What is the primary benefit of using CAD software in product design?

Using CAD (Computer-Aided Design) software in product design primarily benefits the design process by assisting in creating detailed digital models and simulations. This capability allows designers to visualize their ideas accurately in a digital format, enabling them to manipulate and refine every aspect of the design with precision.

These digital models can be used for simulations that test the product's functionality, performance, and ergonomics before physical prototypes are made, which saves time and resources. The ability to virtually test and iterate on designs helps identify potential issues early in the development process, significantly improving the overall quality and effectiveness of the final product.

Other options do not represent core functions of CAD software. Market research is a separate process that informs design decisions but is not directly facilitated by CAD. While CAD can help enhance aesthetics by providing tools for visualization, it cannot guarantee that a product will be aesthetically pleasing. Finally, while CAD software can reduce the number of required prototypes, it does not entirely eliminate the need for physical testing to evaluate a product's real-world performance.