The goal of the course is for each student to develop their visualization skill and their ability to create and understand engineering drawings using standard views and drawing practices. There is no instrument drawing component in this course. Much of the theory is explored using freehand sketching (ie. without a lot of attention to graphical precision), while accurate implementation of the theory is accomplished using the computer. In the computer lab, we will be using a program called Pro/ENGINEER, Solid Works and AutoCAD. These programs are parametric, feature-based solid modeling system that can be used to produce computer models of parts and assemblies, as well as fully detailed engineering drawings. In addition to creating design documentation (engineering drawings), the model can be used for many other engineering design functions, such as stress analysis or creation of code for numerically controlled manufacturing machines.

AutoCAD® software is a customizable environment, database, and toolset for 2D and 3D design and drafting. Architects, engineers, drafters, and other professionals involved with design use AutoCAD, by itself and with add-on applications, to create, view, manage, plot or output, share, and reuse accurate, information-rich drawings. AutoCAD is formed from “automated” and “CAD,” short for computer-aided design. You use CAD to accurately model, analyze, and express physical systems on a computer in a usable way (e.g., for manufacturing) while promoting productivity—doing more, better, in less time—and facilitating workgroup collaboration.

Training features:

Symbols, blocks, layers, lines, text, hatch patterns

Printing and plotting

Dimensions

Drawing curves and solid fills

3D Solids