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 thermalhydraulics code.

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

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)

CAM
CAM (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 Systmes Siemens PLM Software Delcam Vero Software PTC Tebis Open Mind Technologies Cimatron C&G Systems Missler Software CNC Software CG Tech DP Technology SolidCAM SesCoi NTT Data Engineering Systems Nihon Unisys BobCAD-CAM Geometric Technologies Surfware

 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.