Higher accuracy for system dynamics and loading of components in rolling bearings.
SANTA ANA, CA - MSC Software Corporation has announced the availability of Adams Bearing Advanced Technology. The new toolkit is a plug-in to the leading multibody dynamics software MD Adams from MSC Software. The toolkit's customized simulation interface provides a user-friendly environment for performing numerical simulations of rolling bearings within Adams. The solution is compatible with all options in Adams including flexible bodies.
The traditional practice of designing bearings uses kinematic joints or simplified compliances for modeling which leads to shorter modeling and simulation times. However, experiences have shown that such simplified modeling cannot meet the accuracy demands that are expected when using today's virtual prototyping techniques. Additionally, simplified modeling does not provide any insight into the design parameters of a rolling bearing.
The Adams Bearing Advanced Technology toolkit is a customized software solution for modeling and analysis of rolling bearings. The customized solution:
Considers the complex and nonlinear contact mechanics between the rolling elements and the races.
Allows input of several parameters describing the geometry and the micro-geometry of the bearing.
Enables meshing and computation of the compliances between rolling elements and races to start with a single mouse-click. No expertise in nonlinear finite element analysis is required.
Allows derived compliances to be used to efficiently compute the load transfer in the rolling bearing during a motion analysis.
Using this toolkit solution, design engineers achieve higher accuracy during predictive simulations of system dynamics and loading of components. The results include the total bearing force, the loading of the rolling elements, and their loading conditions. This additional insight into the bearing performance is achieved within a shorter compute time which compares with that of the aforementioned simplified modeling of bearings, but with much greater accuracy.
The Adams Bearing Advanced Technology toolkit can be fully integrated with the MSC Software AdWiMo and Adams Gear Advanced Technology Toolkit solutions, both recently announced. AdWiMo, an acronym for Advanced Wind Turbine Modeling, allows fast modeling and accurate system simulation of wind turbines. The Adams Gear Advanced Technology toolkit gives engineers an easy to use, single dynamic simulation tool for the complete design process of transmissions. All three of these MSC Software toolkit solutions allow flexible, dynamic transient, nonlinear and interactive simulation processes making it easier for engineers to perform systems simulations in less time than traditional simulations that offer little or no customization.
Apr 30, 2011
MSC Software Introduces Adams Bearing Advanced Technology Solution for Rolling Bearing Modeling & Simulation
Filed under:
MSC.Software
Wind-Harnessing Clean Tech Company Aims To Solve Renewable Energy's Greatest Challenge Using Autodesk Software
Digital Prototyping Software Key to Helping General Compression Effectively Communicate Its Green Vision and Mission to Investors and Customers.
SAN RAFAEL, Calif - General Compression, a Massachusetts-based developer of clean energy solutions, is successfully using digital prototyping software from Autodesk, Inc. (NASDAQ:ADSK), to design an energy storage technology that enables wind generators to store and dispatch electricity to customers on demand.
Intermittency is a major challenge for wind power and remains a key hurdle to the widespread deployment of renewable energy on the grid. To address this issue, General Compression has developed technology specifically designed to deliver renewable resource-based electricity to customers when they want it and not just when the wind blows. The General Compression Advanced Energy Storage (GCAES) system takes intermittent electricity from conventional wind farms and stores that energy in the form of high-pressure air in underground geologic formations such as salt caverns. Electricity is created on demand when air is released from storage, powering the system in reverse and sending scheduled electricity back to the grid. This method of creating dispatchable wind power helps increase the value of wind, making wind energy a more viable, cost effective and friendly option to customers on the grid.
The Autodesk Clean Tech Partner Program — which provides software to emerging clean tech companies in North America, Europe and Japan — supplied General Compression with licenses of Digital Prototyping software to develop and market the GCAES. Autodesk Gold Partner M2 Technologies provided General Compression with comprehensive training.
Autodesk Digital Prototyping Software at Major Stages of Product Development
General Compression’s engineers used Autodesk Inventor software to go from simple sketches to extremely complex assemblies — all within one software program — while developing a working prototype of the GCAES. Rapid iteration was possible through easily updated 3D models, enabling the company to stick to a tight development timeline.
Once the prototype was complete, General Compression used Autodesk Maya software to create near realistic 3D animations of how the machine would work and to more accurately explain the complex concept of “dispatchable wind power.” By more effectively sharing its vision with investors, partners and funding agencies through visual storytelling, General Compression has secured more than $38 million in investments and government grants to date. In addition to Maya and Inventor, the General Compression team uses AutoCAD P&ID software for piping and instrumentation diagrams, as well as AutoCAD Plant 3D software to determine placement for pipes and hydraulic lines around the GCAES machine.
“Having the ability to go from simple sketches to extremely complex assemblies and to easily update models all in one software program is just part of what makes Inventor so powerful,” said Ian Lawson, vice president of development at General Compression. “In this business, you also need to make sure that people can quickly understand your technology, and Autodesk Maya has been a crucial tool for explaining how our compression and expansion process works during pitches and presentations.”
General Compression has rallied significant support for its vision of dispatchable wind power and is scheduled to deploy a GCAES prototype in the field in late 2011 as part of a demonstration project with ConocoPhillips.
“As our requirements have grown from visual animations to 3D mechanical detailed designs to finite element analysis to computation fluid dynamics simulations, the advanced capabilities of Autodesk solutions for Digital Prototyping helped our design team to achieve the very high level of productivity that a start-up demands,” said Eric Ingersoll, CEO at General Compression.
“General Compression is taking a unique approach to energy storage and helping to get renewable energy sources on the grid,” said Robert “Buzz” Kross, senior vice president, Autodesk Manufacturing Industry Group. “By helping General Compression to tell its story more effectively, Autodesk software is helping to keep the firm one step ahead in this dynamic field.”
SAN RAFAEL, Calif - General Compression, a Massachusetts-based developer of clean energy solutions, is successfully using digital prototyping software from Autodesk, Inc. (NASDAQ:ADSK), to design an energy storage technology that enables wind generators to store and dispatch electricity to customers on demand.
Intermittency is a major challenge for wind power and remains a key hurdle to the widespread deployment of renewable energy on the grid. To address this issue, General Compression has developed technology specifically designed to deliver renewable resource-based electricity to customers when they want it and not just when the wind blows. The General Compression Advanced Energy Storage (GCAES) system takes intermittent electricity from conventional wind farms and stores that energy in the form of high-pressure air in underground geologic formations such as salt caverns. Electricity is created on demand when air is released from storage, powering the system in reverse and sending scheduled electricity back to the grid. This method of creating dispatchable wind power helps increase the value of wind, making wind energy a more viable, cost effective and friendly option to customers on the grid.
The Autodesk Clean Tech Partner Program — which provides software to emerging clean tech companies in North America, Europe and Japan — supplied General Compression with licenses of Digital Prototyping software to develop and market the GCAES. Autodesk Gold Partner M2 Technologies provided General Compression with comprehensive training.
Autodesk Digital Prototyping Software at Major Stages of Product Development
General Compression’s engineers used Autodesk Inventor software to go from simple sketches to extremely complex assemblies — all within one software program — while developing a working prototype of the GCAES. Rapid iteration was possible through easily updated 3D models, enabling the company to stick to a tight development timeline.
Once the prototype was complete, General Compression used Autodesk Maya software to create near realistic 3D animations of how the machine would work and to more accurately explain the complex concept of “dispatchable wind power.” By more effectively sharing its vision with investors, partners and funding agencies through visual storytelling, General Compression has secured more than $38 million in investments and government grants to date. In addition to Maya and Inventor, the General Compression team uses AutoCAD P&ID software for piping and instrumentation diagrams, as well as AutoCAD Plant 3D software to determine placement for pipes and hydraulic lines around the GCAES machine.
“Having the ability to go from simple sketches to extremely complex assemblies and to easily update models all in one software program is just part of what makes Inventor so powerful,” said Ian Lawson, vice president of development at General Compression. “In this business, you also need to make sure that people can quickly understand your technology, and Autodesk Maya has been a crucial tool for explaining how our compression and expansion process works during pitches and presentations.”
General Compression has rallied significant support for its vision of dispatchable wind power and is scheduled to deploy a GCAES prototype in the field in late 2011 as part of a demonstration project with ConocoPhillips.
“As our requirements have grown from visual animations to 3D mechanical detailed designs to finite element analysis to computation fluid dynamics simulations, the advanced capabilities of Autodesk solutions for Digital Prototyping helped our design team to achieve the very high level of productivity that a start-up demands,” said Eric Ingersoll, CEO at General Compression.
“General Compression is taking a unique approach to energy storage and helping to get renewable energy sources on the grid,” said Robert “Buzz” Kross, senior vice president, Autodesk Manufacturing Industry Group. “By helping General Compression to tell its story more effectively, Autodesk software is helping to keep the firm one step ahead in this dynamic field.”
Filed under:
Autodesk
FIRST ® Announces PTC As Strategic Partner
PLM and CAD solution provider puts its technology and support solidly behind FIRST to equip the next-generation of engineers, innovators, and scientists.
ST. LOUIS & MANCHESTER, N.H - FIRST® (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology), a not-for-profit organization founded by inventor Dean Kamen to inspire young people’s interest and participation in science and technology, today announced PTC, The Product Development Company®, of Needham, Mass., as a Strategic Partner.
“PTC’s support for the FIRST family of programs has been instrumental in the worldwide growth of the FIRST® Tech Challenge (FTC®),” said Dean Kamen, founder of FIRST. “PTC has long recognized that our student engineers and innovators need a variety of tools at their disposal, including technology that can optimize the product development process. Their generosity – as a Partner, Supplier, Sponsor and employee Volunteers – is valued by the entire FIRST community.”
With millions of dollars already committed to FIRST, Strategic Partner status designates PTC as providing the highest level of Sponsorship available at FIRST through its cumulative support of teams, annual in-kind donations, resources, technology, design and collaboration software, training as well as employee involvement – and contributes across the FIRST family of programs. Beginning as a FIRST® Robotics Challenge (FRC®) Crown Supplier, PTC then became the Official CAD and Collaboration Sponsor for FIRST® Tech Challenge (FTC) in 2007 with the donation of its Creo™ Elements/Pro™, Mathcad®, and Windchill® to FTC teams. PTC then expanded its support to include funding the FIRST® Robotics Competition (FRC®) and FTC teams, becoming a Crown Supplier in 2009, and last year sponsoring a successful pilot of FTC to India, Romania and China this year. PTC plans include the growth of FIRST® LEGO® League (FLL®) teams in 2012.
“FIRST is PTC’s flagship Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) education program because we believe it is one of the best ways to educate and prepare students to be engineers,” said Jim Heppelmann, President and CEO, PTC and member of the FIRST Executive Advisory Board. “PTC is pleased to be a Strategic Partner with the FIRST organization, and I look forward to working with FIRST as we grow the program to include stronger global participation across companies, students and volunteers.”
Over the past four years, PTC has leveraged its global footprint by co-sponsoring nearly 180 FRC and FTC teams with its customers and partners to extend the FIRST program into as many schools as possible. In preparation for this year’s FRC and FTC seasons, PTC completed more than 40 hands-on workshops for students, teachers, Volunteers, and Mentors to learn 3D design and collaboration technology. More than 800 teams have signed up for free PTC software, including Creo™, Mathcad®, and Windchill®. In 2011, PTC spearheaded a rollout to pilot the FTC program in China and Eastern Europe. Students and teachers may download PTC software to assist in designing robots at www.ptc.com/go/softwareforfirst.
ST. LOUIS & MANCHESTER, N.H - FIRST® (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology), a not-for-profit organization founded by inventor Dean Kamen to inspire young people’s interest and participation in science and technology, today announced PTC, The Product Development Company®, of Needham, Mass., as a Strategic Partner.
“PTC’s support for the FIRST family of programs has been instrumental in the worldwide growth of the FIRST® Tech Challenge (FTC®),” said Dean Kamen, founder of FIRST. “PTC has long recognized that our student engineers and innovators need a variety of tools at their disposal, including technology that can optimize the product development process. Their generosity – as a Partner, Supplier, Sponsor and employee Volunteers – is valued by the entire FIRST community.”
With millions of dollars already committed to FIRST, Strategic Partner status designates PTC as providing the highest level of Sponsorship available at FIRST through its cumulative support of teams, annual in-kind donations, resources, technology, design and collaboration software, training as well as employee involvement – and contributes across the FIRST family of programs. Beginning as a FIRST® Robotics Challenge (FRC®) Crown Supplier, PTC then became the Official CAD and Collaboration Sponsor for FIRST® Tech Challenge (FTC) in 2007 with the donation of its Creo™ Elements/Pro™, Mathcad®, and Windchill® to FTC teams. PTC then expanded its support to include funding the FIRST® Robotics Competition (FRC®) and FTC teams, becoming a Crown Supplier in 2009, and last year sponsoring a successful pilot of FTC to India, Romania and China this year. PTC plans include the growth of FIRST® LEGO® League (FLL®) teams in 2012.
“FIRST is PTC’s flagship Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) education program because we believe it is one of the best ways to educate and prepare students to be engineers,” said Jim Heppelmann, President and CEO, PTC and member of the FIRST Executive Advisory Board. “PTC is pleased to be a Strategic Partner with the FIRST organization, and I look forward to working with FIRST as we grow the program to include stronger global participation across companies, students and volunteers.”
