Project 5.2b: Introduction to CAD Modeling Skills (T9 Automoblox)
description
The capability of computers and software is astounding in some respects. For instance, computers can generate a solid computer model using a 3D scanner to analyze an existing object or space. Likewise, internal body organs and tissue can be “seen” using technology such as Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI). Unfortunately, commercially available computer systems have not advanced to the extent that they can document ideas and mental images from the human brain. For now engineers must continue to express ideas as sketches – hand drawn and computer generated.
A CAD model can quickly display an engineer’s ideas in a realistic way. And once an engineer has developed a model in CAD representing an idea, the idea can be shared much more easily with a wider audience. As is the case with technical sketching, CAD models must begin as sketches of points, lines, and shapes. However, a computer model can be much more accurate and precise than a freehand sketch. The lines of a CAD sketch can be drawn perfectly straight (or perfectly circular), with start and end points that occur in exact locations in space. A line may also be given precise length through the use of dimensions. If more than one line is being sketched, they can be made perfectly parallel or perpendicular or shown at a precise angle. CAD programs give designers the ability to sketch any kind of geometry and provide the ability to dimension, extend, rotate, mirror, copy and paste, pattern, move, and trim (to name a few tools) that geometry. Whereas hand-drawn representations are made to appear three dimensional by the strategic placement of additional points, lines, and shapes, CAD sketches can be transformed into 3D models using features that appear to add and manipulate material. As a result, within the software designers can extrude, revolve, or sweep a sketch such that the two dimensional sketch appears to become a solid form that can be electronically manipulated and viewed from any angle. Once a 3D model is created, the solid form can be hollowed out or the edges can be rounded.
The ability to realize CAD models through sequentially developing geometric sketches and generating 3D forms is a critical skill that designers in multiple engineering disciplines use in the process of converting mental images into money-making products. In order to effectively use a CAD program as a design tool, a designer must be familiar with the use of the available tools and features within the software. This activity will help you to understand and utilize the most frequently used sketching and feature tools that are common to most CAD programs.
A CAD model can quickly display an engineer’s ideas in a realistic way. And once an engineer has developed a model in CAD representing an idea, the idea can be shared much more easily with a wider audience. As is the case with technical sketching, CAD models must begin as sketches of points, lines, and shapes. However, a computer model can be much more accurate and precise than a freehand sketch. The lines of a CAD sketch can be drawn perfectly straight (or perfectly circular), with start and end points that occur in exact locations in space. A line may also be given precise length through the use of dimensions. If more than one line is being sketched, they can be made perfectly parallel or perpendicular or shown at a precise angle. CAD programs give designers the ability to sketch any kind of geometry and provide the ability to dimension, extend, rotate, mirror, copy and paste, pattern, move, and trim (to name a few tools) that geometry. Whereas hand-drawn representations are made to appear three dimensional by the strategic placement of additional points, lines, and shapes, CAD sketches can be transformed into 3D models using features that appear to add and manipulate material. As a result, within the software designers can extrude, revolve, or sweep a sketch such that the two dimensional sketch appears to become a solid form that can be electronically manipulated and viewed from any angle. Once a 3D model is created, the solid form can be hollowed out or the edges can be rounded.
The ability to realize CAD models through sequentially developing geometric sketches and generating 3D forms is a critical skill that designers in multiple engineering disciplines use in the process of converting mental images into money-making products. In order to effectively use a CAD program as a design tool, a designer must be familiar with the use of the available tools and features within the software. This activity will help you to understand and utilize the most frequently used sketching and feature tools that are common to most CAD programs.
conclusion
What advantages do CAD sketches have over freehand sketches?
Neater and more accurate.
What disadvantages do CAD sketches have when compared to freehand sketches?
They are confined to the computer, don't have same spontaneous and malleable approach.
What types of numeric constraints may be applied to sketches?
Dimensions, Length , Width.
Explain the difference between the Fillet sketch tool and the Fillet placed feature.
The Fillet tool cuts shapes down to specific measurements, while the placed feature can edit, or delete.
The Fillet placed feature is used to create both a “fillet” and a “round”. Describe the difference between the two results.
A fillet is when an item is cut down, and given more sides, while round is to give it a rounder shape, when it's cut.
Neater and more accurate.
What disadvantages do CAD sketches have when compared to freehand sketches?
They are confined to the computer, don't have same spontaneous and malleable approach.
What types of numeric constraints may be applied to sketches?
Dimensions, Length , Width.
Explain the difference between the Fillet sketch tool and the Fillet placed feature.
The Fillet tool cuts shapes down to specific measurements, while the placed feature can edit, or delete.
The Fillet placed feature is used to create both a “fillet” and a “round”. Describe the difference between the two results.
A fillet is when an item is cut down, and given more sides, while round is to give it a rounder shape, when it's cut.
PICTURES COMING SOON!!!!! WILL BE LATE, DUE TO TECHNICAL DIFFICULTIES AND THE RESULTING MAKE-UP WORK!!!!! WILL BE TAKEN CARE OF SOON!!!!! WILL BE UP!!!!!!