What is CAD?
Computer-aided design (CAD) software has transformed our world. This revolutionary tool enables designers to sketch, adapt, and test their creations all in one place rather than relying on traditional drafting methods.
Using CAD design software is beneficial to engineers and designers because it is easy to spot errors in designs and it significantly speeds up manufacture. You can change the scale and fix issues with just a click, simulate a variety of situations, and print out 3D prototypes.
Almost every industry has been changed by CAD, but there are certain sectors that have been influenced more than most. Take a look atthree industries that have been revolutionised by computer-aided design and learn more about how this tool has re-shaped their processes and products.
Architecture
Much CAD software has been developed with a view to enhancing our building capabilities.
There are a variety of special programmes that are unique to the architectural industry known as CAAD (Computer-aided architectural design). These programmes contain information pertaining to construction which helps to inform the designer’s decisions and keep them within the realms of what is structurally safe.
2D sketches can be made into 3D visualisations which bring new designs to life and reveal potential improvements for existing buildings.
Interior Design
3D visualisations are also a key way that CAD is used in interior design.
Having access to a visual representation of an idea is not only useful for the designer but also for their customer, and it can act as a powerful sales tool. It also makes it easy to test out multiple covetable colours and styles in a matter of minutes.
The ability of CAD software to transform a 2D floorplan into a scaled 3D drawing also enables interior designers to maintain accuracy with measurements and avoid overcrowding the space.
Automotive
Accuracy is all-important in the automotive industry, and this is where car-related CAD programmes come in.
This niche software has a database of car parts which can be customised to size and pieced together. This means that the design has all of the elements of a physical car and can be ‘road tested’ in simulated circumstances.
Having the ability to be so thorough during this initial stage means that most safety issues can be identified and rectified well before the modelling phase. In addition, the highly accurate designsensure quality assurance when the vehicles start to be manufactured on mass.
Car companies also often operate on an international scale, with the design, testing, and production taking place in separate locations.Storing the design in an online space makes it much easier for everyone involved to collaborate effectively.
As you can see, this modern method of design has huge advantages across a range of different sectors. Consider exploring the ways in which computer-aided design software could be used in your own business practice.
