We at Australian Design and Drafting Services, possess the relevant resources, experience and capabilities to provide a one-stop shop platform to the clients be it Concept drawing, producing drawings for mechanical projects, providing manufacturing drawings in either 2D or 3D format of various mechanical assemblies or 2D to 3D drawings Conversions, addition of geometric dimensions, annotations, other tolerance related information, Bill of Material to any type and format of mechanical engineering drawings. Belonging to same field, we realize the potential of parametric modeling in terms of providing flexibility when designing and managing any product.We provide design drafting service.
It is crucial to have a team on board who understands clearly the concepts of designing and manufacturing any product and thereby producing product specific CAD drawings. Our professional and dedicated team of highly qualified Mechanical engineers possess the relevant knowledge of prototyping and manufacturing industries. We provide client specific customised design and drafting services. Whether you require 2D Drafting services or a simple 2D to 3D or vice versa CAD Conversion Service, we have cost-effective solutions for all your design drafting needs.
3D Designer & Drafter encountered a few fundamental issues during the design process. It addresses the process that comes with 3D designer and drafter with creating a separate drawing production regardless of the manufacturing process. There have been several delays seen in the process. For example, if a drawing comes with an incorrect dimension, it offers a production drawing that can rework with time and massively disrupted.
We have a team of 3D designer drafters that do the manufacturing work and integrate the complete product development process. It adds lots of intelligent 3D design and drafting software available. It makes sure that your design and manufacturing work is mainly used daily. There is much intelligent 3d design and drafting software available for producing accurate manufacturing drawings. Additionally, if we talk about design and drafting company today, it helps to resolve all problems with ease.
We offer two essential questions during the design process
1. IS THIS PRODUCT FINANCIALLY FEASIBLE?
The total cost to produce a product mainly influence a variety of factors. It primarily uses material and labour costs that seemingly offer small changes and significantly impact the overall cost structure. As a leading Australian design and drafting company, our costing ensure that no cost-related surprises come to you when your model goes into production.
Our team allows 3d designers/drafters to act in a better way. Our project managers and the Engineers pursue new product development that gives a clear cost perspective regarding compliance and the pre-calculated structures. It monitors the impact of changes as it is transparent and clear.
Additionally, it comes with advantages like cost-effective product costing. It comes with the ability to work with both original models and drawings. It uses 3D CAD programs or neutral formats like IGES or STEP. Here, the user can define different materials and make changes to drawing or relocate the manufacturer’s place. The model changes are displayed immediately in cost per piece.
2. CAN THIS PRODUCT BE MANUFACTURED?
Australian design and drafting company support 3d designer/drafter and mould makers and respect the feasibility of your products. In the development process, there are complicated shape models that change regularly. The export process and the data repairing have high error probabilities and inaccuracies.
There are a few reasons, like when mould makers wait until the final design of a product is established and develop the final form. The cost of valuable production time is also well-noted. We at Australian Design and Drafting are early to make form. In addition to this, we offer a correct form of geometry that covers sketches, audit and control of thickness. For example, Plastics can perform a detailed filling analysis by determining the optimum position of the injection points.
3d Designer & Drafter
The team ensures the proper filling pattern of the component, tracks the form weld lines and adds necessary points.3d designer/drafter can have a complete product development process and ensure effective communication between design and production during the entire development process. Australian Design and Drafting Services provides quality and cost-effective 3d design and drafting services across Australia. If you have any queries or inquiries regarding 3D modelling, Drop us an email at info@astcad.com.au or call us 1800 287 223 (Toll-Free) Australia Wide.
What is 3D draftsman?
A 3D draftsman, also known as a 3D drafter or 3D modeler, is a professional who specializes in creating three-dimensional models of objects, structures, or environments using computer-aided design (CAD) software. These models are used in various industries such as architecture, engineering, product design, animation, video games, and virtual reality.
3D draftsmen play a crucial role in the design and visualization process. They interpret technical drawings, specifications, and concepts to create accurate and detailed 3D models. These models can range from simple geometric shapes to complex assemblies with intricate details. 3D draftsmen often work closely with architects, engineers, designers, and other stakeholders to ensure that the models meet the project requirements and specifications.
Their skills include proficiency in CAD software, an understanding of design principles, spatial awareness, attention to detail, and the ability to visualize objects and spaces in three dimensions. Additionally, they may possess knowledge of rendering techniques, animation, and simulation to create realistic and immersive visualizations.
What does a drafter do?
A drafter, often referred to as a drafting technician or CAD (Computer-Aided Design) drafter, plays a crucial role in the design and engineering process. Their primary responsibility is to create technical drawings and plans based on the specifications provided by engineers, architects, or designers. These drawings serve as blueprints for constructing buildings, products, machinery, or other structures.
Drafters typically use specialized software such as AutoCAD or SolidWorks to create precise and detailed drawings. They must possess a strong understanding of technical principles, mathematics, and engineering concepts to accurately translate design concepts into technical drawings.
Some specific tasks that drafters might perform include: – Creating detailed drawings of architectural designs, including floor plans, elevations, and sections. – Developing mechanical drawings that specify dimensions, materials, and assembly procedures for manufacturing processes. – Producing electrical or electronic schematics for wiring systems and circuitry. – Collaborating with engineers and architects to refine designs and ensure technical accuracy. – Incorporating changes and revisions to existing drawings as needed during the design process.
Several companies in the engineering and manufacturing field use Autodesk inventors in their process, including sensitive and confidential data. Today, there are millions of files coming and going in cyberspace in this modern business world. Companies should protect their Intellectual Property (IP).
Protect Design Intellectual Property
It’s essential when manufacturing a product. As it takes countless hours of engineers’ time, not to mention a company’s reputation if a “knockoff “product adds a lesser classic hit to the market. We have found that as industries work, we see the need to work with Architects or architectural design firms with bringing solid mechanical models.
There are boilers or mezzanines into Revit that represent placement, shape and size. Regardless of the situation, we would like to keep all intellectual property safe. This is why Autodesk worked so hard to prevent this with Autodesk Inventor simplification. It allows the user to create a simple version for the consumer by providing critical design information. We help you learn this crucial tool by using it in a great way.
THE FULL MODEL
Below is the section that creates internal and external items that provide the customer with the model for planning purposes in Autodesk. They require few connection points. One can do it in a few ways, and the first is to create the shell of the original model as its single part. Another one is to create basic shapes to represent the model.
COMPONENTS INCLUDED
The first step is to protect your intellectual property from simplifying the tab. It helps to choose the components that include what we do with the Include Components command.
After selection cover
The components come with a mini toolbar. It allows you to choose various options from the dropdown menu. The first drop down comes with an opportunity to view all components. It included internal and external constituents. We find it most helpful to switch between the three viewing options while making my selections. It allows reviewing any missing parts which should not be included. As shown in the screen, it captures below what each option does. The dropdown option mainly refers to choosing part, component, or other parent priority. After choosing your options and selecting what needs to be included, click the checkmark to finish this part of the process.
VIEW-MASTER
Once you finish including components, you’ll notice that you can no longer see any items that aren’t included. If we look at our View-Master, the command automatically creates a view called Simple View 1. Get the right click on this view in the browser with editing the selections.
The third step is to select “Simplified Part”. This launches a new dialogue box and the standard new part creation options. It primarily uses a file that saves location and name. It includes options for what type of part you create and combining style buttons. The options are:
A single solid body that seems between faces merged.
It helps to maintain the body separately.
It primarily uses single solid body with seems between faces maintained
It’s used for our purposes and now see the BIM tab opened for further simplification.
Note: It uses simple View 1 along with the current view. It always helps to create a Simple Folder for all simplified parts.
FURTHER SIMPLIFICATION AND BIM TAB
At this point, the model is simplified with a great deal. One can simplify it more using the Simplify section of the BIM Tab. We will include the other half of the BIM Tab in the following paper.
REMOVE DETAILS
The first look removes details commands that recognize fillets and chamfers and custom selected faces. It utilizes a mini toolbar for any options. It looks at the mini toolbar. We provide a few options for items to remove. The All Faces Selectable allows selecting faces. We added Fillet and Chamfer selection box set by default. Our last Option is Auto Select. Use the screen that captures below with understanding how these options work.
FILL VOIDS
The second option here covers simplification with Fill Voids. It uses a prospect that fills holes and spaces with surface patches. This leaves a smooth surface that selects besides the auto Select by select loop, select edge, select face and more.
Check below to view how these tools function.
DEFINE ENVELOPES
The third option simplifies the parts further with the Defined Envelopes option. The option replaces a part or object used in the solid object form of a cylinder or box. Our choices on this toolbar are used for the bounding box and the bounding cylinder for the first button. Join or add new solid in the second button, and our selection methods faces are solid. See below for examples.
If you all need any help regarding the design and drafting services, please don’t hesitate to connect with us. We are the best leading Australian Design and Drafting Services company in Australia. Call us 1800 287 223 (Toll-Free) Australia Wide.
