Drawing Instruments

Today, engineering drawings are very seldom constructed by hand.  CAD technology is the universal choice in industry.  However, it is useful to include a discussion of the instruments that were historically used for this purpose.  Manual drafting is an appropriate way teach the fundamentals of engineering graphics.  The most important concepts of engineering graphics are applicable whether they are taught with manual instruments or by CAD. Manual drafting can instill in students a sense of care and professionalism that is required in producing engineering drawings.  Each and every line, letter and number must be precise and accurate.  A small error on a drawing can produce expensive and disastrous results.  Learning to draw with instruments is analogous to learning math without a calculator.  You wouldn’t want to do it as a professional, but you need to understand it is that what is being automated by the computer.

Drawing Instruments