CAM

graph LR;
    CAD --> id1[/3D-Part/]
    id1[/3D-Part/] --> CAM:::someclass
    CAM --> id2[/NC-Code/]
    id2 --> id3[NC-Code Simulation]
    id3 --> CNC-Machine
    CNC-Machine --> id4([Part])
    classDef someclass fill:#004f19

Computer Aided Manufacturing

A CAM software is a special type of software that is used to program CNC machines. This is not limited to machine tools, but there are also CAM systems for wire EDM, grinding or woodworking.

In a CAM software the 3D model is used, which was previously designed in the CAD software. After importing the 3D model in the CAM software, the user begins to map the dimensions of the blank as well as the clamping situation. The blank can be thought of as the “as-is” situation and the 3D model as the finished part or “to-be” situation. If the 3D model is not delivered to center tolerance, this must be be brought to center tolerance after importing with the help of the 2D drawing. If the 3D model is supplied with PMI data, this step is simplified because the corresponding tolerances are stored as information in the geometries. information is stored in the geometries.

It is desirable to have a clamping situation that is as close to reality as possible, since this allows collisions with the component environment to be detected at an early stage. After the digital setup of the part, the user starts to create the toolpaths necessary to manufacture the part by selecting tools and machining functions.

Here is an illustration of what such a process might look like:

flowchart TB
    id1[Prepare the 3D file] --> id2[Stock definition]
    id2 --> id3[Define the part environment]
    id3 --> id4[Programming]
    id4 --> id5[Simulate]
    id5 --> id6[Generate NC code]
    id6 --> id7[/NC-Code/]