The profession of design draughtsman

The draughtsman conceptualizes and defines the building or equipment to be constructed : a machine part, a tool, an electronic circuit ... It is therefore essential to numerous industrial sectors. Yet, while drawing requires a good pencil-stroke, it is essential to possess a sound grounding in computer technology. A draughtsman's pencil is now replaced by the computer's mouse. His function demands technological training, open-mindedness, analytical ability,, thoutghfulness and to be disciplined, methodical, precise and observant. He abides by the construction codes and standards. His mission is not limited to designing only  : he follows the project all through the construction stage and works together with the engineers. This helps him have a concrete vision of what has been achieved abstractly.

He seldom uses a drawing table. It's the computer that helps him draw plans and designs. The computer also makes it possible to display the intended part in 2 or 3 dimensions thanks to CAD (computer-aided design) softwares, use computer-aided drafting softwares and to draw designs automatically on a plotter. From the computer, the draughtsman is also able to give direct orders to digitally-operated machine-tools for construction. Such technological developments have led to substantial time and productivity gains as well as an improvement of the product quality. Finally, the draughtsman's profession is not very known by the general public, yet it is at the root of major projects.