CAD is used in many fields, helping to increase the productivity of the designer, improve the quality of design, improve communications through documentation, and to create a database for manufacturing. As designs evolve from conception to a final built product, several changes will take place. In large projects, team members change depending on what phase the design is in – which means that as new collaborators step in, they must interpret what has come before. And regardless of industry or project size, there is often a pretty large gap between designer, computer-aided drafter, and final construction.
That’s why it’s so important to communicate design intent clearly. As projects change hands and move through phases of development, the degree to which intent has been defined dictates the authenticity – and integrity – of the final product.
Multiple Design Iterations
Someone who has completed engineering training understands that projects are designed – and redesigned – multiple times before an optimal final version is produced. The original concept may change to accommodate budget, construction materials, and services. Or the engineers may discover a flaw during testing and re-work aspects of the model to correct it. This process of evaluation is ongoing and often requires several project reiterations in order to meet usability and safety benchmarks along with client expectations.
Here are two ways CAD helps designers make intent clear throughout what is often a lengthy and complex process:
2D Sketching
In CAD, 3D models begin with 2D sketches. Many applications allow for the generation of sketch relationships, such as horizontal, vertical, parallel, perpendicular, and concentric. This process allows the designer to build intent into the model at the sketch level – which in turn is included in the part’s feature history allowing easy access for any future modifications. A 2D sketch has to be fully defined by sketch relations – added either during development or afterward. These dimensions determine how the 3D model is developed, and how it reacts when altered.
3D Modelling
Someone who has completed computer-aided design courses is probably familiar with advanced CAD software like PTC Creo Parametric. This tool provides a range of 3D capabilities that support late-state changes and working with multi-CAD data. Through automation and easy-to-use modeling tools, the program streamlines coordination between team members, manufacturers, and suppliers – keeping design intent intact and clear throughout all phases of development. PTC Creo allows design engineers to quickly and easily edit CAD data using a direct modeling approach without sacrificing the original design intent. For engineers working on complex projects that require continual adjustment, this kind of dynamic 3D modeling boosts efficiency without compromising the initial vision.
What is your favourite CAD tool for communicating and maintaining design intent?
