What What is an Engineering Drawing?
An engineering drawing is a document that communicates a precise description of a part. This description consists of pictures, words, numbers and symbols. Together, these elements communicate part information to all drawing users. Engineering drawing information includes:
Geometry (shape, size, and form of the part)
Critical functional relationships
Tolerances allowed for proper function
Material, heat treat, surface coatings
Part documentation information (part number, revision level)
In the past most engineering drawings were created by manual methods. Tools like drafting boards, T-squares, compasses, triangles, etc. were used. The original drawing was created on paper, vellum or Mylar that could be used for making blueprints.
Today engineers created drawings using a computer. The designer creates an electronic version of a drawing. The original drawing is a computer file. Copies are made on a printer or plotter. Whether engineering drawings are manual drawings or computer generated their purpose remains the same: to record and communicate design information.
Computer Aided Deign Parametric Modeling Design Intent Concurrent Engineering