Computer-aided architectural design

Computer -aided architectural design ( CAAD short ) is computer- aided design for architects.

Since the 1960s, trying to save using appropriate software for modeling spatial structure time. The application of common CAD ​​programs was often associated with difficulties because they did not possess all the necessary planning and design tools, so that a standalone CAD application developed for architectural applications.

Based on the CAAD files Models can be produced by CAAM.

Features

CAAD the software has a database of geometric shapes, which are associated with certain properties. In contrast to standard CAD software architect can draw on construction-specific objects and data. The software knows all of the components together with properties and supports the creative use during the design phase.

The boundaries between CAAD software and other computer-aided drawing software can not always draw clear. So also classic animation programs such as 3ds Max are used to represent architectural designs and present and animate. The application of the finite element method can be part of a CAAD software, is used very rarely in the draft determination and is only used for mathematical verification of building structures.

Construction

The structure of a typical computer-based design software typically consists of at least two levels. The first level is used to calculate and the representation of the geometric definition of the design. This internal representation, depending on the software, consist of 2D or 3D models. At this level, the plans with other information, such as labels on dimensions and material properties are linked. The results of this process can be output as plans, in floor plans, sections, elevations and 3D models in spatial representations.

On a second level, this aggregated, ie provided with additional information, the geometric structures are analyzed with database operations. This meta-information can be created in a list, such as area lists and lists of quantities, bill of materials, some construction schedules. Since the computer can accomplish a high computing power and thus calculate and represent technically not feasible constructions and arrangements may be limited and monitored this level, the selection and the extent and pays attention to the functionality ( technical feasibility ) of the design.

Another name of engineering software is AEC (Architecture, Engineering, Construction). Here are more or better -developed modules for design, structural analysis and tendering of components are often supplied. The borders of CAAD but are fluent.

CAAD programs

Freeware

  • Envisioneer Express
  • Sweet Home 3D
  • For modeling of buildings in Google Earth is Google SketchUp and Windows Live Maps Caligari trueSpace the program

Commercial products:

See list of CAD programs.

Computer-aided design List of CAx companies
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