What protects the intellectual property created by design?
Intellectual property (IP) law protects various aspects of designs, depending on the type of protection sought and the jurisdiction. Here are some common forms of IP protection for designs:
Copyright: Copyright protects original works of authorship fixed in a tangible medium of expression. In the context of designs, it can protect artistic or creative elements of a design. However, copyright generally doesn’t protect functional aspects of a design, only the expression of those ideas. Design Patent: A design patent protects the ornamental design or visual appearance of an object. Unlike utility patents, which protect functional aspects, design patents protect the way an article looks. Trademark: Trademarks protect symbols, names, slogans, and other identifiers that distinguish the source of goods or services. While trademarks primarily protect brands, they can also protect certain design elements that serve as identifiers. Trade Dress: Trade dress refers to the overall appearance and image of a product, including its packaging, design, shape, or color, that signifies the source of the product to consumers. Trade dress protection can be similar to trademark protection. Trade Secrets: Trade secrets protect confidential information that provides a business with a competitive advantage. This can include certain aspects of a design, manufacturing processes, or other proprietary information.
Which protection is designed to protect intellectual property?
Intellectual property (IP) in design refers to the legal rights and protections granted to the creators or owners of original designs. It encompasses various forms of intangible assets that result from human creativity and innovation in the field of design. Intellectual property rights enable designers to protect their creations from unauthorized use, reproduction, or exploitation by others.
In the context of design, intellectual property can include: Visual Designs: The aesthetic aspects of a design, including its appearance, shape, configuration, ornamentation, and other visual characteristics. Functional Designs: The functional aspects of a design, such as its usability, ergonomics, and technical features, which may be protected by patents or utility models. Branding Elements: Logos, symbols, and other visual identifiers associated with a brand or product, which may be protected by trademarks or trade dress. Creative Works: Artistic or creative works incorporated into a design, such as graphics, illustrations, or artistic elements, which may be protected by copyright. Innovative Concepts: Novel concepts, ideas, or innovations in design that offer unique solutions to problems or improve existing products or processes, which may be protected by patents or trade secrets.
We at the Australian design and drafting company use excellent computer-aided drafting tools. The CAD Drafting wiped out and replaced almost all traditional hand drafting techniques. They are used in several industries, especially in mechanical engineering and design. They are faster to conduct, and computer-aided drawings are used to modify the vulnerable to physical damage.
It comes with the sheer advantages, where the CAD drafting has become the essential standard for mechanical engineers. It formulates comprehensive strategies that add mechanical components to products and demonstrate a visual illustration.
Users need to know how to construct it as it allows flawless and effective functioning. To cash the ever-rising popularity of the drafting techniques, one needs to use global brands that stepped forward and dished out their sophisticated CAD drafting software. Eventually, it makes it more difficult for customers to make up their minds and choose a program.
Here, we will have a closer look at the three best CAD drafting software around in the market. It covers:
AutoCAD
MicroStation
CATIA
WHAT MAKES AUTOCAD THE BEST CAD DRAFTING SOFTWARE
AutoCAD has made its way into the market by providing excellent CAD Drawing Software almost three decades back, in 1982. Ever since, it’s been on the top that continuously rules the charts. It offers the best utility for documenting your design ideas and comes with a wide range of features and tools. It adds the whole drafting process becomes more like a walk in the park.
HOW CATIA MADE TO THE LIST OF BEST CAD DRAFTING SOFTWARE
CATIA – Computer-Aided Three-dimensional Interactive Application adds up in the three best CAD drafting software lists. It is a multi-platform suite that is written in the C++ language. Even though the first stable was released in March 2011. It’s the origin of CATIA that traced back to 1977.
CATIA comes with a leading product development solution for manufacturing organizations across industries. This covers automotive, aerospace, electrical, industrial machinery, electronics, plant design, shipbuilding, etc. A few of its highlighted aspects include:
Real-time drafting adds adequate security that comes with integrity and traceability.
It has an accessible drafting context of using large products or configurations. Later, it supports multi-disciplinary collaboration on diverse systems and various products. Additionally, it comes with cross-platform support.
THREE DECADES OF EXCELLENCE MAKE MICROSTATION THE BEST TOOL
MicroStation is a computer-aided design software suite that allows 2D and 3D design and drafting. It is a popular product in multiple industries and has been available since the 1980s. Earlier, most of us were focusing on Apple’s Mac platform. The recent releases of the CAD Drawing tool were exclusively aimed at Windows OS.
The DGN comes in native format, where the MicroStation extends its compatibility into other forms such as DXF, DWG, AVI, BMP, JPEG, PDF, VRML etc. It comes with the best CAD drafting software, where the Micro-station facilitates includes:
Extensive format compatibility includes DGN, DXF, PDF, 3DS, IGES, IFC, and CGM.
Real-time sharing of live design data
The ability to render and viewpoint clouds
If you’re looking for help regarding design and drafting services, then contact us. We are Australian Design and Drafting Services; call us at 1800 287 223 (Toll-Free) Australia Wide.
What is drafting in CAD software?
Drafting in CAD (Computer-Aided Design) software refers to the process of creating technical drawings or plans using specialized software tools. These drawings typically include detailed information about the dimensions, geometry, materials, and other specifications of a product, structure, or component.
CAD drafting allows designers, engineers, architects, and other professionals to create accurate representations of their designs in a digital format. This digital format can then be easily modified, shared, and used for various purposes such as manufacturing, construction, visualization, and analysis.
CAD drafting software provides a range of tools for creating and editing drawings, including: Drawing tools: These tools allow users to create basic shapes, lines, arcs, and other geometric elements. Dimensioning tools: Dimensioning tools are used to add precise measurements and annotations to the drawing, indicating the size and location of various features. Editing tools: Editing tools enable users to modify and manipulate existing elements of the drawing, such as moving, rotating, scaling, and mirroring objects. Layer management: CAD software often allows users to organize drawing elements into layers, making it easier to control visibility and manage complex drawings. Symbol libraries: CAD software may include libraries of standard symbols, components, and annotations commonly used in technical drawings, such as electrical symbols, architectural symbols, and mechanical parts.
What are the 4 types of CAD?
The four main types of CAD (Computer-Aided Design) systems are:
2D CAD: Two-dimensional CAD software is primarily used for creating and editing flat, two-dimensional drawings or plans. These drawings represent objects or structures as seen from a top-down view and typically include details such as dimensions, annotations, and geometric shapes. 2D CAD software is commonly used in disciplines such as architecture, engineering, and manufacturing for tasks like drafting floor plans, schematics, and diagrams. 3D CAD: Three-dimensional CAD software allows users to create, visualize, and modify three-dimensional models of objects or structures. 3D CAD models represent objects with length, width, and height, providing a more realistic and immersive representation compared to 2D drawings. 3D CAD is widely used in industries such as product design, automotive, aerospace, and entertainment for tasks like product modeling, prototyping, simulation, and rendering. 3D Wireframe Modeling: This type of CAD software represents objects using lines and curves to define their shape in three-dimensional space. While less common than other types of CAD, wireframe modeling can be useful for quickly sketching out basic concepts or for certain specialized applications. Solid Modeling: Solid modeling CAD software represents objects as solid, three-dimensional entities with volume and mass. Solid models define the geometry of objects using features such as faces, edges, and vertices, allowing for precise control over their shape, size, and properties. Solid modeling is widely used in engineering, manufacturing, and product design for tasks like creating detailed parts, assemblies, and simulations.
If we talk about AutoCAD, then it’s well-suited for 2D and 3D mechanical, architectural design engineering, or civil. Sketchup also works excellent with 3D modelling and basic rendering objects. If you most spend time using designing tools, then Google Sketchup works best for you.
Does Sketchup work similarly to AutoCAD?
Sketchup and AutoCAD can be used in architecture and product design. It is based on precise 2D drawings and adds a great set of tools. Additionally, Sketchup is known for its easy to learn and user-friendly tool. It does manage architectural projects very well. Google Sketchup does offer minimized look and feel at first glance. It seems to lack the horsepower modelling software with ease. However, it’s like an old-school muscle car that’s been supercharged with real power. Though the user interface and capabilities come with Sketchup, it might give AutoCAD a run for its money. Additionally, two large limitations need to be overcome before Sketchup take on the big dogs.
Let’s understand a few limitations of how Google Sketchup can replace AutoCAD.
Limitation: Compatibility
Sketchup is wrestling with a few debilitating bugs. The textures imported into Maya 6.0 or 6.5 tend to reverse themselves. The mesh system can transfer the Sketchup with recreating on the receiving machine. If you thinking about exporting to someplace and forget about it, this can be listed in the bug. These issues will need to be addressed and remedied before Sketchup gains serious market traction against AutoCAD.
Limitation: Naming Conventions
It comes with more limitations where the forced truncation of file names for Google Sketchup textures poses a problem for users. It commands large, complex, or sophisticated projects requiring specific naming conventions.