Over the past four years, PTC has leveraged its global footprint by co-sponsoring nearly 180 FRC and FTC teams with its customers and partners to extend the FIRST program into as many schools as possible. In preparation for this year’s FRC and FTC seasons, PTC completed more than 40 hands-on workshops for students, teachers, Volunteers, and Mentors to learn 3D design and collaboration technology. More than 800 teams have signed up for free PTC software, including Creo™, Mathcad®, and Windchill®. In 2011, PTC spearheaded a rollout to pilot the FTC program in China and Eastern Europe. Students and teachers may download PTC software to assist in designing robots at www.ptc.com/go/softwareforfirst.
Filed under:
Partnerships,
PTC
Nemetschek Revenues up by 10 percent in Q1
Munich - Nemetschek AG, Europe’s largest vendor of software for architecture and the building industry, remained on its growth path in the first quarter of 2011. Revenues increased by 10 percent to 38.8 million euros. The operating result (EBITDA) went up by 11 percent to 9.3 million euros, which corresponds to an EBITDA margin at the same level as last year (24 percent). As a result of positive interest income the net income (group shares) increased disproportionately by 48 percent to 5 million euros.
Revenues from abroad increased by 15 percent
Revenues from long-term maintenance contracts increased by 15 percent to 18 million euros in the first quarter; they now account for 46 percent of overall revenues (up from 44 percent in the previous year). Revenues from license sales increased by 7 percent to 18.6 million euros in the first quarter. In the foreign markets, revenues increased by 15 percent to 24.2 million euros – the share of revenues from abroad thus rose from 59 to 62 percent of overall revenues. In Germany, revenues increased slightly from 14.3 to 14.6 million euros.
The Nemetschek Group managed to grow in all of its essential business units. In the Design segment, revenues increased by 8 percent to 31.1 million euros, the EBITDA margin in this segment was 20 percent, after 21 percent in the previous year. In the Multimedia segment, revenues increased by almost 50 percent to 3.4 million euros. This was partly due to the successful introduction of maintenance contracts in the previous year and the gradual realization of the corresponding deferred revenues. Consequently, the EBITDA margin in the Multimedia unit increased from 38 to 53 percent. In the Build segment, revenues increased by 8 percent to 3.5 million euros, the EBITDA margin amounted to 32 percent (41 percent in the previous year). In the Manage unit, revenues remained marginally below the previous year’s level at 0.9 million euros (1.0 million euros), the EBITDA margin amounted to 6 percent, after 10 percent in the same period in the previous year.
Earnings per share up by almost 50 percent
As a result of the growth in revenues, the operating result (EBITDA) went up from 8.3 million euros to 9.3 million euros; the EBITDA margin remained stable at 24 percent. Following the announced growth initiatives, the operating costs increased by 9 percent to 32.7 million euros. Thanks to positive interest income of 0.7 million euros the net income (group shares) increased disproportionately by 48 percent to 5 million euros (previous year: 3.4 million euros). The earnings per share (group shares, basic) are 0.52 euros after 0.35 euros in Q1 2010.
The group achieved a cash flow for the period of 9.2 million euros, an increase of 18 percent. Following the reduction in liabilities, the cash flow from operating activities was 12.8 million euros – at the same level as in the first quarter of 2010. The cash flow from investment activities was -1.2 million euros (previous year: -1.0 million euros) and mainly comprises the replacement of fixed assets.
The cash and cash equivalents increased by 10.7 million euros to 41.3 million euros compared with December 31, 2010. The equity quote of the Nemetschek Group is 57 percent.
Forecast confirmed
For fiscal 2011 the group plans to grow by 10 percent and the development in the first quarter confirms this forecast. “As expected, we grew above all abroad, and we intend to pursue this trend,“ emphasized Ernst Homolka, CEO, Nemetschek AG.
In view of the revenue expectation and the planned investments in future growth, Nemetschek continues to forecast an operating result (EBITDA) of 40 million euros for 2011, which would represent an EBITDA margin of 24 percent. The group will succeed in almost completely repaying the loan taken to finance the acquisition of Graphisoft this current fiscal year. The interest charges will likely drop and the annual net income – as forecasted at the beginning of the year – will increase to over 20 million euros.
Revenues from abroad increased by 15 percent
Revenues from long-term maintenance contracts increased by 15 percent to 18 million euros in the first quarter; they now account for 46 percent of overall revenues (up from 44 percent in the previous year). Revenues from license sales increased by 7 percent to 18.6 million euros in the first quarter. In the foreign markets, revenues increased by 15 percent to 24.2 million euros – the share of revenues from abroad thus rose from 59 to 62 percent of overall revenues. In Germany, revenues increased slightly from 14.3 to 14.6 million euros.
The Nemetschek Group managed to grow in all of its essential business units. In the Design segment, revenues increased by 8 percent to 31.1 million euros, the EBITDA margin in this segment was 20 percent, after 21 percent in the previous year. In the Multimedia segment, revenues increased by almost 50 percent to 3.4 million euros. This was partly due to the successful introduction of maintenance contracts in the previous year and the gradual realization of the corresponding deferred revenues. Consequently, the EBITDA margin in the Multimedia unit increased from 38 to 53 percent. In the Build segment, revenues increased by 8 percent to 3.5 million euros, the EBITDA margin amounted to 32 percent (41 percent in the previous year). In the Manage unit, revenues remained marginally below the previous year’s level at 0.9 million euros (1.0 million euros), the EBITDA margin amounted to 6 percent, after 10 percent in the same period in the previous year.
Earnings per share up by almost 50 percent
As a result of the growth in revenues, the operating result (EBITDA) went up from 8.3 million euros to 9.3 million euros; the EBITDA margin remained stable at 24 percent. Following the announced growth initiatives, the operating costs increased by 9 percent to 32.7 million euros. Thanks to positive interest income of 0.7 million euros the net income (group shares) increased disproportionately by 48 percent to 5 million euros (previous year: 3.4 million euros). The earnings per share (group shares, basic) are 0.52 euros after 0.35 euros in Q1 2010.
The group achieved a cash flow for the period of 9.2 million euros, an increase of 18 percent. Following the reduction in liabilities, the cash flow from operating activities was 12.8 million euros – at the same level as in the first quarter of 2010. The cash flow from investment activities was -1.2 million euros (previous year: -1.0 million euros) and mainly comprises the replacement of fixed assets.
The cash and cash equivalents increased by 10.7 million euros to 41.3 million euros compared with December 31, 2010. The equity quote of the Nemetschek Group is 57 percent.
Forecast confirmed
For fiscal 2011 the group plans to grow by 10 percent and the development in the first quarter confirms this forecast. “As expected, we grew above all abroad, and we intend to pursue this trend,“ emphasized Ernst Homolka, CEO, Nemetschek AG.
In view of the revenue expectation and the planned investments in future growth, Nemetschek continues to forecast an operating result (EBITDA) of 40 million euros for 2011, which would represent an EBITDA margin of 24 percent. The group will succeed in almost completely repaying the loan taken to finance the acquisition of Graphisoft this current fiscal year. The interest charges will likely drop and the annual net income – as forecasted at the beginning of the year – will increase to over 20 million euros.
Filed under:
Financials
iMachining - a revolution in CAM technology and high productivity milling
SolidCAM has launched its revolutionary iMachining™ CAM software, a major part of its latest SolidCAM2011 release.
iMachining™ is a giant leap forward in Tool-Path technology reducing cutting times by up to 70%. iMachining™ achieves this by optimizing tool engagement and cutting feed through the entire tool-path therefore allowing much deeper and more efficient cutting.
iMachining™ is driven by a knowledge-based Technology Wizard, which considers the machine being used, the material being cut and the entire geometry and material of the cutting tool. This ensures the tool load is constant which in turn increases tool-life and makes it possible to machine with the full length of the cutter.
Most conventional CAM software will cut deep features in small steps to ensure the tool is not overloaded and to minimize the impact of over-engagement. With iMachining™, programmers can confidently cut to the full depth of the tool in a single pass, as cutter engagement is completely controlled by the technology wizard generating smooth morphing tool-paths. Furthermore, the software automatically avoids sudden direction changes and sharp corners, eliminating shock loading on the tool, and enabling the maximum volume of material to be removed in a single pass.
iMachining™ optimizes the feeds and speeds through the technology wizard for each individual component and setup taking into account all the machine specifics (Spindle power, max feed / speed etc.), all the cutting tool data (number of teeth, helix angle, cutting length, tool material etc.) and all the material properties By combining all this information and then selecting the level of aggressiveness for machining - matching it to the rigidity of the setup - iMachining™ produces a safe and smooth tool-path which will routinely halve machining times.
Algorithms within iMachining™ eliminate air cutting thus concentrating on areas where excess material is located keeping the tool in contact with the work-piece at the maximum. iMachining™ has the ability to subdivide pockets into areas that can be cut with iMachining’s morphing tool-paths. The intelligent separation routines use iMachining’s unique channelling tool-paths to divide the pockets up into areas that can be efficiently machined using the standard imachining morphing tool-paths which smoothly remove the remaining material.
iMachining™ also includes ‘rest’ and ‘finish’ operations to remove uncut areas left by the larger roughing tool, both strategies utilise the intelligent morphing technology which completely controls the cut at every position.
By considering every aspect of the machining operation, the intelligence and technology built into iMachining™ enables parts to be cut in a fraction of the normal time by making full use of the capabilities of cutters and by generating a smooth and safe toolpath. This produces very significant savings in cost and time on all material types and is particularly effective on hard materials.
iMachining™ is a giant leap forward in Tool-Path technology reducing cutting times by up to 70%. iMachining™ achieves this by optimizing tool engagement and cutting feed through the entire tool-path therefore allowing much deeper and more efficient cutting.
iMachining™ is driven by a knowledge-based Technology Wizard, which considers the machine being used, the material being cut and the entire geometry and material of the cutting tool. This ensures the tool load is constant which in turn increases tool-life and makes it possible to machine with the full length of the cutter.
Most conventional CAM software will cut deep features in small steps to ensure the tool is not overloaded and to minimize the impact of over-engagement. With iMachining™, programmers can confidently cut to the full depth of the tool in a single pass, as cutter engagement is completely controlled by the technology wizard generating smooth morphing tool-paths. Furthermore, the software automatically avoids sudden direction changes and sharp corners, eliminating shock loading on the tool, and enabling the maximum volume of material to be removed in a single pass.
iMachining™ optimizes the feeds and speeds through the technology wizard for each individual component and setup taking into account all the machine specifics (Spindle power, max feed / speed etc.), all the cutting tool data (number of teeth, helix angle, cutting length, tool material etc.) and all the material properties By combining all this information and then selecting the level of aggressiveness for machining - matching it to the rigidity of the setup - iMachining™ produces a safe and smooth tool-path which will routinely halve machining times.
Algorithms within iMachining™ eliminate air cutting thus concentrating on areas where excess material is located keeping the tool in contact with the work-piece at the maximum. iMachining™ has the ability to subdivide pockets into areas that can be cut with iMachining’s morphing tool-paths. The intelligent separation routines use iMachining’s unique channelling tool-paths to divide the pockets up into areas that can be efficiently machined using the standard imachining morphing tool-paths which smoothly remove the remaining material.
iMachining™ also includes ‘rest’ and ‘finish’ operations to remove uncut areas left by the larger roughing tool, both strategies utilise the intelligent morphing technology which completely controls the cut at every position.
By considering every aspect of the machining operation, the intelligence and technology built into iMachining™ enables parts to be cut in a fraction of the normal time by making full use of the capabilities of cutters and by generating a smooth and safe toolpath. This produces very significant savings in cost and time on all material types and is particularly effective on hard materials.
Autodesk TinkerBox App Now Comes to iPhone and iPod touch
Fun physics puzzle game with over 800,000 downloads gets even more mobile.
SAN RAFAEL, Calif - Autodesk, Inc announced its TinkerBox App— a free* game designed to playfully spark interest in physics and mechanical engineering — is now available on the App Store for iPhone and iPod touch. Following the success of the Autodesk TinkerBox App for iPad, players can now experience the joy and excitement of invention on a variety of iOS devices.
The stimulating mechanical puzzles and challenging physics problems in Autodesk TinkerBox require players to devise imaginative solutions, insert gadgets, assemble components, customize switches and test their inventions. Completing each challenge inspires players to increasingly complex innovations. The game’s 'Invent' mode enables players to design their own contraptions and share them with friends.
“TinkerBox exposes players to math and engineering principles in an engaging and light-hearted way,” said Samir Hanna, vice president, Consumer Products, Autodesk. “Extending the app to iPhone and iPod touch was a natural step in our quest to make science and engineering more fun, accessible and appealing to young people and adults alike.”
TinkerBox’s popular ‘Invent’ mode now includes panning and zooming, enabling players to get a closer view while designing their contraptions. The latest version also includes three new machine switches: the reverse switch can be connected to a motor or conveyor belt to reverse the machine flow; the toggle button powers elements on and off; and the momentary button provides brief power surges. These new features are also available for Autodesk TinkerBox App for iPad.
As part of its commitment to educating the next generation of designers and engineers, Autodesk also provides free* access to its industry-leading 3D design, engineering and entertainment software and accompanying curricula though the Autodesk Education Community.
Pricing and Availability
The Autodesk TinkerBox App is available for free* from the App Store on iPhone and iPod touch. Learn more about Autodesk TinkerBox.
SAN RAFAEL, Calif - Autodesk, Inc announced its TinkerBox App— a free* game designed to playfully spark interest in physics and mechanical engineering — is now available on the App Store for iPhone and iPod touch. Following the success of the Autodesk TinkerBox App for iPad, players can now experience the joy and excitement of invention on a variety of iOS devices.
