7 Industries That Use CAD

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Computer aided design, or CAD, is a digital tool that allows you to create 2D drawings and 3D models of projects. As a CAD Drafter, you create visual representations of what an architect, designer, or engineer has planned out.  Your computerized drawings and models could be used across several industries: 

 1. CAD for Architecture  

Working as a CAD Drafter for an architect, you use CAD to visualize the structures that will be built. Your renderings will provide accurate dimensions, detailed materials, and object placements that can easily be shared with other architects, construction workers, and clients. The CAD drawings also include important information such as the type of materials that should be used, where electrical, HVAC, and plumbing go, costs accrued from the project, and a timeline of completion. This information makes it easy for all workers to collaborate with one another and to stay on track. 

2. CAD in City Planning

In city planning, CAD can visualize and render drawings of proposed parks, town squares, and shopping centers. It helps you see how new projects can best fit with existing neighborhoods, streets, and buildings. You can consider environmental impact and zoning regulations as you build out plans that are feasible and fair. Then, you share the plans with the community before it goes to architects and civil engineers who can build the necessary infrastructure to bring the drawings to life.  

3. How CAD is Used in Manufacturing   

Long before your washing machine or refrigerator rolled off an assembly line, it was a concept or a sketch. CAD allows designers to conceptualize and visualize product ideas in a digital environment. It creates 2D sketches and 3D models to explore various design possibilities. On another level, it can also help create prototypes and testing models. CAD can integrate into other software to analyze structural and manufacturing considerations. And CAD provides documentation for drawings, specifications, and assembly instructions. Even after products are manufactured, CAD can help update and optimize them. 

4. CAD for Automotive Design and Development 

In the manufacture of automobiles, CAD is used to visualize and explore design concepts before physical prototypes are built. CAD systems can use parametric modeling to create design elements with defined parameters. This provides design flexibility and the ability to make quick changes at the design level.  CAD can also be integrated with tools that simulate and analyze vehicle aerodynamics to improve fuel efficiency and performance. And CAD designs can be shared with safety and quality control inspectors, who can raise concerns before production starts. From the structure and strength of the steel to the interior design, CAD can help everyone in the manufacturing process envision how a car will look, drive, and perform. 

5. Aerospace CAD 

Aerospace CAD helps to develop safe, efficient, and technologically advanced aircraft and spacecraft. It combines advanced modeling and simulation capabilities to address the unique challenges associated with aerospace engineering. From initial concepts to complex modeling, CAD can help build spaceships and satellites. It can make sure teams with different responsibilities are all on the same page. CAD applications cover a wide range of activities, from conceptual design and prototyping to simulation, analysis, and manufacturing preparation for aircraft and spacecraft. It can help you consider elements like structural mechanics, heat transfer, and fluid dynamics. As with automotive manufacturing, CAD used in aerospace can help teams model and run simulations to test for safety and optimal performance.  

6. CAD in Biomedical Engineering  

Medical devices and equipment, prosthetics, and even human tissue engineering may all benefit from CAD as they are created, developed, and tested.  With implants and prosthetics, CAD modeling can ensure proper fit and function. It can help customize all kinds of medical devices based on patient specifications. CAD can help surgeons plan complex surgery by providing 3D modeling of patient anatomy before the real thing. CAD can also be used in dental practices where the system helps to design crowns, bridges, and dental implants. Or in orthodontics, CAD can help improve the accuracy of orthodontic treatments. And because health care is heavily regulated, CAD provides precise, written documentation. 

7. Interior Design and CAD 

Much like architects use CAD to visualize a building, you can utilize it in interior design to visualize different room configurations, furnishings, and styles.  With CAD, you can produce models of different rooms for commercial and residential buildings, letting clients see the result. They can then provide feedback on the layout and types of furniture and fittings used before everything is put into place.  

There are many different industries where CAD Drafters can put their skills to use. Are you interested in learning more? Contact Charter College today. We offer an online Certificate in Computer Aided Design that can be completed in as few as 10 months. Call 888-200-9942 or fill out the form to learn more.