Computer-Integrated
Manufacturing (CIM)
Name: ____________________
Class & Period: ___________
Topic: CIM
Definition
• Computer-Integrated Manufacturing (CIM)
integrates all stages of production into one
system.
• Key Acronyms:
• • CAD – Computer-Aided Design
• • CAM – Computer-Aided Manufacturing
• • CAPP – Computer-Aided Process Planning
• • CAQ – Computer-Aided Quality
Timeline of CIM
• • 1970s: CNC (Computer Numerical Control)
machines introduced
• • 1973–74: Dr. Joseph Harrington coins CIM
• • 1980s: CAD/CAM integration expands
• • 1984: CASA/SME promotes CIM standards
• • 1990s: CIMOSA (Open System Architecture)
developed
• • 2000s: ERP and MRP II expand CIM
• • Today: Industry 4.0 (AI, IoT, cyber-physical
Major Changes & Evolution
• • From isolated systems to full integration
• • Shift from CAD/CAM to enterprise-wide
optimization
• • Open standards (CIMOSA) allow
interoperability
• • ERP and MRP II expand CIM beyond shop
floor
• • Industry 4.0 introduces AI, IoT, and digital
twins
Influential People
• • Dr. Joseph Harrington – Coined CIM
• • Patrick J. Hanratty – 'Father of CAD/CAM'
• • Douglas T. Ross – Developed APT for CNC
• • Jean-Baptiste Waldner – Wrote Principles of
CIM
Modern Applications
• • Automotive: CAD, robots, ERP for scheduling
• • Aerospace: CNC machining of complex parts
• • Electronics: Automated circuit board
production
• • Medical devices: CAQ for strict quality
• • Logistics: ERP + MES for supply chain
efficiency
Career Opportunities
• • Manufacturing Engineer – Designs
workflows
• • Industrial Engineer – Optimizes efficiency
• • Automation/Robotics Technician – Maintains
equipment
• • MES/ERP Specialist – Manages software
systems
• • Data Analyst/Digital Twin Specialist – Uses
data insights
• • Consultant/Integration Architect – Guides
References (APA Style)
• Harrington, J. (1974). Computer Integrated
Manufacturing. Industrial Press.
• Encyclopedia Britannica. (2023). Automation:
Computer-integrated manufacturing.
• Wikipedia contributors. (2025). Computer-
integrated manufacturing.
• Six Sigma DSI. (2022). Computer Integrated
Manufacturing (CIM): Overview.
