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What popular CAD programs do you know? Free CAD systems (CAD)

Today, in order to achieve success in the market, an industrial enterprise is forced to work to reduce the production time of products, reduce its cost and improve quality. The rapid development of computer and information technologies led to the emergence of CAD/CAM/CAE systems, which are the most productive tools for solving these problems.

CAD systems (computer-aided design) mean software that automates the work of a design engineer and allows solving problems of product design and preparation of technical documentation using a personal computer.

CAM systems (computer-aided manufacturing - computer support for manufacturing) automate the calculations of tool paths for processing on CNC machines and provide the issuance of control programs using a computer.

CAE systems (computer-aided engineering - computer support for engineering calculations) are designed to solve various engineering problems, for example, for calculations of structural strength, analysis of thermal processes, calculations of hydraulic systems and mechanisms.

The development of CAD/CAM/CAE systems has been going on for several decades. During this time, there was some division, or, more precisely, “ranking” of systems into levels. Systems of upper, middle and lower levels appeared. Systems top level They have a huge range of functions and capabilities, but they are harder to work with. Low-level systems have fairly limited functionality, but are very easy to learn. Mid-level systems are the “golden mean”. They provide the user with tools sufficient to solve most problems, while not being difficult to learn and work with.

CAD systems(computer-aided design - computer support for design) are designed to solve design problems and prepare design documentation (more commonly they are called computer-aided design CAD systems). As a rule, modern CAD systems include modules for modeling a three-dimensional three-dimensional structure (parts) and designing drawings and text design documentation (specifications, statements, etc.). Leading three-dimensional CAD systems make it possible to realize the idea of an end-to-end cycle for the preparation and production of complex industrial products.

CAM systems(computer-aided manufacturing - computer support for manufacturing) are intended for designing the processing of products on machines with numerical program controlled(CNC) and issuing programs for these machines (milling, drilling, erosion, punching, turning, grinding, etc.). CAM systems are also called technological production preparation systems. Currently they are practically the only way for the production of complex-profile parts and reducing their production cycle. CAM systems use a three-dimensional model of the part created in a CAD system.

CAE systems(computer-aided engineering - support for engineering calculations) represent a broad class of systems, each of which allows solving a specific calculation problem (group of problems), ranging from strength calculations, analysis and modeling of thermal processes to calculations of hydraulic systems and machines, calculations of casting processes . CAE systems also use a three-dimensional model of the product created in a CAD system. CAE systems are also called engineering analysis systems.

General classification of CAD/CAM/CAE systems

Over the almost 30-year period of existence of CAD/CAM/CAE systems, their generally accepted international classification has developed:

– drawing-oriented systems that appeared first in the 70s. (and are still successfully used in some cases);

– systems that allow you to create a three-dimensional electronic model of an object, which makes it possible to solve problems of its modeling right up to the moment of manufacture;

– systems that support the concept of a complete electronic description of an object (EPD, Electronic Product Definition). EPD is a technology that enables the development and support of electronic information model throughout life cycle products, including marketing, conceptual and detailed design, technological preparation, production, operation, repair and disposal. As a result of the development of the EPD concept, grounds arose for the transformation of stand-alone CAD, CAM and CAE systems into integrated CAD/CAM/CAE systems.

Traditionally, there is also a division of CAD/CAM/CAE systems into upper, middle and lower level systems. It should be noted that this division is quite conditional, because Nowadays there is a tendency towards medium-level systems (according to various parameters) to upper-level systems, and lower-level systems increasingly cease to be simply two-dimensional drawing-oriented and become three-dimensional.

Currently, two types of solid geometric kernels are widely used on the market - Parasolid from Unigraphics Solutions and ACIS from Spatial Technology.

Russian CAD systems

COMPASS 3D(ASCON)

T-FLEX CAD 3D(Top Systems) – Parasolid

CAD "Sudarushka"- CAD/CAM/CAE system. It is a development of the GEMOS system (geometric modeling of aircraft contours), developed by specialists of the Russian aviation industry at the Design Bureau named after. A. S. Yakovleva in 1989-1994.

ADEM(Russia, Israel, Geomania) - CAD for design and technological preparation and CNC machines. The main product is the integrated CAD/CAM/CAPP system ADEM VX. The name stands for “automated design, engineering, manufacturing” (Automated Design, Engineering, Manufacturing); adem.ru. – ACIS

WinELSO 7 designed to automate work when designing power supply facilities for all voltages of 3-phase, 1-phase alternating and direct currents (Russian Industrial Company is an authorized application developer for Autodesk products (Autodesk Developer Network)); winelso.ru.

