Here is a list of seven major benefits of using 3d parametric solid modelling CAD in the design and production of custom architectural metalwork projects.

1. Your designs can be created in 3d instead of using the traditional 2d CAD method. It's easier to understand the design in 3d rather than struggling to visualise how multiple elevations in a 2d drawing will look in reality. This will be especially true for less technically minded members of your team.

2. Once you have got a 3d engineering model, all of the working drawings for the many manufacturing and assembly processes involved in your project can be generated.

3. You can create computer generated photographic quality stills of proposed designs or 3d animations of your product from your models for use in architectural project bids. You can use these visuals to communicate the product to clients, sales and marketing, engineering and installation team members.

4. There can be numerous design revisions in architectural metalwork but utilising the flexibility of parametric solid modelling you can easily revise the designs as specifications change. If any part of the design changes then you can have your model automatically update. Unlike traditional 2d CAD any dependant changes to one part may spread throughout the design. Also all of the associated 2d engineering drawings reflect those changes.

5. Because of the way that solid modelling software treats each component of a design as a virtual part, you can assemble the parts into different configurations making it easy to build from stock components.

6. It's possible to virtually combine of all the parts of your 3d model into a final assembly. You can make variations of the main product design. With the virtual assembly you can simulate the mechanical and physical properties of your real product reducing the need to make physical prototypes.

7. The model can be used in the manufacture of the final parts or pattern work. You can generate step code off your 3d model to control CNC milling or routing machines for the machining of components or pattern work. Rapid prototypes can be made using 3D printers.