24-11-2017, 10:28 AM
Computer aided design (CAD) is the use of computer systems (or work stations) to assist in the creation, modification, analysis or optimization of a design. CAD software is used to increase designer productivity, improve design quality, improve communications through documentation and create a database for manufacturing. The CAD output often comes in the form of electronic files for printing, machining or other manufacturing operations. The term CADD (for Computer Aided Design and Copywriting) is also used.
Its use in the design of electronic systems is known as electronic design automation, or EDA. In mechanical design it is known as mechanical design automation (MDA) or computer assisted drawing (CAD), which includes the process of creating a technical drawing with the use of software.
CAD software for mechanical design uses vector-based graphics to represent traditional drawing objects, or it can also produce raster graphics that show the overall appearance of the designed objects. However, it implies more than just forms. As in the manual design of technical and engineering drawings, the CAD output must transmit information, such as materials, processes, dimensions and tolerances, in accordance with the specific conventions of the application.