Expert-SKS(Expert-Soft, Moscow) - CAD for automation at all stages of design of structured cable systems, fiber-optic lines, LAN, linear and backbone networks; expertsoft.ru.

There are also free and open source CAD systems.

CAD from non-Russian manufacturers

Dassault Systems, France:

– CATIA- CAD for the aerospace industry;

– SolidWorks universal CAD for mechanical engineering, Parasolid.

MathCAD(Mathsoft, now Parametric Technology Corp.) - mathematical modeling.

P-CAD(Altium, Sydney, Australia) - CAD for designing electronic devices.

Pro/Engineer(Parametric Technology Corp.) - universal CAD for mechanical engineering. Parasolid

SolidEdge(UGS – Siemens PLM Software) - 2D/3D CAD system.

Autodesk Inc.:

– AutoCAD- the most common CAD is not Russian production. – – Autodesk Inventor- three-dimensional solid-state design system for the development of complex engineering products - ACIS

Approximate cost of systems, rub.

The division into levels is arbitrary, mainly depends on functionality and, therefore, is determined by the price per seat.

Low-level systems have nothing to do with CAD. This graphic editor, intended for automation of engineering and graphic work, together with a computer and monitor, constitute an “electronic drawing board”, that is good tool to complete design documentation. These systems are called two-dimensional.

The general name for systems of the first and second levels is three-dimensional systems. Design takes place at the level of solid models using powerful design and technological libraries, using modern mathematical tools to carry out the necessary calculations. These systems make it possible, using animation tools, to simulate the movement in space of the working parts of a product (for example, robotic manipulators). They track the tool path during development and inspection technological process manufacturing the designed product. Such systems are called CAD/ASTPP (Computer-Aided Design/Automated Systems for Technological Preparation of Production), in other words, end-to-end CAD (CAD/CAM/CAE).

CAD/CAM/CAE systems make it possible, on an entire enterprise scale, to logically link all product information, provide fast processing and access to it for users working in heterogeneous systems.

The model created by the system is based on data integration and is a complete electronic description of the product, which contains design, technological, production and other product databases. This provides a significant improvement in quality, reduced costs and reduced time to market.

To design power supply systems (PS), it is possible to use CAD from other industries, but the specific features of power supply systems as complex technical systems require a slightly different design approach.

Existing systems ESS design using computer technology is mainly focused on automating individual procedures or stages of the design process. Experience shows that it is easier and more effective to train electrical specialists in one new discipline - hardware and software computer technology and CAD than to specialist CAD and software master many electrical engineering disciplines that are given to electrical engineers. When studying the discipline “CAD for electrical supply”, knowledge of courses in electrical engineering disciplines is implied, as well as the ability to work with a computer at the user level.

Pro/ENGINEER

CAD/CAM/CAE system. With over 310,000 professional users using Pro/ENGINEER, it is extremely powerful, combining unmatched speed and accuracy. More than 42,000 enterprises around the world use PTC PLM products at all stages of the product life cycle.
A new version Pro/ENGINEER offers advanced geometry modeling and editing technologies that significantly increase designer productivity, as well as an apparatus for creating photorealistic images of the highest quality. Among them are the creation of three-dimensional layouts in the form of a “point cloud”, dynamic deformation of a three-dimensional model and many others.
Developer - Parametric Technology Corp. , USA.

CATIA

CATIA is a key brand of Dassault Systèmes and a global leader in software products, supporting design and search for innovation. Around the world, thousands of companies in a variety of industries use the virtual design capabilities provided by CATIA products to create truly successful products. CATIA solutions address all companies, from OEMs to their suppliers and small and medium-sized businesses.

The CAD/CAM/CAE system CATIA (Computer Aided Three-dimensional Interactive Application) is a fully integrated, universal high-level CAD/CAM/CAE system that allows for parallel execution of the CATIA design and production cycle, being a universal computer-aided design, testing and manufacturing system, widely used at large machine-building enterprises around the world for computer-aided design, production preparation, and reengineering. Functions supported by CATIA/CADAMSolutions: · administration - planning, resource management, inspection and documentation of the project; · the most advanced modeling; · description of all mechanical connections between the components of the object and bringing them into a state of spatial mutual positioning; · automatic analysis of geometric and logical conflicts · analysis properties of complex assemblies; developed tools for tracing communication systems in compliance with specified restrictions; specialized applications for technological preparation of production.
Developer - Dassault Systèmes, (France).

