Journal of Advanced Research in Computer Technology & Software Applications

Volume 5, Issue 1&2 - 2018, Pg. No. 1-4

Peer Reviewed Journal
Research Article

3D Cad – An Emergent Tool for

Concept Design
Vishal Walia1
Associate Professor, Department of Electronics & Communication Engineering, Rayat Institute of Engineering &
1

Information Technology (RIEIT), Shahid Bhagat Singh Nagar – 144 533, Punjab.

Abstract
Generally for any new design initially a concept layout in 2D CAD is generated. But sometimes if the
geometry of product becomes complicated, then 3D CAD model is preferred. Because 3D CAD model can
give us a complete all side view at a time like a real product, but in a virtual world. The present case study
will show the utilization of 3D CAD at the concept design stage of an Engine Mounting bracket used in a
newly developed system. Thus this paper will describe about the importance of 3D CAD tools for product
development.

This paper also reviews the technological advancements in CAD; Thus through this paper the authors suggest
that a gradual transition from manual to CAD approach will not only be cost effective but imperative for
ideal design to meet the challenges of the present day industry.

Keywords: CAD, Product development, 3D Software, 3D Model

Introduction design phase that can be achieved through the introduction

The economies of scale that are brought about by mass
production of standardized products have brought
industries to the point where their products begin to lack
individuality, and consumers are now reacting against
this situation by demanding more personalized goods.
Consequently, manufacturers are having to make consistent
efforts to distinguish their products from those of other
manufacturers in terms of pricing, performance, functions,
shape, the feel of the materials used, and so on [1]. Of
these, particularly effective results can be achieved by
incorporating fresh ideas into design-related aspects of the
product that are important to the impression it gives to the
consumer, such as its shape and ‘feel’. As a result, design
has become an area of great importance. Furthermore,
manufacturing businesses are also competing ever more
strongly in terms of price reduction, and are therefore
showing a great deal of interest in the streamlining of the
of computer technology. Reduction of production lead times
is also becoming an essential requirement. In conventional
product development, the conceptual design department
produces sketches and 2D drawings based on 3D models
of the product, and passes these drawings over to the
mechanical design department. In such an organization,
it is impossible for the conceptual and mechanical design
departments to share a common database of information
related to the shape of the product. 2D drawings not only
convey the original design concept poorly, but they are
also inadequate when used to convey and confirm the
designer’s intentions, or for decision-making purposes
[2]. These circumstances have engendered a need to
communicate design ideas by means of computers, to
construct environments with a common database of shape
information, and to use computers to conduct design
simulations and presentations so as to enhance the
effectiveness and quality of design processes. In line with

E-mail Id: walia.vishal@gmail.com

Orcid Id: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-0313-7945
How to cite this article: Walia V. 3D Cad – An Emergent Tool For Concept Design. J Adv Res Comp Tech Soft Appl 2018; 5(1&2): 1-4.

Copyright (c) 2018 Journal of Advanced Research in Computer Technology & Software Applications
Walia V
J. Adv. Res. Comp. Tech. Soft. Appl. 2018; 5(1&2)
these we have developed a complicated shaped product
using 3D CAD software in three-dimensional shapes,
which can be easily understood by the layman/operator.
Mechanical design and production departments in later
stages of the product cycle can use this.
Design Process
Fig. 1 illustrates the conventional design process and the
computerized design process from the initial conceptual
design phase of a mechanical product right up to the
mechanical design phase. As shown in Fig. I a, the
conventional manual design process includes a series
of steps from sketching up to fabrication of the mock-up
product, and involves a transfer of design blueprints to the
mechanical design department. In all of these processes,
fabrication work is done according to two-dimensional
drawings. In this case, the shape intended by the designer
often cannot be represented in the drawings, especially
when the shape involves freeform surfaces. However,
when this process is computerized, it is not only possible
to avoid such problems, but there is also the merit that
the data can be appropriated much more effectively. As
shown in Fig 4, the actual shape is very easy to visualize in
3D Environment with the help of Computer Graphics [3].
Furthermore, the conventional 3D model-making process
involves fabricating an actual 3D model of the designer’s
intended shape. The designer usually designs it with the
help of free form surfacing capability of recent high-end
3D Modeling Software [4]. For better visualization it is also
done manually, for example, kneading clay into the required
shape, or by sculpting the shape from foam polystyrene. The
steps involved in the latter technique are described below.
Modeling From Foam Polystrene
• First, obtain a block of polystyrene large enough to
accommodate the required shape.
• Based on the concept sketch, draw base lines on the
rectangular block of material.
• At this point, consider the order in which the cuts
should be made.
• While confirming the shape with curve gauges, cut
away the material using tools such as drilling machines
and sandpaper.
• Once the basic shape has been formed, fillet the edges
and form the detailed parts of the shape.
• Considering the continuity of the overall gradations
and highlights, finish modeling the shape.
• Finally, add the parting lines of the die and attach
accessory items to make the model look like the real
thing.
Now let us consider the computerized technique. The
following list shows the steps involved in making a model
using a 3D Modeling software, which designers can draw
on their experience with conventional techniques [5].
2
Figure 1.(a) Conventional Design process,
(b) Computerized Design Process
Cad Technology
Computer aided design refers to the design process using
sophisticated computer graphics techniques backed up with
computer software packages to aid in analytical problems
associated with design work The 3-D models created on
a CAD system with the help of curves and surfaces. Those
curves and surfaces are generally NURBS [8]. Wire frame
models are used as input geometry for simple analysis work
such as kinematics studies, surface models are used for
visualization automatic hidden line removal, and animations,
solid models are used for engineering knowledge and
visualization and are mathematically accurate description
of the products and structures. The solid model can be
shaded to improve visualization of the product, structure,
and physical models are automatically generated from the
geometric models through rapid prototyping technology.
Cad/ Cam Technology
CAD/CAM Technology is an integration of the CAD & CAM
techniques into one complete process. This means for
example that a component can be designed/modeled on a
computer graphics terminal and the graphics data can then
be transferred via coded electrical signals along a cable link
to the manufacturing system, where the component would
be automatically produced on a CNC machine.
Model Creation
In CMERI we have developed the 3D model of engine
mounting bracket, which was used in the front axle assembly
of a small tractor through CAD, using CAD software. This
model was developed keeping in mind that the model
should withstand the static load of the engine as well as
the dynamic load of the engine.
 Walia V
3 J. Adv. Res. Comp. Tech. Soft. Appl. 2018; 5(1&2)

