CAD and CAM in the footwear industry

The footwear industry uses CAD/CAM computer graphic software for designing and grading of shoe upper patterns as well as for manufacturing of cutting dies, shoe lasts and sole moulds. The shoe industry today, uses 2D and 3D versions of CAD/CAM systems.

In the 1970s, CAD was first introduced to the shoe industry and was used mainly for pattern grading. CAD made it possible for manufacturers to perform complex grading relatively effortlessly and in a timely manner. Today's CAD systems have a much broader range of functions including the incorporation of logos, textures, and other decorations into product designs for both the uppers and soles to help reinforce branding on every area of the model. The system can automate routine procedures. It can also increase speed and consistency, at the same time as decreasing the risk of mistakes. The footwear manufacturing industry uses CAD data effectively for a wide variety of activities. CAD/CAM software is able to: Generate data at the design stage Create last data from solid lasts by scanning Create 3D shoe designs and 2D pattern data Acquire real time pattern samples in both 2D or 3D Create manufacturing documentation Obtain analytical costing information for graded parts CAD/CAM software has enabled footwear manufacturers to dramatically cut their time to market and increase market share and profit. In addition, the software's flexibility has made it possible for the designers to overcome restrictions imposed by traditional design methods.

Home page

Disclaimers

Reviews of CAD Manufacturers

For Architects

Other uses for Cad software

FAQ's

Where to buy