SolidWorks

A powerful mechanical engineering CAD package for solid parametric modeling of complex parts and assemblies. A mid-class design system based on the Parasolid parametric geometric core. Created specifically for use on personal computers running Windows operating systems.
Developed by Dassault Systèmes.

NX

The NX CAD/CAM/CAE system from Siemens PLM Software offers next-generation tools and technologies that are helping to transform product development. Qualitatively new tools allow you to develop products in a single, controlled environment by integrating all processes. NX tools provide more modeling capabilities, flexibility and performance. By combining parametric and treeless modeling with active layout technology to make assembly work easier, NX sets new standards for speed, performance and ease of use.

Unigraphics Solutions, Inc. product series: Unigraphics Solutions, Parasolid, Solid Edge, Unigraphics, IMAN, ProductVision, GRIP.
CSoft.

SolidEdge

Solid Edge is a market leader in computer-aided design systems for mechanical engineering, equipped with unique tools for creating and editing 3D digital layouts. With superior core modeling capabilities and built-in workflows, industry-specific needs, and seamless integration with design management tools, Solid Edge enables accurate, error-free design solutions. Solid Edge's part and assembly modeling tools enable engineers to easily create a wide variety of products, from individual parts to assemblies containing thousands of components. Industry-specific teams and structured workflows speed the design of common parts, while assemblies are created, analyzed and edited to ensure every part fits together accurately and functions correctly. When you design in Solid Edge, your products come together correctly the first time.
Developer - . Additionally - CSoft.

think3

Computer-aided design system for mid-level mechanical engineering. Provides two-dimensional design, three-dimensional surface and solid modeling, design of products from sheet materials, associativity of a two-dimensional drawing with a three-dimensional model, photorealistic representation of the project.
Developed by think3, Inc, USA.

A series of products for design and project data management: 3D CAD and 2D CAD, comprehensive product data management (PDM), and software interoperability. With a wide range of additional design modules, CoCreate provides speed, flexibility to respond to changes for clients, short development cycles, and an easy design process. The main modules are CoCreate Modeling and CoCreate Drafting.
Developer - Parametric Technology Corp.

KeyCreator

KeyCreator™ is full-featured software that provides professional designers with advanced tools to complete complex design work. KeyCreator allows full editing of both native and imported geometry and supports the creation of complex surface models. Easy to use and create 2D drawings and 3D models.
Developer - Kubotek Corporation, USA.

T-FLEX

The T-FLEX CAD/CAM/CAE/CAPP/PDM software package combines programs for three-dimensional design, modules for preparing control programs for CNC machines and engineering calculations. All systems of the T-FLEX CAD/CAM/CAE/CAPP/PDM complex operate on a single information platform of the T-FLEX DOCs PDM system. Russian software package T-FLEX CAD/CAM/CAE/CAPP/PDM - a set of modern software for solving problems of automation of three-dimensional design, design and technological preparation of production of any complexity in various industries.
CAD T-FLEX CAD is a professional design program. T-FLEX CAD combines powerful parametric 2D and 3D modeling capabilities with tools for creating and designing drawings and design documentation. Technical innovations and good performance CAD T-FLEX CAD, combined with a convenient and intuitive interface, makes CAD T-FLEX CAD a universal and effective tool for 2D and 3D product design. Thanks to a wide range of CAD design tools, T-FLEX CAD is best choice to solve any design problems. Designers around the world use T-FLEX CAD in a wide range of industries: general engineering and instrumentation, aerospace, automotive and shipbuilding, as well as in design and construction organizations. CAD T-FLEX CAD is used both in the design of main production products and in the creation of the entire complex of necessary equipment - dies and molds, tools and fixtures.
Developer – Top-Systems, Moscow.

"bCAD Pro" - software system full design cycle: design, engineering and pre-production for everything that can be made from sheet and profile materials. It allows you to design various products from these materials: furniture, commercial equipment, exhibition stands, pavilions, small architectural forms, as well as the premises in which these products are located, for which they are made: offices, clubs, bars, apartments, etc. ., as well as various elements of such premises: podiums, reception desks, bar counters and much more - are successfully designed in “bCAD Pro”. It is possible to work simultaneously with several projects, combine models into a single project, and arrange the created models throughout an office or apartment. "bCAD Pro" includes the capabilities of all other products in the line: "bCAD Furniture", "bCAD Showcase" and "bCAD Designer". Everything that is written about the capabilities of these products is there. In it you can perform all the same work and create libraries of materials, fasteners and components. The main differences are the ability to create products with profile parts and export information about designs in database formats.
Developer - ProPro Group, Novosibirsk.

