READOS / Technology
3D CAD Modelling and Design Intent
Parametric modelling, constraints, curves, surfaces, meshes, assemblies and renderings that keep the design intent clear.
Start reading →Contents
- 01Choosing a 3D model that suits the design questionChoose useful 3D geometry for the decision at hand, build it from clear references and check its structure before treating a convincing view as design evidence.
- 02Design intent in parametric 3D CAD and managing large assembliesParametric models that break when changed, and assemblies that take minutes to open, cost design teams heavily. How to capture design intent, structure assemblies and control CAD data.
- 03Using CAD constraints to preserve design relationshipsUse geometric and dimensional constraints to make CAD changes predictable, with clear parameter names, purposeful relationships and checks across a useful range.
- 04Positioning features on angled CAD working planesPlace holes and profiles on angled faces by separating viewing direction from working coordinates, then checking origins, axes and extrusion direction.
- 05Choosing and checking curves in CADChoose useful curve representations, control fit points and vertices, and check continuity, spacing and conversion before curved geometry is reused.
- 06Building CAD surfaces with clear dependenciesBuild and edit CAD surfaces through explicit source curves, continuity choices and dependency checks, with deliberate transitions to direct surface control.
- 07Editing CAD geometry without losing design intentPlan CAD edits around the relationships that must stay fixed, choose precise selections and transformations, and check the wider drawing after a change.
- 08Editing solid faces with clear design checksRevise 3D solids by selecting and editing the intended faces, then check neighbouring geometry, retained references and the limits of software validation.
- 09Shaping CAD meshes with controlled detailDevelop freeform CAD meshes with deliberate face structure, local refinement and crease control, then check the shape before converting it for further work.
- 10Rebuilding CAD geometry from scans and PDFsTurn scanned drawings and PDF references into useful CAD geometry through calibrated scale, deliberate reconstruction and checks that preserve uncertainty.
- 11Building and explaining CAD assembliesKeep components identifiable while building a CAD assembly, check their placement across views and prepare exploded illustrations without changing the design record.
- 12Using CAD renderings without overstating the designUse lighting, materials and viewpoints to make CAD concepts easier to discuss, while keeping visual assumptions separate from verified product characteristics.
- 13BIM and sustainable building design: what owners and project teams should knowBuilding information modelling can cut rework, inform greener design and hand owners useful asset data, if the information is planned. How BIM works and how to design for performance.
- 14Automating CAD with macros and APIs: when it pays and how to keep it maintainableWhen recorded macros, scripts, API add-ins and rules-based configurators pay off in CAD, how to choose the right level of automation, and how to keep it working through upgrades and staff changes.
- 15Specifying a CAD workstation: processors, graphics, memory, storage and when to go virtualHow CAD workloads use computer hardware, why clock speed often matters more than core count, choosing certified graphics, sizing memory and storage, laptops versus desktops and virtual workstations.
These topic-based reading collections are organised alphabetically; chapters may be read in any order.
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