Steel detailing is, in general, the creation of different drawings meant for steel fabricators who produce the respective steel members. A steel detailer, or simply a detailer, is required to interpret the structural and architectural engineering drawings so as to get comprehensive knowledge of the overall design of a structure or building. This information is then used by the detailer to produce an accurate, unequivocal, and clear steel detail for steelwork fabrication.

Role of a steel detailer

Steel detailers use both an engineer and architect’s plans to create shop drawings or steel detail that are then forwarded to the fabricator. The whole setup works with the architect designing the overall look, and the engineer calculating all the locations and required sizes of steel to create a strong and safe structure. The detailer pitches in at this point, and uses the two sets of drawings to provide steel detail drawings with exact dimensions for every steel member to be used in the construction.

Detailers play a very important role in any large construction project. As such, he or she has to be in complete know-how of guidelines and regulations in every aspect of the construction. In general, a detailer’s skill-set should include OSHA, minimum bearing limits, AISC, and other common practices/standards. A skilled detailer can design feasible steel detail drawings for even the most complicated project.

Software drawings

The advances in technology have made it possible to make structural designs using computers. AutoCAD and Revit are two of the common names in the detailing industry for making steel detail drawings in computers. Such software have dedicated tools that make it easier to make drawings, and also give users the flexibility to make steel detail diagrams.

Traditionally, manual drafting methods were used to accomplish steel detailing, and included a lot of equipments like pencils, drafting tools, pencils, triangles, circular templates, mathematical tables, and other similar calculation aids. Computer aided drafting (CAD) has replaced all of this with a software that does the same work, and with even more options for flexibility and easy designing.

AutoCAD is one such software from Autodesk, which is based in the United States. AutoCAD comes with many internal options and tweaks that can be done to make the final design accurate and neat, and in less time as well. This proprietary software allows detailers to make steel detail drawings in both 2D and 3D modeling, giving them a better platform to check their drawings.

Revit is another such software that aids steel detailers. It gives comprehensive options for designing any type of steel detail diagram. This software provides more options than AutoCAD and is the preferred software for designing when working on larger setups.

Steel detailing needs skills in different subjects like drafting, spatial visualization, trigonometry, geometry, and communication. Apart from these, practitioners should have basic knowledge of the general principles in engineering. They should also know the methods of miscellaneous and structural steel fabrication. When using AutoCAD or Revit, the detailer should posses basic skills in computer use and have an idea on how to use the software.

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AutoCAD Revit is a software that is designed for the purpose of Building Information Modeling or BIM. It allows architects, engineers, and general contractors to develop their ideas on a novel platform with a model-based approach using three applications Revit Architecture, Revit MEP, and Revit Structure. The software has multiple features that will be advantageous to professionals from design and construction industries.

Enhanced visualization

AutoCAD Revit has gained popularity among design and construction professionals for its integration of 2D concepts of architectural designs with 3D models using BIM. This allows the professionals to detect collisions and inconsistencies in design in early stages, allowing them to develop high-quality, accurate designs with photorealistic visualization.

Efficiency of 3D Models

2D models are not as effective in perceiving concepts and ideas like 3D models. The models developed using AutoCAD Revit are 3D, possessing high resolution, and making it easier to detect any problems by zooming into small parts of the infrastructure including plumbing, joints, pillars, etc. This feature of providing a closer look at each element of the structure, with the ability of analyzing the elements for conflicts, allows professionals to develop error-free designs.

Versatility and compatibility

The AutoCAD Revit software can capture designs and read information from various file formats including DGN, DWG, and more. As the software is highly compatible with various file types it is easy to work on files, and transfer them to various devices for visualization.

High-quality planning tools

AutoCAD Revit has smart tools for managing dimensions, tags, text, patterns, etc. that are automatically updated as and when elevations and various details are placed on the planning sheet. The floor planning and schedules are automatically performed using smart components of the program to keep design files updated.

Automated estimate preparation

The application has provision to prepare accurate estimates to complete the project. It uses the data collected by the developer on rates, terms of contract, changes, field inspections, construction schedule, tenders, and more. It keeps track of the schedules for payment and checks if all payments adhere to the budgets set for the project in the initial phase.

