1. A factor that causes 3D CAD to bottleneck for many firms is the
expense.
2. Another factor is the difference between platforms and the inability
of all platforms to easily translate to each other, even though IGES basics
can be used to go back and forth between programs.
3. Each program has strengths and weaknesses. Therefore, whether or
not the program selected is best fit for each firm can vary widely.
4. Getting and keeping trained people on each program can be a constant
drain on resources.
5. CAD doesn't replace common sense in design, and vice versa.
6. At least in some instances, CAD designers may or may not have
expertise on materials and molding which affect the finished product. Try
explaining to a CAD designer that the design must have a certain degree of
draft angles and have shrink compensation that is different from HDPE to
GFPC for an injection mold, and steel is different than aluminum.
7. CAD customer service can be wide different from company to company.
Likewise the need to purchase modules can be interesting experiences for
budgeting.
8. Try getting a CAD person to give you blueprints with accurate and
enough details is like pulling teeth. (NO a drawing without dimensions and
tolerances are not going to do it for a customer at a show and tell when you
don't have access to a computer system.)
In other words, CAD systems for a coursework like the proposed can be a
wonderful training for people, or the CAD course can leave the participants
without the ability to translate the skills into the workplace.
Additionally, what a designer with a large consumer parts manufacturers
needs versus a designer with other rendering needs means a wide range of
skills are needed.
Best of luck.
B. J. Arnold-Feret
ppsltd@airmail.net
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