How does Computer field help in Mechanical Engineering?

When you think of a Mechanical engineer, the very first thing that comes in your mind is a guy under a vehicle repairing the same. But rather than only dealing with hardware, Mechanical engineers design things like robotics, factory automation systems, and machines of all types. In eras past, engineers were used to doing that with pencils, erasers, and drafting boards. In the computer’s age, engineers get the job done faster and more efficiently using computer-aided design software programs and plotters. Simply put, information technology provides mechanical engineers with the tools they need to do their jobs.

1.    CAD Software: First-generation computer-aided drafting software programs have evolved into the computer-aided design (CAD) programs of today. CAD software programs are graphics-rich to allow engineers the ability to create three-dimensional models of their designs. These programs also perform complex calculations, helping engineers to create detailed specifications. As designs are completed, data associated with components identified populate the CAD program's database functionality, allowing the engineer to automate the building of a parts list.

2.    CAE Software: While CAD software creates designs, another computer-aided engineering (CAE) software programs allow engineers to analyze the designs and solve problems. Mechanical engineers use CAE programs to determine conditions under which their designs can be expected to function properly, along with tolerance levels that introduce the risk of product failure if exceeded. CAE programs are also used to run simulations of designs in action. If the engineer is designing a robotic arm, the CAE program can show how that arm will move in operation.

3.    Document Management: The designs created by mechanical engineers result in a lot of documentation, such as product drawings, bills of materials, design specifications and testing procedures. An efficient document management software program controls revisions of these documents, making sure obsolete versions are archived and only the latest authorized levels are released to production or access for decision-making or further design work. Document management software programs also control user access, requiring users to enter proper security credentials before gaining access to confidential documents and intellectual property.

4.    Robotics and Automation: The world has

completely evolved over time. Automation seems everywhere, for that purpose coding is required. To write appropriate code and execute on the desired machine or robot a good computer is required.

5.    Hardware: Mechanical engineers also rely on information technology for the high-performance computers needed to run CAD and CAE software programs, and the local- and wide-area networks that link workstations and allow engineering teams to share data. Other hardware requirements include printers for general document printing and plotters for two-dimensional printouts of engineering designs. Plotters use pens to print continuous lines rather than the dots used by laser printers. Paper is fed through plotters on rolls and cut to size, based on the needs of a specific print job.

For all the above applications, computers are used by mechanical engineers. And not only mechanical engineers but all types of engineers will require a good computer to cope up with the fastest growing industry.