The stimulating mechanical puzzles and challenging physics problems in Autodesk TinkerBox require players to devise imaginative solutions, insert gadgets, assemble components, customize switches and test their inventions. Completing each challenge inspires players to increasingly complex innovations. The game’s 'Invent' mode enables players to design their own contraptions and share them with friends.
“TinkerBox exposes players to math and engineering principles in an engaging and light-hearted way,” said Samir Hanna, vice president, Consumer Products, Autodesk. “Extending the app to iPhone and iPod touch was a natural step in our quest to make science and engineering more fun, accessible and appealing to young people and adults alike.”
TinkerBox’s popular ‘Invent’ mode now includes panning and zooming, enabling players to get a closer view while designing their contraptions. The latest version also includes three new machine switches: the reverse switch can be connected to a motor or conveyor belt to reverse the machine flow; the toggle button powers elements on and off; and the momentary button provides brief power surges. These new features are also available for Autodesk TinkerBox App for iPad.
As part of its commitment to educating the next generation of designers and engineers, Autodesk also provides free* access to its industry-leading 3D design, engineering and entertainment software and accompanying curricula though the Autodesk Education Community.
Pricing and Availability
The Autodesk TinkerBox App is available for free* from the App Store on iPhone and iPod touch. Learn more about Autodesk TinkerBox.
Filed under:
Autodesk
Celeritive Technologies Announces VoluMill™ for Siemens NX™ CAM and CAM Express
Fully integrated version of the ultra high-performance toolpath engine now available for NX users.
CAVE CREEK, AZ - Celeritive Technologies, Inc. a developer of innovative high-speed machining technologies that increase machine shop productivity, announces the release of VoluMill™ for Siemens NX™ CAM/CAM Express. The seamless integration of the VoluMill ultra high-performance toolpath engine with Siemens PLM software ideally complements the powerful finish milling capabilities of NX CAM.
“The integration of VoluMill with NX has been a ‘game changer’ for our customers,” said Dan Wibbenmeyer, Managing Partner/Client Sales for Swoosh Technologies. “VoluMill has helped our NX clients literally win more business and increase their margin on existing work. Aerospace machining was our initial focus with the integrated NX VoluMill solution, but now we have users in mold/die and energy services. We have been selling manufacturing software solutions for 14 years and have never had a solution such as the NX/VoluMill integration which immediately impacts the bottom lines of our customers.”
“We are excited to bring the proven benefits of VoluMill to the NX community,” said Terry Sorensen, president of Celeritive. “The support we received from Siemens during the integration process was terrific and at the upcoming Siemens PLM World event in Las Vegas, May2-5 we will be exhibiting at booth #44, presenting a technical paper and hosting a round table discussion.”
Based on the powerful VoluMill 3.6 toolpath engine, VoluMill for Siemens NX CAM/CAM Express can reduce rough milling cycle times by 70% or more, and more than quadruple tool life. Additional features include:
Fastest, most economical method of reducing rough-milling costs;
Highly efficient roughing for any part geometry, including cores, cavities, pockets, channels, and steps, with optional toolpath containment to limit the extent of cut;
Final Step Height option provides a secondary, shallower depth of cut, processed bottom-up, to leave small, manageable steps for semi-finishing or finishing tools – cut to near-net shape with the initial roughing tool;
Freeway Linking™ repositions the tool by lifting slightly off the floor and moving smoothly at high speed around obstacles, minimizing retracts to the clearance plane;
CAVE CREEK, AZ - Celeritive Technologies, Inc. a developer of innovative high-speed machining technologies that increase machine shop productivity, announces the release of VoluMill™ for Siemens NX™ CAM/CAM Express. The seamless integration of the VoluMill ultra high-performance toolpath engine with Siemens PLM software ideally complements the powerful finish milling capabilities of NX CAM.
“The integration of VoluMill with NX has been a ‘game changer’ for our customers,” said Dan Wibbenmeyer, Managing Partner/Client Sales for Swoosh Technologies. “VoluMill has helped our NX clients literally win more business and increase their margin on existing work. Aerospace machining was our initial focus with the integrated NX VoluMill solution, but now we have users in mold/die and energy services. We have been selling manufacturing software solutions for 14 years and have never had a solution such as the NX/VoluMill integration which immediately impacts the bottom lines of our customers.”
“We are excited to bring the proven benefits of VoluMill to the NX community,” said Terry Sorensen, president of Celeritive. “The support we received from Siemens during the integration process was terrific and at the upcoming Siemens PLM World event in Las Vegas, May2-5 we will be exhibiting at booth #44, presenting a technical paper and hosting a round table discussion.”
Based on the powerful VoluMill 3.6 toolpath engine, VoluMill for Siemens NX CAM/CAM Express can reduce rough milling cycle times by 70% or more, and more than quadruple tool life. Additional features include:
Fastest, most economical method of reducing rough-milling costs;
Highly efficient roughing for any part geometry, including cores, cavities, pockets, channels, and steps, with optional toolpath containment to limit the extent of cut;
Final Step Height option provides a secondary, shallower depth of cut, processed bottom-up, to leave small, manageable steps for semi-finishing or finishing tools – cut to near-net shape with the initial roughing tool;
Freeway Linking™ repositions the tool by lifting slightly off the floor and moving smoothly at high speed around obstacles, minimizing retracts to the clearance plane;
Filed under:
Celeritive Technologies
Motor-CAD Takes the Heat Off
Magsoft Corporation has announced the release of Motor-CAD Version 6. Motor-CAD is a revolutionary simulation software developed by Motor Design Ltd. of Shropshire, UK in cooperation with Magsoft. Motor-CAD's unique approach is to transform the complex thermal physics within electric machines into a lumped-parameter circuit equivalent. Solving the circuit then reveals the corresponding thermal behavior.
This technique allows the designer to virtually prototype the performance of their machine on their standard PC computer. Simulation is fast, accurate, and offers a coupled multi-physics approach which yields unparalleled insight as things heat up.
Motor-CAD V6 has numerous new features to improve the experimental experience of the machine designer. The most prominent of these are :
New Geometry Capabilities
Additional magnet configurations for the Brushless PM Motor [BPM] machine-type
Multiple independent duct layers for both Rotor and Stator cooling components
Additional parameters for configuring the shape of the winding End-Rings
ActiveX and Scripting
New Help menu access to the complete ActiveX parameter list
New Scripting interface area for developing and running macros
Save and re-use desired macros for timeless consistency in experimentation
New Multi-Slice model for long stack lengths
Choice of the number of slices
Review the solution on each slice separately or as a function of the slices
New Flow Interface
Review the various fluid paths for each cooling method chosen
Review the fluid flow rates throughout the machine
Improved Component Models
End-Space Region
Winding End-Rings
Forced Convection Cooling
Transient Solutions
Reduced Computation Times
Transient results can now be displayed "on demand" during the simulation
"The requirements for today's electric machines dictate that the designer take into account how the machine's behavior changes as it heats up over time. Motor-CAD is alone in the marketplace; providing results which readily allow the designer to make critical design adjustments in order to remove heat when it's necessary," says Magsoft Technical Director Tan Pham.
This technique allows the designer to virtually prototype the performance of their machine on their standard PC computer. Simulation is fast, accurate, and offers a coupled multi-physics approach which yields unparalleled insight as things heat up.
Motor-CAD V6 has numerous new features to improve the experimental experience of the machine designer. The most prominent of these are :
New Geometry Capabilities
Additional magnet configurations for the Brushless PM Motor [BPM] machine-type
Multiple independent duct layers for both Rotor and Stator cooling components
Additional parameters for configuring the shape of the winding End-Rings
ActiveX and Scripting
New Help menu access to the complete ActiveX parameter list
New Scripting interface area for developing and running macros
Save and re-use desired macros for timeless consistency in experimentation
New Multi-Slice model for long stack lengths
Choice of the number of slices
Review the solution on each slice separately or as a function of the slices
New Flow Interface
Review the various fluid paths for each cooling method chosen
Review the fluid flow rates throughout the machine
Improved Component Models
End-Space Region
Winding End-Rings
Forced Convection Cooling
Transient Solutions
Reduced Computation Times
Transient results can now be displayed "on demand" during the simulation
"The requirements for today's electric machines dictate that the designer take into account how the machine's behavior changes as it heats up over time. Motor-CAD is alone in the marketplace; providing results which readily allow the designer to make critical design adjustments in order to remove heat when it's necessary," says Magsoft Technical Director Tan Pham.
SURFCAM V5.2 to Showcase at EASTEC 2011
Camarillo, CA - Surfware, Inc., developer of SURFCAM CAD/CAM Systems and the patented TRUEMill Toolpath Technology will showcase the latest developments in the newest release of SURFCAM V5.2 at EASTEC 2011 to be held at Eastern States Exposition in West Springfield, MA, May 17th thru 19th.
Surfware, in cooperation with reseller DM Solutions invites you to stop by booth 5533 where staff members will be on-hand to offer demonstrations of the many new features and benefits of SURFCAM V5.2. Stop by to check out features such as the new HSM Z-Roughing strategies, additional STL geometry capabilities for rough machining and stock calculations, adaptive slicing, a new SPost interface, enhanced Mill/Turn mode, optimized toolpath verification & machine simulation, updated CAD translators, just to name a few.
Reseller DM Solutions will also offer a daily drawing to visitors who bring their printed voucher (http://www.dm-solutions.com/newsletter/2011Voucher.html)for a chance to win either an 8GB iPod Nano, a Wi-Fi Kindle, or a 1TB Portable Hard Drive.
Surfware, in cooperation with reseller DM Solutions invites you to stop by booth 5533 where staff members will be on-hand to offer demonstrations of the many new features and benefits of SURFCAM V5.2. Stop by to check out features such as the new HSM Z-Roughing strategies, additional STL geometry capabilities for rough machining and stock calculations, adaptive slicing, a new SPost interface, enhanced Mill/Turn mode, optimized toolpath verification & machine simulation, updated CAD translators, just to name a few.
Reseller DM Solutions will also offer a daily drawing to visitors who bring their printed voucher (http://www.dm-solutions.com/newsletter/2011Voucher.html)for a chance to win either an 8GB iPod Nano, a Wi-Fi Kindle, or a 1TB Portable Hard Drive.
Filed under:
Surfware
PTC Names Robert Ranaldi Executive Vice President of Worldwide Sales and Distribution
NEEDHAM, Mass - PTC has named Robert “Bob” Ranaldi as executive vice president of worldwide sales and distribution, effective immediately. Ranaldi joined PTC in 1998, serving most recently as divisional vice president for PTC’s North American Commercial Business.
“Bob uniquely combines insight into customer requirements with deep knowledge of the value our expanding product portfolio provides,” said James Heppelmann, president and CEO of PTC. “The market continues to respond well to our innovative PLM solutions and we are seeing a resurgence in demand for CAx-related products at an enterprise level as well. We are confident that Bob’s commitment to sales operational excellence will enable us to leverage our technology leadership into continued success with customers and business partners around the world.”
“PTC has clearly demonstrated a technology leadership position and significant market momentum,” said Ranaldi. “I look forward to working with the rest of the PTC executive team to capitalize on rapidly evolving market opportunities, continue delivering value to customers and further accelerate our growth.”
Prior to his current role, Ranaldi held sales leadership roles at PTC in North America and across Europe where he helped build high performance teams in both direct and indirect channels. He served as country manager in Northern Europe, as well as vice president for PTC’s SMB business in North America. Prior to joining PTC, Ranaldi was in sales management at Boston Scientific Corporation.
Ranaldi replaces Paul Cunningham, who is leaving to pursue other opportunities.
“During his time at PTC, Paul made many valuable contributions to our growth and expansion into new markets and new channels,” said Heppelmann. “On behalf of the entire PTC management team, I would like to thank Paul for his many years of service and wish him the best in his future endeavors.”
“Bob uniquely combines insight into customer requirements with deep knowledge of the value our expanding product portfolio provides,” said James Heppelmann, president and CEO of PTC. “The market continues to respond well to our innovative PLM solutions and we are seeing a resurgence in demand for CAx-related products at an enterprise level as well. We are confident that Bob’s commitment to sales operational excellence will enable us to leverage our technology leadership into continued success with customers and business partners around the world.”
“PTC has clearly demonstrated a technology leadership position and significant market momentum,” said Ranaldi. “I look forward to working with the rest of the PTC executive team to capitalize on rapidly evolving market opportunities, continue delivering value to customers and further accelerate our growth.”
Prior to his current role, Ranaldi held sales leadership roles at PTC in North America and across Europe where he helped build high performance teams in both direct and indirect channels. He served as country manager in Northern Europe, as well as vice president for PTC’s SMB business in North America. Prior to joining PTC, Ranaldi was in sales management at Boston Scientific Corporation.
Ranaldi replaces Paul Cunningham, who is leaving to pursue other opportunities.
“During his time at PTC, Paul made many valuable contributions to our growth and expansion into new markets and new channels,” said Heppelmann. “On behalf of the entire PTC management team, I would like to thank Paul for his many years of service and wish him the best in his future endeavors.”
Filed under:
Appointments,
PTC
GL Noble Denton Purchases Intergraph® SmartMarine® Technology to Optimize Offshore and Ship Design
HUNTSVILLE, Ala - GL Noble Denton, the global independent technical advisor to the oil and gas industry, will standardize on Intergraph® SmartMarine® Enterprise, including SmartMarine 3D, to replace its existing design solution for offshore and marine assets. This move will enable the company to increase the functionality and usability of its engineering designs, as well as to improve the data consistency between the schematics and the outfitting within its projects.
