Computer Aided Design software, or CAD as it is affectionately shortened to, is fully equipped to satisfy modern design needs. Even with the use of the common home computer CAD software gives you the tools to create, modify, analyze, optimize and construct a design format which looks as professional as the experts.
CAD is so advanced in its concepts yet so easy to use, you will wonder how designers ever managed without it. CAD software has a wide range of applications from 2D and 3D modeling to an extensive range of tools for both technical and practical uses and plays an integral role in managing the entire design process. Software like this is a designers dream. It is so efficient, it saves and enormous amount of time and effort by significantly reducing the time it takes to plan, sketch and edit a project.
Basic features of CAD software
Any modern CAD software has three main features; geometric 2D/3D modeling, automated drafting and simulation, engineering and design analysis. Geometric modeling is the construction of the prototype in question. It could be something as complex as a building or a car or something as simple as a mechanical part of the building or car.Construction plans are usually formatted in 2D while the mechanical parts can be programmed to appear in 3 dimensional formats. Both front and back views can be assessed during the design process simply by rotating the prototype whereby you can add individual features to whichever side you like, such as a door or window.
You can also use CAE (Computer Aided Engineering) to test and analyze engineering designs on the computer screen without the need to make an actual prototype by hand thus further reducing time and cost. Real time simulation is also available to introduce any factors that the product is likely to face in its intended environment.
Other Advantages of using CAD
That CAD has minimized the design and analysis process of any engineering a product by between 60 and 80 percent is a massive bonus and incentive for anybody involved in design work. Prototype testing can be completed entirely by computer simulation using the advanced software, the rebuilding of prototypes to iron out the mistakes is also avoided.Practical Uses of CAD
CAD software has vast applications in mechanical engineering, civil engineering, architecture, dynamics and their corresponding industries, but can be used to equally cost-effective standards by anybody with a computer and a design project they want to work on. This can be something in the home (e.g. design a kitchen using Articad Kitchen Software) or a school project.
Solid state modeling in 3D has played a major role in translating vision to reality. Moving design engineering or the study of dynamics for example is used to predict any difficulties that may occur. Mechanical designs for machines, the construction of buildings, designer clothes are all shaped using CAD.
Conclusion
The progress the modern world has made over the last twenty-five years would not have been possible without the introduction of computer aided design.
Image Credits: Siemens PLM Software and articad images.
Faizan Ahmad
About the Author:
This article is posted by Faizan who is the Author and Founder of TechSenser. He is a Professional Blogger from India and a passionate writer about Technology, Gadgets, How-to-Guides, etc. You can connect him on Google+.
This article is posted by Faizan who is the Author and Founder of TechSenser. He is a Professional Blogger from India and a passionate writer about Technology, Gadgets, How-to-Guides, etc. You can connect him on Google+.