Advantages of using AutoCAD Revit

There are many benefits of using AutoCAD Revit in an architectural, design, or mechanical industry. It was designed for the industry to empower professionals with all tools required for conception, development, and rendering of an idea. Revit allows a design professional or contractor to develop a structure while monitoring the changes, and results in a 3D environment with BIM. It encompasses all plans, schedules, sections, elevations, etc. for the developer to keep track of the construction.

As Revit can analyze energy efficiency and conflicts in design using the 3D model, and predict the performance of the building in the real world, it can increase the efficiency of the design and construction process. It allows the design and construction team to be aware of each other’s progress using collaborative tools while improving their coordination. All the additional features in Revit allow a team to make decisions based on information derived from the analysis of the design and speed up the process of construction with accurate results.

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3D rendering is a method of creating virtual 3D models of architectural and interior designs and transforming it into photorealistic images. When teams in architecture or interior design begin on any project, they draw 2D plans that can help them visualize the design. 3D rendering can help visualize any project in reality-like environment well before the project is initiated.

Visualize designs before project initiation

The construction and design industry seek for value-added and high-quality services to develop projects. 3D rendering is one such value-added service that has grown with economy and technological advancement. The technology of 3D rendering is used to design interiors and exteriors for projects focused on commercial, residential, private, and government projects that require high-quality infrastructure which is supplemented by huge pools of investment.

3D rendering technology is highly useful for engineers, mechanical contractors, architects, interior designers, builders, and everyone involved in the development of a project. It uses the power of computing technology to integrate structure and design. A professional involved in interior or exterior designing of a structure can visualize the project on a virtual platform using 3D rendering using all the estimated physical dimensions and scales.

As the tool gives a view of the project well before its construction, conflicts in design and problems can be resolved well before the project is initiated. This saves a lot of expenses devoted towards construction and making changes after construction. The visualization of the project in 3D environment helps professionals examine all details keenly without the need to worry about it during or after construction. 2D plans and 3D models do not provide as much clarity as 3D photorealistic images. These services allow design professionals to overcome their shortcomings and improve performance.

Flawless and high-performance process

As architects, interior and exterior designers can refine their designs while identifying flaws and analyze how their designs work in a real-time environment. They can experiment with different colors, textures, materials, designs, and more such changes to compare designs without constructing real-life prototypes, thus saving expenses. 3D rendering helps them speed up project development, increasing project efficiency and performance. Since all errors are eliminated during the development of the model using 3D rendering, the construction process is flawless and cost-effective. 3D rendering can transform 3D models into photorealistic images to view the project like it would be in real life.

Outsourcing for benefits

Many interior and exterior designers including architects can outsource 3D rendering to other companies that provide package services tailored to their needs like architectural rendering, exterior rendering, and interior rendering, all in 3D. Using these services, companies can draw plans, view, and analyze everything concerning a project to the infinitesimal details. As the tool provides a holistic view of the project after completion, professionals can make any number of changes to the model using the service to ensure that their model is perfect for project initiation. 3D rendering services can also be used to create digital media for publicity campaigns and displaying models for the benefit of clients and customers.

3D rendering is an error-proof and efficient process handled by professionals who understand the need of the structural and design industry. It helps designers to overcome any challenges that require compromising quality in the process of design and errors that are encountered during construction.

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CAD is an excellent application for mechanical contractors if they can use the 3D model for design and fabrication of various systems like plumbing and piping. AutoCAD MEP is an application that is designed specifically for mechanical, electrical, and plumbing professionals to design and draft their ideas.

This software helps mechanical contractors to improve their design and documentation process with more accuracy while also enhancing their coordination with architects and engineers.

Preconstruction stages

AutoCAD MEP helps mechanical contractors to transfer designs from their minds to 2D, and then develop it into 3D models using BIM (Building Information Modeling). It allows these professionals to review their designs, draw budgets, and plan estimates for construction. With various automated tools for planning and scheduling, the software allows mechanical contractors to schedule payments, purchases, and construction deadlines. It allows these professionals to coordinate with architects, designers, contractors, etc. to efficiently complete the project.