The antiquated 8.3 DOS character maximums limit Google Sketchup. Therefore, the file names must be shortened to eight characters or less. It poses a significant problem for high-end designers that juggle hundreds or thousands of textures. It swapped in and out quickly and easily. It is far less intuitive with Sketchup, which would be with AutoCAD with naming conventions.
Advantage: Free Models
Google Sketchup hooks up to 3D Warehouse. It contains a massive assortment of pre-designed models of all shapes and sizes with hundreds of thousands of them. The AutoCAD typically ships about 4,000 pre-designed model templates. The users can easily access few thousand or more AutoCAD user sites. The availability of pre-designed models from Sketchup is jaw-dropping.
When Google correct the compatibility and naming convention problems with Sketchup, AutoCAD has a tough and determined competitor. Until then, serious designers stick with the big dogs. If you require any support regarding design and drafting services, don’t hesitate to contact us at Australian Design and Drafting Services or call us at 1800 287 223 (Toll-Free) Australia Wide.
you spend any time at all using designing tools or rendering and model software, whether professionally or as a hobby in your free time, you’ve no doubt heard of Google Sketchup by now.
A fast, free, easy to learn designing tool that competes with AutoCAD (or does it?), Google Sketchup offers an extremely friendly user interface and a minimized look and feel that might, at first glance, seem to lack the horsepower of more well-known modeling software. However, like an old-school muscle car that’s been supercharged, the real power can only be seen when you pop the hood. But even though the user interface and capabilities of Sketchup might seem to be giving AutoCAD a run for its money, there are two large limitations that will need to be overcome before Sketchup can hope to take on the big dogs.
Limitation:Compatibility
If we talk about AutoCAD, then it’s well-suited for 2D and 3D mechanical, architectural design engineering, or civil. Sketchup also works excellent with 3D modelling and basic rendering objects. If you most spend time using designing tools, then Google Sketchup works best for you.
Does Sketchup work similarly to AutoCAD?
Sketchup and AutoCAD can be used in architecture and product design. It is based on precise 2D drawings and adds a great set of tools. Additionally, Sketchup is known for its easy to learn and user-friendly tool. It does manage architectural projects very well. Google Sketchup does offer minimized look and feel at first glance. It seems to lack the horsepower modelling software with ease. However, it’s like an old-school muscle car that’s been supercharged with real power. Though the user interface and capabilities come with Sketchup, it might give AutoCAD a run for its money. Additionally, two large limitations need to be overcome before Sketchup take on the big dogs.
Let’s understand a few limitations of how Google Sketchup can replace AutoCAD.
Limitation: Compatibility
Sketchup is wrestling with a few debilitating bugs. The textures imported into Maya 6.0 or 6.5 tend to reverse themselves. The mesh system can transfer the Sketchup with recreating on the receiving machine. If you thinking about exporting to someplace and forget about it, this can be listed in the bug. These issues will need to be addressed and remedied before Sketchup gains serious market traction against AutoCAD.
Limitation: Naming Conventions
It comes with more limitations where the forced truncation of file names for Google Sketchup textures poses a problem for users. It commands large, complex, or sophisticated projects requiring specific naming conventions.
The antiquated 8.3 DOS character maximums limit Google Sketchup. Therefore, the file names must be shortened to eight characters or less. It poses a significant problem for high-end designers that juggle hundreds or thousands of textures. It swapped in and out quickly and easily. It is far less intuitive with Sketchup, which would be with AutoCAD with naming conventions.
Advantage: Free Models
Google Sketchup hooks up to 3D Warehouse. It contains a massive assortment of pre-designed models of all shapes and sizes with hundreds of thousands of them. The AutoCAD typically ships about 4,000 pre-designed model templates. The users can easily access few thousand or more AutoCAD user sites. The availability of pre-designed models from Sketchup is jaw-dropping.
When Google correct the compatibility and naming convention problems with Sketchup, AutoCAD has a tough and determined competitor. Until then, serious designers stick with the big dogs. If you require any support regarding design and drafting services, don’t hesitate to contact us at Australian Design and Drafting Services or call us at 1800 287 223 (Toll-Free) Australia Wide.
Sketchup is still wrestling with a few debilitating bugs. At last check, textures imported into Maya 6.0 or 6.5 had a tendency to reverse themselves. Any mesh system being transferred out of Sketchup will need to be recreated on the receiving machine. And if you’re thinking about exporting to Vasari, forget about it – the list of bugs is too long to list here. These issues will need to be addressed and remedied before Sketchup can hope to gain any kind of serious market traction against AutoCAD.
Limitation: Naming Conventions
Perhaps more than any other limitation, the forced truncation of file names for Google Sketchup textures poses a problem for users commanding large, complex, or sophisticated projects that require specific naming conventions. Google Sketchup is limited by the antiquated 8.3 DOS character maximums, so file names have to be shortened to eight characters or less. This poses a significant problem for high-end designers juggling hundreds or thousands of textures that have to be swapped in and out quickly and easily, since naming conventions will be far less intuitive with Sketchup than they would be with AutoCAD – or just about any other form of computer aided design software.
Advantage: Free Models
Google Sketchup hooks up to 3D Warehouse, which contains a seriously massive assortment or pre-designed models of all shapes and sizes. Hundreds of thousands of them. While AutoCAD typically ships with around 4,000 pre designed model templates – and users can easily access a few thousand more on one of the many AutoCAD user sites out there – the availability of pre-designed models from Sketchup is absolutely jaw dropping.
If and when Google manages to correct the compatibility and naming convention problems with Sketchup, AutoCAD will have a tough and determined competitor. Until then, serious designers are smart to stick with the big dogs.
If you all need any help regarding design and drafting services, Please don’t hesitate to contact us at Australian Design and Drafting Services or call us 1800 287 223 (Toll Free) Australia Wide.
How do I convert AutoCAD to SketchUp?
Converting AutoCAD files to SketchUp involves a few steps, but it’s generally straightforward. Here’s a basic guide:
Export from AutoCAD: Open your AutoCAD file. Use the “Save As” or “Export” function to save your drawing in a format that SketchUp can read. The recommended format is “.DWG” (AutoCAD Drawing), but SketchUp can also import other formats like DXF. Import into SketchUp: Open SketchUp. Go to “File” > “Import”. Browse to find your exported AutoCAD file (DWG or DXF), select it, and click “Open”. Adjust settings (if needed): SketchUp will present you with options for importing the file. Depending on the complexity of your drawing and your preferences, you may want to adjust settings such as units and layers. Review and Clean-up: After importing, review your model in SketchUp. Sometimes, certain elements might not import perfectly or may require clean-up. You might need to reapply materials, adjust scaling, or edit components for better compatibility with SketchUp’s modeling environment. Save your SketchUp file: Once you’re satisfied with your model, save it in SketchUp’s native format (.SKP) for future editing and sharing. Check for Compatibility: It’s important to note that not all elements or features from AutoCAD may translate perfectly to SketchUp. Complex 3D objects or specialized CAD features may require additional adjustments or manual modeling in SketchUp.
Can I use SketchUp instead of AutoCAD?
Whether you can use SketchUp instead of AutoCAD depends on your specific needs and the tasks you’re aiming to accomplish. Here are some factors to consider:
Complexity of Projects: SketchUp is great for creating 3D models, especially for architectural and interior design purposes. It’s intuitive and user-friendly, making it suitable for beginners. AutoCAD, on the other hand, offers more robust tools for technical drawings and precise drafting, making it preferable for engineering and construction professionals working on complex projects. Compatibility: Consider the compatibility of file formats with other software and collaborators. AutoCAD files (DWG format) are widely used in the industry, and SketchUp can import and export DWG files, but there might be some limitations or loss of data during conversion. Learning Curve: SketchUp is generally easier to learn and use compared to AutoCAD, which has a steeper learning curve due to its extensive feature set and technical capabilities. Cost: SketchUp offers a free version (SketchUp Free) with limited features and a paid version (SketchUp Pro) with more advanced tools. AutoCAD requires a paid subscription, which can be expensive, especially for individual users. Workflow Preferences: Consider your workflow preferences and the specific requirements of your projects. Some users might prefer the flexibility and ease of use offered by SketchUp, while others might require the precision and advanced features of AutoCAD.
It’s an argument covering 2D vs. 3D CAD applications that rages with developers and designers. It works on both sides, touting the merits and preferences with opposing CAD choices’ flaws. There would be a time when the argument seems academic to operations. Also, the project managers would have minimal exposure to its actual CAD interface. This article provides a clear perspective of the debate.
To begin with, the main difference between 2D and 3D applications should instead be self-explanatory. The 2D works solely on a single plane, while 3D allows the construction to realize three-dimensional surfaces fully. It is essential to note that 3D CAD makes proper usage of all image building techniques available within most 2D CAD applications.
