COMPUTER AIDED DESIGN ( CAD)

Computer aided design thus utilises the computer as a tool for all functions that
are involved in the design process. The main functions that would utilise the
computer are
• Layout design for the overall assembly
• Individual component modelling
• Assembly modelling
• Interference and tolerance stack checking
• Engineering drawings
Today’s CAD technology can provide the engineer/designer the necessary help in
the following ways:
1. Computer Aided Design (CAD) is faster and more accurate than conventional
methods.
2. The various construction facilities available in CAD would make the job of
developing the model and associated drafting a very easy task.
3. In contrast with the traditional drawing methods, under CAD it is possible to
manipulate various dimensions, attributes and distances of the drawing elements.
This quality makes CAD useful for design work.
4. Under CAD, you will never have to repeat the design or drawing of any
component. Once a component has been made, it can be copied in all further
works within seconds, including any geometric transformation needed.
5. You can accurately calculate the various geometric properties including
dimensions of various components interactively in CAD, without actually making
their models and profiles.
6. With the constraint-based modelling methods that are prevalent in most of the
commercially available CAD systems, it is possible to capture the design intent into
the product model beyond the simple geometry. This will help in actually making
modifications easily. Also, it is possible to try various options, thereby optimising
the whole design process. Thus, the geometric modeling process can be driven by
the physics of the process.
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7. Modification of a model is very easy and would make the designer’s task of
improving a given product simple to take care of any future requirements.

1 Main Applications of Computer Aided Design (CAD)

1.1 Solid Modelling

This process is used to create solid components of desired shape by joining and
cutting different solid volumes. The final solid model is a virtual replica of an
actual product but it can be seen and rotated like a real product. There are two
main types:
· direct where the model can be edited by undoing or modifying the model directly
on the 3D;
· parametric where the model is constructed using parameters (variable quantities
such as measurements) and the model can be edited at any point in its history
1.2 Surface Modelling

This process is used to create surfaces of desired shape by trimming, stitching and
joining different surfaces to create a final shape mode
1.3 Assembly

This process is used to assemble the models created in solid or surface modelling
to create a final assembly. This is used to see the actual fitment of all models and
see the actual working of assembly

1.4 Drafting Detailing

This process is used to create the 2D drawings of components or assemblies;

usually directly from a 3D model, although 2D CAD can create 2D drawings
directly.
1.5 Reverse Engineering

This process is used to convert the real component into 3D CAD Model. Different
types of instruments such as laser scanner, white light scanner, CMM (coordinate

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measuring machine) etc. are used to measure or decode the shape of real model.
The virtual model obtained can then be modified in a CAD program.

2 Main Applications of Computer Aided Manufacture (CAM)

2.1 Plotter/cutters
Using 2D CAD or graphics software these machines can draw or cut 2D shapes
on paper, card or self-adhesive vinyl sheets.
2.2 Laser cutting
Using 2D CAD or graphics software these machines can cut or engrave a wide
variety of materials such as card, plywood, acrylic sheet, textiles, glass.
2.3 2.5D Milling
Typically 2.5D machining uses 2D CAD files as the source and cuts in x and y
directions (parallel to the machine bed) while lowering the tool progressively
through several steps to cut out an object using a rotating tool. Setting tool paths
is generally simple and the part cut rapidly
3.4 3D Milling
3d machining typically used STL files from 3D CAD programs as a source and
requires all three axes of the mill to be able to move simultaneously. 3D machining
can take a very long time even on fast, modern machines and especially if a high
quality finish is required. A fourth or rotary axis can also be added to create turned
parts.
2.5 Turning
CAM software automates traditional turning on a lathe including roughing,
grooving, threading and finishing for faster, more accurate results.

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2.6 3D printing
3D printing is a process of making a three-dimensional object of virtually any
shape from a digital model. It is achieved using an additive process where
successive layers of material (usually thermoplastic) are laid down. Each layer is a
thinly sliced, horizontal cross-section of the eventual object. Each object begins
with a CAD file, created with a3D modelling programme, or by reverse engineering

The key benefits of CAD/CAM

· increased range of design ideas
· improved accuracy
· ease of modification
· repeatability of output
· quality of output
· reduction of wastage