7.3 Introduction to computer-aided design (CAD) software
5 min read•august 15, 2024
Computer-aided design (CAD) software revolutionized engineering graphics. It's a game-changer, allowing us to create precise 2D and 3D models with ease. CAD tools streamline the design process, from sketching to final drawings.
In this section, we'll dive into CAD basics. We'll explore the interface, modeling techniques, and how to add constraints and dimensions. Plus, we'll learn to create professional drawings from our 3D models. It's all about boosting productivity and accuracy.
Basic CAD Tools
Interface and Navigation
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Top images from around the web for Interface and Navigation
Full Version Autodesk AutoCAD LT 2016 Free Download ~ Downloads View original
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Las 25 mejores herramientas software CAD gratis | formizable! View original
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Las 25 mejores herramientas software CAD gratis | formizable! View original
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CAD software interfaces consist of modeling workspace, toolbars, feature trees, and property panels allowing efficient organization and access to tools
Selection tools choose specific entities (points, lines, faces) for editing or referencing forming the foundation for all CAD operations
View manipulation tools enable navigation in 3D space
Pan moves the view parallel to the screen
Zoom adjusts the magnification level
Rotate changes the viewing angle of the model
Feature tree provides hierarchical representation of model construction history crucial for complex model editing
Shortcut keys and customizable interfaces enhance productivity
Common shortcuts include Ctrl+S for save, Ctrl+Z for undo
Customization options allow rearrangement of toolbars and creation of macros
Productivity Enhancements
Snap tools automatically align geometry to existing points, lines, or grids improving precision (endpoint snap, midpoint snap)
Layer management organizes model elements into categories for easier manipulation and visualization
Measurement tools calculate distances, angles, and areas between model elements aiding in analysis and verification
Rendering capabilities generate photorealistic images of models useful for presentations and marketing materials
File management features handle large assemblies and facilitate collaboration (PDM systems, cloud-based storage)
2D & 3D Modeling
2D Sketching Fundamentals
2D sketching tools create accurate planar geometry forming the basis for
draws straight segments between two points
Circle tool creates perfect circles from center point and radius
Arc tool generates curved segments defined by three points or center and endpoints
Rectangle tool produces four-sided shapes with right angles
Spline tool creates smooth curves through multiple control points
Sketch relations define geometric relationships between entities
Horizontal and vertical constraints align lines to coordinate axes
Perpendicular constraint ensures 90-degree angles between lines
Tangent constraint makes curves smoothly touch other entities
Sketch patterns replicate geometry in linear or circular arrays saving time for repetitive designs
3D Modeling Techniques
Feature-based modeling builds 3D geometry from 2D sketches using various operations
Extrusion creates 3D objects by extending 2D profiles along a linear path
Revolution generates 3D shapes by rotating 2D profiles around an axis
Sweep produces 3D forms by moving a 2D profile along a 3D path
Loft creates smooth transitions between multiple 2D profiles
Boolean operations modify 3D solid bodies
Union combines multiple bodies into a single entity
Subtraction removes material from one body using another
Intersection creates a new body from overlapping volumes
techniques generate complex curved geometry
Creating surfaces from curves or by extending existing faces
Trimming surfaces to create precise boundaries
Stitching multiple surfaces to form watertight bodies
Fillet and chamfer features modify edge geometry
Fillets create rounded transitions between faces (constant radius, variable radius)
Chamfers create angled transitions between faces (equal distance, two distances)
combines multiple 3D parts
Mate constraints define relationships between components (coincident, concentric, distance)
Kinematic analysis simulates movement of assembled mechanisms
Constraints & Dimensions
Geometric Constraints
Geometric constraints in 2D sketches define relationships between entities ensuring design intent
Parallel constraint maintains equal distance between two lines
Concentric constraint aligns circular entities around a common center
Symmetric constraint mirrors entities across a line or plane
Fixed constraint prevents entities from moving during sketch modifications
Constraint solving algorithms automatically adjust sketch geometry to satisfy defined relationships
Over-constraining occurs when conflicting or redundant constraints are applied
Identifying over-constrained conditions through software warnings or sketch behavior
Resolving conflicts by removing or modifying constraints to maintain model flexibility
Dimensional Constraints
Dimensional constraints specify exact sizes and positions of geometry
Linear dimensions define lengths and distances between entities
Angular dimensions specify angles between lines or faces
Radial and diametral dimensions control sizes of circular features
Driving dimensions actively control sketch geometry
Driven dimensions passively report sizes without affecting the sketch
Reference dimensions provide information without constraining the model
Tolerance annotations indicate acceptable variations in dimensions (±0.1, +0.2/−0.1)
Parametric Design Tools
Equation-driven constraints create relationships between dimensions