In a today's fast paced production facilities, a series of CNC machines programmed with CAM software generated and controlled by the machine operator, may be combined into one station, commonly called a "work cell", to progressively machine a part requiring several operations.  CNC machines are controlled directly from the CAD model data importing directly into the CAM software package.  The CAM program operator defines the appropriate CNC machine including the raw material stock (size) and the stages of material removal from selecting the proper tool and material - chip removal rates - tool cutting paths, from making large rough cuts to the final geometric surface definition. From complex multi-shot injection mold tools to progressive stamping dies to simple sheet metal bends, the CAM - CNC Machining and Manufacturing has automated production yield to a three shift 24/7 operation, as fast as you can feed the material stock into the machine.  

     In the automotive and large machine industries, intelligent automated robotic assembly lines systems combined with CNC machines with laser and vision error detection features can notify the plant operator's mobile phone if it detects a stoppage or broken tool,  running 24/7 without operator intervention.  The intelligence of CNC controllers and high speed outputs has dramatically increased work cell production rates.   For example the machine can run other parts while it is awaiting a damaged tool replacement.  Today flexible production work cells are created to meet the demands for meet product customization, raw materials and inventory management. Mass production and the design or products for mass production is a very expensive. 

     Product development which includes Industrial Design, Mechanical and Electrical Engineering, CAD modeling, CAE / FEA Finite- Element Analysis and CAM - Rapid Prototyping is one level of the development expense.   The development of a manufacturing assembly line with some level of automation is a much higher level of investment. Manufacturing is typically a market driven part of the business.  When the market demands advances in CAM and CNC machining and manufacturers have driven prices down especially when low labor rates are involved i.e. NAFTA (North American Free Trade Agreement) and the Asian - low employee wage markets.  This is a windfall for large product manufacturers who can invest in these automation facilities.  It is a very large hurdle for the start-up entrepreneur with a small or custom product market.  

Tools with CNC controllers

• Drills
• EDMs
• Lathes
• Milling machines
• Wood routers
• Sheet metal works
• Wire bending machines
• Hot-wire foam cutters
• Plasma cuttings
• Water jet cutters
• Laser cutting