This paper introduces CADgpt, an innovative plugin integrating Natural Language Processing (NLP) with Rhino3D for enhancing 3D modelling in computer-aided design (CAD) environments. Leveraging OpenAI's GPT-4, CADgpt simplifies the CAD interface, enabling users, particularly beginners, to perform complex 3D modelling tasks through intuitive natural language commands. This approach significantly reduces the learning curve associated with traditional CAD software, fostering a more inclusive and engaging educational environment. The paper discusses CADgpt's technical architecture, including its integration within Rhino3D and the adaptation of GPT-4 capabilities for CAD tasks. It presents case studies demonstrating CADgpt's efficacy in various design scenarios, highlighting its potential to democratise design education by making sophisticated design tools accessible to a broader range of students. The discussion further explores CADgpt's implications for pedagogy and curriculum development, emphasising its role in enhancing creative exploration and conceptual thinking in design education. Keywords: Natural Language Processing, Computer-Aided Design, 3D Modelling, Design Automation, Design Education, Architectural Education

As autonomous machines capable of interacting with the real world, various types of robots, such as wheeled mobile robots, quadrupedal robots, and humanoid robots, are emerging in domestic, factory, and other environments to collaborate with humans or accomplish tasks independently. The morphology of a robot is the essential factor that most directly affects the robot's configuration space, thereby determining the robot's function [1]. Robot morphology is primarily determined during the design process, thanks to the development of computer-aided design (CAD) technology, which makes it cost-effective, time-saving, and efficient compared to the manufacturing process. Beyond robot morphology, learning has become an essential topic in robotics because it enables robots to achieve complex tasks and, thus, better interact with the environment. However, training robots in hardware may lead to failures or damage, making it expensive and time-consuming.

The third step entails many repetitive and menial tasks, such as inserting parts and creating joints between them. Especially when comparing and implementing design alternatives, this issue is compounded. We propose a use-case agnostic knowledge-driven framework to automate the implementation step. In particular, the framework catalogues the acquired knowledge and the design concept, as well as utilizes Combinatory Logic Synthesis to synthesize concrete design alternatives. This minimizes the effort required to create designs, allowing the design space to be thoroughly explored. We implemented the framework as a plugin for the CAD software Autodesk Fusion 360. We conducted a case study in which robotic arms were synthesized from a set of 28 modular components. Based on the case study, the applicability of the framework is analyzed and discussed.

A new feature to be found in modern CAD software releases is KBE (Knowledge Based Engineering) to support diagnosis, selection, and monitoring of tasks. KBE relies on capturing and storing experiential knowledge which includes proprietary design and manufacturing practices exercised during a product development cycle. KBE helps engineering companies to retain and preserve in-house knowledge and intellectual information. A related technology which could significantly augment problem solving capabilities in CAD software is AI (Artificial Intelligence), which was introduced in the mid-1980s. The purpose of AI is to learn and replicate human problem solving capabilities.

In the late 1960s and early 70s, the first computer-aided design (CAD) software packages began to appear. Initially, they were mostly used for high-end engineering tasks, but as they got cheaper and simpler to use, they became a basic tool to automate the work of engineers and architects. According to a certain logic, with so much of the heavy work being shifted to machines, a lot of engineers and architects must have been put out of work, but in fact just the opposite happened. There are far more of them today than 20 years ago and employment in the sector is supposed to grow another 7% by 2024. Still, while the dystopian visions of robots taking our jobs are almost certainly overblown, Josh Sutton, Global Head, Data & Artificial Intelligence at Publicis.Sapient, sees significant disruption ahead.

In the late 1960s and early 70s, the first computer-aided design (CAD) software packages began to appear. Initially, they were mostly used for high-end engineering tasks, but as they got cheaper and simpler to use, they became a basic tool to automate the work of engineers and architects. According to a certain logic, with so much of the heavy work being shifted to machines, a lot of engineers and architects must have been put out of work, but in fact just the opposite happened. There are far more of them today than 20 years ago and employment in the sector is supposed to grow another 7% by 2024. Still, while the dystopian visions of robots taking our jobs are almost certainly overblown, Josh Sutton, Global Head, Data & Artificial Intelligence at Publicis.Sapient sees significant disruption ahead.