It should allow users to open the third dimension and construct solid objects. It might seem that the signal at the end of the debate from the outset adds, why to argue that 2D CAD is superior in any setting if 3D CAD offers symmetrical capabilities. Therefore, the two other factors to consider when choosing 2D and 3D CAD software are required.
The first thing to note here is the price for how businesses prefer 3D CAD over 2D CAD draftingsoftware. 3D CAD applications can inarguably be more expensive than older 2D software. It can sometimes tune to thousand dollars also. If you want to manage a small business or sole proprietorship, all you need is 2D CAD functionality. It’s a software upgrade with making the wisest choice.
Secondly, 3D CAD applications are far more complex. The users overcome a much steeper learning curve. Since it moves an object from a 2D environment into a 3D environment, it can increase the surface areas adding detail exponentially. Along with this, the control systems in 3D CAD applications are more difficult to master.
If you run a small shop with less than four CAD users, you need to consider the immediate decrease in capability where the shop experiences the software changeover from 2D to 3D. It staggers 3D implementation by adding the best choice. It allows half of the design force with upgrade while keeping others working on 2D applications. It should give an overall output nominal. As soon as your designers have acclimated to a 3D workspace, one can continue upgrading in segments.
In short, there’s no actual argument here. The 3D CAD applications are way superior in any design situation. However, implementation can cost more and would be time-consuming. Managers should be aware of this and plan CAD software upgrades accordingly.
Choosing between 2D and 3D CAD applications depends on your specific needs and the nature of your projects. Both 2D and 3D CAD software have their advantages and are suitable for different purposes. Here’s a breakdown of their characteristics to help you decide:
2D CAD Applications:
Simplicity: 2D CAD software is generally easier to learn and use, making it a good choice for beginners or for simple drafting tasks.
Drafting and Schematics: If your primary focus is on creating technical drawings, schematics, floor plans, or electrical diagrams, 2D CAD is often sufficient.
Faster Production: 2D drawings can be quicker to produce, making them a better choice for projects where speed is crucial.
Less Resource-Intensive: 2D CAD software typically requires fewer system resources, making it suitable for older hardware or less powerful computers.
Cost-Effective: Many 2D CAD applications are more affordable than their 3D counterparts.
3D CAD Applications:
Design Visualization: If you need to create realistic models, visualize designs in 3D, or simulate real-world scenarios, 3D CAD is essential.
Prototyping and Testing: 3D models allow for virtual prototyping and testing before physical production, which can save time and resources.
Complex Geometry: For intricate designs or products with complex shapes, 3D modeling provides greater accuracy and detail.
Interdisciplinary Collaboration: 3D models are more comprehensive and can facilitate better communication and collaboration among various teams, such as design, engineering, and manufacturing.
Animation and Rendering: If you want to create animations or high-quality renderings for presentations or marketing purposes, 3D CAD is necessary.
Considerations for Your Decision:
Project Requirements: Assess the specific needs of your projects. Are you creating simple drawings, or do you need intricate 3D models?
Learning Curve: Consider your skill level and the time you can invest in learning the software. 2D CAD is generally simpler to pick up.
Collaboration: If you’re working with others, determine whether 2D or 3D models are more suitable for effective communication and collaboration.
Future Growth: Consider whether your projects might evolve to require 3D capabilities in the future. Investing in 3D CAD now could save you from switching software later.
Budget: Evaluate the cost of the software, including any ongoing licensing fees or subscriptions.
Hardware: Check the system requirements of the software to ensure your computer can handle it.
If you’re looking for any help regarding design and drafting services, well, we are here. Please don’t hesitate to contact us at Australian Design and Drafting Services or call us at 1800 287 223 (Toll-Free).
What are the advantages of 3D over 2D CAD drafting?
Using 3D CAD drafting offers several advantages over traditional 2D drafting:
Visualization: 3D CAD allows you to create realistic visualizations of your designs, which helps in better understanding and communication of the design intent. Error Detection: With 3D CAD, you can detect errors and interferences more easily compared to 2D drafting. This helps in reducing design flaws and streamlining the design process. Improved Design Communication: 3D models provide a clearer representation of the final product, making it easier to communicate design ideas to stakeholders, clients, and team members. Virtual Prototyping: 3D CAD enables the creation of virtual prototypes, which can be used for testing and simulation before physical prototypes are built. This helps in identifying and rectifying issues early in the design process, reducing time and cost. Design Iterations: Iterating on designs is faster and more efficient in 3D CAD compared to 2D drafting. Modifications can be made to the 3D model with ease, allowing for rapid prototyping and experimentation. Documentation: 3D CAD software often includes tools for automatically generating detailed drawings, bills of materials, and other documentation, which can save time and reduce errors compared to manually creating these documents in 2D. Integration with Other Software: 3D CAD models can be easily integrated with other software tools such as analysis software, CAM (Computer-Aided Manufacturing) software, and simulation software, allowing for a more comprehensive design and manufacturing process. Cost Savings: While the initial investment in 3D CAD software and training may be higher compared to 2D drafting, the long-term cost savings can be significant due to reduced errors, faster design iterations, and improved efficiency.
What is the difference between CAD and 3D CAD?
Computer-Aided Design (CAD) is a broad term that refers to the use of computer technology to assist in the creation, modification, analysis, or optimization of a design. CAD software allows engineers, architects, and designers to create precise drawings and models of objects, buildings, or systems in a digital environment.
3D CAD, on the other hand, specifically focuses on creating three-dimensional models of objects or structures. While traditional CAD software may include 2D drafting capabilities, 3D CAD software primarily revolves around creating and manipulating 3D models. These models can be viewed from any angle, rotated, scaled, and even simulated to assess factors like structural integrity, performance, or aesthetics.
In summary, while CAD encompasses a broader range of design tools and techniques, 3D CAD specifically deals with the creation and manipulation of three-dimensional models.
Less than two decades ago, the primary goal of most CAD Design and Drafting organizations was to provide up-to-date CAD workstations and a pleasant working environment for their CAD engineers and designers. Even today, the training of a CAD engineer focuses on equipping the engineer with the ability to define engineering problems and to use CAD tools to solve the problems.
When a new CAD engineer is recruited by a CAD company, some of the most important lessons that the engineer may learn during orientation and training include the following:
Design projects should be performed with specific company-approved Suitable CAD workstations, and design tasks should be performed under well-defined company guidelines,
Security guidelines should be followed religiously in order to protect company information, and the exchange of design information should occur within well-established protocols,
Workstations and the work environment are fenced by a company firewall, and any attempts to work outside the system are considered as a violation of company policy.
The fact is that within the last decade, cyber terrorism has become prevalent and sophisticated. It is not only national governments and national defence systems, financial institutions, or infrastructure systems which are targets for cyber terrorism. CAD Design and Drafting companies also spend money and resources to protect themselves from cyber terrorism.
CAD Design and Drafting
In this article, we try to answer the question: “How CAD Design and Drafting Industry fighting New Cyber Threats?” Because a complete answer to the question is not within the scope of this article, only these topics will be considered:
What is a cyber-attack?
How could a cyber-attack be waged on a CAD system?
What damages could a CAD company suffer from cyber terrorism?
How could cyber-attacks on CAD organizations be prevented or minimized?
What is a Cyber-Attack?
A cyber-attack is a malicious action which is designed to disrupt or cripple the computer systems of infrastructures, computer networks, or personal computing devices. The attacker or cyber-terrorist uses sophisticated methods to avoid detection because of the attacker’s intention to establish a foothold in the targeted computer system in order to steal, alter or destroy information in the system.
The methods used by cyber-terrorists include the planting of malicious software (malware) or viruses in the targeted system. When a cyber-attack on a CAD organization succeeds, the criminal or intruder could do the following:
Steal software or identities from the CAD organization,
Create denial of service to CAD engineers,
Steal or destroy intellectual property.
How Could a Cyber-Attack Be Waged on a CAD System?
Because methods of cyber-attacks have become increasingly sophisticated, it is necessary for IT engineers who work for CAD organizations to stay up to date with new cyber-attack methods.
The CAD engineer is too busy performing design tasks to become pre-occupied with cyber- attacks. Nevertheless, the CAD engineer should be keenly aware of avenues or entry points which could be open to the cyber-terrorist. These avenues could become open to the cyber-terrorist by performing these seemingly innocent practices:
Opening email attachments which could include malicious malware,
Downloading software, multimedia material, or unknown data from the web.
Inserting flash drives into USB ports.
Once a cyber-terrorist accesses the intended target, the criminal can quickly accomplish several tasks.
Probe for vulnerabilities and additional network access within the organization,
Use malware to establish additional breach points, so that the cyber-attack will be difficult to remove completely, even if the original point of attack is removed.
Establish network access; gather data such as account names and passwords. If the cyber-terrorist succeeds in cracking passwords, data can easily be collected from the victimized target.
Disguise the presence of planted malware on the network, in order to make it easier to return and steal more information, or to cause damage to the network.