“We benchmarked Intergraph SmartMarine Enterprise against several leading, global marine engineering design solutions, and we thought it was the most sustainable option for us,” said Tor Lønnerød, GL Noble Denton’s General Manager for Noble Denton Brevik, Norway. In addition to SmartMarine 3D, GL Noble Denton purchased licenses of SmartPlant® P&ID (Piping and Instrumentation Diagram), SmartPlant Electrical, SmartPlant Review and SmartPlant Foundation Basic Integrator products.
SmartMarine 3D is the world’s most advanced offshore and shipbuilding design solution, providing companies with the capabilities they need to gain and maintain an edge in a highly competitive industry. SmartMarine 3D is breakthrough engineering technology that is data-centric, knowledge- and rule-driven, streamlining marine asset design processes and improving delivery schedules, with increased detail and manufacturing design productivity of up to 30 percent.
Gerhard Sallinger, Intergraph Process, Power & Marine president, said: “A growing number of industry leaders are adopting Intergraph Smart 3D technology as their next-generation engineering platform because of the unique abilities it provides to increase safety, quality and productivity. SmartMarine 3D continues to increase its market share in highly competitive segments. Intergraph is looking forward to working with GL Noble Denton and to gaining a competitive edge through strong collaboration.”
The ARC Advisory Group, a leading industry analyst firm, ranked Intergraph the No. 1 overall engineering design 3D software and process engineering tools (PET) provider worldwide according to its PET Worldwide Outlook Market Analysis and Forecast through 2013.
“We benchmarked Intergraph SmartMarine Enterprise against several leading, global marine engineering design solutions, and we thought it was the most sustainable option for us,” said Tor Lønnerød, GL Noble Denton’s General Manager for Noble Denton Brevik, Norway. In addition to SmartMarine 3D, GL Noble Denton purchased licenses of SmartPlant® P&ID (Piping and Instrumentation Diagram), SmartPlant Electrical, SmartPlant Review and SmartPlant Foundation Basic Integrator products.
SmartMarine 3D is the world’s most advanced offshore and shipbuilding design solution, providing companies with the capabilities they need to gain and maintain an edge in a highly competitive industry. SmartMarine 3D is breakthrough engineering technology that is data-centric, knowledge- and rule-driven, streamlining marine asset design processes and improving delivery schedules, with increased detail and manufacturing design productivity of up to 30 percent.
Gerhard Sallinger, Intergraph Process, Power & Marine president, said: “A growing number of industry leaders are adopting Intergraph Smart 3D technology as their next-generation engineering platform because of the unique abilities it provides to increase safety, quality and productivity. SmartMarine 3D continues to increase its market share in highly competitive segments. Intergraph is looking forward to working with GL Noble Denton and to gaining a competitive edge through strong collaboration.”
The ARC Advisory Group, a leading industry analyst firm, ranked Intergraph the No. 1 overall engineering design 3D software and process engineering tools (PET) provider worldwide according to its PET Worldwide Outlook Market Analysis and Forecast through 2013.
Filed under:
Intergraph
FARO Announces the Sale of its First Edge Arm to Michigan's Pro-Weld Inc
Lake Mary, FL – FARO Technologies sold its first FARO Edge and all-new Laser Line Probe to Pro-Weld Inc. of Chesterfield, Michigan. The state-of-the-art Edge is the latest and most advanced FaroArm every produced. The portable FARO Edge allows manufacturers to quickly verify product quality and consistency through inspection, CAD-to-part analysis and reverse engineering by probing and non-contact laser scanning.
Pro-Weld is a full-service leader in the manufacturing of automotive part rack systems and creating custom designs for customers in defense and aerospace industries. For Pro-Weld, the decision to purchase the Edge came after considering the product’s revolutionary technology, ease-of-use and the cost of not choosing the most innovative portable coordinate measuring machine (CMM) available. Many of Pro-Weld’s customers expect the products they receive to be built within very strict tolerances and checked with a CMM solution prior to delivery. To meet these requirements, the company has historically subcontracted measurement and calibration services that often resulted in costly travel fees and work slowdowns.
“When we do have to bring people in from the outside, things need to be staged,” explained company president, Scott Light. “There has to be a pretty big plan in place. We feel that with [the Edge] we’ll be able to take the arm out, make the checks we need to make and do it within the normal course of operating. I think this will help us draw more business”
FARO designed the Edge with users like Pro-Weld in mind. The all-new arm features an integrated personal measurement assistant – the first in the industry. The built-in touch screen and on-board operating system allow the Edge to function as a standalone measuring system and eliminates the need for a laptop computer connection when making quick dimensional checks. An on-board diagnostic system allows users to quickly optimize system performance.
Available in three popular working volumes and seven-axis configuration, the Edge features other industry-leading capabilities including:
Enhanced Connectivity – Bluetooth, WiFi, USB, and Ethernet ready. Multiple device management through networking.
Smart Sensor Technology – Improved sensors warn against excessive external loads, correct for thermal variations, and detect possible setup problems.
Ergonomics – Improved weight distribution and balance for reduced strain and ease-of-use. Patented internal counterbalancing providing comfortable, stress-free use.
Multi-Function Handle Port – Seamless and interchangeable accessory integration. Quick-change handle. Expandable capability.
The redesigned FARO laser line probe offers unmatched non-contact measurement capability. Its wide stripe provides superior scanning coverage and accuracy. Variable capture rates exceed 45,000 points per second for outstanding speed and feature definition.
“Customers choose us because we’re a full-service company. We prototype, design and build all under one roof” said Light. “We’re looking to add technology to set us apart from [our competitors] and the FARO Edge is one way that we can improve our service and our products to our customers.”
Pro-Weld is a full-service leader in the manufacturing of automotive part rack systems and creating custom designs for customers in defense and aerospace industries. For Pro-Weld, the decision to purchase the Edge came after considering the product’s revolutionary technology, ease-of-use and the cost of not choosing the most innovative portable coordinate measuring machine (CMM) available. Many of Pro-Weld’s customers expect the products they receive to be built within very strict tolerances and checked with a CMM solution prior to delivery. To meet these requirements, the company has historically subcontracted measurement and calibration services that often resulted in costly travel fees and work slowdowns.
“When we do have to bring people in from the outside, things need to be staged,” explained company president, Scott Light. “There has to be a pretty big plan in place. We feel that with [the Edge] we’ll be able to take the arm out, make the checks we need to make and do it within the normal course of operating. I think this will help us draw more business”
FARO designed the Edge with users like Pro-Weld in mind. The all-new arm features an integrated personal measurement assistant – the first in the industry. The built-in touch screen and on-board operating system allow the Edge to function as a standalone measuring system and eliminates the need for a laptop computer connection when making quick dimensional checks. An on-board diagnostic system allows users to quickly optimize system performance.
Available in three popular working volumes and seven-axis configuration, the Edge features other industry-leading capabilities including:
Enhanced Connectivity – Bluetooth, WiFi, USB, and Ethernet ready. Multiple device management through networking.
Smart Sensor Technology – Improved sensors warn against excessive external loads, correct for thermal variations, and detect possible setup problems.
Ergonomics – Improved weight distribution and balance for reduced strain and ease-of-use. Patented internal counterbalancing providing comfortable, stress-free use.
Multi-Function Handle Port – Seamless and interchangeable accessory integration. Quick-change handle. Expandable capability.
The redesigned FARO laser line probe offers unmatched non-contact measurement capability. Its wide stripe provides superior scanning coverage and accuracy. Variable capture rates exceed 45,000 points per second for outstanding speed and feature definition.
“Customers choose us because we’re a full-service company. We prototype, design and build all under one roof” said Light. “We’re looking to add technology to set us apart from [our competitors] and the FARO Edge is one way that we can improve our service and our products to our customers.”
Filed under:
FARO
FARO Launches the World's Most Innovative Measurement Arm, the FARO Edge
Lake Mary, FL – FARO Technologies, Inc introduces the FARO Edge and Laser Line Probe, the most advanced, state-of-the-art FaroArm system ever produced.
The FARO Edge is a portable measurement arm that allows manufacturers to easily verify their product quality by performing inspections, tool certifications, CAD-to-part analysis, and reverse engineering via hard probing and non-contact laser scanning.
The latest generation of the FaroArm product line continues to eclipse competitive models in every category. The Edge improves production, quality, and reverse engineering processes by rapidly verifying or scanning parts with confidence and accuracy. The new Arm also simplifies the user experience with improved performance, portability and reliability.
“The FARO Edge was designed with our customers’ input and built with our experience,” stated Jay Freeland, FARO’s President & Chief Executive Officer. “It offers unparalleled simplicity for the user while maintaining all the existing benefits of a FaroArm and demonstrates our continued leadership in this space through innovative and disruptive technology.”
The all new Edge features the first ever integrated personal measurement assistant. With its built-in touchscreen and on-board operating system, the Edge revolutionizes portable metrology by providing stand-alone basic measurement capability. A laptop is no longer needed to perform quick and simple dimensional checks, or to optimize system performance with it’s on board diagnostic routines.
Available in three popular working volumes and 7-axis configuration, the Edge is the perfect fit for any portable measurement application, eliminating the guess work of which length is right for the job. Seven axis of rotation ensures you always get the most flexibility out of your device.
Additional industry-leading areas of improvement and capability include:
Enhanced Connectivity – Bluetooth, WiFi, USB, and Ethernet ready. Multiple device management through networking.
Smart Sensor Technology – Improved sensors warn against excessive external loads, correct for thermal variations, and detect possible setup problems.
Ergonomics – Improved weight distribution and balance for reduced strain and ease-of-use. Patented internal counterbalancing providing comfortable, stress-free use.
Multi-Function Handle Port – Seamless and interchangeable accessory integration. Quick-change handle. Expandable capability.
The all new FARO Laser Line Probe provides unparalleled non-contact measurement capabilities. Its wider laser stripe significantly increases scan coverage without sacrificing accuracy, while variable capture rates can produce over 45,000 points per second for exceptional speed and feature definition.
Taking advantage of the Edge’s multi-function, quick-change handle port, the Laser Line Probe integrates seamlessly and instantly becomes part of the arm. Lighter weight, amazingly compact and completely unobtrusive, it delivers the best performance at the lowest price in the industry for a handheld laser scanning system.
“Everything about the Edge was designed from the ground up to boost productivity and deliver the best performance in a portable arm CMM,” said Orlando Perez, Product Manager - FaroArm. “As the first ever smart measurement arm with built-in apps, the FARO Edge changes absolutely everything.”
The FARO Edge is a portable measurement arm that allows manufacturers to easily verify their product quality by performing inspections, tool certifications, CAD-to-part analysis, and reverse engineering via hard probing and non-contact laser scanning.
The latest generation of the FaroArm product line continues to eclipse competitive models in every category. The Edge improves production, quality, and reverse engineering processes by rapidly verifying or scanning parts with confidence and accuracy. The new Arm also simplifies the user experience with improved performance, portability and reliability.
“The FARO Edge was designed with our customers’ input and built with our experience,” stated Jay Freeland, FARO’s President & Chief Executive Officer. “It offers unparalleled simplicity for the user while maintaining all the existing benefits of a FaroArm and demonstrates our continued leadership in this space through innovative and disruptive technology.”
The all new Edge features the first ever integrated personal measurement assistant. With its built-in touchscreen and on-board operating system, the Edge revolutionizes portable metrology by providing stand-alone basic measurement capability. A laptop is no longer needed to perform quick and simple dimensional checks, or to optimize system performance with it’s on board diagnostic routines.
Available in three popular working volumes and 7-axis configuration, the Edge is the perfect fit for any portable measurement application, eliminating the guess work of which length is right for the job. Seven axis of rotation ensures you always get the most flexibility out of your device.
Additional industry-leading areas of improvement and capability include:
Enhanced Connectivity – Bluetooth, WiFi, USB, and Ethernet ready. Multiple device management through networking.
Smart Sensor Technology – Improved sensors warn against excessive external loads, correct for thermal variations, and detect possible setup problems.
Ergonomics – Improved weight distribution and balance for reduced strain and ease-of-use. Patented internal counterbalancing providing comfortable, stress-free use.
Multi-Function Handle Port – Seamless and interchangeable accessory integration. Quick-change handle. Expandable capability.
The all new FARO Laser Line Probe provides unparalleled non-contact measurement capabilities. Its wider laser stripe significantly increases scan coverage without sacrificing accuracy, while variable capture rates can produce over 45,000 points per second for exceptional speed and feature definition.
Taking advantage of the Edge’s multi-function, quick-change handle port, the Laser Line Probe integrates seamlessly and instantly becomes part of the arm. Lighter weight, amazingly compact and completely unobtrusive, it delivers the best performance at the lowest price in the industry for a handheld laser scanning system.
“Everything about the Edge was designed from the ground up to boost productivity and deliver the best performance in a portable arm CMM,” said Orlando Perez, Product Manager - FaroArm. “As the first ever smart measurement arm with built-in apps, the FARO Edge changes absolutely everything.”
Filed under:
FARO
PARTsolutions Receives Certification for Autodesk Inventor 2012
CADENAS GmbH's software solution PARTsolutions has been certified for Autodesk Inventor 2012 3D mechanical design software under the Autodesk Inventor Certified Applications Program. Digital Prototyping with Autodesk Inventor software gives manufacturers the ability to digitally design, visualize and simulate how a product will work under real world conditions before it is built, which helps reduce cost and increase efficiency.
