Explain how a simple CAM works. Give examples of how different CAMs work and the type of movement they make. Think about the other components needed in order for the CAM to function properly.

Computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) is the use of software to control machines and automate the manufacturing work. CAM allows designers and manufacturers to feed the data into the CAM software without developing designs manually.

The CAM system works by substituting hand-made patterns with software that defines the actions and processes of a machine. CAM software then converts that data into detailed instructions that drive machines.

Examples of CAM:

Laser Cutter

Plasma Cutter

Autodesk AutoCAD