The development of computer technology in the 20th century has automated many tasks that engineers once performed by hand or simply were not feasible. Computer software programs allow engineers to perform computations at an ever increasing speed, raising the overall level of productivity of each engineer. Engineering software can be divided into several distinct groups. However, many specific programs may overlap categories, depending on the scope of the program.
Computer Aided Design (CAD)
CAD tools were the result of the evolution of the mechanical drafting process to the digital realm. CAD software began as a pure analog of the drafting table, generating 2D prints identical to those created by the draftsman.
This soon evolved to 3D drafting and modeling which allows engineers to more efficiently envision how parts and systems are assembled, and allow for parametric design of components. Many CAD systems integrate with analysis software and manufacturing tools, allowing for more functions to be performed within one program, rather than using separate, stand-alone programs for each portion of the design process. Examples of this type of software include Pro/ENGINEER and Solidworks.