The strategic parts management system by CADENAS successfully passed the certification process of Autodesk, a world leader in 3D design, engineering and entertainment software.
"The integration from PARTsolutions in Autodesk Inventor enables users of Autodesk Inventor 2012 to profit from the great number of 3D CAD libraries. This way the user can concentrate on designing and innovating new products instead of spending time and effort modeling parts", said Carl White, director of digital design product management, Autodesk.
"We are pleased that the CADENAS software solution once more meets the Autodesk's high quality standards", said Jürgen Heimbach, CEO of CADENAS GmbH.
The strategic parts management system by CADENAS successfully passed the certification process of Autodesk, a world leader in 3D design, engineering and entertainment software.
"The integration from PARTsolutions in Autodesk Inventor enables users of Autodesk Inventor 2012 to profit from the great number of 3D CAD libraries. This way the user can concentrate on designing and innovating new products instead of spending time and effort modeling parts", said Carl White, director of digital design product management, Autodesk.
"We are pleased that the CADENAS software solution once more meets the Autodesk's high quality standards", said Jürgen Heimbach, CEO of CADENAS GmbH.
Filed under:
Autodesk
Delcam's new CAM range on show at AUSTECH
Delcam's Australian reseller, Camplex, will promote the company’s complete range of CAM software and services at the AUSTECH exhibition to be held in Melbourne from 24th to 27th May. Programs on show will include the latest version of Delcam for SolidWorks, plus the 2011 releases of PowerMILL for high-speed and five-axis machining, FeatureCAM for feature-based programming, and PartMaker for Swiss-type lathes and turn-mill equipment.
Together, these programs comprise the world’s most comprehensive range of CAM software from a single suppler. This broad coverage is one of the reasons why Delcam has been ranked as the world’s leading specialist supplier of NC software and services by US analysts Cimdata for the past ten years. It means that large companies can source all of their CAM requirements from a single supplier, while smaller organisations can be sure that they can obtain exactly the software they need, rather than having to accept a compromise solution.
Delcam for SolidWorks marked a new direction for Delcam. Previously, the company had supplied all of its machining software as stand-alone systems that could be linked to any CAD program. In contrast, Delcam for SolidWorks is fully integrated into the SolidWorks environment so that the program looks and behaves like SolidWorks. It offers full associativity so that any changes in the CAD model will be reflected automatically in the toolpaths.
The 2011 release includes comprehensive options for the programming of turning and mill-turn equipment, alongside Delcam’s industry-leading technology for drilling, and two- through five-axis milling. This expanded range of strategies will allow users to program everything from lathes up to mill-turn equipment, more quickly, more reliably and more easily than with other integrated CAM systems.
The 2011 version of PowerMILL makes the programming of safe toolpaths easier than ever thanks to new stock-model-engagement options that protect both the cutting tool and the machine from excessive loading. Other enhancements include new editing capabilities to simplify the machining of duplicate items; more versatile control of feed-rates for leads and links; and extra functionality for sketching, plus the completion of the move to the new clearer forms for the complete range of strategies.
FeatureCAM 2011 incorporates support for 64-bit computers, improved data exchange from a wider range of design software, the ability to use stock models and new strategies across the complete program, from turning to five-axis machining. The new release also has a more modern interface to make programming easier than ever.
Major highlights of PartMaker 2011 include more powerful milling functionality, a more flexible tooling library, improved programming and simulation of bar-fed mills, more detailed mid-process documentation and a host of additional productivity enhancements. In particular, multi-axis milling functionality that has taken Delcam many man-years to develop continues to be added to PartMaker at a rapid pace.
Together, these programs comprise the world’s most comprehensive range of CAM software from a single suppler. This broad coverage is one of the reasons why Delcam has been ranked as the world’s leading specialist supplier of NC software and services by US analysts Cimdata for the past ten years. It means that large companies can source all of their CAM requirements from a single supplier, while smaller organisations can be sure that they can obtain exactly the software they need, rather than having to accept a compromise solution.
Delcam for SolidWorks marked a new direction for Delcam. Previously, the company had supplied all of its machining software as stand-alone systems that could be linked to any CAD program. In contrast, Delcam for SolidWorks is fully integrated into the SolidWorks environment so that the program looks and behaves like SolidWorks. It offers full associativity so that any changes in the CAD model will be reflected automatically in the toolpaths.
The 2011 release includes comprehensive options for the programming of turning and mill-turn equipment, alongside Delcam’s industry-leading technology for drilling, and two- through five-axis milling. This expanded range of strategies will allow users to program everything from lathes up to mill-turn equipment, more quickly, more reliably and more easily than with other integrated CAM systems.
The 2011 version of PowerMILL makes the programming of safe toolpaths easier than ever thanks to new stock-model-engagement options that protect both the cutting tool and the machine from excessive loading. Other enhancements include new editing capabilities to simplify the machining of duplicate items; more versatile control of feed-rates for leads and links; and extra functionality for sketching, plus the completion of the move to the new clearer forms for the complete range of strategies.
FeatureCAM 2011 incorporates support for 64-bit computers, improved data exchange from a wider range of design software, the ability to use stock models and new strategies across the complete program, from turning to five-axis machining. The new release also has a more modern interface to make programming easier than ever.
Major highlights of PartMaker 2011 include more powerful milling functionality, a more flexible tooling library, improved programming and simulation of bar-fed mills, more detailed mid-process documentation and a host of additional productivity enhancements. In particular, multi-axis milling functionality that has taken Delcam many man-years to develop continues to be added to PartMaker at a rapid pace.
Filed under:
Delcam
Delcam to show complete open implantology at Lab Day West
Delcam will demonstrate its complete open system for the design and manufacture of dental implant restorations at Lab Day West in Orange County, California, on 6th and 7th May. The company is the only supplier able to offer a complete solution, from accurately capturing the implant position and orientation, through to the high-precision, multi-axis milling of customised abutments, implant bridges and dental bars, with a management system to track every stage of the process.
This launch is the latest step in the trend within the dental industry to replace "closed” manufacturing methods, in which the user is restricted to the use of a limited range of equipment and materials, with "open” systems, in which manufacturers can combine their own choice of equipment and software, and then use a broad variety of materials.
The key to the Delcam process is a new range of scan adaptors that are compatible with the leading brands of dental implant. Once the scan adaptors have been fitted to the model of the jaw, the scanner can accurately capture the positions and orientations of the implants, together with the shape of the remaining teeth. The precise fit of the scan adaptors, coupled with the latest generation of white-light 3D scanning technology used in the Delcam scanners, ensures the highest possible accuracy in the data collected.
Furthermore, the same manufacturing data that is used to produce the scan adaptors is incorporated into the templates within DentMILL that generate the milling instructions to manufacture the implant interfaces on the restorations. The resulting high accuracy is, of course, important for individual copings but is absolutely essential for bridges and dental bars that need to align with a number of implants.
This focus on high accuracy has been a key part of Delcam’s strategy for the dental industry and has been supported by the panel of experts from among the company’s customers that drives the development of the software. The better quality of restorations designed and made with the Delcam software benefits the patient by minimising manual adjustment of the item as it is being fitted, so reducing fitting times, and by offering improved comfort. In the longer term, the resulting restorations are more durable, so giving an extended life.
This launch is the latest step in the trend within the dental industry to replace "closed” manufacturing methods, in which the user is restricted to the use of a limited range of equipment and materials, with "open” systems, in which manufacturers can combine their own choice of equipment and software, and then use a broad variety of materials.
The key to the Delcam process is a new range of scan adaptors that are compatible with the leading brands of dental implant. Once the scan adaptors have been fitted to the model of the jaw, the scanner can accurately capture the positions and orientations of the implants, together with the shape of the remaining teeth. The precise fit of the scan adaptors, coupled with the latest generation of white-light 3D scanning technology used in the Delcam scanners, ensures the highest possible accuracy in the data collected.
Furthermore, the same manufacturing data that is used to produce the scan adaptors is incorporated into the templates within DentMILL that generate the milling instructions to manufacture the implant interfaces on the restorations. The resulting high accuracy is, of course, important for individual copings but is absolutely essential for bridges and dental bars that need to align with a number of implants.
This focus on high accuracy has been a key part of Delcam’s strategy for the dental industry and has been supported by the panel of experts from among the company’s customers that drives the development of the software. The better quality of restorations designed and made with the Delcam software benefits the patient by minimising manual adjustment of the item as it is being fitted, so reducing fitting times, and by offering improved comfort. In the longer term, the resulting restorations are more durable, so giving an extended life.
Filed under:
Delcam
Altair's PBS Professional Added to Dell's High-Performance Computing Solution Portfolio
Robust scheduling-optimization software available to Dell’s high-performance computing customers.
TROY, Mich – Altair Engineering, Inc., a leading global provider of simulation and advanced computing software solutions, announced today that PBS Professional, the commercial-grade HPC workload management solution and job scheduler, is now available directly through Dell’s ordering system for Dell’s high-performance computing customers.
PBS Works is a popular solution for optimizing workload scheduling and management of complex jobs in the HPC environment to ensure that technologies are being used to their greatest efficiency. It enables organizations to maximize efficient use of their computing resources and to initiate HPC jobs rapidly, thereby improving their overall productivity and return on investment.
“Our agreement with Dell allows our customers to obtain an integrated high-performance computing solution,” said PBS Works CTO Bill Nitzberg. “When products are accessible through Dell’s world-renowned order management system, customers can streamline large-scale implementations, minimize acquisition costs and maintain direct access to Altair’s sales, support and engineering teams. With this agreement in place, our engineering, scientific and educational communities have streamlined access to PBS Works, further enhancing our ability to help HPC projects run efficiently and easily.”
Long recognized as a crucial software foundation in the HPC industry, PBS Professional has been deployed on a broad range of Dell-based HPC solutions at more than 50 universities and research labs around the world, including a large U.S. Department of Defense site, centers at the IMT Institute for Advanced Studies Lucca, CIRA and Department of Structural Engineering of Politecnico di Milano in Italy, and Infotech Enterprises in India.
“Our customers require complete solutions for the full range of their computing needs,” said Dell Director of Enterprise Software Solutions Donnie Bell. “With the addition of Altair’s PBS Professional software suite, Dell customers have access to a broad suite of options that can be uniquely customized to each of their specific usage models and needs.”
TROY, Mich – Altair Engineering, Inc., a leading global provider of simulation and advanced computing software solutions, announced today that PBS Professional, the commercial-grade HPC workload management solution and job scheduler, is now available directly through Dell’s ordering system for Dell’s high-performance computing customers.
PBS Works is a popular solution for optimizing workload scheduling and management of complex jobs in the HPC environment to ensure that technologies are being used to their greatest efficiency. It enables organizations to maximize efficient use of their computing resources and to initiate HPC jobs rapidly, thereby improving their overall productivity and return on investment.
“Our agreement with Dell allows our customers to obtain an integrated high-performance computing solution,” said PBS Works CTO Bill Nitzberg. “When products are accessible through Dell’s world-renowned order management system, customers can streamline large-scale implementations, minimize acquisition costs and maintain direct access to Altair’s sales, support and engineering teams. With this agreement in place, our engineering, scientific and educational communities have streamlined access to PBS Works, further enhancing our ability to help HPC projects run efficiently and easily.”
Long recognized as a crucial software foundation in the HPC industry, PBS Professional has been deployed on a broad range of Dell-based HPC solutions at more than 50 universities and research labs around the world, including a large U.S. Department of Defense site, centers at the IMT Institute for Advanced Studies Lucca, CIRA and Department of Structural Engineering of Politecnico di Milano in Italy, and Infotech Enterprises in India.
“Our customers require complete solutions for the full range of their computing needs,” said Dell Director of Enterprise Software Solutions Donnie Bell. “With the addition of Altair’s PBS Professional software suite, Dell customers have access to a broad suite of options that can be uniquely customized to each of their specific usage models and needs.”
Filed under:
Altair
Altair HyperWorks Technology Conference Keynote, Workshop Sessions Will Focus on Aerospace Innovation
Orlando PLM conference, June 22-23, will feature NASA flight center director and HyperWorks executives.
TROY, Mich – As Altair Engineering, Inc., a leading global provider of simulation technology and engineering services, prepares for its 2011 Americas HyperWorks Technology Conference (HTC2011), the company has announced that anticipated keynote speeches will focus on aerospace, sustainability and virtual engineering, while workshop agendas will address critical issues and technological developments influencing the advanced-manufacturing community.
To be held at the Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress in Orlando, Fla., June 22-23, HTC2011 will center on product lifecycle management (PLM) technology and its effects across a variety of advanced-manufacturing sectors, with particular focus on the aerospace industry. Robert Lightfoot, Jr., director of the NASA Marshall Space Flight Center, will deliver the first keynote. He will address the challenges the Marshall Center faces and the ways it is seeking innovation to reposition itself for the future.
“The American aerospace industry is a leader in innovation, and it’s always been one of the economy’s strongest sectors,” said Lightfoot. “Given current domestic priorities and foreign competition, NASA and others in the industry are called upon to accept the challenge to adapt and change the way we do business.”
At HTC2011, members of the Altair executive team will lead several aerospace-focused workshops, sharing the company’s strides to inject innovative technology into the simulation, optimization and analysis of both commercial and military aircraft. Representatives from Boeing, Bombardier Aerospace, the National Institute for Aviation Research, and Sikorsky also will be on hand to present insights on the results their organizations have achieved with PLM technology.
