Computer-aided design (CAD) has revolutionized our ability to plan and design buildings and products in a way that can show the finest detail and features that are just not possible using traditional pencil and paper design. 2D and 3D drawings that once took many hours to produce alongside artist impressions are becoming outdated, overtaken by impressive CAD capability.
2D and 3D CAD building modelling services such as those offered by specialist BIM outsourcing partners bring computer-aided design benefits to the building services industry. At the outset of a building services programme, any design concept can be easily visualised to finished detail and service placement. CAD turns ideas into accurate 2D and 3D modelling drawings using computer-aided digital files that can be easily and quickly adapted.
Here we look at how your business can benefit from using CAD in your next project.
What does CAD do for design?
An effective build requires always requires a comprehensive design to be in place before construction begins. It is the only way to avoid setbacks or costly budget adjustments. Architects and construction managers can quickly visualise the look, presentation and position of the building as it will be if completed. CAD systems create these drawings, allowing ideas to be expressed promptly in a complete 2D or 3D realistic building representation. All angles and perspectives are visible to aid the design process in digital file format. The impact the building will have on existing surroundings is easily demonstrated with 3D CAD visualisation.
The advantage of removing the human element
Manual drawings are far less accurate and time-consuming to create. CAD removes the human eliminate, enabling far more precise design capability. CAD drawings offer the advantage of being more accurate and faster to produce and do not require a completely new drawing should changes be required. This reduces both time and cost during the experimental concept and planning stage.
Flexible and adaptable
Designers can visualise their design against real-world variables. Often a building design might be great, but its placement in a setting lets it down. 3D modelling allows for it to be viewed and visually tested more realistically.
The ability to include engineering and services into the design and analysis using realistic representation allows potential clashes to be highlighted early within the design stage. Clashes can then be rectified before the build commences, saving both time and money. It is also possible to quickly change the design to show how changes to materials used, building alignment or service positions impact the overall vision or function of the building.
Reduce the risk of construction issues
It is common for buildings to hit snags during construction, whether that is through incomplete drawings, service clashes or changes to requirements as the build progresses. Using 2D CAD and 3D CAD modelling services offers a fast and cost-effective solution to reduce and eliminate these possibilities and, therefore, any risk they bring to a successful outcome.
It can potentially save a project from financial loss or running over schedule. Computer-aided models also require no material investment, yet they allow users to view, understand and make changes before committing to particular materials or courses of action.
Sharing
Last but certainly not least, CAD design digital files can be shared easily with interested parties. Designers, architects, investors, site employees and service contractors will have access to relevant plans and imagery at their fingertips wherever they are based. This could be a significant benefit. Files can be updated, transferred and available to remote employees, ensuring that everyone has the latest information without delay.
Hopefully, the above has convinced you of the benefits of CAD, but if you’re not convinced, why not take a look at the buildings that would have been impossible without CAD. They certainly make you appreciate what we can now achieve with computer-aided design.
