What is Computer-Aided Design?
Computer-Aided Design (CAD) is the use of specialized software to create precise digital representations of physical objects, systems or facilities. It allows engineers, designers and drafters to develop and visualize complex layouts, components and assemblies in two or three dimensions before anything is built in the real world.
CAD plays a foundational role in design and engineering. It provides the documentation that define how equipment and systems are configured. A well-structured CAD model depicts how a design can be built efficiently, verified accurately and operated safely throughout the assets lifecycle.
The Evolution of CAD Technology
CAD has grown from a digital version of the drafting board into a rules-driven
intelligent design environment. Early systems focused on electronic drawings, while today’s tools combine simulation, analytics and real-time collaboration to improve accuracy and speed.
Modern CAD supports parametric modeling, global cloud coordination and AI-assisted design that identifies issues before approval. Integrated with digital twins, CAD now connects design to live operational data, turning the model into both a creative tool and a source of lasting information value.
Core Functions of CAD Software
CAD platforms combine visualization with structured data to guide design from concept to construction. While functionality varies across tools, most systems share several core capabilities:
2D Drafting
Used to create schematic diagrams, layouts and engineering drawings such as P&IDs and electrical schematics. These remain critical for regulatory documentation and fabrication deliverables.
3D Modeling
Provides spatial visualization of assets and assemblies. Engineers can view how components fit together, test alignments and identify interferences before they occur in the field.
Parametric Design
Defines relationships between objects so that changes to one element automatically update others, maintaining dimensional integrity and reducing manual rework.
Annotation & Documentation
Allows designers to add labels, dimensions, callouts and specifications to generate detailed drawings and bill of materials (BOM) directly from the model.
Data Integration
Links model geometry with dimensional data, material codes, descriptions, tag data and specifications, turning the CAD model into an intelligent data source.
CAD vs. Other Digital Design Tools
While CAD focuses on creating detailed geometry and design documentation, it forms part of a broader digital ecosystem that includes AIM (Asset Information Management), BIM (Building Information Modeling), PDM (Product Data Management) and PLM (Product Lifecycle Management).
- CAD provides the precise design foundation (the geometry, relationships and specifications that define the asset).
- AIM connects this design data with the information required for operations and maintenance, ensuring that every physical asset is linked to accurate data throughout its lifecycle.
- BIM extends that foundation into coordinated, data-rich environments for construction and facility management.
- PLM and PDM govern how design data is stored, versioned and reused across the lifecycle.
In process and industrial sectors, CAD data often feeds directly into intelligent 3D modeling environments such as
Hexagon Smart 3D or AVEVA E3D. These systems use CAD geometry as the backbone for advanced functions like clash detection, material take-offs and
digital handover.