COMPASS

One of the leading Russian products. A CAD system designed for a wide range of design and engineering work, easy to learn, convenient to use, and at the same time having a cost acceptable for complex equipment of Russian enterprises, including medium and small ones. Allows for two-dimensional design and construction, rapid preparation and release of various drawing and design documentation, creation of technical text and graphic documents. Developer – , Russia.

DesignCAD Series

DesignCAD is a program that combines easy-to-understand and use 2D drafting with powerful and accurate 3D modeling to achieve amazing results depending on your imagination and creativity. Design has never been easier with the program's easy-to-understand interface and extensive reference library. The program allows you to quickly create the necessary drawings. The program also has the ability to solid-state modeling and create animations and presentations. DesignCAD 3D Max is a versatile CAD tool for beginners and advanced users.
Developed by IMSI/Design, LLC. , USA.

TurboCAD Pro

TurboCAD Pro - powerful universal remedy for professional CAD design. Combined 2D and 3D design can satisfy the most demanding users. The full power of the industry standard ACIS® v8 solid modeling engine coexists with powerful surface modeling to give you maximum capabilities. TurboCAD Prol supports twenty-five of the most popular file formats, including AutoCAD® DWG/DXF, MicroStation® DGN, 3DS, IGEN, STL and more. You also have the opportunity to export your projects to HTML, JPG, MTX. TurboCAD Professional includes realistic rendering, full 3D modeling with shells and lofting.... work with AutoCAD files, the ability to work with the Internet, training programs. TurboCAD is fully customizable, has built-in Microsoft's VBA and is compatible with Microsoft Office. This program also includes a Software Development Kit and Visual Basic® Macro Recorder. TurboCAD Professional is the newest and most powerful 3D computer-aided design application.
Developed by IMSI/Design, LLC. , USA

IronCAD

Computer-aided design system for mechanical engineering. Provides 2D design and 3D solid modeling.
Developer - Visionary Design Systems, Inc. , USA.

Cimatron

Cimatron is an integrated CAD/CAM system that provides a full set of tools for product design, development of drawing and design documentation, engineering analysis, and creation of control programs for CNC machines. Cimatron satisfies the needs and requirements of a wide range of users, works on various platforms, including personal computers. There are about 6,000 companies worldwide who use the system.
Developer – , Israel. Additionally - on Bee Pitron.

TEBIS

Developed CAD/CAM system. Two-dimensional design and drawing, three-dimensional modeling.
Developer – Tebis Technische Informationssysteme AG, Germany.

VISI Series

Vero product series, developed system: CAD/CAM/CAE Software - Molds, Tools, Wire EDM, Laser Cut. Provides two-dimensional design and drawing, three-dimensional surface and solid modeling, generation of programs for CNC machines, visualization of part processing.
Developer – Vero Software, USA. Watch on-line video.

VX CAD/CAM

Developed CAD/CAM system. Main modules: VX Innovator, VX Designer, VX Mold&Die, VX 3D Machinist, VX End-to-End.
Developer – VX Corporation, USA.

The main product is CADMAX SolidMaster - a computer-aided design system that provides two-dimensional design, three-dimensional surface and solid modeling.
Developer – , USA.

Calculations and analysis

ANSYS

Finite element package. ANSYS, Inc. For 35 years, it has been one of the leaders in the CAE market, developing and offering a wide range of software products for automated engineering analysis. Founded by Mr. John Swanson, the company was originally called Swanson Analysis Systems, and offered only the ANSYS universal finite element package. Later, the program gave its name to the company itself. Today, the company is the leader in the settlement systems market both in terms of sales volume and the number of workstations of its software used around the world, and the breadth of the line and applicability of software products: ANSYS, AutoDYN, CFX, Fluent, ICEM, Maxwell... this is just a short list.

The ANSYS product line is wide and covers all the needs of the designer at all stages of his work, starting with the construction or modification of the geometric and mesh model, then moving on to the effective solution of the problem, and ending with the processing, presentation and documentation of the results.

