KWARA STATE POLYTECHNIC ILORIN

DEPARTMENT OF MECHANICAL ENGINERRING

BY
NAME: GANIYU TOHEEB AYOMITOMIWA
MATRIC NUMBER : HND/23/MEC/FT/0017

COURSE CODE: MEC 325

COURSE TITLE:CAD/CAM

LECTURER: ENGR. SALAHUDEEN

DATE: 18/5/2024.
1. Search for Historical Development of CAD/CAM and Summarise.
Historical Development of CAD/CAM: CAD (Computer-Aided Design) and CAM
(Computer-Aided Manufacturing) have their roots in the 1950s and 1960s, when
computers were first used to assist with design and manufacturing processes. The
development of CAD/CAM can be summarized as follows:
 1950s-1960s: Initial developments in computer-aided design and
manufacturing, with the use of mainframe computers and punch cards.
 1970s: Introduction of minicomputers and the first CAD systems, such as
CADAM (Computer-Augmented Design and Manufacturing) and CALMA
(Computer-Aided Layout and Manufacturing Assembly).
 1980s: Development of personal computers and the introduction of CAD
software such as AutoCAD and SolidWorks.
 1990s: Advancements in 3D modeling and simulation, and the integration of
CAD and CAM systems.
 2000s: Increased use of CAD/CAM in various industries, and the
development of new technologies such as 3D printing and digital twins.
2. Itemise/Highlight each Notable Contributors to the development of CAD
I. Ivan Sutherland: Developed the Sketchpad, a pioneering CAD system that
used a graphical user interface and allowed users to create and manipulate
objects on a screen.
II. Patrick J. Hanratty: Developed the first commercial CAD system, CALMA,
and is considered the “father of CAD”.
III. Dr. Hanfried H. Gerber: Developed the first CAD system for personal
computers, and founded Gerber Scientific Instruments, which later became a
leading CAD software company.
IV. Autodesk and AutoCAD: Developed the popular CAD software AutoCAD,
which revolutionized the industry with its ease of use and affordability.
V. Jon Hirschtick and SolidWorks: Developed the 3D CAD software
SolidWorks, which is widely used in industries such as engineering,
aerospace, and automotive.
VI. Siemens PLM Software and NX: Developed he CAD/CAM/CAE software
NX, which is used in various industries for design, simulation, and
manufacturing.
3. Explain briefly what you understand by Group Technology
Group Technology (GT) is a manufacturing philosophy that groups parts or
products with similar characteristics or requirements into families, to improve
design, production, and inventory management. GT aims to identify and exploit the
similarities between parts or products to reduce design and production times, and
improve overall efficiency. This approach involves:
 Part family formation: Grouping parts with similar characteristics or
requirements into families.
 Design standardization: Standardizing designs and features within part
families.
 Process standardization: Standardizing manufacturing processes and tools
within part families.
 Production planning: Planning and scheduling production based on part
families.
GT is used in various industries, including aerospace, automotive, and consumer
goods, to improve productivity, reduce costs, and enhance product quality.