Expert: J. B. Borge - 9/16/2004

Question
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Followup To
Question -
      Can you tell me what math skills are absoulutly necessary in CAD/CAM work. I have basic algebra and trig and wonder if I learn the programs well if it will be possible for me to get work.
      I am not a science person rather I am an artist and I hope that the work entales translating a designers specs into the program and not much calculating.
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I see .......
  Can you please tell me which CAD/CAM or CAD alone program in particular
or which CAM program in particualr is best to learn.

  I read that the communication between the two is better with Autodesk Mechanical Applications Initiative (MAI), the Solid Edge Voyager program and the Solid Works Partner Program, compatibility issues have been eliminated.

Thank You
Manny

Answer -
Manny, typically the trend i see nowadays especially in the mechanical field is that, everything is done in 3D. Some of the 3D packages already does basic FEA stress calculations for you. Algebra & Trig should suffice but employers look for people w/ proficiency in software & drafting skills. Might be a good idea to visit local community college/tech school what classes they offer. Best of luck!

Answer
This also depends on the industry u want to pursue. For Mechanical applications, Autodesk's offers Inventor or Mechanical Desktop (soon to go away). Personally, these softwares lacks support for 3D surface modeling. Solidworks on the otherhand, has more to offer in contrast to Inventor. Solidworks is a hybrid modeler, which means you can easily switch/edit from 3D solids to 3D surface & vice versa. This is a must esp in designing complex shapes & forms (plastics/sheet metal). Additionally, just about 2 years ago they've included FEA analysis on their basic package. Other software you have to buy this as an add-in.  Whats cool on the new coming release is that they've cracked the code for Autocad. That means that you'll be able to fully create/edit an Autocad drawing within Solidworks. Apparently, Solidworks did their homework & leaving the competion behind. Pro-Engineer is another software to consider but not many businesses out there that can afford it. Solid Edge, haven't heard anything exceptional about it!

As far as communications concern, the universal language in 3D is called IGES. If you can import/export this format then there shouldn't be any problem.

Over all, i definitely recommend Solidworks. Good luck!