What is a common application of CAD in design processes?

Generating digital designs is a fundamental application of CAD (Computer-aided Design) in design processes. CAD software allows designers and engineers to create precise and detailed digital representations of objects or systems, facilitating visualization and modification before any physical work begins. This capability enhances accuracy and efficiency during the design phase, enabling the creation of detailed drawings, 3D models, and accurate specifications that inform subsequent steps in manufacturing or construction.

While creating physical prototypes, making engineering calculations, and estimating production costs are indeed important aspects of the design and manufacturing process, they often follow the initial digital design phase. Prototyping may involve adding additional resources and can be performed using various methods, which differ from what CAD primarily offers. Engineering calculations and cost estimations are also typically separate tasks that rely on the outputs provided by the digital designs. Thus, the primary and most direct application of CAD directly relates to the generation of these digital designs.