© Boardworks Ltd 20111 of 5

Engineering ProcessesChapter One: The Use of Computers

in Engineering

© Boardworks Ltd 20112 of 5

Icons key:

This icon indicates that there are teacher’s notes in the Notes Page.

This icon indicates that the slide contains a Flash activity.

This icon indicates that the Notes Pages contain PLTS ideas.

Learning objectives

In this chapter you will:

Learn about how Computer Aided Design (CAD) is used in Engineering.

Learn about the role of Computer Aided Manufacturing (CAM).

© Boardworks Ltd 20113 of 5

Designing new products

For example, automotive engineers could test how rigid a chassis will be before construction.

Computer Aided Design (CAD) software can be used to create 2D and 3D computer designs and allows engineers to make digital models of their products, so designs can be tested before the product is manufactured.

Computer simulation can produce images to predict how the design will look and perform in the real world.

© Boardworks Ltd 20114 of 5

Computer Aided Manufacture

CAM can work to tighter tolerances (the level of accuracy)The consistency is improvedCAM is quicker once set upCAM systems can work 24 hours a day so produce more products.

Manufacturing by hand can be less expensive and quicker if there are fewer products or lots of changes to make.

Computer Aided Manufacture (CAM) is the process of manufacturing a digital design using Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machinery. CAM software converts the design into machining steps, which are imported into the machine.

Advantages to using computers include:

© Boardworks Ltd 20115 of 5

The CNC machining process