Computer-Aided Design (CAD), Computer-aided engineering (CAE), CAM Software

Software Tips

Definition of CAD, CAE, CAM

CAD, Computer-aided Design, refers to the design process using a CAD system. From the initial sketch through to the finished design of a new product, a building, an individual component, or even a plan, all necessary steps are carried out on the computer.

CAE, Computer-aided Engineering, refers to technical support and simulation in the development of new products, components, etc. CAE includes collision checks and ergonomic analyses as well as, for example, thermal and electromagnetic simulation (FEM), flow simulation (CFD), and computer-aided quality assurance (CAQ), to name just a few examples. Products can be optimized with the help of CAE software, while processes and manufacturing tools can be validated at the same time.

CAM, Computer-aided Manufacturing, refers to software that is independent of the CNC machine and is used to create the NC code for production. This does not take place directly at the machine in the workshop (WOP - workshop-oriented programming), but already during work preparation. With the help of the NC code, for example, 3D printers used in additive manufacturing can be controlled.

The Most Important Data Formats in CAD

As a rule, individual CAD systems each have their own file formats. This makes data exchange with other programs more difficult. Over time, system-neutral standard formats have therefore emerged, which we would like to briefly introduce below.

• DXF
  The DXF format is generally used for the exchange of drawing data. It is the only file format supported by all CAD systems and is considered an industry standard. However, some CAD software can only read and write DXF files as 2D data. In such cases, hatching, dimensions, etc. may not be displayed correctly or may not be displayed at all in the target system.
• IGES
  The IGES (Initial Graphics Exchange Specification) format is a neutral format for two-dimensional drawings through to three-dimensional models for simulations or manufacturing. Data is stored in entities. A closed surface set can additionally contain the information “inside” and “outside.” The format is increasingly replacing the VDA format.
• STEP
  STEP (STandard for the Exchange of Product model data) is an exchange format for geometry data, assembly structures, layers, views, and product data. Drawing data can also be transferred. STEP is not supported by every CAD software.
• STL
  The STL interface (Standard Triangulation/Tesselation Language, also SurfaceTesselation Language) is a standard interface of many CAD systems. The surface of 3D bodies is described using triangular facets (tessellation). This description of the model surface using the STL format represents an industry standard. Geometric information from 3D models is provided, for example, for manufacturing using additive manufacturing processes or 3D printing.
• VDA-FS
  VDA (Association of German Automobile Manufacturers) FS (surface interface) is an exchange format for surfaces. Only 3D information can be transferred via this interface, not drawing information.
• IDF
  IDF, Intermediate Data Format, is the industry standard for transferring printed circuit board data to other CAD design programs. The PCB designer can pass the IDF data to the design engineer so that they can check whether the board or its components collide with the enclosure.
• VRML97-ISO/IEC 14772
  ISO/IEC 14772, the Virtual Reality Modeling Language (VRML), is a file format that integrates 3D graphics and multimedia. It is less suitable as an exchange format between CAD programs, but it can be used to transfer data from a 3D CAD system to animation or rendering software.
• IFC
  IFC (Industry Foundation Classes) is a standard for building models and the construction industry. It is standardized according to DIN ISO 16739 and can reliably support the entire lifecycle of an object in a future-proof manner. Planning data can be exchanged across manufacturers and without loss via the IFC format. The data can, for example, be merged into and displayed as a 3D model. The IFC format can include all important information on windows, doors, wall thicknesses, room sizes, etc.

Tips and Question Prompts for Evaluating CAD, CAE, and CAM Software Solutions

• Before making a software decision, conduct a thorough market research of potentially suitable solutions. Our tip: Use our free research service without any obligation. Large parts of the tender are taken over, potential solutions are presented in a structured way and the communication with the providers is documented!
• Please note the increased hardware requirements and compatibility issues. 3D functions, in particular, usually require high processing power.
• Ensure there is good connectivity within project groups. For example, there should be ways to share designs to facilitate better collaboration and information-sharing within project teams, and communication via social media should be supported.
• Ask about tools for importing models and merging them. Some manufacturers offer so-called import modules for this purpose. Make sure these support import formats such as Inventor (.ipt, .iam), SolidWorks (.sldprt, .sldasm), Catia V5 (.CATPart, .CATProduct), Solid Edge (.par, .asm), ACIS (.sat, .sab), Parasolid (.x_t, xmt_txt, .x_b, .xmt_bin), Pro/ENGINEER (.prt, .asm), AutoCAD (3D) (.dwg), Autodesk Inventor (.ipt, .iam), Creo Parametric (.prt, .asm).
• Look out for customisation options, such as customisable and extensible ribbon interfaces or toolbars.
• There should also be an action recorder for automating repetitive tasks, enabling the automation of repetitive tasks without the need for an additional CAD manager.
• Please also ask about any tools available for converting raster data into vector data.
• Does the system offer the ability to create illustrated drawings, renderings and 3D presentations?
• Please also check whether 3D modelling tools are included or whether additional modules or functional components are available.
• Ask about sketching and planning tools, for example for preliminary planning with cost estimates, design planning, cost calculation, planning for planning permission, and construction planning.
• Check whether documentation tools are available, for example for automatic data organisation, bill of materials generation and automated design documentation.
• Ask whether DWG files can be converted from AutoCAD applications.
• If you intend to use the CAD system for urban planning, check whether it can also be used as a component of a GIS system.
• If you still want to create NC programs for production on the machine tools after the design has been completed, you should pay attention to the available options for CAD and NC data in the CAD / CAM system.
• Pay attention to parts libraries and good search functions! Short search times, searching via distributed storage locations and sources and a good overview of the variety of parts are important if you manage large numbers of parts.