CAD
Computer-aided design (CAD) is the use of computer systems to assist in the creation, modification, analysis, or optimization of a design. CAD software is used to increase the productivity of the designer,
improve the quality of design, improve communications through
documentation, and to create a database for manufacturing.
CAD output is often in the
form of electronic files for print, machining, or other manufacturing operations.
CAD may be used to design curves and figures in two-dimensional (2D) space; or curves, surfaces, and solids in three-dimensional (3D) space.
CAD is an important industrial art
extensively used in many applications, including automotive,
shipbuilding, and aerospace industries, industrial and architectural
design, prosthetics, and many more (even perfume
bottles and shampoo dispensers) . CAD is also widely used to produce computer animation for special effects in movies, advertising and technical manuals.
Traditional building design was largely reliant upon two-dimensional technical drawings
(plans, elevations, sections, etc.). Building Information Modeling (BIM)
extends this beyond 3D, augmenting the three primary spatial dimensions
(width, height and depth) with time as the fourth dimension (4D) and cost as the fifth (5D), etc. BIM therefore covers more than just geometry. It also covers spatial
relationships, light analysis, geographic information, and quantities
and properties of building components (for example, manufacturers'
details).
