Some Engineers
normally feel that cad automation is considered, automation of 3D models only
but in real sense cad automation also involves 3d model automation and 2d
drafting automation (at least in India). Normally a Designer or Engineer has to
invest 30% to 40% of time making 2D drafting which is a very significant time
consuming process in Design Automation.
Even in 2D drawing
automation Some Engineers feel once the 3D models are made the 2D drawing will
automatically Generated/Updated but following Key issues are needed to be taken
care of n above process : -
1. View Scale And Sheet Size :
Once the part
dimensions are changed the view Scale has to be modified or it may be required
to change the sheet size also. as shown in image below
2.Element Connections of Dimension :
Many Times some features are suppressed or
deleted, some parts from assembly get removed or due to overlapping of parts connecters
of dimensions may be disconnected from 2D Elements and Move from required
positions.
This problem
somewhat can be rectified by using PMI View. So we Feel PMI view is a better
way to maintain dimensions even if size changes but in case of PMI sectional
view, removed part or removed feature dimension maystill loose connection with Elements.
3. Balloons :
If the part is
removed from assembly the balloon may still remain in Drawing Sheet and needed
to be deleted/edited manually.
4. Text Annotation / View :
Many times the Text has to be changed or deleted in some cases. Suppose the no of holes are changed, particular view has to be deleted and other such changes has to be taken care manually.
5. Details/Notes :
Many Time as per
design requirement the Text Notes has to be updated /modified depending on the
changes in materials, Process of Manufacturing etc. such changes are again has
to be made manually.
6. Bill of material/ Part List :
The standard bill
of material provided by software may require some of the modifications or some
calculations to be involved or Display format has to be changed. In such cases
the designer has to manually edit the part list.
7. Title Block :
Title Block also has to be updated in Drawing
Automation According to the changes like Client's Name, Drawing Number, Created
by, Checked by and Revision and any other such information.
Such Changes are
time consuming and has more probability of errors. The young Engineers should take
care of 2D drafting Automation also because it is an integral part of Design.
The Above points
may vary from software to software but this is based upon our practical experience.
