them.
A designer creates a digital model in CAD software, then CAM software translates that model into instructions for cutting, milling, or 3D printing.
The slash marks their integration: The shop runs a full CAD/CAM workflow from blueprint to finished part.
Automated machining via code
- machiningSubtractive metalworking process
- millingProcessing grain mechanically
- toolpathProgrammed machining trajectory
- G-codeMachine tool instructions
lathe · router · fabrication · subtractive · additive · 3D printing · rapid prototyping · production
Simulating or demonstrating form
- draftingCreating technical blueprints
- blueprintDetailed technical drawing
- schematicSimplified technical diagram
- renderingInterpretive depiction or performance
wireframe · surface · parametric · constraints · dimensions · assembly · drawing · annotation
Computer-aided design software
- SolidWorks3D CAD modeling software
- licenseFormal grant of permission
- subscriptionPaid recurring access
- workstationTechnical computing system
Atmosphere plus outer void
- automotiveRelating to motor vehicles
- medical devicesTools for patient care
- dentalRelating to teeth
- prostheticsFabricated body part replacements
mold making · die casting · tooling · injection molding · sheet metal · woodworking · jewelry · prototyping
Combining into a whole
- seamlessWithout visible joins
- updateNew version or information
- syncCoordinate timing or data
- importObtain from overseas
export · translation · interoperability · collaboration · downstream · upstream · handoff · verification
CNC
Automated machining via code
- machiningSubtractive metalworking process
- millingProcessing grain mechanically
- toolpathProgrammed machining trajectory
G-code · lathe · router · fabrication · subtractive · additive · 3D printing · rapid prototyping · production · automation
modeling
Simulating or demonstrating form
- draftingCreating technical blueprints
- blueprintDetailed technical drawing
- schematicSimplified technical diagram
rendering · wireframe · surface · parametric · constraints · dimensions · assembly · drawing · annotation · BOM
AutoCAD
Computer-aided design software
- SolidWorks3D CAD modeling software
- licenseFormal grant of permission
- subscriptionPaid recurring access
aerospace
Atmosphere plus outer void
- automotiveRelating to motor vehicles
- medical devicesTools for patient care
- dentalRelating to teeth
prosthetics · mold making · die casting · tooling · injection molding · sheet metal · woodworking · jewelry · prototyping · OEM
integration
Combining into a whole
import · export · translation · interoperability · collaboration · downstream · upstream · handoff · verification · validation
- machineryengine, machinery, industrial machinery, motors, engines
- CNC machiningCNC, G-code, spindle, axis, CNC machine
- dental labdental lab, dental labs, dental technician, dentures, crowns
- smart manufacturingsmart factories, digital twin, digital twins, automation, robotics
CAD/CAMpencil and paper
freehand drawing · drafting table · hand tools · handcrafting · hand carving
CAD/CAMhandicraft
Manual skill or product
traditional craftsmanship · handmade · traditional methods · cottage industry · blacksmithing