What is CAD?

Computer aided design (CAD) is a software used by architects, designers, engineers and construction managers to produce designs. These are highly accurate drawings and plans of built assets such as buildings.

Dependent on the software used, CAD can create 2D or 3D models. Supplementary information can also be included such as component descriptions and dimensions. CAD allows users to explore different design ideas and visualise how an asset will look and perform when constructed. 

Prior to the invention of CAD, engineers created designs on large sheets of paper using drawing boards. With paper-based design, it was difficult for individuals to alter their drawings and often sketches had to be disposed of if changes were required.

The origins of CAD trace back to the early 1960s. In 1963, Ivan Sutherland invented a programme called Sketchpad, which later proved to be the basis for CAD. However, it was not until the late 1980s and early 1990s that CAD became sufficient enough to be incorporated into engineering design. 

CAD is widely used within the construction industry. This software allows the creation and optimisation of the design process. Modifications can easily be made, providing engineers with highly accurate representations.

CAD enables consideration as to how different materials will interact, which is particularly beneficial when additional information is added to drawings by other parties. Designs can easily be accessed by different members of the project team including the contractor and subcontractors. As a result, this improves communication and potential issues can be identified and remedied quickly.

This programme allows the design team to consider additional features such as plumbing and electricity, resulting in more comprehensive plans. Consequently, fewer unexpected issues will emerge during the construction process. 

Given the numerous benefits involved in utilising CAD in the design process, it is clear why this tool is widely used within the construction industry. Advantages include:

1. Improve Accuracy: This software provides highly accurate designs compared to manual methods. 
2. High Quality: CAD reduces the opportunity for error, resulting in quality drawings being achieved.
3. Time-saving: This technological process is a much quicker method than manually creating drawings and having to dispose of drawings when mistakes are made.
4. Improve Communication: It is easy for subcontractors to access drawings and include additional information and details.
5. Reduce Costs: CAD removes the labour-intensive element involved in the design process, thereby reducing costs.

CAD allows for changes to be easily made and therefore a larger range of options can be considered. Users can accurately envision what the completed project will look like. 

Building information modelling (BIM) further reduces errors and improves the quality of information. This can generate cost estimates and quantities as well as tracking information. While CAD is a tool used for the design process, BIM focuses on creating and managing digital information about a built asset across its life span.

In the initial stages of a BIM project, the design team ensures information is coordinated and clear for those involved in the construction and operation stages. Within the construction stage, this information is drawn on to enable a smooth construction process, with modifications being made accordingly. Once the project has been completed, this information can be used to operate and monitor the asset.

If implemented successfully, organisations can reduce their waste by as much as 20-30%. BIM results in informed decisions being made throughout the design, construction and operation stages of a built asset's life.

It is clear why CAD has become a permanent fixture within the construction industry. By producing highly accurate designs and enabling a collaborate approach, this software allows for a smooth design process which translates into the construction stages of a project.

It seems probable that the accuracy and quality of CAD will only further improve to meet future design needs. Increasingly integrating this system with BIM will produce significant benefits for the construction industry.

DARe-me Consulting Engineer offer 2D & 3D CAD services as well as being capable of providing our services to fully comply with BIM level II to meet specific project requirements. Contact DARe-me Consulting Engineers today to find out more.