Graphics Programs Reference
In-Depth Information
• 3D printing (additive manufacturing) can be produced directly from CAD data. Dif-
ferent 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 require-
ments.
• 3D CAD equips the manufacturing engineer with the means to relatively quickly
design
tooling, jigs, fixtures, custom gauges
and components for work holding.
•
Inspection
can be enhanced by checking physical parts against CAD models.
•
Coordinate Measuring Machines (CMM)
can check accuracy, based on the CAD
data generated at the design development stage.
• If you are that way inclined, production can be outsourced to lower cost parts of the
world, with the potential to overcome language barriers, as the data is digital.
• 3D CAD software interfaces with prototyping and manufacturing processes by export-
ing data files in standard formats. These include STL, IGES and STEP.
• Others in the
supply chain
(or indeed other development process stakeholders) can
view, manipulate and add notes to 3D CAD models without having to purchase the soft-
ware. Instead low cost or free CAD viewers make it possible to communicate and offer
feedback on CAD models.
