How do you ensure that your CAD models are accurate and error-free?
Learn from the community’s knowledge. Experts are adding insights into this AI-powered collaborative article, and you could too.
This is a new type of article that we started with the help of AI, and experts are taking it forward by sharing their thoughts directly into each section.
If you’d like to contribute, request an invite by liking or reacting to this article. Learn more
— The LinkedIn Team
CAD models are essential for designing, prototyping, and manufacturing products, structures, and systems. However, creating accurate and error-free CAD models can be challenging, especially when dealing with complex geometries, dimensions, and tolerances. In this article, you will learn some tips and best practices to ensure that your CAD models are reliable, consistent, and error-free.
Check your units and scales
One of the most common sources of errors in CAD models is using inconsistent or incorrect units and scales. For example, if you mix metric and imperial units, or use different scales for different parts of your model, you may end up with distorted or incompatible results. To avoid this, you should always check your units and scales before starting your CAD project, and use the same ones throughout your model. You should also use appropriate precision and rounding settings, and avoid using very large or very small numbers that may cause numerical errors.
-
1 reaction
When working with AutoCAD, you would always set your units using the UNITS command, to set specific unit parameters (imperial or metric), and define the precision of those units (up to eight decimal places). This ensures that you are working to the required parameters in any drawing or model you may create. Projects often have these settings 'built-in' by way of defined AutoCAD template files (DWT files).
-
1 reaction
With CAD software like SolidWorks you can use built in tools like Design Checker to create a file of standards and check to ensure your units and scales are correctly formatted and using the appropriate standards that you have approved.
Use reference geometry and constraints
Another way to ensure accuracy and consistency in your CAD models is to use reference geometry and constraints. Reference geometry refers to elements such as planes, axes, points, and curves that help you define the position, orientation, and shape of your model. Constraints refer to rules or conditions that limit the movement or modification of your model, such as fixed, coincident, parallel, or perpendicular. By using reference geometry and constraints, you can create more stable and robust models that are easier to edit and modify later.
Validate your model with analysis tools
A third tip is to validate your model with analysis tools. Analysis tools are software features or applications that allow you to test, verify, and optimize your model based on various criteria, such as geometry, dimensions, tolerances, materials, loads, stresses, or performance. By using analysis tools, you can identify and correct any errors, inconsistencies, or flaws in your model, as well as improve its quality and efficiency.
-
1 reaction
Validating a model does not need to be overly complicated. Basic sizing using first principles and gross simplifications should be done on paper before anything is put into a computer. Simple stress equations will get you in the ballpark of what will probably work, then the CAD model can be built in a computer to address layout, interfaces, and interferences. Finally, if required due to design complexity or project requirements a design can go through a more formal iteration using design tools and analysis software. Too many engineers jump straight to complicated Finite Element Analysis or make overly detailed CAD models without first checking basic sizing to make sure they have a reasonable and workable design.
Review your model with others
A fourth tip is to review your model with others. Reviewing your model with others can help you get feedback, suggestions, and insights from different perspectives and expertise. For example, you can review your model with your colleagues, clients, suppliers, or end-users, depending on the purpose and scope of your project. By reviewing your model with others, you can improve your communication, collaboration, and problem-solving skills, as well as avoid any misunderstandings or misinterpretations.
-
1 reaction
A review of any drawing or model is essential to ensure that all facets of the design are considered. The drawing/model should be circulated to all project stakeholders during the revision cycle, with all stakeholders commenting on what works and what doesn't. Any subsequent changes then become the next revision/iteration of the drawing/model. Sometimes, viewing software, such as Autodesk Viewer or AutoCAD Web, can be utilised. Both have tools to allow for feedback and subsequent dialogue about the design to ensure the necessary changes are made to realise the design.
-
6 reactions
Some key areas to focus on when soliciting expert feedback are: manufacturability/constructibility, alternate fabrication methods or design solutions, materials selection, operability or maintinance concerns, code or jurisdictional requirements, inspection and test requirements. These are all areas that can be blind spots in otherwise “technically correct” drawings.
Document your model with annotations
A fifth tip is to document your model with annotations. Annotations are text or symbols that provide additional information or instructions about your model, such as dimensions, tolerances, notes, labels, or references. By documenting your model with annotations, you can make your model more clear, understandable, and traceable. You can also use annotations to comply with industry standards, regulations, or specifications.
-
1 reaction
Annotation is essential to communicating design intent. The builder cannot build the building without accurate annotated plans. The factory cannot manufacture the engine gasket without accurate engineering blueprints. The majority of CAD annotation tends to be defined by specific standards; architectural, mechanical, electrical etc. It is fundamental that any drawing/model should also include annotation to make sure that the design is understood and able to be realised, and subsequently, to be built or manufactured.
Update your model with changes
A sixth tip is to update your model with changes. Updating your model with changes means that you should always keep your model in sync with any modifications or revisions that occur during your project. For example, if you change the design, specifications, or requirements of your project, you should also update your model accordingly. By updating your model with changes, you can avoid any discrepancies, conflicts, or errors that may arise from outdated or inconsistent models.
-
1 reaction
Changes to a CAD drawing/model are inevitable. They are normally reflected in a revision methodology that allows all stakeholders to confirm the design changes. For example, Revision 1 may require a dimensional change, which is then expedited, taking the design to Revision 2 etc. It is essential that all stakeholders have access to the latest design, and it is normally the case that the latest revision is then communicated to them by way of a document transmittal.
Here’s what else to consider
This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?
