The response to the first edition of the book was highly encouraging. Based on the numerous suggestions from the users of the book and on the latest developments in the field, I am pleased to present this new edition. Developments in the field of computers, as always, are occurring continuously. Manufacturing industries have adopted computers and improved the manufacturing practices further since the publication of the first edition. A lot of developments have taken place in the CAD/CAM industry in the past few years.

This edition of the book aims to provide a user viewpoint of the CAD/CAM subject such that the application aspect is given predominant coverage. However, the current syllabi of Indian universities have an in-depth coverage of CAD. To that extent, I have received a number of suggestions for adding the details such that the book can be adopted in these universities.

The major modifications done are as follows:

In Chapter 4 on geometric modelling, free form surfaces, mathematical representation of curves and rapid prototyping have been expanded. Also constraint based modelling principles and surface representation have been added.

Chapter 7 now includes constraint based modelling using Autodesk Inventor.

In Chapter 13, the part program simulations are added to improve the understanding of the programming methods.

Chapter 16 includes computer aided part programming using Mastercam, the industry standard CAM programming system.

In Chapter 21, the coverage of automated guided vehicles has been expanded with the details of system design. Coverage of robots has been increased by adding details on sensors and grippers. Details of robot application with system design for robot cells are added with increased coverage on robot programming languages. Coverage of AS/RS is improved by adding the system design procedures.

In Chapter 22, the coverage of flexible manufacturing systems is expanded, details on flexibility concepts, system layouts and developing the system concepts are included.

A new Chapter 23 on Computer Integrated Manufacturing is added.

In addition to these major inclusions, the book has been brought up-to-date making the necessary changes throughout. With all these modifications, I hope the book serves a much wider spectrum of readers.

Readers are again requested to send comments and suggestions, which will be taken care of in the future editions.

P NAGESWARA RAO