The main ones in the line of software products are the following, which are tools for solving problems:

ANSYS - strength, thermophysics, electromagnetism
AutoDYN - simulation of highly nonlinear and fast processes
CFX - fluid dynamics
Fluent - fluid dynamics
Maxwell - electromagnetism
DesignModeler - creation and/or modification of geometric models
ICEM is a universal tool for constructing and modifying mesh models
Gambit is a universal tool for constructing and modifying mesh models for fluid dynamics problems

MSC.Software

Pre-production

IMS Software

ADEM

The ADEM system is designed to automate design and technological bureaus, main and technological production shops. Having a modular structure, ADEM can be configured both for solving specific design problems and for end-to-end production preparation. The system includes modules:

ADEM CAD
ADEM CAPP/CAM
ADEM GPP
ADEM Vault
These modules combine in a single design and technological space all known design and modeling methods, preparation of control programs for all types of CNC machine racks. They ensure the integrity of graphic, technological and calculation information, management of enterprise databases, and generation of any reporting documents.
Developer - Omega ADEM Technologies Ltd. Additional Information- Vasily Lovygin, Tomsk. ADEM in Tomsk.

CAD/CAM system, which occupies a leading position in the world in terms of the number of sales and installations of the package among CAD/CAM systems. Provides wireframe and surface modeling of parts, visualization and documentation of simple and complex parts and assembly units, development of control programs for turning, milling, electrical discharge machining on CNC machines.
Developer - CNC Software, Inc. , USA.

Vero Software

Series of products for production: CAD/CAM - computer-aided design/automated process control.
Developer – Vero Software Plc, UK. Additionally - PF "MOLD SERVICE" company.

OCTOPUS

An integrated set of software products will allow you to: automate all processes of preparation and production planning in a short time and with high efficiency; organize work at the enterprise in accordance with international standards; increase speed, quality and productivity.
Developer - SPRUT-Technology CJSC, Naberezhnye Chelny, Russia.

Delcam PLC

Delcam's family of software covers all stages of the production cycle. It combines functionality with the latest technologies in the field of user interface. As a result, a sharp reduction in the design and pre-production stage. Each Delcam product focuses on a specific aspect of the design, production and inspection of complex products and is the most optimal solution in its field of application:

Delcam PowerSHAPE, Delcam PowerMILL, Delcam PowerINSPECT, Delcam CopyCAD, Delcam ArtCAM, Delcam Exchange, Delcam Toolmaker, Delcam Electrode, Delcam PS-Team, Delcam FeatureCAM, Delcam

PartMaker, Delcam Crispin, Delcam DentCAD, Delcam DentMILL.
Developer - Delcam PLC.

SolidCAM

A package for generating control programs for CNC machines when processing parts containing complex surface or solid geometry. Provides 2.5 and 3-axis milling, turning, visualization of the processing process.
Developer – , Israel.

Conceptual design and visualization

Autodesk® AliasStudio™

Autodesk® AliasStudio™ is part of Autodesk's digital prototyping technology and is now known as the Autodesk Alias family of products, which includes Autodesk® Alias® Design, Autodesk® Alias® Surface and Autodesk® Alias® Automotive.

A comprehensive set of tools for the creative design process, helping companies create superior design solutions that drive business success. A program for designers of consumer products that allows you to manage the entire design process: from searching for ideas to handing over finished surfaces to designers. Develop and communicate concepts faster using sketches, 3D models, illustrations, photorealistic renderings, and animations.
Autodesk, Inc.

Helps you quickly develop innovative designs for consumer products. Autodesk Alias is part of Autodesk's digital prototyping technology. The program is used to develop the design of consumer products. It covers the entire design process - from sketching ideas to handing over finished surfaces to designers.
Autodesk, Inc.

Autodesk® Alias® Surface

Autodesk® Alias® Surface provides a complete set of dynamic 3D modeling tools that let you transform conceptual models and scanned data into surfaces High Quality for the design of consumer products, as well as in class A surfaces for automotive design.
Autodesk, Inc.

Autodesk® Alias® Automotive

Autodesk® Alias® Automotive is the industry's leading automotive design product and the choice of top automotive design studios around the world. The product provides a complete set of tools for visualization and analysis, covering the entire process of modeling products of complex shape, from creating sketches to obtaining finished class A surfaces.
Autodesk, Inc.

Form-Z

A 2D design and drafting system, 3D surface and solid modeling, visualization and animation for professional design, visualization and engineering.
Developer – Autodessys, Inc. , USA.