Advantages of BIM

Mechanical contractors can use CAD to integrate their 2D plans for the project into a 3D model using BIM. Using the realistic environment that is displayed by the application, it is easy to detect, analyze, and resolve conflicts occurring in the model and improve performance. This increases the efficiency of the design from the very beginning of construction while speeding up the process.

Various uses of CAD

Other than BIM, CAD is used for producing 2D and 3D models of designs in a short time while also capturing existing designs and checking for flaws. It is advantageous in saving expenses using re-route piping methods and creating pipe fabrication designs. The application also helps in designing workable installations like photorealistic drawings of systems.

Applications of CAD

CAD can be used for various mechanical applications like designing and fabrication of plumbing and HVAC systems including:

• Budgeting
• Designing
• 2D and 3D visualization
• Pricing
• Commercial and industrial construction
• Planning and schedules
• Cost control
• Procuring materials
• Analysis of construction
• Identification and resolution of conflicts

CAD saves time

CAD can help mechanical contractors in maintaining detailed documentation of their design and information. Since the software can forecast results of a design, it can save a lot of time that is originally taken for completion of the project. The BIM tools do not only help in drawing but also help in developing accurate high-quality designs. With the collaboration tools, CAD improves coordination between team members, increasing their efficiency and productivity.

Simulation/3D Visualization

Using simulation and visualization tools of CAD, mechanical contractors can know the results of their design even before it has been constructed. The BIM technology is very popular and has helped professionals from all design industries to speed up their process while simultaneously improving their design. Mechanical contractors can not only see how the piping and plumbing impacts the structure of the building, but also analyze how to integrate their design with the architecture of the building, as changes are continuously incorporated by different teams.

The CAD software involving its various suites is very effective for all professionals in the design and construction industry helping them transcend boundaries of planning, performance, and efficiency in a short time.

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Mechanical contractors and engineers work with a lot of technical drawings to portray designs of products or mechanical systems. As they work with a design-focused environment, management of CAD Standards becomes very important. CAD Standards bring uniformity to the design industry as it dictates a set of guidelines and rules that designers should be aware of while moving forward into application.

Reason for drawing CAD Standards

When a profession and industry depends on technical drawings for developing products and systems, CAD Standards become necessary for interpreting logical data and increasing productivity. The standards help in sharing data, within the organization and outside, helping everyone involved in the project to understand the design. With proper standards, there is less chaos in data thus reducing any support issues or risks when transferred to the end user. Further more, uniformity in a technical drawing for any project helps resource a project and fine tune the methodologies used in developing the project.

Importance of CAD Standards

Each company must have basic CAD Standards established during its inception. Everytime technology advances and software like AutoCAD is updated to new versions, the CAD Standards also have to be updated. Introduction of revised CAD Standards could be a strenuous process. However, it will ensure that there is uniformity in all technical drawing and CAD designs developed by members of the organization.

There are many existing CAD Standards like the ISO, AIA, AEC, BS, and Uniclass using which a company can develop its own CAD Standards. Consistency and accuracy in technical drawings increases the efficiency and performance in any organization. It is easy to identify parts of a plan in development of any project if there are well-established CAD Standards.

Flawless technical drawings

All international CAD Standards ensure that the drawings are easy to understand, clear, and flawless. Standard set of drawings for design of a plumbing system or an automobile helps in cost-effectiveness and time conservation while working on the project. A clear and error-free technical drawing following proper CAD Standards can not only communicate information without ambiguity but also save lives through safety and reliability.

Inclusions in CAD Standards

Any international CAD Standard would include areas like annotations, sheet layouts, and line types. When it comes to annotations, size and font of text, appearance, placement, size and font of dimension, style of leader lines, and height of lettering have to be determined in the CAD Standards. Any technical drawing has lines and is drawn on sheets, thus requiring standard line types, scales, dimensions, size of paper, layouts, line colors, and more to be standardized. Technical drawing conventions like section views, auxiliary views, developments, partial views, conventional breaks, etc. also need to be standardized.

