Why CAD?

[Atomic_Sheep]

Yes this is a CAM section, but I was just wondering, if you are going to CNC something... why not go straight for CAM?

[Caprirs]

You have kinda answered your own question. "If you are going to CNC something", then you are correct. However, what do you do when the part you draw has to be contracted out because it is not within your capabilities? Or when you need to generate a print with all dimensions and tolerances, plating specs, material callouts, surface finish requirements, welding, thread inserts, etc.? In shops where one person programs and someone else machines, the guy on the floor needs a print to work with showing all the features he needs to inspect.

The CAD systems focus on not just the drawing aspect, but also the ability to communicate detailed information to others. Typcially, CAM systems are not efficient at creating a print.

[ger21]

why not go straight for CAM?

If you can start in a CAM program, then your CAM program has CAD functionality built in. You need a drawing or model before you can create toolpaths. That drawing or model needs to be created with CAD. There's really no way around it.

[Atomic_Sheep]

Originally Posted by Caprirs You have kinda answered your own question. "If you are going to CNC something", then you are correct. However, what do you do when the part you draw has to be contracted out because it is not within your capabilities? Or when you need to generate a print with all dimensions and tolerances, plating specs, material callouts, surface finish requirements, welding, thread inserts, etc.? In shops where one person programs and someone else machines, the guy on the floor needs a print to work with showing all the features he needs to inspect. The CAD systems focus on not just the drawing aspect, but also the ability to communicate detailed information to others. Typcially, CAM systems are not efficient at creating a print.

Ah I see... once again, I've overcomplicated simplicity.

Originally Posted by ger21 If you can start in a CAM program, then your CAM program has CAD functionality built in. You need a drawing or model before you can create toolpaths. That drawing or model needs to be created with CAD. There's really no way around it.

And that made it crystal clear... thanks