3-D CADD

Course Description

ETD2355C – 3-D CADD is a combined lecture and laboratory course (3 credit hours) in the Engineering Technologies taxonomy under Engineering Design Drafting. The course introduces students to three-dimensional computer-aided drafting and design (CADD) using industry-standard parametric and solid modeling software. Students learn to navigate the 3D coordinate system, create and modify solid part models and assemblies, generate 2D working drawings from 3D models, and apply proper engineering documentation standards. Conceptual design, model rendering, and an introduction to digital fabrication (3D printing and CNC) are also addressed. This course is part of Florida's Statewide Course Numbering System (SCNS) and is offered at multiple Florida colleges including Eastern Florida State College, Gulf Coast State College, St. Petersburg College, and Daytona State College.

Learning Outcomes

Required Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:

• Navigate and apply the 3D coordinate system (X, Y, Z axes) within a CADD software environment.
• Create 3D solid part models using feature-based, parametric modeling techniques such as extrusions, revolves, fillets, and chamfers.
• Apply sketching, constraints, and parametric dimensions to define and control model geometry and design intent.
• Build multi-part assemblies using assembly constraints to correctly represent functional relationships between components.
• Generate 2D working drawings and detail drawings (orthographic views, sections, auxiliary views) directly from 3D models.
• Apply dimensioning and tolerancing standards in accordance with ANSI Y14.5 on production-ready drawings.
• Produce assembly drawings including bill of materials (BOM), part callouts, and title block information.
• Modify and edit existing part models and assemblies using both part modeling and drawing modes.

Optional Outcomes

The following outcomes are addressed in some Florida college offerings of this course and may be included at the instructor's discretion:

• Apply rendering and visualization techniques to 3D models for design communication and presentation.
• Demonstrate conceptual design workflows, including design intent planning and revision management.
• Export and prepare STL files for 3D printing and rapid prototyping applications.
• Introduce computer numerical control (CNC) machining concepts as related to 3D model data.
• Perform basic motion analysis and simulation of assembled mechanisms within the CADD environment.
• Utilize surface modeling techniques to create and refine complex geometry.
• Apply sheet metal design features including bends, flanges, and flat-pattern development.

Major Topics

Required Topics

The following content areas are common across Florida college offerings of ETD2355C:

• Introduction to 3D CADD Environment – Software interface, workspace settings, coordinate systems (WCS/UCS), and file management.
• Sketching and Constraints – Creating 2D sketch profiles; applying geometric and dimensional constraints to define sketch intent.
• Feature-Based Solid Modeling – Core modeling operations: extrude, revolve, sweep, loft, fillet, chamfer, shell, and pattern features.
• Parametric Design and Model History Tree – Understanding parametric relationships, editing features through the model history/feature tree, and maintaining design intent.
• Part Modeling Projects – Creation of individual mechanical parts from engineering specifications; model verification and validation.
• Assembly Modeling – Inserting components, applying assembly constraints (mate, flush, angle, insert), and verifying fit and function.
• Drawing Layout and Documentation – Generating orthographic projections, section views, auxiliary views, and detail views from 3D models; title blocks and drawing templates.
• Dimensioning and Tolerancing (ANSI Y14.5) – Applying linear, angular, radial, and geometric dimensions and tolerances (GD&T) on production drawings.
• Assembly Drawings and BOM – Creating multi-view assembly drawings, balloons, and automated bill of materials tables.
• Model Modification and Editing – Editing existing solid models by modifying sketch dimensions, suppressing/unsuppressing features, and updating associated drawings.

