Process Design

What Are the Benefits of Computer-Aided Design?

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Computer-aided design (CAD) is a type of software used for creating blueprints and schematics. CAD software is used in construction, engineering and other industries that use technical illustrations. CAD programs produce designs in 2-D, 3-D, or both, depending on the specific software. Many companies make CAD software--which ranges from open-source to extensive commercial packages--and its use provides several benefits.

Accuracy

Companies switching from traditional drafting to CAD see a reduction in technical errors. 3-D imaging and multiple viewing angles allow engineers to double-check for problems before designs are implemented. This results in a significant cost savings for companies as potential problems are fixed prior to a design going to production.

Productivity

Another benefit of CAD software is increased productivity. Most CAD software offers features to help with repetitive tasks such as creating a list of materials, placing symbols on the document and automatically creating detailed views of individual parts of the design. A design that once took an entire drafting department only takes one engineer to create today.

Time Frame

The wide adoption of CAD software has reduced the amount of time it takes for a company to go from the design stage to manufacturing. CAD designs are uniform in style and measure so information is shared easily among engineers and other project members when multiple designers are involved.

Editing

Not every design is going to be perfect on the first try, even with CAD software. If the design doesn't work as well as it should, the engineer doesn't have to go back to the drawing board. He just has to bring up the saved CAD designs and make edits from there. Simple edits can be done at the manufacturing process itself.

Training

CAD software requires specialized training offered by software vendors or colleges. Engineers can learn new software packages more quickly than...