2D drafting VS 3D drafting

Our engineers work hours behind the computer, drafting and designing all kinds of bulk handling systems. But what are they doing? And what kind of software are they using?

Most of our engineers have the philosophy to design everything at one time. Therefore we shifted from 2D drafting to 3D modelling, but still bulk handling systems designs on board Drilling rigs, Offshore Support Vessels, and Self-Discharging Cement Carriers or our land-based ship unloader, conveying systems have yet to wholly materialize, which prompted us to write about this topic. In general CAD software utilization, designers still use 2D drafting more than 50% of the time. That’s not surprising. While 3D offers many advantages, 2D drafting is still easier to use and effective in getting the job out the door quickly and inexpensively.
For many companies, but also for H.W.Carlsen and Lion Bulk Handling, restrained by project budgets for engineering and design, 2D offers a reasonable solution. After all, most ships, rigs or ship unloaders drafted over 25 years were designed using pencil and paper in 2D.
Some drafting can only be performed with 2D software, for example, general arrangement drawings or flow diagrams.
Eventually, most drafting and design work will naturally move from 2D to 3D. It is only a matter of time before the change of guard from designers who grew up with 2D shifts to the new generation so adept with 3D. Not only are the new engineers trained in 3D CAD at school as curriculums advance, but they also use it in their daily life playing 3D video games.

Here are some pros and cons of 3d modelling.

Pros 3d modelling.
• When a design is finalized, the model can easily be used for prototyping.
• It is possible to add data to the model. For example, material specifications that can calculate the mass of the product can be added. There are even software programs that can calculate complicated “finite element method” calculations.
• It is easy to reuse the design of a specific section for future designs.
• Because the 3d model is a digital version of the product, it provides the engineer with a clear picture of the real-time product. Because of this, misinterpretations are reduced.
• The modelling software allows the engineer to make a parametric model; this means that the model can be changed by changing some parameters.

Cons 3d modelling.
• A lot of products are an assembly of multiple parts mounted to each other. The 3d modelling software uses a file for each part; this makes the design process more difficult and time-consuming. Also, revision time can take more time than the 2d drawing revision process, especially with the communication of the connected 3D parts.
• Before showing the first look of a design, there is a lot of modelling needed. In contrast to 2d modelling, where a few lines already show the engineer the shape of the parts.

The 3D design is the future. But 2D drafting will stick around for a while longer.

What do you think?

#engineering #3dmodeling