CAD (Computer-Aided Design)
Design Processes
Use of computer systems to aid in the creation, modification, or analysis of a design.
In practice
Throughout the design process, Computer-Aided Design (CAD) software is used by designers and engineers to create digital models of products or systems. CAD enables precise visualization, modification, and analysis of designs before physical prototyping, facilitating efficient and accurate design iterations. CAD plays a crucial role in various industries, from product design to architecture, contributing to improved design quality and streamlined development processes.
Questions
What is CAD (Computer-Aided Design)?
CAD is the software used to draw and model a design precisely, in two dimensions or three, as the definitive record of what will be made.
Why do you use CAD (Computer-Aided Design)?
It replaces ambiguity with dimensions. A CAD model is the thing a manufacturer quotes from, cuts from and inspects against.
How do you use/apply CAD (Computer-Aided Design)?
Model the geometry parametrically where you can, so a change to one dimension updates everything downstream, and keep the model clean enough that someone else can edit it.
When do you use CAD (Computer-Aided Design)?
From the first serious geometry through to production drawings and tooling.
Who uses CAD (Computer-Aided Design)?
Industrial designers, mechanical engineers and anyone whose work ends up being manufactured.