“The opportunity to gather aerospace professionals of this caliber under one roof for HTC2011 provides attendees with rare access to the latest in industry thought leadership,” said Robert Yancey, Altair executive director of global aerospace. “We are eagerly anticipating the knowledge sharing that will take place at the event.”
John Viera, Ford Motor Company director of sustainability, and Kent Day, engineering team technical director for Richard Childress Racing, also will present keynote speeches during the conference. Viera will discuss product sustainability from an automotive perspective, and Day will recount his experiences regarding implementation of virtual engineering in the NASCAR racing environment, which was aided by the use and integration of a broad suite of simulation tools, including Altair’s HyperWorks software.
At HTC2011, Altair also will introduce attendees to HyperWorks 11.0, the latest version of its suite of CAE solutions. A pre-conference training session, to be held on Tuesday, June 21, will focus on the software’s new features, including the incorporation of recently acquired high-fidelity CFD solver AcuSolve™. AcuSolve integrates with Altair’s RADIOSS solver and its OptiStruct and HyperStudy optimization tools, increasing Altair’s offerings in CFD and multi-physics optimization.
HTC2011 is Altair’s premier annual event and is free for all attendees. The two-day conference will offer sessions on advancements in the areas of simulation-driven design practices, design optimization, data management, process automation and decision-support systems.
For more information and to register, visit www.altairhtc.com. Connect with HyperWorks on Twitter, Facebook and LinkedIn for HTC2011 updates and information.
TROY, Mich – As Altair Engineering, Inc., a leading global provider of simulation technology and engineering services, prepares for its 2011 Americas HyperWorks Technology Conference (HTC2011), the company has announced that anticipated keynote speeches will focus on aerospace, sustainability and virtual engineering, while workshop agendas will address critical issues and technological developments influencing the advanced-manufacturing community.
To be held at the Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress in Orlando, Fla., June 22-23, HTC2011 will center on product lifecycle management (PLM) technology and its effects across a variety of advanced-manufacturing sectors, with particular focus on the aerospace industry. Robert Lightfoot, Jr., director of the NASA Marshall Space Flight Center, will deliver the first keynote. He will address the challenges the Marshall Center faces and the ways it is seeking innovation to reposition itself for the future.
“The American aerospace industry is a leader in innovation, and it’s always been one of the economy’s strongest sectors,” said Lightfoot. “Given current domestic priorities and foreign competition, NASA and others in the industry are called upon to accept the challenge to adapt and change the way we do business.”
At HTC2011, members of the Altair executive team will lead several aerospace-focused workshops, sharing the company’s strides to inject innovative technology into the simulation, optimization and analysis of both commercial and military aircraft. Representatives from Boeing, Bombardier Aerospace, the National Institute for Aviation Research, and Sikorsky also will be on hand to present insights on the results their organizations have achieved with PLM technology.
“The opportunity to gather aerospace professionals of this caliber under one roof for HTC2011 provides attendees with rare access to the latest in industry thought leadership,” said Robert Yancey, Altair executive director of global aerospace. “We are eagerly anticipating the knowledge sharing that will take place at the event.”
John Viera, Ford Motor Company director of sustainability, and Kent Day, engineering team technical director for Richard Childress Racing, also will present keynote speeches during the conference. Viera will discuss product sustainability from an automotive perspective, and Day will recount his experiences regarding implementation of virtual engineering in the NASCAR racing environment, which was aided by the use and integration of a broad suite of simulation tools, including Altair’s HyperWorks software.
At HTC2011, Altair also will introduce attendees to HyperWorks 11.0, the latest version of its suite of CAE solutions. A pre-conference training session, to be held on Tuesday, June 21, will focus on the software’s new features, including the incorporation of recently acquired high-fidelity CFD solver AcuSolve™. AcuSolve integrates with Altair’s RADIOSS solver and its OptiStruct and HyperStudy optimization tools, increasing Altair’s offerings in CFD and multi-physics optimization.
HTC2011 is Altair’s premier annual event and is free for all attendees. The two-day conference will offer sessions on advancements in the areas of simulation-driven design practices, design optimization, data management, process automation and decision-support systems.
For more information and to register, visit www.altairhtc.com. Connect with HyperWorks on Twitter, Facebook and LinkedIn for HTC2011 updates and information.
Luxology Announces recoil Plug-in for Rigid Body Dynamics in modo 501
New Plug-in Incorporates Open Source Bullet Physics Engine into modo.
MOUNTAIN VIEW, Calif – Luxology® LLC has announced the availability of recoil™, a new plug-in for modo® 501 that accurately simulates dynamic rigid body interactions. Based on the popular open source Bullet physics engine, which is used extensively within the games and film industries, recoil realistically simulates dynamic forces and calculates accurate collisions between objects, allowing users to quickly create incredibly complex animations or automatically stack vast numbers of objects. The plug-in was developed independently by Eric Soulvie using the modo Plug-in Software Development Kit (SDK) and runs on both the PC and Mac versions of modo 501.
Utilizing version 2.77 of the Bullet physics engine, recoil simplifies the setup and execution of complex physical simulations by combining robust collision detection with a variety of constraints, forces and controls. By simply tagging any mesh item to be dynamic, the object is ready to respond to forces like gravity or collisions from other objects in a modo scene.
“The integration of the Bullet rigid body dynamics into modo went very smoothly and the resulting animations are astonishingly realistic,” said Eric Soulvie, the Seattle-based developer of the recoil plug-in. “The recoil plug-in supports the option of collision detection directly with the Subdivision Surfaces, not just the cage geometry, which provides for more detailed simulation results.”
The recoil plug-in is a seamless extension to modo and offers a wealth of new functionality for modo 501 users:
Any mesh item can be made dynamic with recoil, making it subject to forces like gravity or collisions with other objects in the scene.
Objects can be given “wake-up” conditions and an initial “impulse” behavior. A common wake-up event would be a collision, perhaps with an impulse behavior to jump up slightly and then respond to the force of gravity.
A system of connectors, including springs and motors enables complex linked behaviors like spinning gears, elastic coils or swinging chains.
Dynamic simulation can be combined with traditional keyframe animation so that a swinging bat can collide with a tower of pins that scatter and fall to the ground.
recoil is also useful for stacking objects so that they come to a resting position naturally, such as cubes of sugar in a dish or gumballs in a vending machine.
“recoil is a fast, powerful and fun-to-use product that will be attractive to our large community of modo users,” said Brad Peebler, president and co-founder of Luxology. “This is the most extensive use of the modo Plug-in SDK to date and represents a significant milestone for modo as a 3D platform.”
Pricing and Availability
The recoil plug-in is available immediately at a price of USD $199. recoil is designed for use with the modo 501 software that, along with recoil, can be obtained from Authorized Luxology resellers or from the Luxology website.
MOUNTAIN VIEW, Calif – Luxology® LLC has announced the availability of recoil™, a new plug-in for modo® 501 that accurately simulates dynamic rigid body interactions. Based on the popular open source Bullet physics engine, which is used extensively within the games and film industries, recoil realistically simulates dynamic forces and calculates accurate collisions between objects, allowing users to quickly create incredibly complex animations or automatically stack vast numbers of objects. The plug-in was developed independently by Eric Soulvie using the modo Plug-in Software Development Kit (SDK) and runs on both the PC and Mac versions of modo 501.
Utilizing version 2.77 of the Bullet physics engine, recoil simplifies the setup and execution of complex physical simulations by combining robust collision detection with a variety of constraints, forces and controls. By simply tagging any mesh item to be dynamic, the object is ready to respond to forces like gravity or collisions from other objects in a modo scene.
“The integration of the Bullet rigid body dynamics into modo went very smoothly and the resulting animations are astonishingly realistic,” said Eric Soulvie, the Seattle-based developer of the recoil plug-in. “The recoil plug-in supports the option of collision detection directly with the Subdivision Surfaces, not just the cage geometry, which provides for more detailed simulation results.”
The recoil plug-in is a seamless extension to modo and offers a wealth of new functionality for modo 501 users:
Any mesh item can be made dynamic with recoil, making it subject to forces like gravity or collisions with other objects in the scene.
Objects can be given “wake-up” conditions and an initial “impulse” behavior. A common wake-up event would be a collision, perhaps with an impulse behavior to jump up slightly and then respond to the force of gravity.
A system of connectors, including springs and motors enables complex linked behaviors like spinning gears, elastic coils or swinging chains.
Dynamic simulation can be combined with traditional keyframe animation so that a swinging bat can collide with a tower of pins that scatter and fall to the ground.
recoil is also useful for stacking objects so that they come to a resting position naturally, such as cubes of sugar in a dish or gumballs in a vending machine.
“recoil is a fast, powerful and fun-to-use product that will be attractive to our large community of modo users,” said Brad Peebler, president and co-founder of Luxology. “This is the most extensive use of the modo Plug-in SDK to date and represents a significant milestone for modo as a 3D platform.”
Pricing and Availability
The recoil plug-in is available immediately at a price of USD $199. recoil is designed for use with the modo 501 software that, along with recoil, can be obtained from Authorized Luxology resellers or from the Luxology website.
LEDAS Drastically Improves Performance of its LGS 3D Constraint Solver
Version 5.0 introduces new functions, improves speed by 30-100%.
LEDAS Ltd today announced the availability of version 5.0 of LGS 3D, its powerful geometric constraint solver. As a core technology component of CAD/CAM/CAE software, LGS 3D is used to implement geometric, dimensional, and engineering constraints in applications involving assembly design, motion simulation, and direct modeling.
Version 5.0 improves on its performance, introduces several new functions requested by LEDAS customers, and enhances the quality of its solutions.
Improved Performance
The move-under-constraints function allows users to drag one or more geometric objects interactively, while LGS 3D solves the constraints dynamically at each intermediate step. This makes it easy for users to adjust their designs, and to explore the kinematics of complex mechanisms. The new algorithm for adaptive calculation of move-under-constraints in LGS 3D 5.0 speeds up this function by 100%, on average.
LGS 3D can deal with inconsistent problems, and with version 5.0 inconsistent models are processed 30% faster on average, thanks to minimizing of the number of iterations to solve.
Extended Functions
In some design contexts, users need to know whether a particular constraint is satisfied. In previous releases, the only way to do this was to run the LGS 3D solver procedure, which proved to be time-consuming for large models. Version 5.0 introduces new functions that very quickly check if one or all constraints are satisfied.
The tangency constraint between cylinders and tori now supports the orientation attribute. Version 5.0 of LGS 3D now automatically detects the orientation attribute for coincidence constraints between circles and tori.
The distance constraint between two spheres now supports user- and application-defined help points. This allows users to measure distances between different combinations of the spheres’ sides.
Enhanced Solution Quality
The scope of some problem decomposition and heuristic methods has been extended to support models with non-rigid objects and variables.
The DOF (degrees of freedom) analysis introduced with the previous version of LGS 3D has been improved in version 5.0. The number of spiraling DOFs is minimized whenever possible.
LEDAS developers also eliminated several bugs reported by customers.
LEDAS Ltd today announced the availability of version 5.0 of LGS 3D, its powerful geometric constraint solver. As a core technology component of CAD/CAM/CAE software, LGS 3D is used to implement geometric, dimensional, and engineering constraints in applications involving assembly design, motion simulation, and direct modeling.
Version 5.0 improves on its performance, introduces several new functions requested by LEDAS customers, and enhances the quality of its solutions.
Improved Performance
The move-under-constraints function allows users to drag one or more geometric objects interactively, while LGS 3D solves the constraints dynamically at each intermediate step. This makes it easy for users to adjust their designs, and to explore the kinematics of complex mechanisms. The new algorithm for adaptive calculation of move-under-constraints in LGS 3D 5.0 speeds up this function by 100%, on average.
LGS 3D can deal with inconsistent problems, and with version 5.0 inconsistent models are processed 30% faster on average, thanks to minimizing of the number of iterations to solve.
Extended Functions
In some design contexts, users need to know whether a particular constraint is satisfied. In previous releases, the only way to do this was to run the LGS 3D solver procedure, which proved to be time-consuming for large models. Version 5.0 introduces new functions that very quickly check if one or all constraints are satisfied.
The tangency constraint between cylinders and tori now supports the orientation attribute. Version 5.0 of LGS 3D now automatically detects the orientation attribute for coincidence constraints between circles and tori.
The distance constraint between two spheres now supports user- and application-defined help points. This allows users to measure distances between different combinations of the spheres’ sides.
Enhanced Solution Quality
The scope of some problem decomposition and heuristic methods has been extended to support models with non-rigid objects and variables.
The DOF (degrees of freedom) analysis introduced with the previous version of LGS 3D has been improved in version 5.0. The number of spiraling DOFs is minimized whenever possible.
LEDAS developers also eliminated several bugs reported by customers.
Filed under:
LEDAS
Autodesk Certifies GibbsCAM 32-, 64-Bit for Inventor 2012
Gibbs and Associates, developer of GibbsCAM software for programming CNC machine tools and a Cimatron (Nasdaq: CIMT) company, announced today that its latest release of GibbsCAM, in both 32-bit and 64-bit versions, has been certified for Autodesk Inventor 2012 3D mechanical design software under the Autodesk Inventor Certified Applications Program. Digital Prototyping with Autodesk Inventor software gives manufacturers the ability to digitally design, visualize and simulate how a product will work under real world conditions before it is built, which helps reduce cost and increase efficiency. Certification demonstrates that the product is of high quality and up to date, and that it provides the highest level of interoperability with Autodesk Inventor software.