Outsourcing CAD Standards

Each industry has its own requirement of CAD Standards. For example, the CAD Standards of the mechanical industry will not suit the automobile industry or the architecture industry. Thus, companies that provide CAD Standardization services specialize in catering to the needs of each industry. The process is time-consuming and stressful requiring a lot of resources from a parent company due to which it is wise to outsource the service to a specialized organization that is familiar with various international standards and the needs of the company.

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AutoCAD is one of the most popular software used to create designs, and with its flexible features, it remains the most preferred and appealing design software used in the design industry. The open architecture of AutoCAD has provided users with the chance to customize the software to suit their requirements. There have been many customization options available for non-programmers and programmers in the past, but AutoCAD 2014 has gone up ten times in its appeal with more flexible programming options for customization.

.NET replaces VBA in AutoCAD 14

Previous versions of AutoCAD featured a VBA development platform for users to develop programs for easy customization. The event-driven programs could be developed by beginners using logical branching and a highly compatible graphical user interface (GUI). It is very easy to create or modify objects, export or import data from designs, and adjust properties or settings in AutoCAD using the VBA platform.

Though VBA has been widely used for programming because its robustness and simplicity, AutoCAD has eliminated VBA from its standard interface. This is because Microsoft stopped distributing VBA licenses in 2007 to promote the .NET platform.

AutoCAD 2014 features Visual Studio .NET programming interface that focuses on object-oriented programming. Though it is a huge step-down from the much-favored VBA, .NET allows uses to develop programs using multiple languages like C, C#, and VB. With a vision to provide programmers with better flexibility in customization, Autodesk decided to switch to .NET platform.

Apart from the robust programming environment, .NET platform in AutoCAD allows users to develop applications on an external interface to manage AutoCAD settings, resources, references, and other aspects. While Visual Studio .NET is expensive on its own, integrating the platform with AutoCAD or choosing open source VB Express to substantiate programming in AutoCAD is more affordable.

Autodesk sticks to AutoLISP

Since the mid-80s, AutoCAD users have been using AutoLISP that is perfect for professional programmers. Though it relies on a very difficult LISP language that requires a lot of practice and knowledge, the AutoLISP platform has a better GUI that displays instant results in the AutoCAD window. Autodesk has also introduced Visual LISP or VLISP in AutoCAD 2014 with an integrated development environment (IDE) that is very much like VBA.

ObjectARX for ultimate customization

Specially introduced for sophisticated programmers, AutoCAD comes with ObjectARX extension. This extension provides an environment where users can compile and run programs in the AutoCAD space. The perks of this extension is that it allows programs to run efficiently since it includes a compiled-language environment. It also allows users to create their own AutoCAD extensions and add-ons to customize the software.

APIs for mobiles

The growth and popularity of cloud computing and smartphone usage has driven Autodesk to introduce application programming interfaces (APIs) that allow users to program custom applications for AutoCAD and access AutoCAD drawings on their mobiles. Most of these APIs are postulated to run on C# language since it resembles many commonly used languages on mobile platforms.

With so many programmable options for customization, AutoCAD 2014 is more flexible and appealing than ever.

Autodesk has a lot of software suites in the 2014 product family that is available for purchase to all users. The AutoCAD Design Suite software is an amalgamation of all tools for creation, modification, capture, and display of your designs. The software can be used to create and render 3D CAD models for engineering, construction, and any other purpose of design.

Let your creativity flow with AutoCAD 2014

AutoCAD 2014 has many new features to improve the creation of designs. It has 3D free-form design tools that provide a great flexibility in drawing and help in playing out the structures from your innovative mind. With highly streamlined interaction and a well-integrated user interface, the software suite has the ability to boost productivity and render designs in short durations. The enhanced intelligent command line allows you to focus on the designs, program and see immediate results in the AutoCAD window.

The designs can be connected to real environment through simulation, using live map feature. Model documental tools integrated in this software help in generating automated intelligent documentation for the drawings and models created on AutoCAD. You can also use Autodesk SketchBook Designer that enables you to create conceptual drawings and then extrapolate it to 3D forms.