What Damages Could a CAD company Suffer From Cyber terrorism?
It is not too difficult to imagine what types of damage a cyber-terrorist can cause to a CAD organization.
The main types of damage which could ruin or severely damage a CAD organization include:
Having designs stolen or destroyed. Even designs which are backed up within a cloud system will lose their proprietary status and could be exploited by competing organizations.
Suffering a denial-of-service attack which prevents CAD engineers from performing their work,
Having the network system brought down
Rather than try to enumerate other types of damage, it will suffice to mention vulnerabilities within CAD systems which have been exploited, or could be exploited by cyber terrorists.
The Stuxnet worm virus was used to target and damage Iranian centrifuges used to enrich uranium. The malware was sophisticated enough to make the technicians believe that the centrifuges were operating normally, while they were actually destroying themselves.
Malware in Bluetooth-enabled insulin pumps altered the dosage of insulin administered to a patient, with the intention of causing injury or death to the patent.
Malware planted within the software of a production machine could create defective parts while deceiving the production personnel into believing that they were producing acceptable parts.
The STL file format used for 3D Printing or AM (Additive Manufacturing) can be easily altered by malware so that 3D printers produce defective parts.
How Could Cyber-Attacks on CAD Organizations Be Prevented Or Minimized?
Cybersecurity or the ability to prevent new cyber-attacks or threats is a never-ending battle for IT professionals, because cyber crooks and terrorists are well trained, and they are always looking for new methods to practice their criminal behaviour. According to the viewpoint of a cybersecurity expert at CBIS (Washington DC-based Center for Strategic and International Studies), it may be more profitable for businesses to concentrate on detecting malware and on minimizing the damage they can cause.
CAD organizations could take additional steps to thwart the efforts of cyber terrorists. Some of these steps are:
CAD engineers should stay vigilant and should report any changes in the software environment to IT personnel.
CAD engineers should not open email attachments which do not come from well-known sources.
CAD engineers should not download data from sources outside their organization without the approval of IT personnel.
All USB or flash drives should be scanned for malware before they communicate with workstations.
CAD organizations should create segmented networks.
CAD organizations should promptly identify and quarantine unrecognized data within the network until the data has been cleared for safety.
If you all need any help regarding design and drafting services, please don’t hesitate to contact us at Australian Design and Drafting Services or call us 1800 287 223 (Toll-Free) Australia Wide.
What are the 4 types of CAD?
Computer-Aided Design (CAD) encompasses various types of software used for designing, drafting, and modeling. The four primary types of CAD software are: 2D CAD: These programs are used for creating two-dimensional drawings and designs. They are often employed in fields such as architecture, engineering, and manufacturing for tasks like creating floor plans, schematics, and technical drawings.
3D CAD: 3D CAD software enables users to create three-dimensional models of objects or structures. This type of software is widely used across industries like automotive, aerospace, product design, and entertainment for visualizing and simulating designs before production.
Parametric CAD: Parametric CAD software allows designers to create models with parameters and constraints, enabling them to easily modify and update designs. Changes made to one part of the model can automatically propagate throughout the design, maintaining consistency and reducing errors. This type of CAD software is particularly useful for complex designs where interdependencies between components are critical.
Solid Modeling: Solid modeling CAD software represents objects as solid entities with volume and mass. Users can manipulate these solid objects to create complex shapes and assemblies. Solid modeling is commonly used in product design, mechanical engineering, and architecture for creating detailed and realistic 3D models of components and structures.
Get set your new year resolutions by adding and establishing some professional goals. Setting goals are crucial progress, especially when it comes to business or career. Here are a few of my professional goals for 2016. These are the things that work well on becoming a better drafter and designer this year.
Best Drafter or Designer in your Field
If the above goals resonate with you, feel free to adopt and implement them in your professional career.There could always be something new to learn, and with all the resources available online, it would be more accessible than ever. One needs to learn something new about design, drafting, business, entrepreneurship, teamwork, marketing regularly.
CONTRIBUTE, DON’T CONSUME
If you’re looking to work in a large office that is set from home as a freelancer, there would be a time when you’ll find yourself working as a team. There would be nothing worse than a passive team member. Consumes but never contributes, also make it a goal to become more active in your team and contribute.
DON’T BE AFRAID TO TRY NEW THINGS
There’s this old saying, “If it isn’t broke, don’t fix it”, is true, but don’t let it stop you from trying new things. Sometimes it would be a good thing to get out of our comfort zone and try something new and different. Maybe it would be taken into a different design process, new marketing strategy or as simple as a new workstation layout. Trying new things is always an excellent way to challenge and help yourself grow.
NETWORK MORE
In the last and a half year of running my drafting and design firm, we noticed networking is one crucial thing that’s needed to grow businesses with ease. Instead, it would help set up a workstation to meet new people and discuss the requirements. We should take this as an opportunity to find outside our comfort zone. Get ready to grow your network with another freelancer, business owner, drafter and designer.
ASK FOR HELP
Back to my first statement, “you don’t know everything”. Asking for help is not a sign of weakness but rather a vital growth step. It’s always important to have mentors from who you can seek advice. If you don’t have one already, make it a goal to find a mentor this year. Hey, maybe it’s going to be one of the new things that you try!
TAKE TIME OFF MORE OFTEN
It could be easy to forget about work/life balance when you’re passionate about what you do. Mainly, it’s true when working from home, let this year add a new year when you set aside a reasonable amount of time for your family and friends and get time to recharge.
CELEBRATE THE WINS
Always look for things that can be improved with fixing. It’s not necessarily a bad characteristic but can hurt you and your business. Therefore, why not celebrate our wins rather than be demotivated from our failures. Set a goal to celebrate the successes, even if they are small. When one finishes a project, celebrate it. Celebrate if you have landed a perfect job or found a new client.
How to be Best Drafter or Designer in your Field
Master the Basics: Start by learning the fundamental principles of drafting and design. Understand the software tools used in your industry, such as AutoCAD, Adobe Creative Suite, or other specialized software.
Education and Training: Pursue formal education or training in drafting and design. Consider enrolling in relevant courses, workshops, or obtaining a degree in a related field like architecture, engineering, graphic design, or industrial design.
Practice Regularly: Practice is crucial to improving your skills. Dedicate time to drawing, designing, and drafting regularly. Take on personal projects to challenge yourself and explore new techniques.
Seek Feedback: Share your work with mentors, peers, or online communities to receive constructive feedback. Being open to criticism will help you identify areas for improvement.
Stay Updated: Design trends and software tools change rapidly, so make it a point to stay updated with the latest advancements and industry best practices. Follow design blogs, attend conferences, and participate in webinars to stay informed.
Study Other Designers: Learn from the work of other successful designers in your field. Analyze their techniques, styles, and approaches to gain insights into what makes their designs stand out.
Develop a Unique Style: While learning from others is essential, strive to develop your unique style and signature approach to design. Finding your creative voice can set you apart from others in the field.
Collaborate and Network: Engage with other professionals in your industry, attend design events, and join professional organizations. Networking can open doors to new opportunities and expose you to different perspectives.
Accept Challenges: Don’t be afraid to take on challenging projects that push your boundaries. Overcoming obstacles and tackling complex designs will help you grow as a drafter or designer.
Be Persistent and Patient: Becoming the best in your field takes time and persistence. Keep working on improving your skills, and don’t get discouraged by setbacks or rejections.
Showcase Your Work: Build a strong portfolio that showcases your best projects. Your portfolio will be a crucial tool in attracting clients or potential employers.
Embrace Continuous Learning: The field of drafting and design is always evolving. Stay curious and keep learning new techniques and technologies throughout your career.
If you need help regarding design and drafting services, please do not hesitate to contact us at Australian Design and Drafting Services or call us at 1800 287 223 (Toll-Free) in Australia globally.
Any big projects success depends on cost effective CAD solutions. Project Managers are very careful when it comes to spending money and it should be that way since its one of the best important resource of projects. Increasing the profitability and decreasing the overhead cost becomes most important factors for any successful projects. We are going to examine how Civil engineering firm can able to achieve cost effective solution with 3D CAD design and drafting.
When cutting down cost implement successfully, Engineering firm already half on their mark to achieve goals. some of them can get the fact wrong, Cost controlling is not just not doing certain things to save money, but it is doing things more efficiently. Most engineering firms would use 3D CAD for designing and drafting purposes to do things more efficiently, and thus, control the costs. It is easier said than done, so let’s see how it’s done.
Cost Effective CAD Solutions for Civil Engineering
With 3D CAD, things are built virtually from scratch. Prototyping is made easier. Even before the building is built, you can virtually check the strength of the building. But, what has this got to do with costs? There’s a relation, suppose if you just didn’t do calculate the strength of the building properly, and the building collapsed due to some minor natural forces. It can cost you a lot, isn’t it? There are instances where this has happened, we will discuss that in some other article later on. So, my point is that with 3D CAD, we can simulate environmental factors. And when important elements are factored in, flaws can be eliminated. You are avoiding heavy costs.
