Louis Gary Lamit / James Gee

Louis Gary Lamit's Moving from 2D to 3D CAD for Engineering Design: Challenges and Opportunities is a much-needed book that clearly explains the industry factors, the many advantages, and the product selection criteria for adopting 3D computer-aided design (CAD) for one's engineering design work. Written by an experienced designer and instructor, the book is essential for any individual or team who wants to make the best product choices, and maximize their productivity with whatever 3D CAD design tools they choose.

"Good design doesn't cost. It pays." That aphorism, from the world of software development, is equally applicable to the world of design and engineering. Knowledgeable designers, engineers, quality testing experts, and even the more observant consumers of engineering products -- they all understand that the rewards of top-notch design are tremendous. But how does one achieve high-quality engineering design? For design teams and project managers, what are the best engineering design methodologies and tools now available? 3D CAD (computer-aided design) has repeatedly demonstrated its superiority over the legacy 2D design approach, and yet design teams worldwide often hold themselves and their projects back by continuing to use 2D CAD as their primary design tool -- partly from a fear of the learning curve and transition challenges associated with the more robust 3D CAD programs. Fortunately, this unique book, authored by a highly-regarded CAD consultant and instructor with decades of experience in design and engineering, will prove invaluable to anyone who wants to make the transition from 2D to 3D engineering design as smoothly as possible. It logically explains the reasons for switching to 3D, the hurdles, the product options, and all the other factors in making the right choices.

Every day, it seems there is increasing pressure on discrete manufacturers to get better products to market, faster and cheaper. Companies of all sizes are trying to squeeze every last ounce of productivity out of their people, processes, and tools. Yet the challenges designers and engineers face continue to mount. Are there untapped benefits in moving from a 2D CAD solution to 3D? If you're considering making the switch, what are some things you should keep in mind? This book by Louis Gary Lamit is meant as a guide and tutorial for those seeking information and assistance in the process. The path from design to manufacturing isn't smooth or direct: it suffers constant dead-ends and reversals. With all of the benefits, why doesn't everyone use a modern, 3D solid modeling CAD/CAM/CAE system? The reasons certainly vary, but here are some of the key questions that design and engineering management needs answered before taking the plunge, including:

How steep is the learning curve of the 3D application? How effectively can I leverage and re-use my existing 2D data? What is the total cost of ownership of the new 3D tool, including hardware, software and the associated training?  How do I know the 3D system will grow as my needs change?

By selecting wisely, product designers, engineers and managers can achieve a solution that's easy to learn, easy to leverage 2D legacy, and easy to afford. Finally, 2D users can enjoy the benefits that thousands of other 2D users are enjoying by 'going 3D'. This book will assist you in this process.