# Implementing CAD API Automated Processes in Engineering Design: A Case Study Approach
## 6 Conclusions and Future Work  
This study set out to investigate the potential of CAD-based automation to improve efficiency, traceability, and error minimization in mechanical design documentation workflows. Through the development and deployment of a modular automation framework using Autodesk Inventor's API, the research addressed three primary questions concerning optimization (RQ1), traceability and error reduction (RQ2), and the extent and limitations of automation in practice (RQ3). The results from three structured case studies clearly demonstrate that automating repetitive engineering tasks significantly reduces documentation time and enhances consistency, particularly in high-volume or high-variation production environments. Regarding RQ1, the framework proved highly effective in optimizing core design processes, especially in tasks such as CAD file creation, drawing generation, and directory structuring. Time savings were consistently demonstrated, with automated processes requiring a fraction of the time needed for their manual equivalents. In response to RQ2, the methodology ensured improved traceability through standardized documentation and archiving routines. The integration of metadata into both CAD models and linked Excel/Word outputs significantly lowered the risk of incomplete or inconsistent records, supporting regulatory compliance and downstream process reliability. For RQ3, while the automation system achieved substantial coverage of routine operations, certain limitations persist. Complex design tasks such as advanced geometric modeling or engineering judg \begin{table}
\begin{tabular}{c c c c c c} \hline \hline
**Case Study** & **Automation** & **Main Features** & **Time Savings** & **Error Reduction** & **Scalability** \\ \hline \multirow{4}{*}{Case 1} & Folder creation and structured data archiving & Auto-generation of folders, Excel-based index with hyperlinks & \(\sim\)90\% reduction (2.9 h \(\rightarrow\) 8 min) & Eliminated manual folder errors & High—reusable across all part types \\  & Drawing generation from CAD part files & Creation, three-view layouts, title block completion, metadata insertion CAD + drawing generation, financial calculator, automated MS Word report with footprint box & Significant for batch processes & Standardized output, mini-mized admissions & High—adaptable drawing types \\  & Full workflow automation with cost estimation & & & & \\ \hline \hline \end{tabular}
\end{table} 
Table 2: Summary of key outcomes from case study automation scenarios. ment in drawing comprehension still require human intervention, stressing the ongoing importance of human oversight in design engineering. While the proposed framework delivered substantial time and error reduction benefits, its current implementation is limited to the Autodesk Inventor platform and relies on VBA scripting, which may constrain portability and extensibility. Additionally, the impact of automation on reducing human error could not be quantitatively measured due to the subjective nature of manual processes. These limitations dictate the need for broader validation and structured error analysis in future work. Regarding broader implications, this study contributes to the body of knowledge pertaining to sustainable engineering practices. By eliminating unnecessary manual labor and reducing errors, the automation process results in greater resource effectiveness combined with a reduced need for costly rework. These advantages not only enhance operational excellence but also aid in the attainment of sustainability goals in terms of minimizing material waste and energy consumption. For this purpose, several future research directions are proposed. First, extension of the framework to accommodate other CAD systems or integrated Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) systems would enhance its value considerably.