What Is Computer Aided Design (CAD)

The creation, analysis, modification and the optimisation of a design through computer software are known collectively as Computer-Aided Design (CAD). This is a process through which computer software can be used to create a technical design or drawing.

In the formative years, blueprints and drawings were sketched manually and if a little bit of improvisation was required, the entire draft had to be changed. With the advent of CAD, the productivity as well as the efficiency of designers has improved. This software records lines in the form of vector-based graphics to display objects similar to traditional drafting. It also produces raster graphics that manifest the appearance of a designed object completely.

The output produced by the software is in the form of an electronic file that can be printed or used for other operations.

Functions of Computer-Aided Design Software

CAD software is not only about shapes and figures. This software involves a lot more:

This software allows the user to view the design from different angles and perspectives by rotating it.It allows the designer to switch between both 2D (two-dimensional) and 3D (three-dimensional) views.A designer can also look at the creation closely and from a distance through the software's zoom-in and zoom-out functions.Changing or improvising on a shape is easy with CAD software, as a change in one part can be incorporated in the entire design, changing it completely.As CAD records the values of lines and figures, a change in one value automatically adjusts the other values related to it. Thus, the scale of an image can be adjusted appropriately.

Apart from its benefits for a designer, Computer Aided Design software helps improve the design quality and also serves as a documentation tool that facilitates flow of communication.

Development of Computer Aided Design (CAD)

This software was invented by Ivan Sutherland in 1961. However, Computer-aided Design or CAD fully entered the arena during the 1980s and due to its affordability and ease of operation; it soon became a handy tool for engineers. This also reduced the need for draftsmen dramatically, as the software allowed engineers to carry out their work on their own.

Industries where CAD is used

CAD software is used by professionals from various fields, such as engineers, designers, drafters, architects and other artists. It is used in the detailed designing of tools, buildings, consumer goods, architecture and even automobiles.

CAD software is also used in the stainless steel furniture and equipment industry, where it helps create customised designs and even depicts how the equipment will look after completion.

In the architecture industry, this software is primarily used for detailed engineering and drafting of 2D and 3D models. Starting from the inception of a design to the entire engineering process, this software aids in the design of all types of buildings and industrial or commercial structures.

Bringing a revolution in the textile industry, the CAD software has made textile designing extremely easy and innovative and all this just at the click of the mouse.

Graeme is writing on behalf of Stainless Steel Tables manufacturer Teknomek

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