“We are pleased to announce continued support for directly reading Autodesk Inventor models and assemblies into GibbsCAM, extending into the eleventh year the high interoperability to which our joint customers have become accustomed,” said Bill Gibbs, founder and president of Gibbs and Associates. “Our customers can continue to take advantage of the numerous usability and productivity enhancements of each new GibbsCAM release, including additions for programming the latest, most sophisticated machine tools, without sacrificing the ease of use for which GibbsCAM is known.”
GibbsCAM, in both 32-bit and 64-bit editions, is compatible with Windows 7, so users can take advantage of the latest offerings from Autodesk, GibbsCAM and Microsoft on a single platform. An easy-to-use and simple-to-navigate interface, with language and icons familiar to programmers and machinists, allows GibbsCAM users to quickly take advantage of its powerful capabilities – from minimizing the time it takes to learn use of the software, to making manufacturing engineering tasks and production machining extremely intuitive and efficient. GibbsCAM provides the capability to program the most complex machining processes, and the flexibility to allow user-preferred approaches to jobs, with options that are logical to programmers.
“We are very pleased to have Gibbs and Associates renew Inventor certification for GibbsCAM,” said Carl White, Director of Digital Design product management at Autodesk., “GibbsCAM has supported Autodesk Inventor with direct reading of Inventor models and assemblies since the beginning of our certification program, with constant dedication to interoperability and ease of use. We are proud to have companies like Gibbs and Associates as partners in delivering extensible, flexible and easy-to-use applications to our manufacturing customers.”
GibbsCAM’s full associativity of geometry, processes and toolpaths, easily accommodates updates to Autodesk Inventor part geometry and process parameters. With GibbsCAM, NC programmers can quickly optimize parts for machining and program machine tools to make the parts, whether they have simple geometry needing only 2-axis turning or 2.5-axis milling, or complex geometry requiring use of 5-axis milling, MTM or Swiss-style turning centers. GibbsCAM verifies toolpaths with gouge detection and interference checking, and enables additional testing and prove-out with a dynamic display of all moving components of a selected machine tool as it makes the part. These, and many other features of GibbsCAM help manufacturers eliminate scrap, reduce cycle times, and maximize efficiency, safety and profits.
“We are pleased to announce continued support for directly reading Autodesk Inventor models and assemblies into GibbsCAM, extending into the eleventh year the high interoperability to which our joint customers have become accustomed,” said Bill Gibbs, founder and president of Gibbs and Associates. “Our customers can continue to take advantage of the numerous usability and productivity enhancements of each new GibbsCAM release, including additions for programming the latest, most sophisticated machine tools, without sacrificing the ease of use for which GibbsCAM is known.”
GibbsCAM, in both 32-bit and 64-bit editions, is compatible with Windows 7, so users can take advantage of the latest offerings from Autodesk, GibbsCAM and Microsoft on a single platform. An easy-to-use and simple-to-navigate interface, with language and icons familiar to programmers and machinists, allows GibbsCAM users to quickly take advantage of its powerful capabilities – from minimizing the time it takes to learn use of the software, to making manufacturing engineering tasks and production machining extremely intuitive and efficient. GibbsCAM provides the capability to program the most complex machining processes, and the flexibility to allow user-preferred approaches to jobs, with options that are logical to programmers.
“We are very pleased to have Gibbs and Associates renew Inventor certification for GibbsCAM,” said Carl White, Director of Digital Design product management at Autodesk., “GibbsCAM has supported Autodesk Inventor with direct reading of Inventor models and assemblies since the beginning of our certification program, with constant dedication to interoperability and ease of use. We are proud to have companies like Gibbs and Associates as partners in delivering extensible, flexible and easy-to-use applications to our manufacturing customers.”
GibbsCAM’s full associativity of geometry, processes and toolpaths, easily accommodates updates to Autodesk Inventor part geometry and process parameters. With GibbsCAM, NC programmers can quickly optimize parts for machining and program machine tools to make the parts, whether they have simple geometry needing only 2-axis turning or 2.5-axis milling, or complex geometry requiring use of 5-axis milling, MTM or Swiss-style turning centers. GibbsCAM verifies toolpaths with gouge detection and interference checking, and enables additional testing and prove-out with a dynamic display of all moving components of a selected machine tool as it makes the part. These, and many other features of GibbsCAM help manufacturers eliminate scrap, reduce cycle times, and maximize efficiency, safety and profits.
Frost & Sullivan Recognizes VISTAGY for Innovative, Productive, Customer-Driven Engineering Solutions
VISTAGY's consistent performance and increasing customer base a validation of its superior solution suite.
MOUNTAIN VIEW - Based on its recent analysis of the composites design engineering solutions market, Frost & Sullivan recognizes VISTAGY with the 2011 Global Frost & Sullivan Award for Customer Value Enhancement. VISTAGY’s customer-centric suite of design engineering solutions is widely appreciated by end-users for its ability to solve complex design and manufacturing issues. Its pioneering solutions address issues that have not been effectively addressed by other competitors, enabling VISTAGY to achieve significant mindshare among end-users.
The prevalence of generic, highly commoditized computer-aided design and manufacturing solutions has spawned an opportunity for applications that add value by addressing the industry-specific needs of designers and manufacturers. VISTAGY has seized that opportunity by developing software that enables the creation of better designs and the use of innovative materials geared specifically to the automotive, aerospace, wind and marine industries.
"With its domain expertise and industry-specific software solutions, the company propagates frugal engineering among its end-users, thereby increasing efficiency in production and reducing total cost," said Frost & Sullivan Program Manager, Arunkumar Janarthanan. "VISTAGY’s solutions complement existing computer-aided design (CAD) and product lifecycle management (PLM) solutions, thereby enabling end-users to retain their existing CAD infrastructure, while enhancing the performance of their design engineering operations."
The company’s innovative core technology, domain expertise, and process knowledge, has consistently delivered solutions that address these end-user challenges by enabling engineers to "work how they think." As a result, the company has been able to add significant value to its products.
VISTAGY is at the forefront of developing technologies that can address challenges associated with mass production of automobiles, ensuring better designs and design techniques. In the aerospace industry, there are numerous challenges associated with the integration of composites in the ultimate airframe assembly process. It is essential to have a design environment that is flexible enough to handle the integration challenges.
VISTAGY’s AeroSuite™, a pioneering, integrated solution suite, addresses these challenges with an enhanced scope that covers the design, assembly, manufacturing and quality process. While FiberSIM®, a composites engineering solution, enables VISTAGY to provide an innovative design engineering environment, SyncroFIT® has enabled VISTAGY to address complex issues associated with efficient design and manufacturing of airframe assemblies and its associated fasteners, as well as supply chain complexities. This integrated solution offering has enabled aerospace industry end-users to address complex engineering and assembly issues while reducing development time.
VISTAGY has also developed a significant presence in the rapidly emerging wind energy market as leading manufacturers have adopted FiberSIM to enable them to enhance and streamline their entire design-to-manufacturing processes for composite wind blades
VISTAGY's Seat Design Environment™ (SDE) is one more example. While the seat trim cover designing concept has been traditionally conducted in 2-D, VISTAGY, through its SDE, allows 3-D modeling for seat trim designs, thereby ensuring faster time to market, optimal material usage, reduced total engineering costs, and improved cost forecast predictability
To maintain its leadership position, VISTAGY has leveraged technological partnerships with research/educational institutions to consistently deliver innovative design engineering software for new materials and processes, while its partnerships with leading PLM and CAD solution providers—including Siemens PLM, PTC, and Dassault—demonstrate its product capability as an enabling technology for end-users.
"VISTAGY's holistic and innovative solutions enabled it to achieve a 29 percent revenue growth and 36 percent software license growth in 2010," said Janarthanan. "The ability to consistently grow and expand into new markets at a significant pace is a clear reflection of VISTAGY's solution strength as well as customer confidence."
Overall, VISTAGY, with its innovative suite of solutions, effectively differentiates itself as a key enabler of sustainable manufacturing. The industry-specific software solutions that help manufacturers do more with less by optimizing material usage, innovating newer processes, and incorporating new materials, positions VISTAGY products as a solution of choice in the composites design engineering space.
In recognition of these achievements, Frost & Sullivan is proud to present VISTAGY with the 2011 Global Frost & Sullivan Award for Customer Value Enhancement in the composites design engineering solutions market.
Each year, Frost & Sullivan presents this award to the company that has demonstrated excellence in implementing strategies that proactively create value for its customers with a focus on improving the return on the investment that customers make in its services or products. This award recognizes the company's inordinate focus on enhancing the value that its customers receive, beyond simply good customer service, leading to improved customer retention and ultimately customer base expansion.
Frost & Sullivan's Best Practices Awards recognize companies in a variety of regional and global markets for demonstrating outstanding achievement and superior performance in areas such as leadership, technological innovation, customer service and strategic product development. Industry analysts compare market participants and measure performance through in-depth interviews, analysis and extensive secondary research in order to identify best practices in the industry.
MOUNTAIN VIEW - Based on its recent analysis of the composites design engineering solutions market, Frost & Sullivan recognizes VISTAGY with the 2011 Global Frost & Sullivan Award for Customer Value Enhancement. VISTAGY’s customer-centric suite of design engineering solutions is widely appreciated by end-users for its ability to solve complex design and manufacturing issues. Its pioneering solutions address issues that have not been effectively addressed by other competitors, enabling VISTAGY to achieve significant mindshare among end-users.
The prevalence of generic, highly commoditized computer-aided design and manufacturing solutions has spawned an opportunity for applications that add value by addressing the industry-specific needs of designers and manufacturers. VISTAGY has seized that opportunity by developing software that enables the creation of better designs and the use of innovative materials geared specifically to the automotive, aerospace, wind and marine industries.
"With its domain expertise and industry-specific software solutions, the company propagates frugal engineering among its end-users, thereby increasing efficiency in production and reducing total cost," said Frost & Sullivan Program Manager, Arunkumar Janarthanan. "VISTAGY’s solutions complement existing computer-aided design (CAD) and product lifecycle management (PLM) solutions, thereby enabling end-users to retain their existing CAD infrastructure, while enhancing the performance of their design engineering operations."
The company’s innovative core technology, domain expertise, and process knowledge, has consistently delivered solutions that address these end-user challenges by enabling engineers to "work how they think." As a result, the company has been able to add significant value to its products.
VISTAGY is at the forefront of developing technologies that can address challenges associated with mass production of automobiles, ensuring better designs and design techniques. In the aerospace industry, there are numerous challenges associated with the integration of composites in the ultimate airframe assembly process. It is essential to have a design environment that is flexible enough to handle the integration challenges.
VISTAGY’s AeroSuite™, a pioneering, integrated solution suite, addresses these challenges with an enhanced scope that covers the design, assembly, manufacturing and quality process. While FiberSIM®, a composites engineering solution, enables VISTAGY to provide an innovative design engineering environment, SyncroFIT® has enabled VISTAGY to address complex issues associated with efficient design and manufacturing of airframe assemblies and its associated fasteners, as well as supply chain complexities. This integrated solution offering has enabled aerospace industry end-users to address complex engineering and assembly issues while reducing development time.
VISTAGY has also developed a significant presence in the rapidly emerging wind energy market as leading manufacturers have adopted FiberSIM to enable them to enhance and streamline their entire design-to-manufacturing processes for composite wind blades
VISTAGY's Seat Design Environment™ (SDE) is one more example. While the seat trim cover designing concept has been traditionally conducted in 2-D, VISTAGY, through its SDE, allows 3-D modeling for seat trim designs, thereby ensuring faster time to market, optimal material usage, reduced total engineering costs, and improved cost forecast predictability
To maintain its leadership position, VISTAGY has leveraged technological partnerships with research/educational institutions to consistently deliver innovative design engineering software for new materials and processes, while its partnerships with leading PLM and CAD solution providers—including Siemens PLM, PTC, and Dassault—demonstrate its product capability as an enabling technology for end-users.
"VISTAGY's holistic and innovative solutions enabled it to achieve a 29 percent revenue growth and 36 percent software license growth in 2010," said Janarthanan. "The ability to consistently grow and expand into new markets at a significant pace is a clear reflection of VISTAGY's solution strength as well as customer confidence."
Overall, VISTAGY, with its innovative suite of solutions, effectively differentiates itself as a key enabler of sustainable manufacturing. The industry-specific software solutions that help manufacturers do more with less by optimizing material usage, innovating newer processes, and incorporating new materials, positions VISTAGY products as a solution of choice in the composites design engineering space.
In recognition of these achievements, Frost & Sullivan is proud to present VISTAGY with the 2011 Global Frost & Sullivan Award for Customer Value Enhancement in the composites design engineering solutions market.
Each year, Frost & Sullivan presents this award to the company that has demonstrated excellence in implementing strategies that proactively create value for its customers with a focus on improving the return on the investment that customers make in its services or products. This award recognizes the company's inordinate focus on enhancing the value that its customers receive, beyond simply good customer service, leading to improved customer retention and ultimately customer base expansion.
Frost & Sullivan's Best Practices Awards recognize companies in a variety of regional and global markets for demonstrating outstanding achievement and superior performance in areas such as leadership, technological innovation, customer service and strategic product development. Industry analysts compare market participants and measure performance through in-depth interviews, analysis and extensive secondary research in order to identify best practices in the industry.
Filed under:
VISTAGY
Altair HyperWorks Technology Conference Keynote, Workshop Sessions Will Focus on Aerospace Innovation
Orlando PLM conference, June 22-23, will feature NASA flight center director and HyperWorks executives.
