CAD / CAM

Geometric modelling represents curves and surfaces mathematically; parametric models let dimensions drive geometry via constraint equations. Wireframe, surface, and solid schemes trade information richness, per CAD/CAM texts.

Solid modelling stores complete, unambiguous volume information; the two main schemes are Constructive Solid Geometry (Boolean combinations of primitives) and Boundary Representation (B-rep). Euler's rule V − E + F = 2 checks validity, per CAD/CAM texts.

CAPP generates process plans (operations, sequence, parameters) from part data; the two approaches are variant (retrieve and edit a standard plan) and generative (build a plan by rules/algorithms), per CAD/CAM texts.

Group technology groups similar parts into families to exploit their similarities in design and manufacture; parts are coded (e.g. Opitz) by shape and features. It enables cellular manufacturing and variant CAPP, per CAD/CAM texts.

An FMS is an integrated set of CNC machines, automated material handling, and central computer control that makes a variety of parts with minimal changeover. Utilisation = productive time/available time measures performance, per CAD/CAM texts.