A custom part rarely begins as a finished drawing. More often, it starts as a rough sketch, an existing component, a measurement, a photograph, or simply an idea for something that does not exist yet.
Turning that idea into a finished component requires more than fabrication alone. CAD design creates the connection between what you envision and what can actually be manufactured.
What Is CAD Design?
Computer-aided design, or CAD, is used to create accurate digital models of parts and assemblies before they are physically produced.
At Fonts Designs, SolidWorks is used to develop 3D models and production drawings with real-world fabrication in mind. Dimensions, clearances, materials, mounting points, and other important details can be considered before material is cut.
For custom fabrication projects, this provides an opportunity to identify potential issues much earlier in the process.
Starting With An Idea
You do not necessarily need a finished drawing to begin a custom project.
A project may start with:
- A hand-drawn sketch
- Photos of an existing component
- Measurements
- A physical part
- An existing CAD file
- A problem that needs a custom solution
From there, the concept can be developed into an accurate digital model.
Why Design Before Fabrication?
Creating a part digitally makes it possible to evaluate the design before committing time and material to fabrication.
Dimensions can be checked, mounting locations can be considered, and components can be adjusted while they are still digital.
For complex or tight-fitting parts, a prototype may also be produced before the final component is fabricated.
Moving From CAD to the Shop
Once a design is finalized, the digital information can guide the manufacturing process.
Depending on the project, that may involve CNC equipment, plasma cutting, milling, welding, assembly, 3D printing, or a combination of processes.
Because Fonts Designs offers both CAD design and fabrication capabilities, projects can move from the digital environment into physical production with fabrication considerations already incorporated into the design.
Have Something You Want to Build?
Whether you have a completed CAD file or an idea drawn on a piece of paper, Fonts Designs can help determine what it will take to turn it into a finished component.