Concurrent engineering-based CAD/CAM technology and application

CAD/CAM, which embodies the integration of material and information flows, is the key link of CIMS (computer integrated manufacturing system). This paper introduces the information technology in CAD/CAM systems and the application of concurrent engineering (CE) philosophy. Based on the NC Manufacturing Laboratory of the CIMS Research Center of Tongji University and the CE theory, this paper presents a method of integration of a PC-based CAD/CAM system, which is mainly accomplished by the integration of software and the development of a serial communication interface based on the existing software, hardware and equipment. The system described is widely suitable for the modern manufacturing enterprise in China.