CAD/CAM Use in Numerical Control

This paper discusses the benefits of using an interactive graphic system with a powerful high-level graphics language in the implementation of numerical control. Typical procedural steps are used to illustrate the process through the design, drafting, and manufacturing phases, and to depict some of the capabilities of interactive graphic system CAD/CAM software. These include multi-axis contouring, selection of required tools, generation of tool paths, and explanation of associativity, the use of a machining control file, and post processors for particular machines. Because the system shows the piece part in three dimensions, the user can verify the tool paths, tool clearances and mountings before cutting instructions are issued.