Capture existing designs for enhancement

Existing designed can be captured using AutoCAD tools and converted to DWG format while stored design information. The software also has raster to vector conversion tools that convert the captured design information into vector data. You can even scan files or attach point cloud projects through the enhanced reality capture feature.

Reach beyond limits with connect features

The Autodesk 360 connectivity helps in sharing AutoCAD settings, files, and other information through cloud. The software also has an enhanced version of Autodesk Exchange Apps that allows you to download applications and extensions to customize AutoCAD. The automated workflows feature allows you to resolve challenges faced during creation, capture, or showcase of design for an affordable price. Design feed is a new feature in this suite, which allows you to share your work on social networks or with your acquaintances.

Showcase your designs with the powerful AutoCAD 2014

Rendering of designs with life-like surfaces has become more appealing with advanced surfacing capabilities powered by Alias Design. Presentations created using 3ds Max Design have spectacular interfaces and great clarity. Any 2D or 3D model created on the software can be rendered into 3D presentations for stunning impact and a sense of the real design with this software.

In the package

Available in Standard, Premium, and Ultimate editions, the AutoCAD 2014 Design Suite comes with AutoCAD, AutoCAD Raster Design, Showcase, SketchBook Designer, 3ds Max Designer, Mudbox, and Alias Design. With various programmable platforms and customizable options, Autodesk has provided the best of its design tools in this software suite.

All set to dazzle designers and exploit their true potential with its own brilliance, AutoCAD 2014 is now available for purchase and free trial. Designing has gotten more entertaining, challenging, and exciting with this new design suite all set for users to indulge and flaunt their creativity.

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Engineers, general contractors, and architects are starting to prefer CAD drafting software over traditional drafting methods. It is not just about keeping up with the technology juggernaut and adopting AutoCAD design. Using the AutoCAD software will ensure that you can create stunning digital models of almost anything and everything. You can generate 3D models to get a more accurate idea of the project on hand. The latest software also has the features to support faster documentation, digitally transmit project designs in several formats, and even use the Cloud capability to work with your design on mobile devices.

Latest Feature Set

In the latest AutoCAD design software, you can collaborate with your team using the social collaboration feature. You can always stay connected through the internet and share your design as you work on it with your colleagues. They can even modify it and send it back to you, ensuring greater productivity. The new AutoCAD software also features support for Windows 8. You can use your design and compare it with real world environments to get a more practical perspective on the project. Also, there is a tabbed feature that will allow you to switch between multiple drawings. Using this, you can work on multiple drawings at the same time.

Faster Documentation

Professionals will understand the importance of documentation and this is a process that can take a while. But the new AutoCAD software is designed in such a way that documentation will be a walk in the park. The new command-line navigation is enhanced for greater productivity. But what you will appreciate the most in the latest design software is the organization and editing features. With the aforementioned social collaboration feature, you can finalize the documents faster and prepare the final drafts using the latest AutoCAD software.

The Design Suite

Whether you are a designer, an architect, an interior designer, or an engineer, the latest software has a suite of tools that you are likely to use. You can customize the interface which you want to be launched every time you start the latest AutoCAD design software. This will ensure that you do not get overwhelmed by the plethora of new tools available on the software and use only the ones that your profession requires.

Extensive Tutorials

Now, you can learn to use the new AutoCAD software on your own very easily, thanks to the detailed tutorials that are available on the AutoCAD official site. These tutorials will allow you to explore the wide range of capabilities of the new software and also clear any doubts you might have regarding the new feature set. The tutorials are so extensive and detailed that even someone who is not familiar with the software will be able to use it after going through all the tutorials.

This article has only scratched the surface of what AutoCAD design software can offer to you as a professional tool. It will not only ensure productivity in the design aspect of your job, but also improve the overall quality of the project as planning is the foundation of any well executed project.

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CAD stands for computer-aided design. That should give you an insight as to why CAD can play a vital role in project development. To begin with, the first thing that you need for project development is a plan. With 2D and 3D CAD models that you can generate with CAD, you get the perfect representation of the project you have in mind. 3D CAD models also give you a lifelike representation of the finished project or the manufactured object in advance.

Here is a list of other ways in which CAD can be used in manufacturing and project development.

