The module on computer-aided design (CAD) teaches students about the role CAD plays in the creation of buildings, vehicles, appliances and industrial equipment. Students also use professional-level software to develop CAD skills, which they use to design furnished homes and hot rods. These activities also could lead to a discovery of talent and interest in pursuing architectural or engineering careers.

 

Students start with the basics of lines, axes, grids, and coordinates and learn how to create two-dimensional drawings. They explore the process of product development, from brainstorming to introducing a product to the marketplace. Students also learn how they can further develop their knowledge and skills, and about careers for which this module would begin their preparation.

Students continue by developing more advanced CAD skills and techniques, and learning about various drawing projections. They demonstrate their expanding abilities by designing three-dimensional rooms, and they produce even more advanced drawings during independent-study projects. Related career opportunities also are presented.

Topic Coverage:

Terms, concepts, and applications of computer-aided design

Design concepts of axes, grids and coordinates, drawing, modifying, moving, scaling, distorting, outputting designs

Basic methods of drawing lines, circles, boxes, text, and orthographic and isometric projections.

Various exercises.using design concepts of CAD software