Application CAD

Bentley Systems, Incorporated - product series

Bentley is the world leader in integrated software solutions for support and infrastructure during its life cycle, i.e. in the design, creation and operation of buildings, bridges, transport networks, water-heat-energy supply enterprises, water purification, etc.

MicroStation platform products and technology:

Building Analysis and Design
Bridge design and construction
Land management
Cartography
Civil Engineering
Plant design and construction
Conceptual design of industrial facilities
Design and analysis of electricity and gas supply networks
Structural Design and Analysis
Design and analysis of water supply and sewerage networks, etc.

Developer - .

The E3.series system has a modular design principle. It consists of three main modules:

E3-schematic – design module various types diagrams (technological, functional, pneumatic, electrical, single-line, etc.)
E3-cable is a module for designing cable-harness diagrams, as well as external wiring diagrams. Includes functionality of the E3-schematic module
E3-panel – layout and routing module. Arranges equipment in the cabinet (panel, panel, etc.); wire routing in accordance with circuit diagram; cable layout according to cable channels on the site plan.

In addition to the main modules, there are additional ones:
Interfaces for exporting data on harnesses and cables to three-dimensional design and three-dimensional cable layout systems for objects - Autodesk Inventor Professional, SolidWorks, Unigraphics, Catia.
E3-PDF Output – module for exporting a project to vector PDF format. In such PDF file the project structure is preserved; You can search for a product by any attribute; transition through cross-references of products and chains and other possibilities.
Developed by Zuken.

CADSTAR

Developed design and manufacturing automation system electronic circuits And printed circuit boards(PCB CAD). Developed by Zuken.

DEFCAR CAD/CAM

System for design and preparation of production in shipbuilding.
Developer – Defcar, S.L. , Spain.

VUTRAX

Vutrax PCB CAD is a computer-aided design system for electronic circuits and printed circuit boards (PCB CAD).

Planit

Planit CAD/CAM product series - computer-aided design for the wood, stone and metalworking industries: Wood CAD/CAM Software, Stone CAD/CAM Software, Wood CAD/CAM Software.
Developer – Planit, USA.

All types of programs can be divided according to the following criteria:

by industry purpose;
by purpose of use;
by scale;
according to the form of the main subsystem.

Types of software depending on industry

MCAD – mechanical CAD – is a field of mechanical engineering of any complexity: from rocket launchers and cars to a primitive toaster;
EDA or electronic CAD is a group of radio-electronic developments necessary for the development of both the entire project and its elements: microcircuits, boards and other parts.
AEC CAD or CAAD is software for architects and builders. It is used for the construction of buildings, roads and infrastructure elements of any complexity.

Classification by purpose of use

It repeats the three components of classic CAD:

CAD – responsible for design and creation of drawings;
CAE – module for automatic calculations and analytical processes;
CAM – production preparation and management of the entire system.

They can either be implemented in separate platforms or combined into one - these are combined programs. Add-ons with corresponding functions on the basic configuration are also possible.

Platform differences in scale of configuration

There are three types, they are characterized by an arrangement from simple to complex:

The lower level is responsible for design documentation. It is used in various fields of activity when it is necessary to prepare a reporting estimate.
The middle level is characterized by increased control over reporting and the ability to build 3D models.
Highest level provides the widest range of possibilities, accompanying the process of creating a product of any complexity from calculation manipulations to testing.

Types of CAD software by the nature of the basic configuration

Based on technical graphic techniques, two-dimensional and volumetric modeling. They are configured to be used for the purpose of designing objects and the relative arrangement of circuit elements. They are used in most cases in mechanical engineering.
On a Database Management System. Such platforms are aimed at mathematical calculations, use of formulas and algorithms, operating big amount information. Most often used to create business projects and economic calculations.
Based on narrow-profile modules necessary for specialized actions in a particular field of activity.
Integrated software, including all previous types. They are more difficult to manage, but provide a wide range of capabilities.

Examples of CAD programs: computer-aided design systems in action

Let's talk about the most popular platforms, their pros and cons.

