CAD and Its Classifications
A CAD program contains hundreds of functions that enable you to accomplish specific drawing tasks. A task may involve drawing an object, editing an existing drawing, displaying a view of the drawing.
Printing or saving it, or controlling any other operation of the computer. The function contains a number of commands that enable the user to specify exactly what to do and how to do it.
Most systems, now being available on windows platform, make extensive use of point-click-drag and cut-copy-paste functions to reduce the modeling time.
The functions are organized into modules that provide easy access to all the commands. The CAD program is divided into modules such as draw, edit, data input, function control, storage, and management. A program may also have a number of specialized functions such as layers, database, and 3D.
The software consists of the computer programs to implement computer graphics on the system plus application program to facilitate the engineering functions of the user company. The important advancement in CAD includes parametric and feature-based modeling.
Parametric modeling enables linking the part shape to its dimensions so that the shape is automatically updated by specifying the new dimensions.
Feature-based modeling also allows the user to create a part in terms of holes, bosses, ribs, etc., which is a more intuitive approach as compared to earlier solid modeling systems.
The software requirement for CAD depends on a matter of choice after careful study of the various options. There are various options available such as; AutoCAD, Microstation, TurboCAD, FloorPlan Plus, and 3D home architect.
There are also enhancement programs such as; CorelDraw, 3D studio, AutoDesk, animator, and Adobe Illustrator. The most important thing is to analyze your interests and needs then look for the software that meets them.
CLASSIFICATIONS OF CAD SOFTWARE
Among the different classifications of software used in the CAD system, here are the four famous in them;
OPERATIONAL SOFTWARE:
This is one of the CAD and Its Classifications. A CAD system uses a set of instructions called the ‘operating’ or ‘system’ software. This ensures that the computer operates correctly when it is switched on, when certain keys are pressed or if errors occur.
It is usually stored on the hard disk and manages all the computer activities including memory allocation, processor timing and input/output driving.
Updating is required when it has not been fully tested before release. Occasionally, the operating software is stored on a floppy disc, from which it is accessed.
GRAPHICS SOFTWARE:
This is one of the CAD and Its Classifications. This is used to create the data that is represented by an image on a design screen. It is usually written in a high-level language, such as FORTRAN creation of CAD entities, editing, revising, manipulation and calculation of line lengths, radii or areas.
It is also used to store, retrieve, edit and plot graphical data.
APPLICATION SOFTWARE:
This is one of the CAD and Its Classifications. It is CAD software that is specific to a certain design area, such as production engineering, civil engineering, architecture, textile design, ducting design and so forth.
As CAD becomes less expensive, new applications for it continue to develop.
USER SOFTWARE:
This is one of the CAD and Its Classifications. When a CAD package closely meets a user’s need, it may be customized to provide the missing features. A customized system is called ‘user’ software.
The example of such is the creation of ‘standard’ parts such as those used on a regular basis in different assemblies.
Standard symbols libraries can be obtained from the integrated circuit etc. some, such as architectural symbols, are supplied by professional institutions.
A company can also create or extend its own symbol library for items from its range of products.
Library data like bolts will include details such as size, material, properties, and BSI or other specifications. Usually, the size and material will be used on the assembly drawing and the other data will be used on parts and stocks lists.
Standard symbol library items are given unique part numbers to identify the items in part lists, orders placed on suppliers, spares and stock list.
Summary
These features are found in non-CAD situations. The difference is that in CAD, items are used to amend the relevant database automatically. CAD also maintains a database to which each design item is added when it is created or imported from a library. It can then produce parts listing for a given design automatically.
