By Ella Kang
Computer-aided design (CAD) is the use of computer-based software to assist in the design processes. Different types of engineers, as well as designers across all industries, make use of CAD.
It replaces manual drafting and helps with a wide range of projects. Although it is almost impossible to list all industries benefiting from CAD because it is used everywhere, major industries include 3D printing, architecture, interior design, fashion, civil engineering, cartography, automotive, and aerospace. For instance, from small residential types to larger commercial and industrial structures, CAD does most of the work in drafting and designing. Specific CAD systems are also used for certain industries, with crossover and competition with various software companies.
Dr. Patrick Hanratty created the first numerical control system in the 60s, which later became CAD. Since then, different softwares have been created and CAD has quickly revolutionized the technology landscape. Common types of CAD software include 2D CAD, 3D CAD, 3D Wireframe, Surface Modelling, and Solid Modelling.
The purpose of CAD is very simple: to help users create a clear visualization of 2D and 3D designs. The software can help draft construction documentation, explore design ideas, visualize concepts through photorealistic renderings, and simulate how a design performs in the real world. Moreover, compared to traditional technical sketching and manual drafting, the use of CAD design tools can have significant benefits for engineers and designers:
Optimized, efficient workflow for designers
Increased productivity
Lower costs for production
Quicker project completion
Improvised quality and level of detail in the design
Highly accurate dimensional analysis and mathematical scalability using graphic technology
Improved documentation (angles, measurements, presets)
Highly precise part tolerance; the much lower error margin
Better communication and collaboration between designers
More manufacturing design database
Changes made independent of other design details without the need to redesign
Support for other designs, solid modeling, and other technical processes
On the other hand, CAD has some disadvantages because of the software’s higher cost, the need to train the operators according to the software update, and the insufficient number of skilled CAD operators.
It should be noted that CAD is similar yet different from CAM [computer-aided manufacturing]. While CAD is more centered toward the product, CAM focuses on the entire manufacturing process from cutting, milling, routing, engraving, and printing solid materials. CAM also uses the models created from CAD software, to plan paths that could turn the designs into physical elements.
Resources:
Bernstein, Larry. “What Is Computer-Aided Design (CAD) and Why It's Important.” Jobsite, Procore Technologies, Inc., 11 Oct. 2020, www.procore.com/jobsite/what-is-computer-aided-design-cad-and-why-its-important/.
“CAD: A Brief History.” Digital School Technical Design College, 2 Oct. 2020, www.digitalschool.ca/cad-a-brief-history/.
“CAD Software: 2D And 3D Computer-Aided Design.” Autodesk, www.autodesk.com/solutions/cad-software.
Why Is CAD so Important?, East Coast Polytechnic Institute, www.ecpi.edu/blog/why-is-cad-so-important.
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