CAD
Process
graph LR;
CAD:::someclass --> id1[/3D-Part/]
id1[/3D-Part/] --> CAM
CAM --> id2[/NC-Code/]
id2[/NC-Code/] --> CNC-Machine
CNC-Machine --> id3([Part])
classDef someclass fill:#004f19Cumputer Aided Design
A CAD (Computer-Aided Design) software is a special software used to create digital models and drawings of objects, components or products. CAD software makes it possible to design and construct precise 2D or 3D models.
CAD software provides a variety of tools and features to assist in the design process. With these tools, users can create geometric shapes, specify dimensions, assign materials, assemble assemblies, add surface textures, create animations, and more. By using CAD software, complex designs can be created, reviewed and optimized virtually before they go into physical production.
Technology
Software can be thought of as a machine with assemblies and subassemblies. As with a machine, it makes no sense to manufacture components or entire assemblies yourself if they can be purchased. For example, if FESTO offers a pneumatic cylinder that fits, you don’t develop and build one yourself.
The same can be applied to software. A CAD is a very complex matter. However, the functionalities are often overlapping. Extrusion, rotational molding, drilling, etc. are all available in most CAD. For companies it therefore makes little sense to develop all this from scratch, as long as there is a supplier on the market that offers software components and modules that cover these functions.
This is where the so-called CAD kernel comes into play. A CAD kernel is a central software component in CAD systems that provides the basic functions for creating, editing and managing CAD data. The CAD kernel is often divided into different software components or modules to cover specific tasks and functions. For example, a software component may include a geometry kernel that is responsible for modeling 2D or 3D geometries. This kernel provides functions for creating, manipulating, and analyzing geometric elements such as points, lines, surfaces, and solids. Other functions include assembly modeling, design history, drawing generation, collision checking, tolerance analysis and more. Each component performs specific tasks to cover the entire CAD process efficiently and reliably.
CAD Kernel
Here is a list of different CAD kernel vendors. Not all CAD kernels are available on the market as software components. e.g. the ShapeManager from Autodesk cannot be licensed for licensed for its own product. The most widely used kernel is probably Parasolid from Siemens. This is used in products such as SolidEdge, SolidWorks, Siemens NX, PowerSHAPE, Alibre Design and others.
Manufacturer
There are several CAD manufacturers. Especially in the area of special solutions there are several niche products. The table does not include all CAD manufacturers, but can help to get an overview of the products offered on the market.
Acquisition
The acquisition of a CAD system should be well considered. Depending on the situation, certain criteria are more important than others and vice versa. In the case of a large company, the financial aspect may be less important than, for example, the integration of the product into existing processes. In the case of a small company with 5 employees, the financial factor may be more important than the integration into existing processes as these are more flexible.
However, there are a few points which I would like to refer to specifically:
Costs
The costs are made up of different items.
- Acquisition costs
- Maintenance costs (often a percentage of the acquisition costs)
- Services (e.g.: Installation)
- Possible purchase of new hardware
- Training courses
Interoperability
- What is the compatibility with other CAD systems?
- Which file formats are supported?
Caution: Just because a file format is supported does not automatically mean, that this is included in the package you have chosen. Interfaces to read in foreign data can also be sold as a separate sold as a separate license! This may subsequently increase the annual maintenance fee by purchasing additional licenses!
Ease of use
- Accessibility of often used functions
- How often does the mouse have to move from A to B to complete the process?
Future-proof
- How is the product set up for the future?
- Can the CAD files be opened by another system if the product is changed in the future?
- How much do you depend on the manufacturer?
Training
How accessible is the necessary knowledge to handle the product? Can this only be acquired by means of purchased training or are there instructions and tutorials which are freely available on the web? Here a search on a search engine or on YouTube can provide answers.
e.g.: SolidWorks Tutorial
Lock-in effect
The lock-in effect refers to a situation where a company or a user of a CAD system is trapped in a particular CAD system due to technical, economic or organizational reasons and it is difficult to switch to another system.
This effect can have several implications, including high switching costs, limited flexibility, and limited interoperability.
The lock-in effect occurs with a CAD when companies have created a significant amount of CAD data, models and drawings in a specific format that may not be well compatible with other CAD systems. Moving to another CAD system can therefore involve high conversion costs and potential data loss. This can make companies hesitant to make the switch, as it can involve significant investments in time and resources.
From the software vendor’s perspective, the lock-in effect is a good thing, as it reduces the likelihood of existing customers switching to a competitor (loss of maintenance costs). For this reason, functions are sometimes implemented that reinforce the lock-in effect. This can be e.g. a PDM (Product Data Management), which is integrated in the product and denies or massively hinders the access to other manufacturers.
The lock-in effect must be taken into account when selecting a CAD system and strategies must be developed to minimize its effects. These include the selection of CAD systems with open standards and interoperable interfaces, the use of neutral file formats and their accessibility, flexibility for future enhancements, and regular backup and documentation of CAD data. Careful evaluation and planning can reduce the lock-in effect and improve the long-term flexibility and scalability of CAD deployment.