How do you create a CAD model for an aircraft component?

Aircraft designing is a crucial and critical job, and in the workflow of Aircraft design, CAD tool plays a very important role. Every sub-workflow of Aircraft design and manufacturing depends on CAD tool and CAD design such as conceptual analysis of aircraft configuration, high-fidelity aerodynamic analysis, stress analysis, kinetic assembly analysis, Manufacturing drawings, etc. CAD is supposed to fulfill the requirements of above mentioned each part, in every new updated version CAD tool has to export the appropriate CAD file type with CAD all possible CAD formats such as a solid body, surface body, mesh body, etc, for each part. Furthermore, data management is also an essential part of CAD tool.

Algunos programas tienen módulos adicionales o algo diferente, en particular me ha resultado muy útil el acelerador de diseño de Inventor de Autodesk, ahorra mucho tiempo en el diseño de componentes mecánicos, también es muy fácil ensamblar y lograr simulaciones de mecanismos.

Solidworks has some great software for 3D development. In a professional environment, the license should be provided by the employer. Anyone interested in 3D design should look for free software to practice. Also, taking a technical drawing & design classes can be a helpful way to get some practice.

One thing I've found helpful is considering the specific needs of your project when choosing a CAD software. For general-purpose 3D modeling, Autodesk Fusion 360 offers a versatile solution, while SolidWorks is renowned for its robust capabilities in engineering and design. Actually, I disagree with overlooking free alternatives. Blender, a powerful open-source tool, is suitable for various 3D modeling tasks and can be a cost-effective option. An example I've seen is professionals in the automotive industry often favoring CATIA for its advanced surface modeling features, emphasizing its relevance to the specific requirements of complex design projects.

Normally the OEM will let you know up front what is the CAD software to be used to the contractor. The CAD software has to compatible to the OEM and is able integrate all detail parts and assembly for the OEM to review

A solid sketch is the backbone of a solid part design. The majority of 3D modelling software are parametric which enables the sketches and models to be controlled through a spreadsheet, various input options or formulas. Care needs to be taken to ensure that the sketch is fully constrained so that any change of the input values causes expected changes to the sketch. Constraining a sketch means assigning values or 'constraints' to the various sketch elements. For example, a parallel constraint can be applied to 2 lines to ensure they will always remain parallel regardless of the distance between them. A constraint could also be the length or angle of a line or the radius circle. You should test your sketch before solid modeling.

Drawings are where the rubber meets the runway as they say, and it is essential that any drawings that are produced are easy to read, clear and provide all of the relevant information required to produce the part. Most CAD packages now are able to automatically produce basic drawings or views as a starting point but it is vitally important that a draftsperson actually knows how to draw. A large majority of CAD users now are trained to use a software platform, and assume that the software knows how to create a drawing, rather than being trained how to produce a drawing. These are two totally different things. Although software can produce a nice looking drawing, you need to know what you are doing to create a correct drawing.

In my career, I've learned that designing a component isn't done in isolation. It requires input from aerodynamics experts, material scientists, manufacturing engineers, & more. Regular meetings & collaborative tools have been essential for integrating these diverse perspectives into the design process. Ensuring the design meets all aviation standards & regulations, like those from the FAA or EASA, is fundamental. This involves rigorous documentation & often extensive testing. My experience has taught me the importance of being thoroughly acquainted with these regulations to avoid costly redesigns. Create a prototype using 3D printing or CNC machining. Testing the prototype is vital for identifying any real-world issues.