Why use CAD (Computer Aided Design)
The use of CAD (Computer Aided Design) started in the early 80's and quickly reduced the need for entire departments of designers and drafters. With the advances of computer technology CAD became more sophisticated. Moving from 2D to 3D and adding additional features and applications for example FEA (Finite Element Analysis), CAE (Computer Aided Engineering). Today almost all products are designed in CAD.
Benefits:
- Precision CAD is precise up to eight place decimal. (.00000001)
- CAD is at the correct scale unlike hand drawings often have distorted features.
- CAD is digital and allows for quick data translation into manufacturing via 2D or 3D formats for example DXF (2D) STEP, IGES(3D).
- The design is fully captured with a 3D model all geometry is captured.
- CAD is much faster than the old school drafting board, all though many concepts are still created on paper.
- CAD saves money by reviewing digital prototypes before creating physical prototypes.
- CAD data does not require translation, explanation or imagination.