Software and Hardware Relationship

From looking at the many types of software and hardware packages available to companies, it is clear to see that both areas are dependent on each other. Without the use of Autodesk software packages, sketches cannot be digitized and dimensioned with the accuracy that computer systems can offer. Additionally, without the hardware such as printers the finished drawings will not take physical form. Both packages have the ability to further support the compliance with national and international standards as software packages are coded to comply, and templates can be created to ensure drawings are printed within the BS888 standards.

The ease of access is another way to determine a clear relationship between the both due to portable devices. This enables drawings be created on the move and increases accessibility to all workers. As mentioned previous portable devices have enable business to become more customer focused, with a new way to approach working methods.

Hardware offers the ability for businesses to evolve through the use of powerful computer based systems. This increases their scope to introduce new software packages into the workplace which can further improve efficiency and potential to offer new services. The use of such systems to turn computer coded algorithm in physical form require consistent review periods to help identify upgrade opportunities and requirements.

There is a third entity that ties into the relationship between software and hardware, this is known as peopleware. This term refers to development and maintenance of computer systems within the business. This extends further to solving issues with software creators, productivity and team dynamics. These individuals are vital for the efficiency of business operations and the potential to grow with technological advancements.

CAD has brought many benefits to the manufacturing process, these have been discussed below:

• 3D CAD files can quickly be transferred to drive Computer Aided Manufacturing (CAM) production software. In turn, CAM drives machine tools and other capital equipment through computer-numerical-control (CNC). CNC manufacturing processes included multi-axis milling, turning, sheet metal work (such as brake presses and punches) and high speed machining.
• CAD/CAM software enables you to check tool paths before any material is cut. The opportunity to run a simulation and so verify the complete machining process in a virtual environment is critical for keeping waste and scrap costs to a minimum. Additionally, a result from less scrap include less energy consumption and reduced tool wear costs.
• CAD/CAM simulations also enable you to identify how long the production run time will take. Clearly this is useful for project planning, as well as the budgeting of throughput, material supply and delivery.
• As the CAD model is the source of the manufacturing data, the design intent is preserved and the dimensional accuracy is retained. In contrast, converting data into 2D drawings and then back into machining code, inherently introduces the risk of making mistakes.

CAD Manufacturing Benefits: Tooling

• Tooling and die suppliers can accurately and relatively quickly prepare with CAD data for molded, casted or pressed parts.
• Tooling, die, mould and component suppliers can be simultaneously sent CAD data from anywhere in the world, both for quotes and for the production of parts.
• 3D CAD equips the manufacturing engineer with the means to relatively quickly design tooling, jigs, fixtures, custom gauges and components for workholding.

CAD Manufacturing Benefits: Outsourcing

• For some often-lucrative contracts, the ability to handle 3D CAD data is a prerequisite. Prime manufacturers and their tier 1 suppliers sometimes mandate this for smaller manufacturers further down the supply chain.
• 3D CAD enables the automatic generation of bills of materials, giving the option of quotations for outsourcing.
• If you are that way inclined, production can be outsourced to lower cost parts of the world, with the potential to overcome language barriers, as the data is digital.
• 3D CAD software interfaces with prototyping and manufacturing processes by exporting data files in standard formats. These include STL, IGES and STEP.
• Others in the supply chain (or indeed other development process stakeholders) can view, manipulate and add notes to 3D CAD models without having to purchase the software. Instead low cost or free CAD viewers make it possible to communicate and offer feedback on CAD models.

CAD Manufacturing Benefits: Inspection and Additive Manufacture

• Inspection can be enhanced by checking physical parts against CAD models.
• Coordinate Measuring Machines (CMM) can check accuracy, based on the CAD data generated at the design development stage.
• 3D printing (additive manufacturing) can be produced directly from CAD data. Different 3D printing technologies can be used to produce final production parts in a wide variety of materials (polymers, metals and even ceramics), depending on your requirements.