Levels of CAD–CAM integration
| Level | Description |
|---|---|
| File exchange | CAD exports STEP; CAM programmer imports and programs from scratch |
| Integrated CAM | CAM runs inside CAD (Fusion, SOLIDWORKS CAM, NX CAM, Creo NC); toolpaths update with design changes |
| Template-based CAM | Machining templates applied to recognised features |
| Automated CAM | Scripts or APIs create setups, toolpaths and NC code with little or no user input |
Associativity
With integrated CAM, toolpaths are linked to the model. When a hole moves or a pocket gets deeper, toolpaths are regenerated rather than re-created, saving hours on every revision.
Feature recognition and templates
CAM systems can recognise holes, pockets, slots and faces and apply stored strategies with tools, feeds and speeds. Custom development extends this with company-specific rules: for example, tapped holes of a certain size always get a specific drill and tap sequence.
Automated programming
For families of similar parts, APIs such as the Fusion API, NX Open CAM or SOLIDWORKS CAM API can fully automate programming:
1. Load released model
2. Choose stock and fixture from part size
3. Create setups and work coordinate systems
4. Apply machining templates to recognised features
5. Simulate and check for collisions
6. Post-process to machine-specific G-code
7. Save NC program and setup sheet to MES / DNCPost-processors: the last link
Even perfect toolpaths need a reliable post-processor that outputs correct G-code for each machine and controller. Custom posts eliminate manual edits at the machine.
Benefits
- Shorter programming time, especially for part families.
- Consistent machining strategies across programmers.
- Fast updates after engineering changes.
- Fewer errors at the machine.
Integrated design, CAM and post-processing turn a design release into a ready-to-run NC program.
CAD–CAM integration with ENGIMANDI
See our Fusion 360 customisation, CNC post processor development and what is a CNC post processor.