AutoCAD Drawing Processes - Essay Example

Drawing & CAD Introduction Computer Aided Design is a term used to refer to a wide range of programs that allow the user to create drawings, designs, and plans electronically. AutoCAD is thus a computer aided design program that is widely used because it is relatively easier to use. It is more comprehensive as it possesses the ability to create both 2-D and 3-D drawing and by statistics, over 70percent of users in the world use AutoCAD (NARAYAN, RAO, & SARCAR, 2008. Page 12) Chapter 1: AutoCAD Drawing Processes. AutoCAD has various drawing processes that range from preparation of data and requirements to the final deliverables. In my project, the major problem I faced was the right code to use. This is because AutoCAD is not that intuitive like other drafting programs. I was able to learn the commands and codes in the two main tool bars: draw, edit, and I were able to draw the commands for various parts after 2 to 3 weeks. On the other hand, a problem came about when I had to type the same line of code in different parts of the project, which proved to be tedious and time consuming. Through learning of the different concepts, I was able to realize the technique of code reuse that enables to me work efficiently in beating the deadline in the various repetitive tasks. Chapter 2: Solid Works Modeling Processes In the solid Works Modeling Process, I happened to experience some difficult when it came to modeling brackets. I had to go the long way in sketching the offset and dimensioning the sketch, which was hard, and time consuming. After continuous use and practice I came to realize the simpler approach that involved the use of extrude thin feature where the sketch is first created and then directly extruded as shown in figure 1.1 Chapter 3: (AutoCAD) Dimensioning Dimensioning in AutoCAD is used to create and design clear drawings. The dimensions are automatic since arrows, lines, and the associated texts are manipulated using the specified dimension commands. The different approaches to dimensioning include Linear dimension command An approach used to dimension along straight lines. The associated commands include DIMLINEAR, DISCONTINUE, DIMBASELINE AND DIMALIGNED and it is used to draw horizontal and vertical dimensions. To create a linear dimension, you first start the command and specify the starting and end points and the pick a point that would specify the position of the dimension line as shown in figure 1.2 Radial dimension command When it comes to parts that require creation of circles and radius Radial dimensions is the most appropriate and consists of two commands, the DIMDIAMETER and the DIMRADIUS. They are both similar thus; AutoCAD automatically inserts an R to indicate radius and the dimensional symbol to indicate the specified dimension. For instance when you want to draw a 40 mm diameter text as shown in the illustration you will need to type the command %%40mm.Furthermore,the diameter and radius commands are associated with DIMCENTER that creates a center mark to any circle or an arc as shown in figure 1.3. Chapter 4: (Solid Works) Drawings Basically, BS 8888 is a British standard for technical product documentations, geometry product specifications and tolerance specifications and more importantly engineering drawings.it advocates for further explanatory commentary where possible, indexing of ISO standards involved with technical product specifications. For manual engineering drawings, it is not a problem to indicate the markings of the decimal place with either a comma or a decimal point. However, in BS8888 a comma indicates the decimal place where groups of three digits after the decimal point are spaced separately. This would require the user to change the PC settings when using AutoCAD drawings on the PC such that the decimal point is displayed as a comma in the regional settings of the control panel. To ensure I produce a more satisfactory drawing I ensured the dimensional lines are created where the arrows meet at both ends between the extension lines. The dimensions are indicated along with the unit of measurement On the other hand, I ensured extension lines extend from two points on my drawing and a small break is added where it meets the drawing as illustrated Chapter 5: Drawing Methods AutoCAD is a 2-D design tool with some limited 3-D capabilities. Compared to any other parametric solid modeling tool it is very simple to use.2-D AutoCAD was the first CAD programs to be used on the personal computers and contained entities such as graphics, poly-lines, circles arc and texts to construct more complex objects. Despite having used as the first design method, 2-D AutoCAD was beneficial as it enables the drafting of designs quickly without the need of using stencils and technical drawing instruments. This makes it easy when it comes to the process of coming up with a perfect site plan and refined concepts required to share ideas (RADHAKRISHNAN, RAJU, & SUBRAMANYAN, 2008. Page 8). Due to the ever-improving technology and innovation, 2-D AutoCAD has various limitations. Human errors is one of the limitations of 2-D AutoCAD as the AutoCAD designer is in all circumstances required to hold all the information mentally without help from the software. This is a limitation since the human brain is not able to visualize to the exact design scale leading to incorrect component collisions and issues of parts no fitting. 2-D methods also rely on the brain visualization when it comes to generating a part count, this manifests as a limitation.2-D the views are normally represented visually but the quantity data is poor because a single projection might show a particular component in different views while other components are completely omitted thus compromising the drawing clarity. On the other hand, Solid works is a 3-D mechanical computer aided design that runs on Microsoft windows using the Microsoft structured file format. It comprises of drawing files, part files, and assembly files. Being a 3-D technology, solid works has the following benefits; Best user interface The program consists of a friendly and intuitive interface that is easy to learn and use. It consists of in context menu that works well to manifest the right command at the right time. It has customization capabilities that allow one to work much faster thus the overall productivity. Intelligent sketching Solid works enable sketches to update to update automatically during the process of designing. For instance, with solid works, it is easy to understand the relationship between sketches thus; one is able to capture the design intent directly in the 3D model. The moment you change everything it updates automatically. Powerful modeling Solid works offers powerful modeling in that gives you a product differentiation in the market. The capability ranges from prismatic shapes to shapes that are more complex. This is achieved automating repetitive tasks making the process faster. Despite the benefits that came with solid works it is limited to the fact that though it is less costly than programs like ProE, it cannot be used in large firms that require application customization and custom software integration. Conclusion Learning AutoCAD is an easy process and continuous learning of various basic functions and commands makes it even easier. This helps to reduce the time taken to complete any given task. While undertaking the projects, I was able to realize some difficulties in some areas which through proper scrutiny and mastering of the basic commands, I was able to come up with easier ways of accomplishing tasks. Lastly, coming up with satisfactory drawings means not only the expertise of accomplishing tasks but also the ability to conform to British standards like the BS8888. Reference list NARAYAN, K. L., RAO, K. M., & SARCAR, M. M. M. (2008). Computer aided design and manufacturing. New Delhi, Prentice-Hall of India. RADHAKRISHNAN, P., RAJU, V., & SUBRAMANYAN, S. (2008). CAD/CAM/CIM. New Delhi, New Age International (P) Ltd., Publishers. http://www.ebrary.com. Read More