CAXA (CAD CAE CAM PLM) and CAD (Computer Aided Design) are two technologies and tools commonly found in the field of engineering design and manufacturing, and they have some differences and connections in practical applications. I'm going to expand on the differences below.
First of all, CAD (computer-aided design) is a technology and tool that uses computer technology for product design and drawing. CAD systems can replace traditional manual drawing and design methods by using computer software to create, modify and optimize engineering drawings and design models. CAD is widely used in architectural design, mechanical design, electronic design, aerospace and other engineering fields, which can greatly improve design efficiency and accuracy. CAD software typically has the ability to create, edit, save, and print graphic data, can draw and edit 2D and 3D graphics, and supports a variety of graphics formats and standards.
CAXA (CAD CAE CAM PLM) is a more comprehensive concept, which includes multiple parts such as CAD, CAE (Computer Aided Engineering), CAM (Computer Aided Manufacturing) and PLM (Product Lifecycle Management). The CAXA system is designed to comprehensively use computer technology and software to realize the full life cycle management of products, from design to manufacturing to maintenance, to achieve digital and comprehensive management of product information. The functions of the CAXA system are usually not limited to CAD design, but also include engineering support in various aspects such as failure analysis, simulation calculation, process planning, digital machining, etc.
Secondly, CAD mainly focuses on product design and drawing, and its goal is to achieve faster, more accurate, and more flexible engineering drawing and design through computer aid. CAD software usually provides a wealth of drawing tools, model building tools, dimensioning tools, etc., which can meet a variety of needs for 2D and 3D drawing. In addition, CAD also supports data exchange and format conversion of CAD files, which can be easily exchanged and shared with other CAD systems and users.
CAXA, on the other hand, includes more engineering support and management functions, including the CAE (Computer Aided Engineering) part for engineering analysis and simulation calculations, which can be used to analyze the strength, fatigue life, heat conduction and other properties of the product structure to help designers verify and improve the design scheme. In addition, the CAM (computer-aided manufacturing) part is used to realize digital machining and process planning, which can convert the product model of CAD design into a CNC machining program and realize the automated machining process. The PLM (Product Lifecycle Management) part is used to comprehensively manage product information and engineering processes, trace the design history of products, manage product documentation, track product life cycle status, coordinate R&D teams, etc.
In terms of technical application, CAD is mainly used in product design, engineering drawing, architectural design, circuit design and other fields, while the CAXA system is more comprehensive, covering product design, engineering analysis, digital manufacturing and product management. The CAXA system is generally used in large manufacturing enterprises, automotive, aviation, aerospace and other industries to support the entire life cycle management of products and improve product design and manufacturing efficiency.
In summary, CAD is a technology and tool dedicated to product design and engineering drawing, while the CAXA system is a more comprehensive concept that includes multiple engineering support and management functions including CAD. In practical applications, it is necessary to select the appropriate technologies and tools according to specific needs and business scenarios to achieve efficient, accurate and sustainable engineering design and manufacturing.