Tamayo, Faith Dione L.

Operations Management

NICE TO KNOW
Computer Aided Design is the use of computer-based software to aid in design processes. It is
primarily used by engineers, architects and construction managers. It has replaced manual
drafting. It helps users create designs in either 2D or 3D so they can visualize the construction.
Computer Aided Manufacturing is the use of computerized systems to control the operations at
a manufacturing plant. These computerized systems assist manufacturers in various operations
such as planning, transportation, management, and storage.
Both of these require powerful computers. CAD software helps designers and draftsmen; CAM
"reduces manpower costs" in the manufacturing process.

NEED TO DO
 Need to build knowledge of the CAD and CAM software.
- In using CAD and CAM, it requires extensive knowledge and skills in order to utilize
its full potential
 Lessen the risk of digital malfunction
- Users or companies need to address misalignment, address complexity and analyze
security threats

NICE TO EXPAND
Pros and Cons of CAD
Pros
 Increase in the designer’s productivity- CAD provides a more optimized platform
for the designer/user. Increasing their productivity and product output.
 Improve the quality and accuracy of the design- With the use of CAD, designers
have better creative freedom due to its extensive range of features and functions
that are normally unavailable in a traditional design process.
 Easy to edit- CAD features the ability to quickly correct errors and change design
specifications. This feature allows the user to adjust their design swiftly which
increases their efficiency
 Simulation- CAD software can simulate a model’s physical and material
properties, assemble individually designed sub-parts of a product, and test if the
product fit and function properly.
 Reusable and Shareable- An advantage of CAD is that it allows users to store
data and designs from previous projects which can then be accessed for future
references such as product duplication and optimization. Data can also be shared
instantly to partner designers and other possible users.
Cons
 Cost constraint- Depending on the CAD’s brand, features, and function,
Computer Aided Design software is inherently costly. While there are available
programs that are free, advanced and even industrial-grade versions of CAD
 require purchasing the program or subscribing to a premium to unlock better
features.
 Requires extensive knowledge and skill- To utilize a CAD’s full potential, users
must be well-trained and proficient which cost time and extra effort.
 Risk of digital malfunction- Since CAD is a fully digital platform, design data are
more inherently susceptible to corruption, malware, and viruses.

Pros and Cons of CAM

Pros
 Automation- Manufacturing requires little supervision and can be completed
during off-hours.
 Reduced labor costs- Manufacturing is less labor-intensive and saves money on
labor.
 Better accuracy and precision- Machines are precise, and large batches of
manufacturing can be repeated repeatedly.
 Low risk of occurring error- Error occurrence is low, and machines can run
indefinitely.
Cons
 Large investment requirement- It necessitates a significant initial investment
and start-up cost.
 Cost of upkeep- Machine maintenance is also expensive.
 Job loss for highly-skilled workers- A workforce with high-level manual skills may
be lost.
 Requires expert maintenance -To ensure proper tooling and setup procedures,
highly trained operatives and technicians are required.

CAD and CAM examples

CAD
 AutoCAD
 Blender
 SketchUp
CAM
 Automated Assembly Plants (Factories)
 Laser cutter and CNC milling machines
 3D printers

NEED TO END
Computer aided design and manufacturing, as part of the digital revolution, have a great impact
in our society being a more efficient alternative to traditional processes. They may have their
own perks and drawbacks, but one must consider the technological and technical
advancements done by these programs. These platforms unlocked a whole new space for
possibilities that were impossible to accomplish in the before times. Thus, in conclusion, CADs
and CAMs are advantageous in the modern world.