In 3D CAD, you can start working on elements individually. You can make changes to an element individually. So, chances of screwing some element when working on another are rare. And revisions are easy. 3D CAD comes along with 3D mouse, this would enable you to govern the tasks better with more precision. With more precision, the design cycles will be shorter. And when design cycles are shorter, you are saving the time, Again! Yes, people are performing the tasks at a great speed with 3D CAD.
This is saving you time, and if you are saving time, you can work on additional projects. You would require fewer people with 3D CAD relatively. There, you are saving bucks again! Someone who says he doesn’t want to save time would be lying. It’s all about being efficient and saving time. And saving time is cutting down costs. And one who does save the time will be a champion.
Cost Effective CAD Solutions for Civil Engineering
Are you looking for an expert who could probably take care of your CAD drafting and designing concerns in civil engineering? Australian Design and Drafting services is in the CAD drafting and drawing industry from last 10 years. So, no worries about the quality of the work Australian Design and Drafting has to offer. Australian Design and Drafting can help you out in cost control with its 3D CAD services. Australian Design and Drafting just does the job like an extended in-house team with a lower turn-around time. And yes, we have advanced tools like Revit, Civil 3D, Tekla, etc.
So, want to save costs and grow your business? We can even offer you a free trial project that will help you understand the quality of the work that we have to offer with CAD.
There are numerous within your means Computer-Aided Design (CAD) options accessible for civil engineering professionals. These tools provide a vary of aspects for designing, analyzing, and documenting civil engineering projects. Here are some alternatives to consider:
AutoCAD LT: This is a lighter and greater low priced model of AutoCAD, which is a broadly used CAD software. AutoCAD LT affords 2D drafting and detailing tools, making it appropriate for developing technical drawings and documentation.
DraftSight: DraftSight is a 2D drafting and 3D plan software program that affords a acquainted person interface for these transitioning from different CAD platforms. It gives vital aspects for creating, editing, and annotating drawings.
LibreCAD: LibreCAD is an open-source 2D CAD utility that is appropriate for small to medium-sized civil engineering projects. It’s simple and gives fundamental drawing and enhancing tools.
BricsCAD: BricsCAD provides a comparatively cheap choice to AutoCAD with complete 2D and 3D drafting capabilities. It’s recognized for its compatibility with AutoCAD archives and presents a vary of specialised modules for civil engineering design.
FreeCAD: FreeCAD is an open-source parametric 3D CAD modeler. While it is extra centered on 3D modeling, it can be used for primary civil engineering duties and is specifically beneficial for designing buildings and components.
NanoCAD: NanoCAD is a free and budget-friendly CAD software program that presents 2D drafting and graph tools. It’s appropriate for growing technical drawings, schematics, and architectural plans.
CMS IntelliCAD: CMS IntelliCAD is an low cost CAD software program with AutoCAD compatibility. It presents 2D and 3D drafting competencies and is regularly used with the aid of civil engineers and architects.
SketchUp Free: While notably regarded for architectural design, SketchUp Free can additionally be used for fundamental civil engineering projects. It’s a 3D modeling device that is handy to research and affords each free and paid versions.
QCAD: QCAD is a 2D CAD software program it is easy and intuitive. It’s mainly beneficial for growing technical drawings, schematics, and plans.
Tinkercad: Tinkercad is a browser-based 3D modeling device that is basic and appropriate for fundamental civil engineering format tasks. It’s free and handy online.
To schedule a personal meeting with our Representative or contact Sales Team on: 1800 287 223 (1800AUSCAD)
Civil engineering is a broad field with various specializations. Here are seven types of civil engineers:
Structural Engineers: They design and analyze structures such as buildings, bridges, dams, and towers to ensure they can withstand environmental loads and remain safe and stable. Geotechnical Engineers: These engineers study the behavior of earth materials like soil and rocks and their interaction with structures. They assess site conditions for construction projects and design foundations and earthworks. Transportation Engineers: They focus on designing and improving transportation systems, including roads, highways, railways, airports, and public transit systems, to ensure efficient and safe movement of people and goods. Environmental Engineers: Environmental engineers work to protect the environment and public health. They deal with issues like water and air pollution, waste management, and environmental remediation, designing solutions to minimize negative impacts and promote sustainability. Water Resources Engineers: These engineers manage water resources such as rivers, lakes, groundwater, and stormwater. They design systems for water supply, flood control, irrigation, and wastewater treatment. Construction Engineers: Construction engineers manage construction projects from planning to completion. They coordinate resources, schedules, and budgets to ensure projects are completed safely, on time, and within budget. Coastal Engineers: Coastal engineers specialize in managing coastal areas and addressing challenges related to erosion, flooding, and coastal infrastructure. They design coastal protection structures, such as seawalls and breakwaters, to mitigate the impacts of coastal hazards.
what is civil engineering?
Civil engineering is a branch of engineering that deals with the design, construction, and maintenance of infrastructure and built environments. It encompasses a wide range of projects, including buildings, bridges, roads, railways, airports, dams, water supply systems, wastewater treatment plants, and more.
Civil engineers are responsible for ensuring that these structures and systems are safe, sustainable, and efficient. They work on projects from the planning and design stages through construction and maintenance, considering factors such as materials, environmental impact, economic feasibility, and regulatory requirements.
Key areas within civil engineering include structural engineering, geotechnical engineering, transportation engineering, environmental engineering, water resources engineering, construction engineering, and coastal engineering, among others. Civil engineers play a crucial role in shaping the physical infrastructure of societies and improving the quality of life for communities around the world.
The overall appearance includes the shape, pattern, configuration, and ornamentation applied to a product to give a unique visual appearance. A design isn’t to protect the way a product works. But if you’re looking to preserve the way a product works is by distinguishing your business.
Moreover, a trademark distinguishes businesses from other traders in a visual way. A type of trademark is confused with a design in a shape trademark. It’s a three-dimensional shape used to distinguish the goods or services from one trader to another.
YOUR DESIGN IP RIGHTS:
To be entitled as an owner of a design, you must be:
That person that conceived the designer, the employer of the designer who made the Design while working for you.
The person contracted the designer to make the Design.
That person to whom the designer assigned the Design in writing.
Where two or more people own interests in a design, they must apply jointly.
The owner may be an individual, a company, an association or a partnership. However, if applying as a company, association or partnership, do not apply using a trading name or a trust.
The process for applying for registration of your Design involves several steps. One needs to ensure that you understand and complete each step to process quickly. There is a number of things before starting an application.
WHAT A DESIGN RIGHT GIVES YOU
Design registration intends to protect designs that have an industrial or commercial use. A registered design offers you, the owner, exclusive rights to commercially use, license or sell it.
WHAT DESIGN IS
A design comes with an overall appearance of a product. The visual features come with a form of Design that covers the shape, pattern, configuration, and ornamentation. A product offers something manufactured with ease. The mechanics show how a product works or operates that isn’t protected with the right Design. But it protects the patent that Few designs cannot be registered legally. It includes designs for medals, layouts with integrated circuits, Australian currency and scandalous Designs.
ELIGIBILITY – DECIDING WHO OWNS THE DESIGN
To be entitled as a design owner that offers:
A person who conceived the designer.
The designer’s employer, if the designer made the Design while working for you.
The person who contracts the designer to make the Design.
The person to whom the designer assigned the Design in writing.
The two or more people share common interests in a design.
The owner as an individual, a company, an association or a partnership applies as a company, association or partnership. They do not involve using a trading name or a trust.
IS MY DESIGN NEW AND DISTINCTIVE?
The Design adds new and distinctive to be registered.
The new Design can be identical to any design previously disclosed anywhere in the world. It includes anything published anywhere in the world used in Australia.
Distinctive is not to be substantially similar to the overall impression where any design disclosed anywhere in the world. It includes anything published anywhere in the world or publicly used in Australia.
It supports an application stating how the Design adds new and distinctive, but this isn’t mandatory.
INTERNATIONAL DESIGN PROTECTION
If the application is filed in another country within six months of filing the Australian application, the date of your Australian application will apply to that country as well. The only case the country you use is a member of the International Convention.
One must prepare representations of the Design with complete forms and style needed by the foreign country.
DON’T PUBLICISE YOUR DESIGN
It’s hard not to tell something about what you’re proud of or excited about, but one needs to keep Design a secret if one is looking to protect it.
For your Design to register to determine ‘new’ or ‘distinctive’, one can’t publish it anywhere in the world or publicly use it while applying to register it.
DESIGN SEARCH
Before one submits a design application, they search for previously registered designs. It determines whether your proposed Design for new and distinctive is worth registering or not.
A search determines if a similar design is registered already.
AUSTRALIAN DESIGN SEARCH
Australian design search includes up-to-date information, including all applications and registrations from 1986. All registrations captured from 1973 to 1985 remain active in 1985.
