Modelling is about building representations of things in the real world and allowing ideas to be investigated; it is central to all activities

in the process for building or creating an artefact of some form or other. In effect, a model is a way of expressing a particular view of an identifiable system of some kind. Models are:
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a means of understanding the problems involved in building something; an aid to communication between those involved in the project, especially between the requirements analyst (a development role) and the user, as part of some deliverable; a component of the methods used in development activities such as the analysis of the requirements for an artefact and the design of the artefact.

http://openlearn.open.ac.uk/mod/oucontent/view.php?id=397581&section=2.1 Solid modeling (or modelling) is a consistent set of principles for mathematical and computer modeling of three-dimensional solids. Solid modeling is distinguished from related areas of geometric modeling and computer graphics by its emphasis on physical fidelity.[1] Together, the principles of geometric and solid modeling form the foundation of computer-aided design and in general support the creation, exchange, visualization, animation, interrogation, and annotation of digital models of physical objects. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Solid_modeling

Significance of modelling: The use of solid modeling techniques allows for the automation of several difficult engineering calculations that are carried out as a part of the design process. Simulation, planning, and verification of processes such as machining and assembly were one of the main catalysts for the development of solid modeling. More recently, the range of supported manufacturing applications has been greatly expanded to include sheet metal manufacturing, injection molding, welding, pipe routing etc. Beyond traditional manufacturing, solid modeling techniques serve as the foundation for rapid prototyping, digital data archival and reverse engineering by reconstructing solids from sampled points on physical objects, mechanical analysis using finite elements, motion planning and NC path verification, kinematic and dynamic analysis of mechanisms, and so on. A central problem in all these applications is the ability to effectively represent and manipulate three-dimensional geometry in a fashion that is consistent with the physical behavior of real artifacts. Solid modeling research and development has effectively addressed many of these issues, and continues to be a central focus of computer-aided engineering. Drafting: Drafting is the drawing of objects to scale, usually a top view, main view and side view, to tell a machinist the specifications of what he will be making, what it looks like, and what dimensions and special work will be required or needed to make it. http://answers.yahoo.com/question/index?qid=20070609020256AA1vUYd

Drawings may present the various aspects of an object's form, show the object projected in space, or explain how it is built. Drafting uses orthographic projection, in which the object is viewed along parallel lines that are perpendicular to the plane of the drawing. Orthographic drawings include top views (plans), flat front and side views (elevations), and cross-sectional views showing profile. Perspective drawing, which presents a realistic illusion of space, uses a horizon line and vanishing points to show how objects and spatial relationships might appear to the eye, including diminution of size and convergence of parallel lines. Drafting was done with precision instruments (T square or parallel rule, triangle, mechanical pens and pencils) until computerization revolutionized production methods in architectural and engineering offices.

Read more: http://www.answers.com/topic/drafting#ixzz1iSr6h33i

Design Process
The design process is the transformation of an idea, needs, or wants by consumers or the marketplace at large, into a product that satisfies these needs. This is usually accomplished by adventurous people that are willing to take it on. Sometimes an engineer will be involved on some levels but not always.[4] Product designers follow various [methodology] that requires a specific skill set (usually in engineering) to complete. Design is basically a problem solving exercise. The design of a new product consists of the following stages:
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Design Brief Product Design Specifications Concept Design Testing Detail Design Manufacturing and Further Testing Refinement and Sales

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Product_design Graphic: An image that is generated by a computer