AutoCAD

Until recently, it occupied the first position in the design systems market. The software was developed back in 1982 by American scientists, it immediately became popular, especially since at that time it was a unique tool computer modeling. AutoCAD offers opportunities for engineers of all fields; it comes with both a wide range of tools and special modules for narrow profiles, so as not to clutter the interface. Thus, you can buy the version that is most convenient for work. Another question is how much it will cost.
Being the most popular program all over the world, AutoCAD has been translated into 18 languages, in particular into Russian. Our specialists understand everything except the necessary instructions for use. The product has dozens of varieties and thousands of add-ons and modules in its arsenal. Why are people now increasingly looking for an analogue of this CAD system?

The platform has both loyal defenders and opponents. For the former, all the attributed disadvantages are only the result of insufficient mastery of the program. The second group sees the following disadvantages:

Inconvenient work with tables. Habitual text editors provide more opportunities to use this primitive method of transmitting information.
Difficulty in mastering the software: a lot of functionality is not always useful to every user, however, it clutters the interface and leads to confusion.
Inability to correctly import drawings made in AutoCAD into other software. This does not allow the user to continue working from another computer on which a different system is installed.
Manufacturers devote a lot of time and effort to creating new add-ons, however, the interface of side modules is often not well developed.
The main disadvantage is the inflated pricing policy. For many engineers, the cost of AutoCAD remains prohibitive. Moreover, it is rarely installed by students and novice designers. It also becomes more profitable for large companies to buy licenses from manufacturers with a good system of corporate discounts.

Thus, there is a need to find the best CAD system, which must meet a number of requirements:

optimal advanced functionality that is not inferior to the capabilities of a popular product;
nice and comfortable appearance, clear interface, convenient arrangement of tools;
an easy system for acquiring a license and subsequent renewal;
the ability to update and add profile add-ons with an expanded specialized set of functions;
easy importing from one program to another, compatibility of editing formats;
low price and system of corporate discounts.

What platforms have replaced them?

NanoCAD

A common product of the Russian company NanoSoft. A big plus is its homeland, in connection with it, Nanocad is focused on GOST rules. The interface remains a complete imitation of the work in a branded modulator. Compatible with other CAD systems and easily imported by supporting multiple formats. It has the ability to access a library of prepared circuits and supports data exchange with the NormaCS system.

The disadvantages include unstable operation and frequent failures, long loading time software And difficulties when editing geometry - it is difficult to work with splines and hatches.

ZWCAD is the best analogue of AutoCAD

ZWSOFT has developed software that promises to be the most popular in the CAD market. The product has the following advantages:

A familiar interface and convenient menu with competent translation into Russian will make working in ZVKAD convenient.
The basic package has a standard set of tools necessary for the productive work of an engineer. For narrow specialties, the company presents a number of additional modules with expanded functionality.
Full compatibility with other software, including AutoCAD. Popular formats for saving drawings and, as a rule, no problems with development results in other software.
Supports both 2D and 3D models.
Low price and the ability to purchase a package of licenses for local use.
Opportunity to test a demo version of CAD.
Consultation with specialists when purchasing a program.

Suitable for work of varying levels of complexity by both specialists and beginners and students.

The choice of a good computer-aided design system depends on the personal wishes of the engineer. This is the program with which he will spend every working day. Therefore, it is necessary to carefully understand the capabilities that the platform offers.

Compass

The domestic product of ASCON was originally planned as a program for 3D modeling. Over time, additions appeared that made it possible to maintain all related documentation in it. It also benefits from the fact that it is programmed to comply with GOST standards. But the software has a number of disadvantages. The format of drawings made in Compass is not supported by other similar platforms. It also has limited options for text design.

The global CAD (design automation software) market is constantly evolving. Modern software packages allow you not only to quickly create detailed drawings, but also 3D models, as well as technical documentation for them. Such utilities are most often used in conjunction with automated analysis and calculation systems, called CAE.

CAD market in the world and the CIS

Sales of CAD software are increasing every year; at the moment, at least 6 million people use such software. The market began to develop especially actively after the global economic crisis of 2009. According to forecasts at the end of 2017, CAD sales should reach $8.7 billion.

The popularity of CAD depends on the region in which these solutions are implemented. Software is sold most dynamically in countries whose economies are on the rise. The ranking of the most popular manufacturers of design automation utilities is presented in Diagram 1.

Diagram 1. The largest CAD manufacturers according to JPR research in 2014

Unlike other software sectors, the CAD market is very open to new players taking advantage of opportunities and offering new technologies. Among the companies offering a large number of innovative solutions, mention should be made of GrabCAD, SpaceClaim and Hexagon.
In terms of geographical distribution, European countries occupy the first place in the market, which is due to the presence on the continent of enterprises operating in areas considered the main consumers of CAD products:

Electronics and electrical engineering,
Mechanical and aircraft engineering.

