Computer-aided design (CAD) is a software tool used by engineers, architects, designers, and drafters to create digital 2D and 3D drawings used to design a variety of items and spaces. It can be used to design something as simple as a shampoo bottle or as complex as a jet plane. By bringing a computer into the design process, designers are able to change the dimensions, color, or material of a model with a click of a button. You might find CAD also referred to as CADD or computer-aided design and drafting.
History of CAD
The foundations of CAD can be found rooted in the 1960s. Ivan Sutherland created a revolutionary computer program called SKETCHPAD at MIT in 1962. This program was the first graphical user interface (GUI) program which meant that the user could graphically interact with a computer by drawing on a CRT monitor with a specially-designed light pen.
By the 1970s, CAD had been further developed and was introduced to the commercial space by the automotive and aerospace industry. Until the mid-1980s, CAD systems could only be used on specially constructed computers, but now its as easy as downloading a CAD program onto your own computer.
Downloading CAD
Today, you can download a CAD system onto any major platform:
When downloading CAD, there are a few hardware specifications to keep in mind. In order for CAD to run smoothly and operate at peak performance, you want to be sure your workstation or personal computer has a good amount of RAM and storage, as well as a good display.
Types of CAD
CAD software can be broken down into four broad categories:
- 2D CAD uses basic geometric shapes to create flat drawings.
- 3D CAD can create three-dimensional drawings that are able to be rotated on any plane.
- 3D Wireframe and Surface Modeling can be used to create wireframe models that are see-through, or it can be used to join 3D surfaces and make a model that is opaque.
- Solid Modeling is similar to surface modeling, but you are able to add weight, volume, and density to the renderings.
