CAD

Computer-aided design, abbreviated as CAD, is the two-dimensional or three-dimensional modeling of physical structures and material properties, using specialized software on a computer. CAD software is used by engineers, artists, and enthusiasts to create architectural designs, ray traced images, animations, and physics simulations. Pictured at right is an example of an image created with CAD software.

Examples of CAD software

• AutoCAD, 3ds Max, and Maya — commercial CAD software titles published by Autodesk.
• Blender — an open-source CAD, animation, and image processing application with an active community of users.
• SketchUp — a proprietary CAD application that runs in a web browser, formerly developed by Google.

AutoCAD, Computer acronyms, KiCad, Puck, Software terms, Surface modeling