A technology that uses computers to assist in the creation, modification, analysis, or optimization of a design. CAD software is used to create 2D and 3D technical drawings, which can be used for a variety of purposes such as architectural design, engineering, and manufacturing.
There are many different file formats and platforms that can be used for CAD drawings. Here are a few of the most common:
- DWG: Developed by Autodesk, DWG (Drawing) is the most widely used file format for CAD drawings. It is a proprietary format that is used primarily with AutoCAD but can also be opened and edited with other software such as BricsCAD and ZWCAD.
- DXF: Short for Drawing Exchange Format, DXF is a file format developed by Autodesk as an open alternative to DWG. It is a more simplified version of DWG and can be opened and edited with many different types of software, including AutoCAD, CorelDRAW, and Inkscape.
- DWF: Developed by Autodesk, Design Web Format (DWF) is a file format primarily used for publishing and sharing CAD drawings on the web. It can be viewed with a free viewer, AutoCAD, and other programs.
- IGES/STEP: IGES and STEP file formats are developed as a neutral file format standard that can be used to exchange data between different CAD systems. These formats are widely used in the mechanical engineering and aerospace industry.
- SVG: Scalable Vector Graphics (SVG) is a vector image format for 2D graphics, which can also be used for CAD drawings. It is an open standard and can be edited and viewed with a variety of software, including Adobe Illustrator, Inkscape, and CorelDRAW.
As for the most popular platforms for CAD software:
- AutoCAD is one of the most widely used CAD software platforms, it’s a powerful and versatile tool that can be used for many different types of design and engineering projects.
- SolidWorks, SolidEdge, and CATIA are other examples of popular CAD software platforms mainly used in the manufacturing and mechanical engineering field.
- SketchUp, Rhino, and Revit are also commonly used platforms, they are used mainly in architecture and interior design.
It’s worth mentioning that many of the above-mentioned platforms have different modules that have been developed for specific fields (i.e AutoCAD Electrical for electrical drawings, AutoCAD Civil for Civil engineering).
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