Developing a Construction Project with CAD

Let us take the example of a construction project that you have undertaken. You opt for 2D and 3D CAD modeling to create a plan for the building. With the 2D CAD model, you can label each and every aspect of your building. The layout of the building can be created floor wise to give the construction professionals an idea as to how they can start off. In this model, you can also label the dimensions of each and every aspect of the building.

Using the 3D CAD model that you have generated, you can show exactly how you want the finished building to look like. The 3D CAD model allows you to even paint the walls, add décor, furnish the completed building, etc. So, you have a digital representation of your dream home, which can be showed to the people responsible for constructing and finishing it.

The aforementioned example is to show how 2D and 3D CAD modeling can be used for project development. When you have something to develop, 2D CAD modeling has all the tools with which you can specify even the minutest technical details to the engineer.

Role of CAD in CAM (Computer Aided Manufacturing)

CAM is short for computer aided manufacturing. Earlier in the article, you have learnt as to how 2D and 3D CAD models can be used to develop and share the designs and other specifications with the people who would actually be creating the end product. In CAM, the machine is responsible for creating the product you have designed. Using 2D and 3D CAD models with the relevant specifications, you can plug in the data to the computer that controls the machine. After that, all you have to do is sit back and let the machine complete its job.

Advantages of Using 2D and 3D CAD Models in Computer Aided Manufacturing

One of the advantages of using 2D and 3D CAD models is the attention to detail. Using CAD, you can tend to a lot of technical details, including those that cannot practically be depicted in a 2D model. Also, the accuracy of machine guided systems is very high. Today’s computer guided machines, with the help of up-to-scale 3D CAD models, can achieve accuracy to the level of 1 micro meter, which is 1 X 10^-6‑meter. Also, this accuracy is consistent throughout all the products produced. So even if you produce 100,000 products with the same machine, you can achieve the accuracy that you can never hope to achieve with human controlled machines.

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Landscaping, or landscape design, is the process of modifying the visible elements of a given area, to make it more attractive and suitable to the surroundings. This can be done by altering the existing elements of the area or by adding new elements to it.

CAD, or Computer-aided Design, can be used for landscape design in more ways than one. The 2D and 3D modeling capabilities of CAD make it ideal for an activity that requires as much creative inputs as technical. So, you can design a digital representation of what you want to turn the area of interest into and then implement it on site.

Advantage of Using 3D CAD Modeling

One of the challenges that architects face in landscape design is that clients usually do not have a clear idea of what they want. They will have a general theme in mind and a vague impression of how the finished landscape should look like. But you, as a professional, cannot work with those impressions. Using 3D CAD modeling, you can involve the client in landscape design in a digital environment. In this way, you can take the inputs from the client and design a 3D model just as the client wants.

2D Rendering using 3D Models

Another advantage of using 3D CAD models in landscape design is that they you can obtain a 2D model from the three-dimensional one. When you start the 3D modeling activity, you have to plug in the dimensions of the site and each and every object that you insert into the landscape. Although this landscape design in 3D will look artificial, it would actually be according to scale. A scaled 3D model can be easily converted into a 2D CAD model, something that construction and design contractors hired for landscape design work well with.

The 2D design that is obtained from the 3D representation will have all the technical details the contractor requires. With both the 2D and 3D designs, you can rest assured that the professionals will get the job done exactly as you specified, as there is no room for doubt.

Why is 2D Plan Essential?

Consider a landscape design scenario where you specify a certain boulder or rock should be placed in a particular area. With the 3D design, you say the rock should be placed a little off center. Your version of ‘a little off center’ and the contractor’s version might vary. On the other hand, if you say place it 8ft from the side wall, there is no room for misinterpretation. These are the small details that matter in a landscape design project, and a 2D plan makes them available to the architect.

Cost Estimation using CAD Designs

Another advantage of using CAD for landscape design projects is that it allows you to estimate the cost beforehand, accurately. Cost is an important factor for most people and they will be working on the budget. CAD design can be clubbed with other logistics software to get accurate estimations of how much the projects might cost. This will give your landscape design client an idea about whether they want to stick with the existing specifications, or upscale or downscale the project.

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