When it comes to using computer-aided design (CAD) software, both architectural technicians and engineering technicians perform many of the same functions that contribute to the design and construction of buildings and other structures. However, there are a few key differences between the two disciplines. Understanding these differences can help students decide which technical program would be the best fit for them.
If you’re interested in a career as a CAD technician, read on to learn more about the evolution of CAD software for both engineering and architectural technicians!
The Origins of Computer-Aided Design
Before computers came along to simplify the design process, drafters in both the architectural and engineering fields relied solely on their ability to draw by hand. Today, drawing is still an important part of a design, since a technician’s ability to analyze and think critically relies heavily on their drawing capabilities. Students pursuing engineering training will find that drawing techniques are still an integral part of the curriculum in many technical schools.
During the 1960’s, a lot of focus was put into researching and developing ways to design using interactive computer graphics. One of the biggest steps forward was when Sketchpad was developed. Graduates of technical design schools know that Sketchpad was a computer program created in 1963, which enabled users to easily draw, move and change objects on their computer screens.
In the 1970’s, early CAD programs gave architectural and engineering technicians the ability to produce 2D designs that were equivalent to hand-drawn drafts.
However, it wasn’t until the 1990s that CAD programs, such as AutoCAD, became an industry staple and were used by architectural and engineering firms everywhere. By then, computers powerful enough to handle the software were common and more and more technical schools began offering engineering and architectural CAD programs.
How Architectural Technicians Use CAD Software
The architectural design focuses on structures such as buildings and bridges. Architectural projects typically require several drafts to be drawn up and presented to clients in order to fine tune any details before construction begins.
When CAD was introduced into the architectural field, it made the drafting process much easier. In fact, CAD software rapidly became a requirement in most firms. CAD software enables architectural technicians to make quick and efficient changes to any aspect of a design without having to start the entire project over. Today, CAD also gives clients the ability to participate in the design process, since CAD-rendered models:
- offer multiple viewing angles
- offer complete internal object placement (they can organize the placement of walls, doorways, and even furniture)
- can include animation, so clients can take a virtual tour of the inside and outside of a building
Understanding The Use of CAD in Engineering
Similar to an architectural technician, engineering CAD technicians working for civil firms use CAD for structural applications such as buildings, bridges, and office complexes. CAD has also given engineers the freedom of making design corrections without having to draw up an entirely new blueprint to do so.
The main difference between the work of architectural and engineering technicians is the variety of applications they would use CAD for. Engineering technicians may choose to work for a mechanical firm, where they would work on drafts to produce moving designs, such as an engine prototype. Modern CAD software offers several advantages, including:
- The ability to simulate the movement of a constructed machine
- The ability to simulate a variety of environments and stresses on a prototype to estimate a product’s lifespan
Are you interested in pursuing architectural or engineering technician training?
Visit Digital School for more information or to speak with an advisor.
