Manufacturing & engineering
Drawing
Definition
An engineering drawing is a 2D document generated from a 3D model, with views, dimensions, tolerances, and notes. Many shops still quote and inspect from drawings even when they also receive a STEP file.
Also known as: engineering drawing, technical drawing, 2D drawing, print
Updated
What a drawing adds#
A 3D model shows shape. A drawing states requirements: which dimensions matter, their tolerances, materials, finishes, and inspection notes. In the US, ASME Y14.100 covers engineering drawing practices, alongside Y14.5 for dimensioning and tolerancing.
CAD programs generate drawing views from the model and keep them associative, so a model change updates the views. Onshape, for example, creates drawings from Part Studios and Assemblies. Model-based definition moves the same information onto the 3D model, but drawings remain the common contract with suppliers.
Sources
Related terms
GD&T
GD&T is a symbolic language for specifying the allowed variation in a part's form, orientation, location, and runout relative to datum features. In the US it is defined by ASME Y14.5, and it tells the manufacturer and inspector which geometry actually matters for fit and function.
Tolerance
A tolerance is the allowed variation from a nominal dimension, such as 10.00 ± 0.05 mm. Tolerances drive fit, cost, and inspection, and they have to be specified deliberately because a CAD model on its own stores only nominal sizes.
MBD
MBD is the practice of making the annotated 3D model, with its PMI, the authoritative definition of a part instead of a separate 2D drawing. The model carries dimensions, tolerances, and notes directly to manufacturing and inspection.
DXF
DXF is Autodesk's documented format for exchanging AutoCAD drawing data, most often 2D geometry. It is the usual handoff for laser cutting, waterjet, and sheet metal flat patterns.