Design and AutoCAD 2011 - Introduction to AutoCAD 2011: 2D and 3D Design - page 415

brief can be a written report which not only includes a statement made
of the problem which the design is assumed to be solving, but includes
preliminary notes and drawings describing diffi culties which may be
encountered in solving the design and may include charts, drawings,
costings, etc. to emphasise some of the needs in solving the problem for
which the design is being made.
Research: The need to research the various problems which may arise
when designing is often much more demanding than the chart (Fig. 21.1)
shows. For example the materials being used may require extensive
research as to costing, stress analysis, electrical conductivity, diffi culties
in machining or in constructional techniques and other such features.
Ideas for solving the brief: This is where technical, other drawings and
sketches play an important part in designing. It is only after research
that designers can ensure the brief will be fulfi lled.
Models: These may be constructed models in materials representing the
actual materials which have been chosen for the design, but in addition
3D solid model drawings, such as those which can be constructed in
AutoCAD 2011, can be of value. Some models may also be made in
the materials from which the fi nal design is to be made so as to allow
testing of the materials in the design situation.
Chosen solution: This is where the use of drawings constructed in AutoCAD
2011 is of great value. 2D and 3D drawings come into their own here. It is
from such drawings that the fi nal design will be manufactured.
Realisation: The design is made. There may be a need to manufacture a
number of the designs in order to enable evaluation of the design to be
fully assessed.
Evaluation: The manufactured design is tested in situations such as it
is liable to be placed in use. Evaluation will include reports and notes
which could include drawings with suggestions for amendments to the
working drawings from which the design was realised.
Enhancements in AutoCAD 2011
AutoCAD 2011 contains many enhancements over previous releases,
whether working in a 2D or a 3D workspace. Please note that not all the
enhancements in AutoCAD 2011 are described in this introductory book.
Among the more important enhancements are the following:
1. When fi rst loaded, an Initial Setup dialog offers a Welcome Screen
from which the operator can select from a variety of videos illustrating
how different methods of drawing in both 2D and 3D can be used in
AutoCAD 2011.