CAD (Computer-Aided Design) can be defined as the application of computational technologies in the construction of projects used in different industries and disciplines. Companies use CAD to create products that require proper documentation and accuracy.
This technology has evolved over the years. It is currently one of the best design methods. As technology continues to evolve, CAD has also evolved and become even better. Almost all companies have integrated it into their design processes.
For example, if you want to produce detailed 2D and 3D designs, then Computer Aided Design is what you need to look into. As you do, check out these trends and innovations to ensure you don't fall behind;
1. Internet of Things (IoT)
The Internet of Things (IoT) can be defined as the network that connects different objects brought together through sensors and software applications. It connects these devices and allows them to communicate over the Internet.
It has penetrated many parts of our lives in recent years. For example, IoT has changed the modern workplace. You can also find it in household appliances, as well as other technologies we use on a daily basis. It is also becoming a hot topic in CAD.
IoT allows products to communicate throughout the CAD design process. For example, engineers can have all of their systems, facilities, and production units interconnected to easily share information. IoT has also penetrated CAD into other industries, meaning this is an innovation to watch.
2. Augmented Reality in CAD
A few years ago, few developers would have believed that the time would come when they would use AR in CAD design. Today, most of them are using AR in CAD designs to illustrate a design they already have in a CAD application. This helps them show what that specific design will look like in the real world.
This is done using software and visual target interfaces. For example, let's say you are developing part of the interior of a jet. Using CAD data along with augmented reality, you'll be able to sit inside the jet and see what your project looks like.
This gives engineers an improved experience as they can view their products from different angles and ensure their specifications are accurate. Augmented reality is playing a key role in helping developers, designers and engineers bring their designs to life and see how they will fit into a real-world environment.
3. SaaS and cloud computing
According to Statista, revenue in the SaaS segment will exceed $250 billion in 2023. Furthermore, almost half of all enterprise applications will use SaaS applications. This shows how much organizations are investing in SaaS and cloud computing.
As they continue to do this, they expect software vendors to do the same. This brings us to computer-aided design. The deployment and licensing of CAD applications is expected to change due to cloud computing.
We will also see changes in the way CAD applications allow users to collaborate. Through the power brought by SaaS and cloud computing, we will see multiple designers working on the same project, no matter where they work from. This means that organizations will also be able to bring in third parties, such as partners and suppliers.
4. Emerging technologies
Have you heard about emerging technologies that enable innovation in the design and development process? Well, Additive Manufacturing (AM) and Generative Design are some of the latest technologies that increase manufacturing safety and change product development.
These technologies have made it possible for organizations to achieve different sets of projects without much effort. Almost every other company that doesn't want to be left behind has started experimenting with these technologies. Others have already implemented them.
But why should you know these technologies when it comes to CAD? Well, when integrated with CAD, engineers find it easy to incorporate designs that have already been developed into their projects.
This means that one engineer can work on one element while the other works on another. They can then integrate their projects when completed. Check out the agile software development process to understand this concept.
5. Mobile Devices and CAD
There is no way to talk about technology and emerging trends and not mention mobile access. Today, almost everyone uses a mobile device. We cannot live our daily lives without them. This is something to think about when using CAD.
Access to CAD on mobile devices is one of the biggest innovations of this decade. A survey conducted a few years ago found that about a third of CAD developers were exploring ways in which they could enable customers to access CAD on mobile devices.
While we have seen a lot of progress in this area, it is still not where it needs to be. With adequate mobile CAD access, developers can use CAD applications, tools, and data wherever they are. This will increase productivity, something every company wants. Increased productivity means faster time to market and increased revenue for companies.
We will see different trends and innovations changing computer-aided design. These trends will be dictated by continued advances in technology. We may also see new industry players emerging with innovative ideas and technologies that will force CAD to change or adapt to different requirements.
However, if you work or want to work with CAD, you need to know the trends and innovations discussed in this article.
