CAD software, or Computer-Aided Design software, is a type of computer program used by engineers, architects, and designers to create precise and detailed 2D and 3D models.
People can use this software to plan and see how complicated structures, products, and prototypes will look before they are built. CAD software is needed by professionals in many fields to speed up the design process and make it more effective.
In our guide, we will talk about the basics of using CAD software, tips for beginners, advanced features, and the best ways to be as efficient and productive as possible.
Before we start learning about how to use CAD software, there are two things that you need to decide.
The first one is the CAD field you want to learn. CAD is used in many fields, such as manufacturing, drafting, electronics, 3D printing, architecture, and more. Pick a CAD area you want to work in and focus on that. No one is an expert in all of them. CAD fields can be broken down into three main groups:
- Design and surface modelling: This field is all about making organic shapes and designs that look good more than they serve a purpose. This can include making characters for video games, 3D sculptures, the outside of things (like a car’s body), and more.
- Architecture and Interior Design: designing homes and buildings, as well as rooms and furniture.
- Engineering: Making machines that have moving parts and parts that fit together. These are parts that will be made or constructed in the future. Parts need to be exactly the right size and have a smooth finish in this field, so it takes the most training.
After you know what field you want to work in, you can now jump to the second step, choosing your software.
When picking software, don’t spend too much money on the software while you are still in the learning process. For starters, you can use software that is free or open source. Pick out your own CAD software and start learning how to use it by reading our article, “Top 5 Free CAD Drawing Software in 2024: Empowering Design Enthusiasts“.
Okay, let’s get right to how to use CAD software.
Fundamental CAD Techniques
The fundamental techniques lay the groundwork for users to create precise, efficient, and well-documented designs with CAD software. Advanced proficiency in these skills is required for the effective use of CAD tools in a variety of industries, including architecture, engineering, and manufacturing. Here are some important aspects:
- Drawing Basics: Understanding how to create precise 2D sketches, including using tools for lines, circles, arcs, and other geometric shapes.
- Modelling Techniques: Creating 3D models using various methods such as extrusion, revolve, sweep, loft, and Boolean operations to combine or subtract shapes.
- Dimensioning: Applying accurate dimensions to define the size and relationships between different elements within the design.
- Editing Commands: Mastering commands for modifying and manipulating entities, including move, copy, rotate, mirror, trim, and extend.
- Layers and Organisational Tools: Efficiently organising design elements using layers, groups, and blocks to manage complexity and enhance productivity.
- Parametric Design: Using parameters to create intelligent and adaptable designs that can be easily modified and updated.
- Annotation and Text: Adding text, labels, and annotations to convey important information about the design.
- Visualisation and Rendering: Applying materials, textures, and lighting to create realistic renderings for a more visually appealing presentation of the design.
- Understanding Coordinate Systems: Grasping how to work within different coordinate systems to accurately position and orient elements in the design space.
- File Management: Properly organising, saving, and managing CAD files to ensure version control and collaboration.
How to use CAD Software (Image by Freepik @isapazcopy)
Designers who understand concepts like annotation, text, visualisation, rendering, coordinate systems, and file management can effectively communicate their ideas and collaborate with others in a structured and efficient manner. This knowledge not only improves design quality, but it also streamlines the design process overall.
Advanced CAD Techniques
Advanced CAD techniques involve more sophisticated and intricate methods. Experienced users and experts use the majority of these techniques to make their designs more realistic. Here are some key aspects of advanced CAD techniques:
- Parametric Modelling: Utilising advanced features to establish relationships and dependencies between different parts of the model, allowing for easier modifications and updates.
- Surface Modelling: Creating complex and freeform shapes using surface modelling techniques is especially valuable in automotive and industrial design.
- 3D Solid Editing: Mastering advanced editing tools to modify and manipulate 3D solids with precision, including advanced filleting, chamfering, and blending operations.
- Assembly Design: Managing complex assemblies by creating relationships between components, ensuring proper fit, and performing movement simulations.
- Generative Design: Employing algorithms and computational methods to automatically generate design options based on specified constraints and criteria.
- Topological Optimisation: Utilising optimisation algorithms to refine and optimise the material distribution within a design to meet specific performance criteria.
- Advanced Rendering and Visualisation: Implementing realistic lighting, materials, and environmental effects to create high-quality and visually stunning renderings.
- Simulation and Analysis: Conducting virtual testing and analysis for factors such as stress, thermal performance, and fluid dynamics to validate and optimise designs.
- Customisation through Programming: Leveraging scripting or programming languages to automate repetitive tasks, customise workflows, and extend the functionality of CAD software.
- Collaboration and Data Management: Implementing advanced collaboration tools and data management systems to facilitate teamwork, version control, and efficient handling of large datasets.
- Integration with other Software: Integrating CAD with other software tools such as computer-aided engineering (CAE) or product lifecycle management (PLM) systems for a more comprehensive design and analysis workflow.
Advanced CAD techniques are required for a variety of reasons, including customisation via programming to automate tasks and expand software functionality. Collaboration and data management tools improve teamwork and enable the efficient handling of large datasets. Integration with other software systems, such as CAE and PLM, improves the overall design and analysis workflow, yielding more comprehensive results.
How do I learn to use a CAD program?
In order to start learning to use a CAD program, it is best to find an online course or tutorials that fit the way you learn best.
If you are a visual learner, you might want to start with YouTube video lessons or sign up for an online course with lots of videos. You might want to start with a basic course that has step-by-step instructions, pictures, and screenshots if that’s how you learn best. Investintech.com laid out several tips for self-learning CAD software:
- Find blogs and how-to videos that are related to your job. Find a blog or tutorial that talks about how to use CAD software for mechanical workflows, for example, if you want to learn how to do that.
- Find activities that will help you remember different commands by doing them over and over again. He goes on to say that this way of learning makes you feel better about yourself and your motivation because each exercise makes you feel like you’ve accomplished something bigger.
- Learn how to use 2D drawing tools first, and then use what you’ve learned to make 2D drawings. Search the web for 2D drawings if you don’t have any. There are a lot of them there. Start with 2D drawing tools until you get the hang of them. Then move on to 3D tools, which are mostly the same as 2D tools but have a few extras.
- Work on your skills, and then do it again. This is the rule you should follow when you are learning new things or getting good at using CAD software.
Using well-known CAD software will make it easier for you to find courses and resources. You can use open-source software like FreeCAD or use the 30-day free trial that AutoCAD offers.
After you’ve learned the fundamentals, you might want to try advanced CAD software to hone your skills. But beware: advanced CAD software can be very expensive. Check out our article “How Much Does CAD Software Cost?“ To learn more about the pricing and licencing options of the software.
Conclusion
Being proficient in computer-aided design (CAD) software opens doors to new possibilities and high-quality designs. No matter your level of experience, whether you’re just starting out with the basics or are ready to tackle more complex features, the secret is to always be learning. Take advantage of the abundance of information available online, participate in the CAD community, and make time for practical practice.