One uses the search tool that helps determine who owns a design if you want to obtain a licence that uses the Design, buy the Design, or loan money to the owner of a valuable Design by taking a mortgage over it.
INTERNATIONAL DESIGNS DATABASES
The European Patent Organisation and the United States Patent and Trademark Office hold the two largest international design databases.
The World Intellectual Property Organisation (WIPO) links to the sites of international IP offices.
HAS THE DESIGN BEEN MORTGAGED?
The secured party designs all security interest mortgage records on the national Personal Property Securities Register. The register finds whether there is a mortgage over a design with no longer a legal securities register. It claims security interests that include mortgages available through Australian design search.
SEEKING A SEARCH PROFESSIONAL
An essential part of design search is interpreting the often-complex search results, and using these databases effectively is a specialised skill that can sometimes be time-consuming and costly.
If you need specific assistance, professional searches, or advice from intellectual property (IP) professionals and search firms, connect with us.
DRAWINGS PREPARATIONS:
Drawings and images come with essential design registration. The drawings or photographs include good quality and accuracy that shows the overall visual features of your design as applied to the product.
THE REQUIREMENTS FOR REPRESENTATIONS
There is no need for a specific view number. However, one must offer sufficient views with a full display Design.
We offer traditional views and accept perspective or isometric views.
The views show precisely the same Design. It mainly applies to colour. As colour usually adds a visual feature to the Design.
The representations should be consistent enough to work properly if your application includes a statement for newness with distinctiveness.
KEY POINTS FOR DRAWINGS
Drawings should be accurate, not sketches, and should work on A4 size paper.
It should show the Design in question with no descriptive wording or dimensions. However, the labelling views come with ‘perspective view’ or ‘rear views.
It uses broken or dashed lines when highlighting product elements that bear the design’s visual features. It covers the parts of the Design that refer to the newness and distinctiveness.
It provides a pattern that applies to part of a surface, stitching and perforations features established in an environmental context.
It covers shading and cross-hatching used as a visual feature of the Design.
KEY POINTS FOR PHOTOGRAPHS OR DIGITAL IMAGES
Photographs or digital images should be in a clear form.
It should show the product against a contrasting background and avoid matter that’s irrelevant to the Design for A4 or mounted on A4 white paper.
OTHER DETAILS
It adds multiple design applications for each Design that indicates each Design showing a separate sheet.
COMPLEX PRODUCTS
Sometimes a design applies to a part of a complex product that is readily assemble and disassembled from that product. Suppose the position qualifies as a product, then broader protection gains by defining it as a stand-alone part. As Australian Design and drafting, we help clients from Australia with patent design and drafting services. Our strict NDA agreement allows for protecting innovator rights. Contact us for more information.
This is 2 part series for patent application guide for Australia and Drawing specification for the patent application
Part 1: Patent Application Guide for Australia
Patent Benefits:
The protection provided by the Australian patent system is a major contributor to the success of new inventions and the millions of dollars in earnings that they generate.
Some of the benefits are:
It gives you the right to stop others from manufacturing, using and/or selling your invention in Australia without your permission.
It lets you license someone else to manufacture your invention on agreed terms or take legal action against people who are using your invention without your permission.
It encourages Australians to continue their research, to develop new and innovative products, exploit new technology and promotes the transfer of technology to Australia.
It gives our trading partners the incentive to provide similar rights and thereby protect our exports in markets overseas.
If you want to protect the way your invention works then patenting may be the most appropriate option.
If your invention is new, not publicly disclosed and has commercial potential, then you are ready to consider what type of patent will suit your needs.
TYPES OF PATENTS:
There are two types of patents granted in Australia – standard and innovation. You need to research them thoroughly before deciding which one suits your needs.
There are differences in the cost of the patents, the length of protection they offer, the time they take to process and the type of invention they seek to cover.
In order to have a patent granted on your invention, you need to file what is known as a complete application. Prior to filing a complete application, you can also file a provisional application. While a provisional application will not result in an enforceable granted patent it can be useful in establishing an early priority date.
PROVISIONAL APPLICATIONS
As a general rule, the priority date for your invention is the date on which you first filed a patent application that described your invention in detail. To get the earliest possible priority date on your invention, you can file a provisional application.
A provisional application doesn’t give you patent protection on its own (there are no ‘provisional patents’), but it’s useful in establishing an early priority date if you operate in a highly competitive industry where constant innovation requires you to get the jump on competitors.
A provisional application also gives you time to determine whether your invention is worthy of further time, money and effort associated with filing a complete application for a patent. It is also cheaper to file a provisional application than a standard complete application. You can read more information on time and costs.
Although the technical or scientific details of your provisional application are not published, we will publish details (the invention title and applicant name) in the Australian Official Journal of Patents at filing.
If you wish to claim priority from your provisional application you must file a complete standard or innovation application within 12 months of lodging your provisional application.
Remember – filing a provisional application on its own does not give you patent protection
All provisional applications lapse after 12 months. If you do not file a complete application associated with the provisional or file a PCT application within this 12 month period, you will lose any priority that your provisional application may have provided.
STANDARD PATENT
the standard patent gives long-term protection and control over an invention. It lasts for up to 20 years from the filing date of your complete application (or up to 25 years for pharmaceutical substances).
The invention claimed in a standard patent must be new (novel), involve an inventive step and be able to be made or used in industry.
An inventive step means that the invention is not an obvious thing to do for someone with knowledge and experience in the technological field of the invention.
Your invention must differ in some way from existing technology, but the difference must have resulted from something more than the simple application of published information and/or standard background knowledge.
Before a standard patent is granted, the complete application has to be examined by IP Australia. Examination before the grant of a standard patent is mandatory and can take from six months to several years (depending on the circumstances).
INNOVATION PATENT
An innovation patent lasts up to 8 years and is designed to protect inventions that do not meet the inventive threshold required for standard patents. It is a relatively quick and inexpensive way to obtain protection for your new device, substance, method or process.
An innovation patent is usually granted within a month of filing the complete application. This is because there is no examination before it is granted.
The innovation patent requires an innovative step rather than an inventive step, to protect an incremental advance on existing technology that may not qualify for standard patent protection rather than a groundbreaking invention.
An innovative step exists when the invention is different from what is known before and the difference makes a substantial contribution to the working of the invention.
If you want protection for an invention with a short market life that might be superseded by newer innovations, such as computer-based inventions, an innovation patent is worth considering.
Important: Examination of an innovation patent will only occur if requested by the patentee, a third party or if the Commissioner of Patents decides to examine the patent. An innovation patent is only legally enforceable if it has been examined by us, been found to meet the requirements of the Patents Act, and has been certified.
Benefits of the innovation patent
If it is examined and certified, the innovation patent offers the same level of protection as a standard patent in preventing others from copying your invention.
Unlike a standard patent, you only pay to have an innovation patent examined when you need to stop others from copying your invention.
Limitations of the innovation patent
The innovation patent is granted without examination, which means the validity of the application is not verified by us. This may make the patent more difficult to sell or license until the patent has been examined and certified.
Also, you are unable to go to court to enforce the innovation patent until it has been examined and certified.
An innovation patent can only be applied for in Australia. You have to apply separately to other countries if you want to enforce the patents overseas.
STANDARD VS INNOVATION PATENT
There are three main differences between standard and innovation patents.
The innovation patent is a relatively inexpensive form of IP protection. It is quick and easy to obtain for inventions that have a short commercial life or that offer comparatively small advances over existing technology but which do not have the inventive step required to get a standard patent.
The standard patent provides longer protection for inventions that have a longer development and commercialisation cycle. An innovation patent may be granted for the same subject matter as a standard patent but it has a shorter term of protection – 8 years as opposed to 20.
It is not necessary to have an innovation patent examined before grant (or even at any time after grant). However, an innovation patent must be examined and certified before you can enforce your rights. A standard patent application must be examined and a patent then granted before you can enforce your rights. In both cases, a fee must be paid prior to examination. Failure to pay the examination fee results in the standard patent application lapsing or the innovation patent ceasing.
Can an innovation patent be converted to a standard patent?
You can convert an innovation patent to a standard patent application in the period before it is accepted, but you have to be quick. That’s because an innovation patent is accepted after a brief formalities check, which is usually within one month.
The quick guide to innovation versus standard patents
Innovation patent
Standard patent
Your invention must:
Be new, useful and involve an innovative step
Be new, useful and involve an inventive step
The application should include:
A title, description, up to 5 claims, drawings (if applicable), an abstract and forms
A title, description, any number of claims, drawings (if applicable), an abstract and forms
A patent is granted if:
The application satisfies formality requirements (note: a ‘granted’ innovation patent cannot be enforced unless examined)
The application is examined and found to satisfy the relevant requirements of the Patents Act 1990
Examination:
Optional. Examination can be requested by you or anyone else
Mandatory. The relevant requirements of the Patents Act 1990 must be met before a patent is granted. Can only be requested by the applicant.
