How Computer Aided Manufacturing is Changing the World
To help develop this article, click 'Edit this article' above.
Computer Aided Design (CAD) and Computer Aided Manufacturing (CAM) machinery are found in all industries all over the globe. Many factory floors are now entirely void from human interaction, populated only by 'robots'. The introduction of Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machinery has enabled industry to not just cut back on manpower but also to produce a higher quality of precision parts that are entirely free from human error and cheaper.
CNC machining and milling does however require the precision of a trained CAD operator; this is where human intervention is still necessary. Behind every CNC lathe, drill, or machine there is a computer that is using CAD software to transmit the messages to the machine to tell it what to do. Behind that computer there is the software professional who programmed it, behind that the person who designed the software, and behind that the person who designed the computer in the first place.
Although a robot can carry out virtually any task required of it in the field of CNC engineering, highly trained professionals are required to monitor these robots and ensure they do what they are programmed to.
On a factory floor you will see many CNC lathes, drills, and machines at work, and no one anywhere to be seen. Some setups are left to run overnight by themselves; this is made possible by the fact that on detection of an error by the computer, the CAD software will shut down the machine in question until an engineer can attend.
Computer aided design is used in a huge range of applications in the modern world; from mass producing car parts to boring out metal tubes, CNC milling can quickly carry out tasks that it used to take people many hours to do. CAD software allows for further precision, and CAD design has virtually put an end to hand drawings; with precise vector lines being used by CAD software. The human brains are still present behind the design, but the human error is not.
CNC is changing the world that we live in, from something as simple as making a tin can perfectly round, to engineering aerospace parts. With every advance in technology, precision engineered parts can be made to higher specifications, with more complex designs, and without human error.
--Kristian 11:50, 25 May 2015 (BST)CAM Machine; Bringing you the best in CNC in Bristol
Featured articles and news
A call for prevention and sensitive re-use.
The CIAT principal designer register
Providing assurance and verification of the capability and competence of registered ATs.
Building Safety recommendations and Northern Ireland
The NI roadmap to improving safety in high rise residential.
BSA residential sector competence standards guidance
BSAS 01:2024 Organisational Capability Management System Standard - Competence Assurance.
Specifying rendered external wall insulation for fire safety
How to interrogate the evidence provided to the specifier.
The benefits of writing articles for your organisation
How to create a profile for your organisation and publish for free.
No Falls Week. The importance of safe working at height
What to expect and what is on offer to avoid accidents.
Scottish Government action to reach net-zero targets
Retrofit expert group highlight critical actions needed.
A forward thinking, inclusive global community of members.
From engineered product life-spans, to their extension.
Circular economy in the built environment
A brief description from 2021. Where are we now?
CLC publishes domestic retrofit competency framework
Roadmap of Skills for net zero.
Understanding is key to conservation.
Open industry engagement survey seeks responses
Institutions and the importance of engagement.