3D Computer Aided Design (CAD) Modelling
What is CAD?
- Computer Aided Design (CAD) is a 3D virtual model of your concept or product design. Using CAD, we will digitise your designs into a 3D format and turn your new idea into a realistic, dimensionally accurate model. As an ‘end to end’ engineering solutions business, CAD is one of the key tools used within our portfolio
Why use CAD?
- CAD is essential to produce accurate digital visualisations, prototypes and a final design for manufacture. The CAD model can be designed from a ‘blank sheet’ or using 3D scanned data imported into the software. All aspects of the design can be refined and developed, including functional parts, styling and production feasibility.
- Our CAD design is undertaken with ‘Design for Manufacture (DFM) in mind from the start. Producing 3D CAD models of existing & proposed assemblies is a cost-effective way of identifying and resolving potential challenges prior to the production phase of a project.
- Detailed manufacturing drawings and material /parts lists can be generated from the 3D models. Utilising the 3D model, as the source for drawing for manufacture, ensures updates can be created and reviewed rapidly.
- During the design and development process, the 3D model is issued for review in a format which can be easily navigated by our clients. This model will be used to ‘sign off’ the design prior to moving to the next stages. Note: All the digitised data can be archived until required.
CAD Benefits:
Computer Aided Manufacturing (CAM);3D CAD files are easily imported into Computer Aided Manufacturing (CAM) production software. This data is used to program machine tools and other CNC manufacturing processes including multi-axis milling, turning, sheet metal work and high-speed machining.
CAD/CAM software enables virtual checks and verification to be carried out across the end to end machining process before manufacture. This helps to improve productivity by reducing waste whilst providing related benefits including lower energy consumption, reduced tool wear and ultimately reduced Co2 emissions.
CAD models also preserve the original design intent and retains dimensional accuracy. They also eliminate the potential risk of mistakes occurring when producing 2D design drawings which are then translated into machine code for manufacture.
Tooling: Tooling and die suppliers can accurately and relatively quickly prepare using CAD data for moulded, cast or pressed parts. Tooling, die, mould and component suppliers around the world can be simultaneously sent CAD data, both for quotes and to produce parts. 3D CAD equips manufacturing engineers with the means to quickly design tooling, jigs, fixtures, custom gauges, and components for work holding.
Inspection and Additive Manufacture: Inspection can be enhanced by checking physical parts against CAD models. 3D Scanning equipment can also check the accuracy of manufactured parts against the CAD data generated at the design development stage. 3D printing (additive manufacturing) can be produced directly from CAD data. Different 3D printing technologies can be used to produce final production parts in a wide variety of materials (polymers, metals and even ceramics), depending on your requirements.