Three new solutions for working with CAD data

Design & Development Three new solutions for working with CAD data

2024-02-19 Source: PTC, Simus Systems, Camtex | Translated by AI 5 min Reading Time

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We introduce three new or improved solutions for product development: an app for the Apple Vision Pro, an enhanced software suite for component analysis and cost control in the cloud, and an optimized CAD converter.

In focus: Software for product development.(Image: Apple) — In focus: Software for product development.
(Image: Apple)

Onshape Vision App expands CAD and PDM with spatial computing for Apple Vision Pro

PTC has released an app for the Apple Vision Pro. It transforms flat screen models into virtual products that developers can explore, disassemble, and inspect as if they were already produced. The app automatically syncs with the cloud-native CAD and PDM system Onshape, so all changes made here are also visualized in real-time in Onshape Vision.

App replaces prototypes

Upon first use, the app displays some exemplary CAD models. Own product designs are displayed as soon as an iPad, on which they are stored, is connected to the Apple Vision Pro. Then, users can modify their CAD model, move it in space, and zoom in and out. For example, a product can be displayed in a smaller size to provide a better impression of the overall design. It can be visualized in real size in the context and location where it is intended to be used later, to test its fit and functions. Thus, the Onshape Vision app can make the construction of physical prototypes and their transport unnecessary.

CAD models can be viewed and examined as realistic 3D images with developers around the globe as if everyone were in the same room. Comments can be directly entered into the Onshape Vision App. Product options and configurations can be easily visualized and presented to customers and suppliers.

Try Onshape for free

The Onshape Vision app is also intuitively usable for non-CAD users, such as executives, sales and marketing experts, and customers. Users who are not yet Onshape customers can test the cloud-native CAD and PDM as part of the Onshape Discovery Program for up to six months for free.

The Apple Vision Pro has been available in the USA since early February. The portable spatial computing system seamlessly connects digital content with the user's real environment. Thanks to high-resolution cameras, sensors, and displays, users can intuitively explore images, videos, audio, or text with hands, eyes, and voice.

Gallery

Neben Funktionen zur Reparatur und Vereinfachung von 3D-Modellen, bringt die Software 3DxSuite in der neuen Vollversion EX 10 weitere aktuelle Tools mit, die die Kompatibilität der CAD-Daten erhöhen und damit die gemeinsame Arbeit inner- und außerhalb des Unternehmens erleichtern.(Bild: DataCAD Software und Service GmbH)

PTC hat eine App für die Apple Vision Pro herausgebracht. Sie verwandelt flache Bildschirm-Modelle in virtuelle Produkte, die Entwickler erkunden, auseinandernehmen und prüfen können, als wären sie bereits produziert.(Bild: Apple)

Mit der aktuellen Version 11.2 ihrer Software Simus Classmate will Simus Systems den Anwendern zahlreiche Detailverbesserungen und Erweiterungen für den effizienten Umgang mit Produktdaten liefern. Neu ist auch das Software-as-a-Service-Angebot.(Bild: Simus Systems/Gorodenkoff Productions OU)

Die App synchronisiert sich automatisch mit dem Cloud-nativen CAD- und PDM-System Onshape, sodass alle Änderungen, die hier vorgenommen werden, in Echtzeit auch in Onshape Vision visualisiert werden.(Bild: Apple)

Component analysis and cost control in the cloud

With the current version 11.2 of their software Simus Classmate, Simus Systems aims to provide users with numerous detailed improvements and extensions for efficient handling of product data. In addition, three services are offered in the cloud: the automatic, geometric classification of 3D models, support for cost-aware design, and controlling lengthy development projects.

Simus solutions as a Service

The trend towards cloud computing continues in the industry in 2024. More and more companies are moving to the cloud. Simus Systems now also offers this possibility. Using Simus Classmate in a secure cloud hosted in Germany not only saves on investments, updates, and service but also allows for booking the required functions in flexible models, opening up additional cost advantages for medium-sized companies. The worldwide 24/7 availability at the home office, on business trips, as well as in the operation facilitates new work models.

Keeping an eye on components and costs

Simus Classmate integrates with the leading 3D CAD systems - on-premise as well as in the cloud. The software analyzes CAD models for external and internal contours, holes and drilling patterns, chamfers, fillets, and notches. The models are systematically classified, meaning they are assigned to the corresponding group in the classification tree. This is associated with quick location and a higher reuse of components and structures. In the new version of the Classmate Finder, the representation of large assemblies has been improved to accelerate performance.

Simus Classmate identifies the manufacturing processes of CAD models, determines the necessary machining methods, and calculates future manufacturing costs. It intelligently links machining processes and times with individual cost factors. Those who consider future manufacturing costs during the design phase gain a competitive edge.

New: Ongoing cost control throughout the project

This is especially true for extensive development projects in mechanical and plant engineering. For this purpose, Classmate Costpilot was created as a module for project-accompanying calculation. Along an (importable) bill of materials structure, users can specify, allocate, and monitor costs. They use estimated values, costs from work schedules, quotes, purchasing info records, or contracts, which they refine or replace over the course of the project. The accuracy and reliability of the data grow with project progress. Now, a cost comparison between different, secured project statuses is also possible.

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Seamlessly exchange 3D models

Seamless collaboration between departments and companies primarily requires one thing: uniform standards. When data is platform-independent, meaning it can be opened on any device, real leaps in terms of efficiency and time savings are possible. Human-machine communication must also function flawlessly.

3DxSuite is more than just a simple CAD converter. In addition to functions for repairing and simplifying 3D models, the software solution in the new full version EX 10 brings further up-to-date tools that increase the compatibility of CAD data, thus facilitating collaborative work both within and outside the company.

Convert CAD data with semantic PMI

Semantic PMIs are crucial for model-based processes in product development. 3DxSuite faithfully translates semantic PMIs, maintaining the structure in the CAD target system during the conversion. This ensures that the PMIs can be processed error-free later on. In the current version EX10, a broader range of semantic information is supported, and its correctness is extensively checked with a PMI-Checker to prevent the release of incomplete PMIs. Additionally, the graphical PMI export for Creo Parametric has been implemented.

Enhanced validation and verification for 2D and 3D

3DxSuite EX10 introduces the Drawing Validator for detecting deviations in 2D drawings and numerous improvements to the CAD Validator for identifying differences in 3D models. Notably, the CAD Validator now includes a feature for aligning geometry before inspection, ensuring deviations can be detected even when

detecting different model orientations. This automated process simplifies the identification of changes and deviations even in large models and supports automatic regression and detection of technical changes.

Export technical data packages to HTML

To facilitate data exchange and enable platform-independent opening of data packages, 3DxSuite has previously offered the ability to export to 3D PDF. In the new version, validation reports can now also be exported and sent in HTML. Both 3D PDF and HTML can be opened from any device without the need to install a CAD system.