The emphasis of the book reflects the changes that many institutions are incorporating, including the importance of sketching, 3D solid modeling, and the use of design databases throughout the engineering process. FEATURES/BENEFITS Presents sketching and modeling techniques in the context of the design process--Organization more closely reflects industry practice. Users first learn to sketch their ideas, to transform 2D sketches into 3D models, to refine the models and use them for analysis, and finally to use the models to document the design--as they would on a project. Gives the user a strong framework for understanding why they should learn to sketch, when it is appropriate to use different kinds of models, and what they need to discover in order to prepare a model for manufacture. Includes a chapter on exporting and using the model data for downstream applications, including rapid prototypes, that presents additional considerations for creating a useful design database. Emphasizes sketching and visualization techniques throughout the text--"Designer's Notebook" feature highlights the use of sketching in the context of industrial practice. Reinforces the role of sketching in each chapter/through the entire design process. Users learn to use a full range of drawing views and projections in their sketches in early chapters. Actual sketches used as illustrations allow the reader to compare their efforts with other sketches, not instrument or CAD drawings. Encourages users to keep a notebook of sketches by showing how practicing engineers use sketching. Emphasizes solid and parametric modeling software as a means to building a design database--Presents the big picture of the many uses of the CAD database. Anchoring modeling techniques in the context of design helps users build an understanding of design intent as they learn to model. Aids users in evaluating the strengths and weaknesses of the software they are learning to use in lab by providing a comparison of modeling methods. Encourages the reader to think about the broader context for their models so they plan for flexibility, downstream applications, and manufacture as they are learning to model. Fosters a real-world approach to engineering communication--Through the use of industry cases that profile practice in major corporation. Present specific instances of general principles presented in the text, giving users a clear idea of the contemporary software tools and techniques used to create design. Show how design goals influence the way models are made. Presents a wide variety of software and presentation tools--That an engineer will use to help visualize design.