Computer-Aided Design (CAD)

I kinda like CADing, but I haven’t done a lot of it recently.

Software

• SolidWorks → Industry Standard
• Fusion 360 (I don’t use this anymore)

Tips

1. Simple is better. Use as few features as possible when building your model. Ex: a shaft can be modelled by creating a circle sketch and extruding it, or by creating a square sketch, extruding it, and applying four fillets.
2. Get good with Aesthetics
3. For any design always try to use standard sizes whenever possible, like for fasteners, shafts, pipes, bearings, rails, channels, etc.
4. Ensure Everything Can Be Assembled
   1. A rivet can be easily placed in a design model or drawing, but would you be able to reach it with a rivet gun?