2D CAD Drafting Vs. 3D CAD Modeling

by Sam Walton Sr. Business Analyst

CAD stands for Computer-Aided Design, and is generally used to develop floor plans for buildings, layouts for numerous purposes such as landscaping, control plans, and plans in general.

2D CAD drafting and drawing is used to create technical drawings and produce annotating designs for all your needs.

2D CAD Drafting replaced the complicated technical drawings that were made with pen and paper. It allows you to add annotations and improve your design without redoing it all over again.

3D CAD Modeling is the next level in the evolution of CAD Drafting. It allows the user to do what 2D CAD Drafting could do but in addition, a 3D rendering to the project is created.

There are two different types of 3D models –

SOLID MODEL
A solid model is the most realistic representation of your finished product stats. It is created in your 3D modeling program, to determine analytics data of the model you’re trying to create.

SURFACE MODEL
Surface models are used to represent the shell of your object. They are used to refine the appearance of the model and represent how the model will look when finished.

Is 3D better than 2D?

The answer will depend upon your needs.

Most PCs can run 2D CAD Drafting easily, but you have to invest in a higher performance machine in order to use 3D CAD modeling.

3D CAD services are more advanced but also has more requirements. If you are working with layers, line types, and line weights, use 3D CAD Modeling.

3D CAD modeling is simple to present, even to a layman. A 3D Object can be easily navigated and observed. That means, if you’re trying to get something approved, the process is much quicker since it’s much easier to present an object than a technical drawing.

If there’s an error, editing with 3D technology is easier. Identifying the problem and editing with 2D drawing technology is much more tedious.

2D drawings can only be used for technical purposes. Their visualization can’t be used for marketing since the number of people who understand these drawings is limited. On the other hand, 3D drawings are visually orientated and can be used for marketing purposes to show how an object will appear in a real-life and real-time situation. Yet 2D is cheaper than

3D CAD modeling, so it’s a cost-effective alternative. Learning 2D CAD drafting is simpler too.

To learn more about San Francisco as-builts, drawings and surveys or to request a quote, call Precision Property Measurements at 855-272-8458. Whether you own a house, or a complex commercial project with multiple locations, PPM’s highly-trained team of As-Built surveyors, drafters, project managers, and quality assurance staff are experts in both residential and commercial buildings.