AutoCAD
Digital drafting tool
AutoCAD is computer-aided design software used by architects, engineers, and drafters to create precise two- and three-dimensional drawings.
Developed by Autodesk, it became the industry standard for technical drafting and has largely replaced hand-drawn blueprints: The architect sent over the AutoCAD files for the renovation.
Detailed technical drawing
- floorplanOverhead architectural diagram
- schematicSimplified technical diagram
- elevationHeight above reference point
- sectionDistinct divided part
dimension · annotation · linework · hatch · polyline · spline · viewport · scale
Stacked levels or coatings
- toolbarsInterface button arrays
- command-lineText-based computer interface
- workspaceDesignated area for tasks
- ribbonSlender ornamental strip
viewport · snap · grip · block · lisp · script · plugin · template
Three-axis spatial representation
- solidFirm matter state
- surfaceOutermost boundary layer
- meshInterlocking open weave
- extrudeForce through an opening
revolve · loft · sweep · boolean · fillet · chamfer · wireframe · render
blueprint
Detailed technical drawing
- floorplanOverhead architectural diagram
- schematicSimplified technical diagram
- elevationHeight above reference point
section · dimension · annotation · linework · hatch · polyline · spline · viewport · scale · orthographic
layers
Stacked levels or coatings
- toolbarsInterface button arrays
- command-lineText-based computer interface
- workspaceDesignated area for tasks
ribbon · viewport · snap · grip · block · lisp · script · plugin · template · palette
3D
Three-axis spatial representation
extrude · revolve · loft · sweep · boolean · fillet · chamfer · wireframe · render · orbit
mechanical
Operated by machinery
- civilMinimally polite
- structuralRelating to building framework
- electricalInvolving conducted current
piping · HVAC · tolerance · assembly · BOM · weldment · fastener · fitting · ductwork · grading
facade
Deceptive outward appearance
- CAD softwareSolidWorks, SketchUp, 3D modeling, drafting tools
- engineeringengineers, civil engineering, engineering, electrical engineering, blueprint
- softwaresoftware, app, apps, application, program
- technical skillscoding, programming, data entry, debugging, software development
- Simulationscomputer simulation, virtual reality, flight simulator, VR, fluid dynamics
- killer appsNetscape, Napster, Google Search, iTunes, Netflix
AutoCADfreehand drawing
Art made without guides
pencil and paper · napkin sketch · sketching · rough sketch · thumbnail sketch