It is difficult to analyze the development of the CAD market in the countries of the former USSR, since of all domestic manufacturers only ASCON provides open access to information about your income. However, we can say that in the CIS countries, 2D design systems are gradually being replaced by 3D programs, which allow not only the creation of three-dimensional models and documentation for them, but also the management of the life cycle of a project or product composition.

Most enterprises in the post-Soviet space have abandoned unlicensed software, although the number of illegal users remains quite high. At the same time, in financial terms, the annual growth of the CAD market has been at least 20% over the past 10 years. These indicators are ensured by high world oil prices and great interest in automation of mining and processing enterprises. Enterprises working in the field of mechanical engineering are widely implementing software that allows automating work. The main CAD market in Russia today is controlled by 5 key companies.

Due to the emergence in recent years of a large number paid services in the field of technical support provided by the vendor, as well as the complication of utility functionality, it is planned that in the coming years the growth of the services market will be at least 5% faster than sales of new licenses.

Undoubtedly, due to the crisis, sales volumes of CAD products have decreased, especially when it comes to popular universal systems, but brands offering software in a more expensive price category have not experienced a significant reduction in sales.

Inventor Software Overview

This program is one of the oldest three-dimensional design systems. Its first versions appeared back in 1999, since then Autodesk has released at least a hundred updates, which has turned Inventor into a kind of standard in the domestic CAD market.
The main advantages of this software are:

The presence of a parametric modeling function that allows you to set characteristics for each of the model elements;
Flexibility, which means the ability to use different design methods with fairly low requirements for computer software;
Ability to create models separately and include them in assemblies;
A function that allows you to create 2D drawings for created 3D models.

Our subscriber and good friend Mikhail Azanov gave a good overview of the interface and capabilities of this program:

For those who want to quickly master the functionality of Inventor Autodesk, we can also recommend or download the free one. Or visit ours.

SolidWorks Software Overview

This program simultaneously uses two design principles - surface parametric and three-dimensional solid-state, which allows the designer to work on creating three-dimensional parts and compose assemblies of three-dimensional electronic models.
Using the program, you can see the future product from different angles and evaluate not only it specifications, but also the quality of design.

The principle of operation of the software has much in common with assembling a Lego constructor: the user assembles a model from template blocks that can be easily added and removed, as well as changed their characteristics. The resulting three-dimensional models, placed in three-dimensional virtual space, help to create the most accurate idea of the properties of the object and bring the computer model closer to the appearance of the future product without the need for prototyping.

A short overview of the basic principles of modeling in SolidWorks:

Overview of the KOMPAS 3D program

KOMPAS 3D is a unique software that allows you to implement ideas in 3D and create their documentation. At powerful functionality The program provides simplicity and ease of use. The reference system is well known in the countries of Eastern Europe, as it has an extensive base of standard parametric libraries, which contain a large number of template models that allow you to design parts of mechanisms, machines, architectural forms and parts. The developers offered a flexible, advanced toolkit that perfectly suits the goals of professionals solving complex problems in constructing surfaces.

The program was created as a modular product that allows optimizing budget costs and reducing the time for implementing design and architectural plans. The user has the opportunity to create technological and design documentation in the form text documents And spreadsheets. In addition, the program is capable of creating instructions for production robots, which sets it apart from its competitors.

Overview of the KOMPAS 3D interface from Vertex Studio:

You can get an idea of the rules for working with software on our website in the section.

The best CAD in the CIS

Which software best suits the interests of domestic designers? More positive feedback receives COMPASS 3D, the main advantages of which are:

Relatively low cost;
New program blocks;
Modernized user interface;
Systematic software update;
Powerful design module for a variety of specifications.

The cost of a KOMPAS 3D license ranges from 1,490 to 200,000 rubles, depending on the type of universal automated system and the area in which it is planned to be used, the buyer can choose an electronic or boxed version. You can purchase a license, for example, here: http://store.ascon.ru/.

You can find out the exact cost of SolidWorks products only by contacting the developers (request form - http://www.solidworks.ru/buy-solidworks/), but according to rumors it is at least 350,000 rubles, the price of Inventor is just as high.

So, the popularity of KOMPAS 3D is easy to explain: the software is affordable, the rules for working with it are easy to learn, and the rich collection of templates will satisfy the needs of even a large design center.