Certification:
If the innovation patent complies with the relevant requirements of the Patents Act 1990 in examination; only after certification can the patent be enforced
N/A
Publication in the Australian Official Journal of Patents:
At grant and again at certification
18 months from earliest priority date and again at acceptance
Protection period:
Up to eight years, if annual fees paid
Up to 20 years, if annual fees paid (or up to 25 years for pharmaceuticals)
How long does the process take?
Approximately 1 month for grant. Six months for examination if you make a request.
Six months to several years depending on circumstances
Applying for a patent can be a complex and time-consuming process.
We have outlined all the steps that need to be taken in order to ensure that the process is smooth.
Search patent databases, sales brochures and magazines to ensure your invention has not been created by someone else. If your invention was publicly known before you apply for a patent, you won’t be able to get a patent.
Decide which type of patent best suits your invention. You may wish to file a provisional application first; then decide between filing a standard, innovation or an international patent (PCT) application.
Once it is filed, your application is checked and published. Please note that fees are payable at different stages of the patent process. An innovation patent is checked to ensure it satisfies the formality requirements, then granted and published in the official journal. A standard patent is normally published in the official journal before the examination.
The examination is mandatory before a standard patent can be granted and must be requested by the applicant. An innovation patent will be examined if the examination is requested but this is not a requirement for an innovation patent to be granted. Examination of an innovation patent can only happen after it is granted. For either innovation or standard patent to be enforceable, it must have been examined. The examination can also be expedited for standard patents or expedited under the Global Patent Prosecution Highway (GPPH).
Acceptance and grant of an innovation patent occur if it has satisfied the formality requirements. It is then published as such in the official journal. If the examination is requested and found successful then the innovation patent will be certified and published once again. A standard patent application is accepted once it has been examined and is then published. The standard patent is then granted if it is not opposed.
Pay annual fees to maintain your patent. Innovation patents can be renewed for up to eight years and standard patents can be renewed for up to 20 years (up to 25 years for pharmaceuticals).
Some common problems
Many patent applications that are filed without professional help are not successful for one or more of the following reasons:
The original patent specification, whether provisional or complete, does not describe the invention properly.
The invention is not new because the applicant disclosed it to the public before applying for a patent.
The invention is not new because the applicant disclosed it to the public after filing a provisional application that did not adequately describe the invention; i.e. the provisional application did not provide an effective priority date.
The invention is not new when compared with things that are already known; e.g. it has been published in an earlier patent document.
The application is for something that is not patentable, such as a principle or idea, rather than its practical adaptation.
STANDARD PATENT APPLICATION PROCESS
Applications for standard patents are called complete applications. A complete application is necessary to actually have a patent granted whereas a provisional application provides you with a priority date and signals your intention to lodge a complete application.
The subject matter of a complete application for a standard patent needs to be new (novel), inventive, and useful. The term of the standard patent is 20 years.
The invention will be referenced against background knowledge in its technical field. This is sourced from common work practices as well as standard texts and handbooks, technical dictionaries and other material in the field.
To be eligible for patent protection your invention must:
involve novelty (be new)
the invention has not been publicly disclosed in any form, anywhere in the world before the earliest priority date (the date at which the application is first filed)
involve an inventive step
the invention must not be obvious for someone with knowledge and experience in the technological field of the invention
The process of granting a standard patent usually takes up to 5 years.
Filing the application
You can request a patent for your invention using eServices or by using a Patent Request form.
In order to keep the priority date of a provisional application, you need to apply for your standard patent with 12 months of filing your provisional. If you have a patent application overseas (a convention application) and want similar protection in Australia, you will need to file your patent application within 12 months of filing your overseas application.
Your application form needs to be accompanied by a patent specification.
Publication of details
Details (including the invention title) of the unexamined standard patent application (level AU-A) is published in the Australian Official Journal of Patents about 18 months after the application’s earliest priority date.
Published patent applications are made available to the public through our website and are sent to certain libraries and overseas patent offices.
The publication is an important step for two reasons:
It sets the date after which anyone using your invention without permission is unlawfully infringing your patent. That is, once you have a granted standard patent, you can take legal action for any infringements that occurred on and after the publication date
The contents of your standard patent application are no longer confidential. Your invention becomes part of the knowledge of the general public and may therefore subsequently assist in advancing industry and technology.
Note: Publication of a patent does not guarantee that the patent is valid.
If your standard application is accepted, the patent is republished as an AU-B level publication. If your accepted standard application is subsequently amended, it is republished as an AU-C level publication.
Requesting examination of standard patent applications
After a standard patent application is submitted you must request examination within 5 years of the filing date. Typically, after 4 years from filing your application, we will direct you to request examination if you have not done so already. You must request examination within 2 months of the date of this direction or your application will lapse.
You can request examination (either voluntarily or after being directed to do so) by completing and submitting a Request for Examination and paying fees.
Once the examination is requested you can normally expect a reply within about 12 months, depending on our workload.
After examination, either an adverse report or a notice of acceptance is mailed. If it is an adverse report, you will have the opportunity to make changes to your application to overcome the objections in the report.
In response to your changes, subsequent adverse reports may be issued until all objections have been overcome. Once all objections are overcome, your application will be accepted.
If no response is filed within 21 months from the date of the first adverse report, your complete application will lapse.
Similarly, if you have not successfully addressed all the issues in the adverse reports within 21 months from the date of the first adverse report, your complete application will lapse
Important: If you request an examination on or after 15 April 2013, you will only have 12 months from the date of the first adverse report to overcome the objections or your application will lapse.
Acceptance, opposition and grant of the standard patent
Once all objections in the examination report are overcome, your application for a standard patent is accepted. Before the patent is granted, other parties (opponents) have three months to start opposition proceedings.
The most common reasons for opposing the grant of standard patents are:
the application is identical or very similar to another patent application
the patent applicant is not the true owner of the application
The opponent must show that your standard patent if granted, would be invalid.
When an opposition is filed, the patent applicant and the opponent each have an opportunity to submit evidence.
A hearing is then held before a Hearing Officer, who decides whether or not the opposition succeeds. If the opposition is successful, the patent applicant is usually given an opportunity to amend their patent application to overcome the problems.
If either party disagrees with the Hearing Officer’s decision, they can file an appeal with the Federal Court of Australia.
Less than 2% of accepted standard applications are opposed, but if your application is opposed, you should consider consulting an IP professional.
If no opposition is filed and the acceptance fees are paid, your accepted standard application is sealed and a patent deed is sent to you.
What happens if I miss a deadline?
You may need to apply for an extension of time to restore a patent or patent application that has lapsed or ceased because you failed to pay a fee or take some other action in time.
For example, perhaps you have lost your priority rights because you did not file a complete application within 12 months of your provisional application.
To gain an extension of time you must explain in a declaration the chain of events that caused you to fail to take the action you should have done. You will need to pay any fees associated with your extension of time request and pay any unpaid fees (e.g. renewal fees). The outcome of this request will be assessed on a case by case basis. There is no guarantee that you will get the extension of time you requested.
Applications for innovation patents are called complete applications. A complete application is necessary to actually have a patent granted whereas a provisional application provides you with a priority date and signals your intention to lodge a complete application.
An innovation patent provides fast protection and is suitable for a device, substance, method or process that does not have the inventive step requirement needed to obtain a standard patent.
The owner of any new and useful invention that involves an innovative step can file an innovation patent application. The process to get a granted innovation patent is not as astringent a process as for a standard patent.
To be eligible for an innovation patent protection your invention must:
involve novelty (be new); which means that the invention has not been publicly disclosed in any form, anywhere in the world before the earliest priority date (the date at which the application is first filed)
involve an innovative step; which means the invention is different from what is known before and the difference makes a substantial contribution to the working of the invention
A simple formalities check is conducted to ensure your application is in order. Generally, within 1 month you’ll receive notification formally granting you an innovation patent (provided you with the filing fees are paid).
Please note that the innovation patent is granted without substantive examination. We do not assess whether the patent is valid, which may make it more difficult to sell or licence.
Filing the application
You can request a patent for your invention using eServices or by using a Patent Request form.
In order to keep the priority date of a provisional application, you need to apply for an innovation patent within 12 months of filing your provisional. If you have an overseas patent application (a convention application) and want similar protection in Australia, you will need to apply for your innovation patent within 12 months of filing your overseas application.
PATENT SPECIFICATIONS
The purpose of a specification is to describe your invention.
It should contain as much detail as possible, including:
the technical features that are essential to the way your invention works
the best way or ways you know of putting your invention into practice
examples or drawings if they help describe the invention
end with claims that define your invention.
You can search for examples of specifications online through AusPat. AusPat will allow you to search by filters including patent application number or accepted patent numbers.
Stay tuned for Part No. 2 Drawing specification for a patent application in Australia
Australian Design and drafting helping clients all over from Australia for patent design and drafting needs. We have a strict NDA agreement that allows protecting innovator rights. Contact us for more details.
