Management Of Cad Cam Computer Aided Design Computer Aided Manufacturing Information Key To Improved Manufacturing Productivity

A key element to improved industry productivity is effective management of CAD/CAM information. To simulate advancements in this area, a joint NASA/Navy/Industry project designated Integrated Programs for Aerospace-Vehicle Design (IPAD) is underway with the goal of raising aerospace industry productivity through advancement of technology to integrate and manage information involved in the design and manufacturing process. The project complements traditional NASA/DOD research to develop aerospace design technology and the Air Force's Integrated Computer-Aided Manufacturing (ICAM) program to advance CAM technology. IPAD research is guided by an Industry Technical Advisory Board (ITAB) composed of over 100 representatives from aerospace and computer companies. This paper summarizes IPAD accomplishments to date in development of requirements and prototype software for various levels of company-wide CAD/CAM data management and discusses plans for development of technology for management of distributed CAD/CAM data and information required to control future knowledge-based CAD/CAM systems.