Computer Aided Design: Software and Analytical Tools

This text presents modern software technology and the tools necessary for teaching computer aided design and developing application software in the area of engineering design. The C programming language is presented and its importance for developing efficient and portable software is highlighted. Programming for graphics is described using the Graphical Kernel System, and drafting is illustrated through the package AutoCAD. Database structures and database management techniques are introduced to meet the needs of application programmers. Knowledge-based expert systems are presented with illustrations to show the potential use of this AI technology for engineering analysis, and widely used packages are discussed. Typical CAD applications are described, with references, and integrated software requirements for CAD are discussed. In addition to the examples in the text, exercises are given at the end of each chapter to provide experience in using the tools presented for the development of CAD software.