CAD is an acronym for Computer Aided Drafting or Design. It generally refers to the software that is used to create three dimensional designs for engineering, architecture and a host of other industries. CAD software differs from more artistic rendering programs because it strives for mathematical accuracy and real world application.
The earliest CAD programs were very limited due to the low specifications of computers at the time and were mostly used to input two dimensional blueprints into the system to attain a wireframe three dimensional model.
In the modern implementation of CAD software, much more can be done. Complete engineering and building specifications can be recorded inside of the program. Some high end CAD programs even have the ability to apply real world physics to the designs to test whether they are feasible under different conditions.
CAD programs also allow the user to render accurate three dimensional visualizations of the structure they are working on. This allows clients to see what the architect is thinking and make aesthetic decisions that can be instantly applied and then decided upon.
Modern CAD programs are also capable of integrating themselves into industrial manufacturing systems. The designs created by a draftsman with the software can be loaded into special machines that can produce two dimensional or three dimensional pieces from specified materials. The aerospace and automotive industries rely heavily on these methods to test new shapes and designs.
There are even special three dimensional ‘printers’ which can take a CAD schematic and actually create a three dimensional object from lightweight plastic.
CAD software is even employed by special effects filmmakers to recreate buildings and cities in exacting detail.
The power of modern computers combined with the reduced cost of basic CAD software has made it possible for almost anyone to use it for design purposes. For this reason, trades such as jewelry design, packaging design, and even advertising are relying heavily on CAD programs to help move their processes along smoothly and quickly.
As computers grow more powerful, so too do the features of the CAD programs that are available. The future of CAD may see programs which can not only accurately test the strength of certain designs and apply realistic gravity and wind, but may also be able to make suggestions on how to improve a design or even create an original design itself from a simple set of specifications.
Related posts:
- What Is Civil Engineering?
- What Is Ethernet?
- What Is Dichroic Glass?
- What Is HTML?
- How Do I Become an Electrician?