Optional Topics

The following topics may be included based on institutional resources and instructor emphasis:

• Rendering and Visual Presentation – Applying materials, textures, lighting, and camera settings to produce photorealistic model renderings.
• 3D Printing and Rapid Prototyping – STL file export, slicing software orientation, support structure considerations, and print preparation.
• CNC Machining Fundamentals – Overview of toolpath generation and the relationship between 3D models and CNC fabrication.
• Surface Modeling Basics – Introduction to freeform surface creation, boundary surfaces, and surface-to-solid conversions.
• Sheet Metal Design – Creating sheet metal parts using flanges, bends, and flat-pattern development tools.
• Motion Analysis / Simulation – Animating assembly constraints, checking for interference, and basic motion study configurations.
• Top-Down Assembly Design – Using in-context design and layout sketches to drive component geometry within an assembly.

Resources & Tools

The following software, hardware, and reference materials are commonly used in Florida college offerings of this course:

• Primary CADD Software (one or more of the following):
  • Autodesk AutoCAD (3D modeling workspace)
  • Autodesk Inventor (parametric mechanical design)
  • Autodesk Fusion 360
  • SolidWorks (Dassault Systèmes)
  • PTC Creo Parametric (Pro/ENGINEER)
• Supplementary Tools: 3D printers (FDM), slicing software (e.g., Ultimaker Cura), file formats (DWG, IPT, SLDPRT, STL, STEP)
• Standards References: ANSI/ASME Y14.5 Dimensioning and Tolerancing standard; ASME Y14.100 Engineering Drawing Practices
• Textbooks / Learning Resources: Vendor-provided tutorials (Autodesk Learning, SolidWorks MySolidWorks), instructor-developed project packets, and engineering drawing fundamentals texts
• Hardware: Workstation-class computers with dedicated GPU; large-format plotters for print production

Career Pathways

Completion of ETD2355C supports entry-level and advancing employment in fields that rely on 3D CADD skills. Typical career roles and pathways include:

• CAD Drafter / CAD Technician – Creates and maintains engineering drawings and 3D models in manufacturing, construction, or consulting firms.
• Mechanical Design Drafter – Supports mechanical engineers in developing part and assembly documentation for industrial products.
• Product Design Technician – Assists in the development and prototyping of consumer and industrial products using 3D solid modeling tools.
• Manufacturing / CNC Technician – Translates 3D models into fabrication-ready data for CNC machining and additive manufacturing processes.
• Architectural or Structural CAD Technician – Applies 3D modeling skills in building design and construction documentation environments.
• Engineering Technologist (A.S. pathway) – ETD2355C is a core component of the Associate in Science in Computer-Aided Drafting and Design (CADD) at multiple Florida colleges, preparing students for further specialization in civil, mechanical, or architectural CAD.

Related Florida SOC occupations include Drafters (SOC 17-3010) and Engineering Technicians (SOC 17-3020). Median wages and employment outlook data are available through the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity's Employ Florida labor market portal.

Special Information

Certification Preparation

This course provides foundational preparation for several recognized industry certifications:

• Autodesk Certified User (ACU) – AutoCAD or Inventor: Industry-recognized credential validating proficiency in Autodesk CADD software. Exam content aligns closely with ETD2355C learning outcomes.
• Autodesk Certified Professional (ACP): Advanced-level credential attainable after building on skills developed in this course.
• Certified SolidWorks Associate (CSWA): Entry-level certification from Dassault Systèmes testing 3D modeling and assembly skills directly aligned with this course's content.
• Certified SolidWorks Professional (CSWP): Intermediate credential that students may pursue after completing this and subsequent CADD courses.

Laboratory Requirement

The "C" suffix in ETD2355C designates this as a combined lecture and laboratory course per Florida's Statewide Course Numbering System. Students should expect significant hands-on lab time each week using CADD workstations. A lab fee is typically assessed in addition to standard tuition; consult your institution's course schedule for the specific amount.

Program Context

ETD2355C is typically offered as a second-year core course within the A.S. in Computer-Aided Drafting and Design or Engineering Technology programs at Florida colleges. Students who complete this course are generally prepared to continue into advanced courses in parametric modeling, civil CADD, architectural CADD (BIM/Revit), or engineering design.