Computer-aided design (CAD) is the use of computer technology to aid in the design of a product, particularly the drafting of a part or the product—a part visual (drawing) and part symbol method of communications particular to a specific technical field. It is in origination, the use of computers to aid the art of drafting—the integral communications of technical drawings — which for a three dimensional object are typically represented by three projected views at right angles —drafting is the Industrial arts sub-discipline which underlies all involved technical endeavors. Current CAD software packages range from 2D vector base drafting systems to 3D solid and surface modellers. Modern CAD packages can also frequently allow rotations in three dimensions, allowing viewing of a designed object from any desired angle, even from the inside looking out. Some CAD software is capable of dynamic mathematic modeling, in which case it may be marketed as CADD — Computer Aided Design and Drafting.CAD is used to design, develop and optimize products, which can be goods used by end consumers or intermediate goods used in other products. CAD is also extensively used in the design of tools and machinery used in the manufacture of components, and in the drafting and design of all types of buildings, from small residential types (houses) to the largest commercial and industrial structures (hospitals and factories).
CAD is mainly used for detailed engineering of 3D models and/or 2D drawings of physical components, but it is also used throughout the engineering process from conceptual design and layout of products, through strength and dynamic analysis of assemblies to definition of manufacturing methods of components.
CAD has become an especially important technology, within the scope of Computer Aided technologies, with benefits such as lower product development costs and a greatly shortened design cycle. CAD enables designers to lay out and develop work on screen, print it out and save it for future editing, saving time on their drawings.
Answered by
Kaushal
, an ibibo Advisor,
at
7:28 PM on May 10, 2008