This volume presents papers from the fifth European conference on 'Effective CADCAM' held in Coventry in November 1991, focusing on the practical application and future development of Computer Aided Design and Computer Aided Manufacturing technologies within the engineering industry. The conference, organized by the Institution of Mechanical Engineers, provided a platform for engineers to share their experiences with existing systems and discuss advancements. Key topics explored include optimizing designs for profitability, the role of CADCAM in creating customized orthopedic implants, and its application in enhancing the engineering of British Rail's vehicle fleet. The collection aims to inform companies on maximizing the effectiveness of current CADCAM methods and updating systems for improved cost-efficiency and design flexibility.

The papers presented at this 1991 conference offer insights into the practical applications and ongoing evolution of CADCAM technology within the engineering sector. The discussions highlight the importance of system optimization for cost-effectiveness and design flexibility, as evidenced by the diverse case studies ranging from medical implants to transportation engineering. The collection reflects the state of CADCAM at the time, providing a historical perspective on its integration into industrial practices and the challenges and opportunities identified by practitioners.