Computer-aided Engineering Software (CAE)

Computer-aided engineering software (CAE) is used in engineering, analysis and manufacturing. There are many different types for products. Examples include CAE software for stress analysis, thermal and fluid flow analysis, kinematics, and mechanical event simulation. Typically, computer-aided engineering software (CAE) provides tools for process simulation. CAE programs are used widely in the automotive industry to reduce product development times and costs while improving the safety, comfort, and durability of cars, trucks, buses, and others vehicles.

Computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing software (CAD/CAM) is a type of computer-aided engineering software (CAE) used in mechanical, electrical, and electronic design; simulation, drafting, and engineering; and analysis and manufacturing. CAD software allows engineers, architects, and designers to create conceptual drawings for assessment and approval. CAM software allows designers to import CAD files and control manufacturing equipment. For both computer-aided design software (CAD) and computer-aided manufacturing software (CAM), two-dimensional (2D) and three-dimensional (3D) applications are available.

Electronic design automation (EDA) and electronic computer-aided design software (ECAD) is a type of computer-aided engineering software (CAE) that is used to design and develop electronic systems such as printed circuit boards (PCBs) and integrated circuits (ICs). EDA software for electronics is used by foundry operators who run semiconductor facilities, and by service bureaus that evaluate circuit designs for production readiness. EDA and ECAD software for IC design incorporates modular, digital flows and encompasses the logic and circuit design methods required by miniaturized electronic components.

Mechanical computer-aided design software (MCAD) is a type of computer-aided engineering software (CAE) used by machine designers and mechanical engineers to design and develop mechanical systems. MCAD software is also used in architectural and construction applications. A type of CAE software, MCAD can be used to produce either 2D or 3D models. Mechanical computer aided-design software (MCAD) may also use a bottom-up or top-down approach. Beginning with a basic drawing and then building more elaborate designs is called bottom-up design. Top-down design approaches involve breaking down an existing product into single components.

Technology computer-aided design software (TCAD) is a type of computer-aided engineering software (CAE) for simulating the fabrication process (but not the behavior) of semiconductor devices. TCAD software is used to optimize semiconductor fabrication steps such as diffusion and ion implantation, and may support semiconductor wet process fabrication. Wet processing strips the oxide from those areas of the wafer that lack a lithographic pattern, thus leaving the oxide barriers to prevent contamination of the underlying silicon during later processes. Other types of computer-aided engineering software (CAE) are also available.

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