Book excerpt: Optimize Designs in Less Time An essential element of equipment and system design, computer aided design (CAD) is commonly used to simulate potential engineering problems in order to help gauge the magnitude of their effects. Useful for producing 3D models or drawings with the selection of predefined objects, Computer Aided Design: A Conceptual Approach directs readers on how to effectively use CAD to enhance the process and produce faster designs with greater accuracy. Learn CAD Quickly and Efficiently This handy guide provides practical examples based on different CAD systems, and incorporates automation, mechanism, and customization guidelines, as well as other outputs of CAD in the design process. It explains the mathematical tools used in related operations and covers general topics relevant to any CAD program. Comprised of 12 chapters, this instructional reference addresses: Automation concepts and examples Mechanism design concepts Tie reduction through customization Practical industrial component and system design Reduce Time by Effectively Using CAD Computer Aided Design: A Conceptual Approach concentrates on concept generation, functions as a tutorial for learning any CAD software, and was written with mechanical engineering professionals and post-graduate engineering students in mind.