Different Types of CAD Software and Why Is It Important

In today’s engineering and design world, being able to use various types of CAD software is as important as speaking the same language. These apps have basically replaced traditional manual drafting methods, offering a more efficient and accurate way to design products.

But just as a carpenter wouldn’t use a hammer for every task, professionals and businesses need to understand the different types of CAD software to select the best tool for specific needs. Knowing the difference is important for a number of reasons, including accuracy, collaboration, efficiency and cost-effectiveness.

Common Types of CAD Software

2D CAD

2D CAD (two-dimensional computer-aided design) is a CAD software used to create flat drawings and technical illustrations. Commonly, When we talk about CAD, we’re usually referring to 2D CAD. Some of the most popular 2D CAD software out there right now are AutoCAD and LibreCAD.

In the early 1970s, the first CAD programs were developed by big companies to help automate routine drafting tasks.

These programs, which are called 2D CAD, use lines, rectangles, circles, and other basic shapes to create flat drawings, just like traditional drafting on paper. The main difference is that the whole process is digitised.

Designers can now create precise and easily modifiable drawings on a computer screen, without having to use physical tools like T-squares and protractors. 2D CAD software also lets you add notes like text, dimensions, and tables to make the drawing even more useful.

For reference on CAD drawing, kindly read “What Is CAD Drawing: Definition, Benefits, Examples.”

2.5D CAD

Sometimes, people call the area between 2D and 3D CAD: “2.5D CAD.” While some people use the term derisively to describe older 3D CAD programs with limited functionality, 2.5D CAD is actually a great way to create prismatic models with depth.

This means the objects in 2.5D CAD have a Z-axis, so you can see them in 3D, but they don’t have the complex geometry and manipulation capabilities of true 3D CAD software.

For instance, a 2.5D CAD model could show a machined part with a constant cross-section, where the depth can be extruded from a 2D profile but the shape itself doesn’t change.

Two of the most popular 2.5D CAD software out there right now are CADRA and VCarve.

3D CAD

Thanks to better computing power and graphical interfaces, 3D CAD has totally transformed the design process across many industries.

3D CAD software is different from 2D and 2.5D software because it lets you create really accurate and detailed 3D models. This means designers can see and analyse their creations in a virtual environment.

This has proved really useful for spotting and fixing design issues before production, which has saved a lot of money and improved the quality of the product.

There are different ways to do 3D CAD modelling, and each one has its own strengths and uses. The most common types are solid modelling, surface modelling and wireframe modelling.

There are lots of 3D CAD software options out there today. The two most popular options are SolidWorks and Autodesk Inventor.

Freeform CAD

Freeform CAD, also known as freeform surface modelling, is a unique way to approach 3D design that focuses on organic and sculptural forms.

Autodesk Meshmixer is a great example of freeform CAD software. You can also do freeform work in ZBrush or Sculptris.

Freeform CAD tools let designers work with surfaces in a more fluid and intuitive way, similar to sculpting with clay, rather than relying on predefined geometric shapes or rigid parameter constraints. This approach is great for designing objects with complex, flowing surfaces, like those found in the automotive, aerospace, and consumer goods industries.

Freeform CAD is basically a subset of 3D CAD that uses specialised techniques and algorithms for manipulating surfaces. 

There are two main ideas in freeform CAD: continuity and parameterisation. Continuity is all about controlling the curvature and tangent vectors at the joining points to get the level of smoothness you want. It’s really important to make sure that the different surfaces in freeform modelling have nice, smooth transitions between them.

The way a curve or surface is represented mathematically can make a big difference to how continuous it is and how it looks. That’s why freeform CAD tools often have different ways of parameterising to help you optimise the design process.

For the definitive comparison of CAD software, take a look at “BricsCAD vs AutoCAD: Which Software is Better For Your Project?”

Types of CAD Software by Industry

The basic principles of CAD are pretty much the same across the board, but different industries have different needs and ways of working, which is why there are so many different types of CAD software out there.

So, how many types of cad are there? There is no single answer. Because these custom-made solutions are designed to meet the specific challenges and needs of each industry, making design processes more efficient and overall performance better.

Architectural and Construction CAD Software

In the architecture and construction industry, CAD software is a total game-changer. It’s transformed the way buildings and infrastructure are designed and built.

These apps aren’t just a replacement for traditional drafting tools. They give architects and engineers the power to create complex 3D models, produce detailed construction documentation and even simulate how buildings perform in different conditions.

