CADCAM technology has made many advances since it was first introduced into the engineering industry. Companies need to know how to make the most effective use of current methods and how to update systems for greater cost effectiveness and design flexibility. The fifth European conference on "Effective CADCAM" held in Coventry in November 1991, and organized by the Institution of Mechanical Engineers, provided an opportunity for engineers to discuss their experience of systems currently available as well as future developments. The range of topics under discussion included profit through design optimization, the CADCAM contribution to customized orthopaedic implants and effective engineering for British Rail's vehicle fleet. This volume contains the papers presented at the conference.