Initially the conceptual design was made which using Auto

CAD software. After the conceptual design, the detail design
and drafting was made. Using high capacity 3D software, 3D
CAD model generated for getting the proper visualization
of the product to be made through fabrication. This model
was then analyzed using Analysis software to examine
whether the product will be capable of carrying the Engine
load while the vehicle is in static and as well as in dynamic
condition. This analysis is also important for optimization of
the design for an engine-mounting bracket. The goal was
to minimize the mass of the bracket while maintaining the
same stiffness and strength as an existing bracket design.
After making the model the same was checked virtually
for fitting in the assembly. The product was from the 3D
Model later on through different machining operations
like Milling, Jig boring, Grinding etc. Creation of 3D Model
helps a lot to the operator for making the product with a
very short time.

Figure 3.Conceptual Design (2D)
Figure 4.3D Model of the bracket
1.0 Model Analysis
The model of the engine-mounting bracket was created
using 3D CAD software. This model was analyzed using the
finite element analysis software to find out the maximum
and minimum stresses. Also this analysis found the
displacement.
Conclusion
We have developed an engine-mounting bracket using a 3D
CAD software. This product later was used in a newly design
system. The 3D model, which was generated, helps a lot to
the operator for easy understanding of the geometry. This
geometry could help to make the product with required
shape, with minimal effort, in a short time. Therefore this
is suitable for the most creative levels of design work at the
highest levels of product design. 3D Modelling functions in
such a way that make it easy to generate complex free-form
surfaces, which cannot be represented in two-dimensional
drawings. The model was also very much useful for the
finite element analysis. As the weight of the engine was
known, this analysis was important to check the breakage/
damage of the bracket during static and as well as dynamic
condition. The use of computerized design system brings
the following advantages when compared with conventional
design processes and makes the process engineering more
easier and faster [9]:
• It becomes simple to design original shapes with
complex free-form surfaces, leading to products with
greater market appeal.
• The 3D shape data can be passed all the way down to
Walia V
J. Adv. Res. Comp. Tech. Soft. Appl. 2018; 5(1&2)
the later stages of the product development, ensuring
that the designer’s intentions are accurately reflected
in the final product.
• 3D CAD model can give us a complete all side view at
a time like a real product, but in a virtual world.
• The 3D CAD model could easily be understood for a
operator to make the product in a much lesser time.
• By effectively integrating the conceptual and mechanical
aspects of design work, products can be developed in
much less time.
• Design simulations and presentations through the use
of computer graphics can enhance the overall quality
of the design process.
References
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Kogyo Newspaper Co. Ltd., Tokyo, 1988).
2. Chiyokura, H Solid Modelling with DESIGNBASE - Theory
and Implementation, Addison-Wesley, Reading, MA,
1988.
3. Yamamoto, F, Computer Graphics, Nikkei Kogyo
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Newspaper Co.Ltd., Tokyo, 1979.
4. Yamashina H, Fukushima K, Saijo A, “CAD for free-form
surfaces”, Computer Integrated Manufacturing Vol.9,
No. 1 1996, pp 9-18.
5. Chiyokura, H Solid Modelling, Kogyo Chousakai, Tokyo,
1985.
6. Higashi, M and Kanou, T ‘Filleting corners by translating
spheres’, Autumn Conf. Precision Eng. Assoc., Japan,
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7. Kuragano, T and Kikuchi, A ‘A method for generating
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8. Frain, G, Curves and Surfaces for Computer Aided
Geometric Design - A Practical Guide, Academic Press,
New York, 1988.
9. Yamamoto, F Shape, Processing Engineering II, Nikkei
Kogyo Newspaper Co. Ltd., Tokyo, 1982.
Date of Submission: 2018-02-07
Date of Acceptance: 2018-04-09