Computer-aided Engineering (often referred to as CAE) is a broad term describing the use of computer technology to aid in the design, manufacture, handling, or transport of goods. It is most widely used in the control of robotic machines which perform manufacturing tasks too large, too small, too exacting, too dangerousm, or too tiresome for human beings.

 

This can range from the assembly of automobiles to the etching of microchips. The precision of computer control is invaluable to almost every form of manufacturing. Advanced CAE tools merge many different aspects of the product lifecycle management (PLM), including design, production planning, product testing using FEA (Finite Element Analysis), visualization and product documentation etc.

 

Example of a CAE activity