How can you use CAD software to automate repetitive design tasks?

Hardly any reputable firm uses pure CAD nowadays. The industry is switching (major projects already switched) to BIM. BIM by default involves/requires automation to a certain degree, however the individual design based decision making still remains with the designer. Automation requires firm rules. Design decision often bend the rules.

CAD Automation, is totally fine, if the design which is being accomplished by the organization is repetitive in nature, but if it is being utilized in some R&D, there might be chances that it can create limitations to the designers. Errors will happen, as said, without failure how would you know the taste of success, similarly on that note, if one doesn't make an error, how will it be considered that design is perfect. Rather than Automation, it should be more hybrid in nature, where along with certain automation, few commands should be kept free for designers to use it in the way they want.

Use a platform like DriveWorks. DriveWorks enables product configuration and design automation and scales to a full CPQ (Configure-Price-Quote) solution. The level of automation goes far beyond CAD automation as the platform integrates with ERP and CRM to automate a myriad of tasks within a business.

Automating CAD for repetitive designs can be done through scripting and parametric modeling. You can use CAD software's scripting capabilities or external scripting languages to create scripts that generate designs based on predefined parameters. Additionally, parametric modeling allows you to define variables and constraints within the CAD software, enabling the creation of designs that can be easily modified and reused.

CAD automation involves using tools, scripts, and advanced features within your CAD software to perform tasks that would otherwise be manual and repetitive. Automation can range from simple macros that execute a sequence of commands to complex scripts that handle intricate design processes

I suspect you are confusing the AEC perspective of 'CAD' ie AutoCAD. With our friend here referring to 'CAD' in engineering terms which, is also referred to as CAD. Higher end engineering CAD is significantly more advanced than most BIM based systems in terms of the level of automation that is available to the user.

Macros, should be provided to new bees, who through this script will understand the workflow of the CAD, as it makes the task easier with single click in place of multiple clicks. Meanwhile, MACROS is good if a similar kind of job has to be on the regular basis, because, it has its own limitations. One has to be well aware to play with the scripts, and there are fair chances of designers not being accompanied with scripts and macros. Hence, for using it, it's good to have a good knowledge base in hard core designing and then on the scripting part, only then it can be used.

For processes that are always the same regardless of design, macros are a great way to automate repetive tasks. It also teaches the user the command flow. For AutoCad, BricsCad, and similar CAD tools they also have the option of LiSP or even higher level programming languages for repetitive tasks that vary per design. For CAD tools like Cadence, and Mentor they also have similar scripting tools as well as programming languages like SKILL to help with repetive tasks.

Macros are small programs that automate repetitive tasks in CAD. For instance, if you frequently need to create specific types of lines or shapes, you can record a macro that automates these actions. Many CAD software options allow you to write or record scripts using programming languages like VBA, Python, or LISP. These scripts can automate more complex tasks, such as batch processing multiple files or automating the placement of components in a design.

A lot of people fail to understand the prerequisites for parametric modelling. We need to have a strong grip on the following things before starting: 1- Geometrical properties of different shapes 2- Concerned software hands-on 3- Geometrical constraints 4- The concerned design features 5- Ability to understand the conflicts between different constraints Aforementioned skills make the parametric modelling easy to go. All the best!!

AutoCAD also supports parametric modeling. It works great for roughing in approximate dimensions that are likely to change as a project goes though the revision process. Inserting parametric tags sets revisable angles, keeps parallels parallel, sets mandatory spacing on objects with known clearances so revision doesn't create clashes. I also use them as visual bookmarks. I hide the tags I have used and leave up the ones I haven't as I draft.

Parametric Modeling is one of the most interesting things that can be performed in the CAD, it helps to reduce various iterations in one go itself. If a designer, is working on a design from scratch, it is one the best tools to complement the designer's hard work.

I used these to create drawing file as a macro for base. From that with simple changes i made multiple different shapes and figures with ease.

Parametric modeling allows you to define dimensions and relationships within your design that can be automatically adjusted when parameters change. For example, if you design a component with parametric constraints, changing the length of one side can automatically adjust related features, saving you from manually redrawing or resizing parts. This approach is particularly useful for creating flexible designs that can easily be modified based on different requirements.

Generative design is an advanced CAD feature where the software explores all possible design configurations based on your input criteria and constraints. It can automate the creation of multiple design options, allowing you to select the best one. This process not only speeds up the design phase but also introduces innovative solutions that might not be immediately obvious.

Many CAD platforms offer built-in automation tools and third-party plugins designed to automate specific tasks. These tools might include automated drawing generation, BOM (Bill of Materials) creation, or even complex design optimizations. Explore your CAD software’s marketplace or online communities for plugins that align with your needs, such as automating routine drawing tasks or optimizing layouts.

Using tools like LiSP and VB to automate drawing creation (among a host of other uses) can take some time to get productive, but it is well worth it. I have found that there are a number of online sites for both LiSP and VB that you can use for free. On top of the sites that teach you, there are the forums where other users and programmers are willing to help you if you have questions. Please don't expect them to write your code for you, but give it a go and if you run into trouble, use this resource.

To fully take advantage of CAD automation, invest time in learning relevant skills. This might include learning a programming language like Python or VBA, understanding the logic behind parametric modeling, or becoming proficient with generative design tools. Many online courses, tutorials, and CAD software documentation can guide you in acquiring these skills.

When automating tasks, it’s important to strike a balance between automation and manual input. While automation can handle repetitive tasks, critical thinking and creativity are still required for high-quality design work. Regularly review and refine your automated processes to ensure they are up-to-date with your evolving design needs.