PRODUCT DESIGN & MANUFACTURING

CAD/CAM SOFTWARE

Autodesk has a full suite of CAD/CAM software solutions designed to meet your needs. Explore our CAD/CAM resources, products and tutorials.

cad/cam software

What is CAD/CAM software?

CAD/CAM stands for computer-aided design & computer-aided manufacturing. CAD/CAM software is used to design and manufacture prototypes, finished products and production runs. An integrated CAD/CAM system offers one complete solution from design through to manufacturing.

what is cad/cam software used for

What is CAD/CAM used for?

CAD/CAM applications are used to both design a product and program manufacturing processes, specifically, CNC machiningCAM software (US Site) uses the models and assemblies created in CAD software to generate toolpaths that drive machine tools to turn designs into physical parts. CAD/CAM software is used to design and manufacture prototypes, finished parts and production runs.

Integrated CAD/CAM software

Fusion 360 eliminates your disconnected design to manufacturing process with a single, integrated CAD/CAM platform. Communicate with your customers, suppliers, and internal stakeholders to get your part manufactured on time, the first time.

  • Easily import files with a comprehensive set of data translators for 50 different file types.
  • Direct edit existing features or model fixtures for the imported model with integrated CAD.
  • Maintain control of who has access to view, comment, and edit on projects.

"On our very first project using Fusion 360, we saved over $14,000 by reducing cycle time by 9 minutes with no additional tool wear. That has a direct impact on our bottom line."

Daniel Colbert, Colbert Manufacturing

Best CAD/CAM software for CNC machining

Manufacturing has changed so should your tools. Modernize your manufacturing workflows with the only truly unified CAD/CAM software for a fraction of the price.

FOR COMMERCIAL USERS

For professional designers, engineers and machinists. Fusion 360 unifies design, engineering and manufacturing into a single platform.

Make CAD/CAM your competitive advantage

  • Truly integrate CAD/CAM

    With unified workflows in Fusion 360, you can design soft jaws and fixtures, prep CAD data, and create assemblies. Automatic data translation and toolpath updates save time. (video: 1:31 min.)

  • Get CAD/CAM at a fraction of the cost

    Stretch your budget by swapping costly, disparate CAD/CAM tools for one affordable, integrated solution. (video: 1:23 min.)

  • Work smarter, not harder

    Seamless updates deliver new functionality without disrupting your interface. You'll maintain high efficiency rates, since everyone will use the same version of Fusion 360. (video: 2:44 min.)

How is CAD/CAM used?

  • MJK Performance

    MJK Performance designs and manufactures high quality, precision CNC machined motorcycle parts.

  • Matsuura

    Matsuura is winning the profit game, gaining competitive advantage by using generative design to automatically create custom workpiece-holding fixtures, and printing them in high-strength polymer overnight.

  • Saunders Machine Works

    Saunders Machine Works uses Fusion 360 and specializes in CNC metal machining, prototype machining, fabrication, and design-for-manufacturing consulting.

Resources for CAD/CAM

Get started with CAD/CAM with these tutorials, guides, and tips.

  • Read this article for a complete introduction to using computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) software.

  • Access a full suite of CAM programming tools for 3 to 5-axis machining. Request a demo of Fusion 360. Meet your CAM programming goals with greater consistency and efficiency.

  • Access video tutorials and self-guided courses for 3D modeling, CAM/CAM design and programming, cloud CAM software, and manufacturing through the Fusion 360 Learn & Support Hub.

  • Learn more about how to use CAM software for CNC machining. Explore Autodesk CNC machining resources, products, and tutorials.

  • Get started in CNC programming with these tips, tricks, and tutorials.

  • Fusion 360 connects to the cloud to allow teams to collaborate regardless of whether they're sat in the same office, working from home, or based thousands of miles away.