One thing we think is pretty cool is how they’ve integrated object-oriented design principles. These object-oriented apps, like ArchiCAD or Autodesk Revit, let architects work with smart objects that represent real-world building parts. 

Some CAD apps also support Building Product Model (BPM)-based design. BPMs are more than just 3D models. They include a whole database of information about a building, like the materials, how it performs, and how long it lasts.

Mechanical CAD Software (MCAD)

Mechanical CAD software, often called MCAD, is used for designing and analysing mechanical parts, assemblies and systems. These apps are used a lot in industries like automotive, aerospace and manufacturing, where it’s really important to be able to create precise and functional 3D models.

We can use Solidworks and PTC Creo software for various MCAD design activities. These MCAD software lets designers create 3D models, test designs, and produce files for manufacturing. This shows how MCAD software is comprehensive covering the design phase, plus manufacturing and production.

Being able to test out how a mechanical system will work before it’s even built means engineers can make sure their designs are as good as they can be in terms of performance, durability and safety.

Also, you can read “Best Options of CAD Software for Mac in 2024 – Free & Open Source” for the lowdown on the best open source CAD software on the market.

Electrical CAD Software (ECAD)

Electrical CAD software, or ECAD, is all about designing and analysing electrical circuits and systems. ECAD tools are a must-have for electrical engineers working in fields like electronics, telecommunications, and power systems, where the design of complex and reliable circuits is key.

ECAD software is used to design printed circuit boards (PCBs), which are the foundation of most electronic devices. These boards have different electronic components that work together to do specific things in the bigger electronic system.

ECAD lets you create visual representations of electrical circuits using symbols and connections, which is called schematic capture. We can use AutoCAD Electrical and EPLAN Electric P8 for various ECAD activities, for example.

Other Types of CAD Software

There’s more to CAD software than just grouping it by industry or dimensionality (2D, 2.5D, 3D). You can also classify it based on the specific modelling techniques it uses. So, what are the types of CAD software beyond the categories we’ve already talked about?

Parametric modelling

Parametric modelling is all about using parameters and constraints to define the geometry of a 3D object. This method, which is often called feature-based modelling, lets designers create objects by defining their features and the relationships between them.

Direct modelling

Different from parametric modelling, direct modelling is a more intuitive and hands-on approach to 3D modelling. Direct modelling doesn’t rely on a strict history tree or predefined feature definitions. Instead, it lets designers directly change the shape of an object, moving and resizing faces, edges, and vertices in a more freeform way.

Surface modelling

Surface modelling is all about creating and manipulating the outer surfaces of a 3D object. This method is great for designing objects with complex, free-flowing surfaces, where the look and smooth transitions are really important. Surface modelling tools give designers lots of different commands and algorithms for creating, editing and analysing surfaces.

Solid modelling

Solid modelling is about making 3D objects that represent a complete and enclosed volume. This technique is used a lot in mechanical design and engineering applications, where it’s important to represent mass, volume and other physical properties accurately. Solid modelling tools offer a range of Boolean operations, allowing designers to combine, subtract and intersect solid objects to create complex shapes.

How to Choose the Best CAD Software

Picking the best CAD software for your project is a big decision. You’ve got to think about what you need it for, how much you can spend, what your users are like, and what industry you’re in. It’s about creating a seamless workflow that aligns perfectly with your design and project needs.

Of course, the right CAD tools can help your projects be more accurate, easier to work on together, and cheaper to run, so it’s important to choose a solution that’s right for you.

That’s why Interscale takes a big-picture view, making sure your software choice can handle all the tasks involved in a project, from the first design to the final implementation.

At Interscale, we start by matching your project needs with the right CAD tools. This way, you can be sure you’ll get the most out of your software, from start to finish.

We don’t just recommend software – we can help you with strategic planning, Revit modelling, training, and comprehensive auditing too. And of course you can get licensed CAD software thanks to our software licensing services.

To help you get up to speed and improve accuracy, collaboration, and overall project success, we suggest you take a look at what we do. We’d love for you to visit our Interscale AEC support page, learn about our case studies, and see how we’ve helped other AEC companies with similar challenges.

We’d also love to grab a coffee and croissants if you’re free. Let’s have a quick chat about your CAD drawing issues and see how we can help you find solutions.

In Closing

Every type of CAD software has its own special features which are great for specific industry needs.

Picking the right CAD software is all about finding a tool that fits your project’s needs, budget, and complexity. That’s why Interscale’s CAD/BIM management services are there to help you handle all the things when choosing and managing various types of CAD software.