AutoCAD and Solidworks - Essay Example

MP1515 Drawing & CAD Assignment 2 in CAD Table of Contents Introduction Chapter AutoCAD Modelling Processes Chapter 2: Solid Works Modelling Processes Chapter 3: (AutoCAD) Dimensioning Chapter 4: (Solid Works) Drawings. Chapter 5: Drawing Methods. Conclusion Introduction Engineering drawing is a method of representing engineering components and parts graphically, whether on a paper or digitally aided by a computer. The ability to read and interpret a drawing is one of the most outstanding skills of an engineering profession. This module has given us an opportunity to learn the different types of drawing ranging from hand drawing, 2D sketching and 3D drawing. ,moreover, this model provides us with an opportunity to learn new skills and knowledge useful in engineering drawing that will help us solve engineering drawing problems at any given level. In addition, engineering drawing helps create a feeling of the real issue being solve and thus is an integral part of the profession that cannot be let go or ignored. Chapter 1 AutoCAD is one of the easiest ways of modelling a technical drawing. But, this designing tool has its shortcomings. More often, understanding the different commands in the software and identifying the proper key for any function that needs to be utilized. Modelling of the motor base required good knowledge of the following features: Offset feature- Offsetting distances between adjacent parts of the drawing. Utilization of construction lines. Trimming feature- cutting off redundant lines Layers feature - Distinguishing dissimilar lines thus revealing different details of the diagram. AutoCAD requires the operator to be experienced in several features and skills and know how, when and where to utilize them. I overcame this by constant working on my skills with several drawings to improve on the lessons learnt in class (Oberholzer, 2008).) The figure below illustrates the points Chapter 2 The most challenging part in drawing the motor base and its accompanying components was during the modelling of the ….. Getting the correct profile of the lower part using Solidworks was difficult as the software provides for modifications on the end sketches only. The transitional drafts help as guidelines of the profile. Their guidance on the outline is through picking the association with the guide curves (Pozar, & Schaubert, 1995).) The figure below shows the sketches and guide curves used in the exercise. Chapter 3 Proper dimensioning of drawing models requires a user to understand the drawing keenly. This includes the main parts of the component and the purpose of the item being denoted. In this case, the object chosen is a motor base. A motor base is a mounting tool for a variety of components to absorb tensional forces. The major part of the motor base was the bracket which was properly dimensioned. The types of dimensioning codes for circular shapes and linear dimensioning for linear distances were utilized (Green, 2007). Chapter 4 In creating the drawings from Solidworks, some limitations were identified with the software during dimensioning of the motor plate. The plate component, support steel, being multi dimension displayed an error message upon trying to dimension. The software could not define the beginning and ends of the several arcs on the part (Diaz & Milligan, 1996).) Chapter 5 Hand drafting is usually inexpensive and requires no capital investment in any computer hardware and CAD software. Nevertheless, this method is tiresome and offers no opportunity to correct errors made while drawing. Consequently, this technique becomes cumbersome and time consuming and it is also challenging to produce many copies when needed. CAD drafting, which in this case refers to both 2D and 3D drawing takes less time, corrections to the drawing can be easily done through the click of a button. CAD also allows production of many copies if needed. The dimensioning process is very easy, with some software having several automation features. The work created by CAD is of greater quality compared to hand drawing with very consistent and fine lines (Setliff & Rutenbar, 1990).) 2D drawing CAD such as AUTOCAD have advantages over the 3D software such as Solidworks in that they can easily produce any shape no matter the outline of the component. They are also easy to understand compared with the 3D drafting CAD software. 3D drafting software offers better aesthetic value in comparison with the 2D software. The software also has provision for generating the 2D drawing automatically. But, they are more difficult to learn and use and use and require superior skills to generate complex drawings as found out in modelling process of the motor base. Conclusion This assignment exposed us to a wide range of skillsets and concepts that we used to represent accurately the drawings provided in different drawing platforms i.e. AutoCAD and Solidworks. It has imparted us with relevant skills we will use to communicate effectively with fellow industry professionals. Moreover, it provides practical skills that a student will find useful especially when dealing with problems that require the application of CAD. Additionally, the consultancy agencies and managers will find this assignment of great importance in determining the best course of action to take in order to make wise decisions relating to drawing methods. Having learned the benefits and shortcomings of different drawing methods it will be easy to make correct decisions when doing consultancy for any design work. References: Setliff, D. E., & Rutenbar, R. A. (1990). Automatic Programming Applied to VLSI CAD Software: A Case Study. Boston, MA, Springer US. http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4613-1551-3. Diaz, L., & Milligan, T. A. (1996). Antenna engineering using physical optics: practical CAD techniques and software. Boston, Artech House. Pozar, D. M., & Schaubert, D. H. (1995). Microstrip antennas: the analysis and design of microstrip antennas and arrays. New York, Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers. (1993). SilverScreen: 3D CAD/solid modeling software : version IV : getting started with SilverScreen. Shawnee-Mission, Kan, Schroff Development Corp. Oberholzer, M. (2008). Interface between CAD Software (cadwork) and cost estimating software. Biel, AHB. Green, R. (2007). Expert CAD management the complete guide. Indianapolis, Ind, Wiley Pub. http://www.books24x7.com/marc.asp?bookid=18094 Appendices Read More