TROY, Mich – As Altair Engineering, Inc., a leading global provider of simulation technology and engineering services, prepares for its 2011 Americas HyperWorks Technology Conference (HTC2011), the company has announced that anticipated keynote speeches will focus on aerospace, sustainability and virtual engineering, while workshop agendas will address critical issues and technological developments influencing the advanced-manufacturing community.
To be held at the Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress in Orlando, Fla., June 22-23, HTC2011 will center on product lifecycle management (PLM) technology and its effects across a variety of advanced-manufacturing sectors, with particular focus on the aerospace industry. Robert Lightfoot, Jr., director of the NASA Marshall Space Flight Center, will deliver the first keynote. He will address the challenges the Marshall Center faces and the ways it is seeking innovation to reposition itself for the future.
“The American aerospace industry is a leader in innovation, and it’s always been one of the economy’s strongest sectors,” said Lightfoot. “Given current domestic priorities and foreign competition, NASA and others in the industry are called upon to accept the challenge to adapt and change the way we do business.”
At HTC2011, members of the Altair executive team will lead several aerospace-focused workshops, sharing the company’s strides to inject innovative technology into the simulation, optimization and analysis of both commercial and military aircraft. Representatives from Boeing, Bombardier Aerospace, the National Institute for Aviation Research, and Sikorsky also will be on hand to present insights on the results their organizations have achieved with PLM technology.
“The opportunity to gather aerospace professionals of this caliber under one roof for HTC2011 provides attendees with rare access to the latest in industry thought leadership,” said Robert Yancey, Altair executive director of global aerospace. “We are eagerly anticipating the knowledge sharing that will take place at the event.”
John Viera, Ford Motor Company director of sustainability, and Kent Day, engineering team technical director for Richard Childress Racing, also will present keynote speeches during the conference. Viera will discuss product sustainability from an automotive perspective, and Day will recount his experiences regarding implementation of virtual engineering in the NASCAR racing environment, which was aided by the use and integration of a broad suite of simulation tools, including Altair’s HyperWorks software.
At HTC2011, Altair also will introduce attendees to HyperWorks 11.0, the latest version of its suite of CAE solutions. A pre-conference training session, to be held on Tuesday, June 21, will focus on the software’s new features, including the incorporation of recently acquired high-fidelity CFD solver AcuSolve™. AcuSolve integrates with Altair’s RADIOSS solver and its OptiStruct and HyperStudy optimization tools, increasing Altair’s offerings in CFD and multi-physics optimization.
HTC2011 is Altair’s premier annual event and is free for all attendees. The two-day conference will offer sessions on advancements in the areas of simulation-driven design practices, design optimization, data management, process automation and decision-support systems.
TROY, Mich – As Altair Engineering, Inc., a leading global provider of simulation technology and engineering services, prepares for its 2011 Americas HyperWorks Technology Conference (HTC2011), the company has announced that anticipated keynote speeches will focus on aerospace, sustainability and virtual engineering, while workshop agendas will address critical issues and technological developments influencing the advanced-manufacturing community.
To be held at the Hyatt Regency Grand Cypress in Orlando, Fla., June 22-23, HTC2011 will center on product lifecycle management (PLM) technology and its effects across a variety of advanced-manufacturing sectors, with particular focus on the aerospace industry. Robert Lightfoot, Jr., director of the NASA Marshall Space Flight Center, will deliver the first keynote. He will address the challenges the Marshall Center faces and the ways it is seeking innovation to reposition itself for the future.
“The American aerospace industry is a leader in innovation, and it’s always been one of the economy’s strongest sectors,” said Lightfoot. “Given current domestic priorities and foreign competition, NASA and others in the industry are called upon to accept the challenge to adapt and change the way we do business.”
At HTC2011, members of the Altair executive team will lead several aerospace-focused workshops, sharing the company’s strides to inject innovative technology into the simulation, optimization and analysis of both commercial and military aircraft. Representatives from Boeing, Bombardier Aerospace, the National Institute for Aviation Research, and Sikorsky also will be on hand to present insights on the results their organizations have achieved with PLM technology.
“The opportunity to gather aerospace professionals of this caliber under one roof for HTC2011 provides attendees with rare access to the latest in industry thought leadership,” said Robert Yancey, Altair executive director of global aerospace. “We are eagerly anticipating the knowledge sharing that will take place at the event.”
John Viera, Ford Motor Company director of sustainability, and Kent Day, engineering team technical director for Richard Childress Racing, also will present keynote speeches during the conference. Viera will discuss product sustainability from an automotive perspective, and Day will recount his experiences regarding implementation of virtual engineering in the NASCAR racing environment, which was aided by the use and integration of a broad suite of simulation tools, including Altair’s HyperWorks software.
At HTC2011, Altair also will introduce attendees to HyperWorks 11.0, the latest version of its suite of CAE solutions. A pre-conference training session, to be held on Tuesday, June 21, will focus on the software’s new features, including the incorporation of recently acquired high-fidelity CFD solver AcuSolve™. AcuSolve integrates with Altair’s RADIOSS solver and its OptiStruct and HyperStudy optimization tools, increasing Altair’s offerings in CFD and multi-physics optimization.
HTC2011 is Altair’s premier annual event and is free for all attendees. The two-day conference will offer sessions on advancements in the areas of simulation-driven design practices, design optimization, data management, process automation and decision-support systems.
Filed under:
Altair
Dassault Systèmes Acquires Enginuity PLM to Accelerate Innovation for Formulated Products
Dassault Systèmes Expands PLM Offer for CPG, Life Sciences and Other Formula-based Industries; Enables Customers to Bring Breakthrough Formulations to Market More Rapidly and at Lower Cost.
Dassault Systèmes has announced the acquisition of Enginuity PLM, a leader in formula-based PLM and widely acknowledged as the best-in-class solution. The amount of the transaction was not disclosed.
Demonstrating its broad industry focus, the addition of Enginuity expands Dassault Systèmes’ already extensive suite of collaborative business process solutions based on the ENOVIA V6 platform. Using ENOVIA V6, formula-centric companies in the pharmaceutical, personal care, cosmetics, food and beverage, flavor/fragrance industries will be able to accelerate product innovation and product launches while successfully navigating complex regulatory requirements and more effectively managing and leveraging their formula, packaging and consumer Intellectual Property (IP) in a single, global PLM solution.
“At a time when many products are coming under increased scrutiny from the international community, the ability to avoid mistakes and costly recalls while accelerating product development is of paramount importance. We believe that the acquisition of Enginuity represents a keystone in our PLM solution for formula-based industries, enabling us to expand the services and value that we deliver to our customers in this previously underserved space,” said Michel Tellier, CEO, ENOVIA, Dassault Systèmes. “Additionally, this acquisition allows Dassault Systèmes to leverage our core technology and offer a complete product definition for process industries, including product, packaging and labeling.”
Traditionally, formula-based companies working to implement a PLM strategy had to make a difficult choice. They could implement a broad enterprise PLM solution that lacked the deep formula, regulatory, labeling and compliance capabilities required to dramatically accelerate formula innovation and product launch – or invest in a point solution that provides these deep vertical capabilities, but can’t easily integrate with other critical business processes across the enterprise. Enginuity provides a highly-intuitive, digital work environment that empowers innovators to capture all product development information for formula design in real-time, as the innovation happens – eliminating the time-consuming effort of documenting data in a separate system. This approach also provides the entire R&D organization secure access to all current and historical product development data exactly when they need it – allowing them to leverage the company’s intellectual property to avoid past mistakes and leverage past successes.
Dr. John Sottery, founder and CEO, Enginuity commented, “For the past 18 years we have focused on helping a number of the world’s largest and most successful formula-based companies address a fundamental industry dilemma – how to accelerate innovation and reduce time-to-market while simultaneously navigating an increasingly complex global regulatory environment. By combining our best-in-class formula PLM solution and deep industry domain knowledge with Dassault Systèmes’ ENOVIA V6 PLM platform, I believe that we will revolutionize how our customers develop and launch formulated products.”
Dassault Systèmes has announced the acquisition of Enginuity PLM, a leader in formula-based PLM and widely acknowledged as the best-in-class solution. The amount of the transaction was not disclosed.
Demonstrating its broad industry focus, the addition of Enginuity expands Dassault Systèmes’ already extensive suite of collaborative business process solutions based on the ENOVIA V6 platform. Using ENOVIA V6, formula-centric companies in the pharmaceutical, personal care, cosmetics, food and beverage, flavor/fragrance industries will be able to accelerate product innovation and product launches while successfully navigating complex regulatory requirements and more effectively managing and leveraging their formula, packaging and consumer Intellectual Property (IP) in a single, global PLM solution.
“At a time when many products are coming under increased scrutiny from the international community, the ability to avoid mistakes and costly recalls while accelerating product development is of paramount importance. We believe that the acquisition of Enginuity represents a keystone in our PLM solution for formula-based industries, enabling us to expand the services and value that we deliver to our customers in this previously underserved space,” said Michel Tellier, CEO, ENOVIA, Dassault Systèmes. “Additionally, this acquisition allows Dassault Systèmes to leverage our core technology and offer a complete product definition for process industries, including product, packaging and labeling.”
Traditionally, formula-based companies working to implement a PLM strategy had to make a difficult choice. They could implement a broad enterprise PLM solution that lacked the deep formula, regulatory, labeling and compliance capabilities required to dramatically accelerate formula innovation and product launch – or invest in a point solution that provides these deep vertical capabilities, but can’t easily integrate with other critical business processes across the enterprise. Enginuity provides a highly-intuitive, digital work environment that empowers innovators to capture all product development information for formula design in real-time, as the innovation happens – eliminating the time-consuming effort of documenting data in a separate system. This approach also provides the entire R&D organization secure access to all current and historical product development data exactly when they need it – allowing them to leverage the company’s intellectual property to avoid past mistakes and leverage past successes.
Dr. John Sottery, founder and CEO, Enginuity commented, “For the past 18 years we have focused on helping a number of the world’s largest and most successful formula-based companies address a fundamental industry dilemma – how to accelerate innovation and reduce time-to-market while simultaneously navigating an increasingly complex global regulatory environment. By combining our best-in-class formula PLM solution and deep industry domain knowledge with Dassault Systèmes’ ENOVIA V6 PLM platform, I believe that we will revolutionize how our customers develop and launch formulated products.”
Filed under:
Dassault,
Mergers and Acquisitions
Federal Equipment Company Uses Digital Prototyping to Create Cableless Elevator System for Aircraft Carriers
SAN RAFAEL, Calif - Autodesk, Inc, has named Federal Equipment Company (FEC) as the Autodesk April Inventor of the Month for using Autodesk software to design a new type of elevator system for the U.S. Navy. The advanced system relies on magnets rather than cables to power its elevators, enabling the Navy to more efficiently transport munitions on board new aircraft carriers.
Unlike most elevators, which rely on a cable-based pulley system, FEC elevators for the Navy’s new system use what is known as linear synchronous motor technology — the same magnet-based technology that powers many high-speed trains. The elevator can move 150 feet per minute and accelerate to full speed in two seconds, which is a significant performance improvement over the Navy’s legacy elevator systems.
FEC worked on the project with defense contractor and shipbuilder Northrop Grumman Newport News, which awarded FEC the $55 million project as part of its larger assignment to build a new class of aircraft carrier called the CVN-21.
Digital Prototyping Helps Accelerate Design of Innovative Elevator System
To develop, simulate and optimize its groundbreaking design, FEC relied on Autodesk Digital Prototyping software provided by Advanced Solutions, an Autodesk Authorized Reseller and Gold Partner.
FEC used Autodesk Inventor Professional software to develop an accurate prototyping model of the elevator, Autodesk Simulation Multiphysics (formerly Algor Simulation) software to simulate its real-world performance, AutoCAD Electrical to design the electrical control system and Autodesk Vault to manage the project’s data and share it with Northrop Grumman.
“Autodesk software saved us an immeasurable amount of time,” said Scott Thompson, a mechanical engineer at FEC. “If a picture is worth a thousand words, a digital model is worth 10,000.”
Autodesk software proved particularly valuable when FEC used the dynamic design analysis method capabilities in Autodesk Simulation Multiphysics to simulate the elevator model’s response to shocks, such as those produced by underwater explosions. By running the simulation in Autodesk Simulation Multiphysics, the company identified and fixed potential problems before it performed live tests that cost $400,000 — helping it to pass the test on the first attempt.
In addition to the extensive finite element modeling tools provided in Autodesk Simulation Multiphysics, Autodesk provides simulation experts who offer technical support for all simulation users and explore the latest trends, issues and developments in simulation to help users and analysts gain knowledge and experience from fellow industry gurus.
“FEC illustrates the innovation that can be achieved by creating a single digital model to design, visualize and simulate the product, paired together with enterprise product data management,” said Robert “Buzz” Kross, senior vice president, Manufacturing Industry Group, Autodesk. “Digital Prototyping enhanced FEC designers’ and engineers’ ability to think innovatively on an ambitious endeavor such as the Naval aircraft carrier project.”
Unlike most elevators, which rely on a cable-based pulley system, FEC elevators for the Navy’s new system use what is known as linear synchronous motor technology — the same magnet-based technology that powers many high-speed trains. The elevator can move 150 feet per minute and accelerate to full speed in two seconds, which is a significant performance improvement over the Navy’s legacy elevator systems.
FEC worked on the project with defense contractor and shipbuilder Northrop Grumman Newport News, which awarded FEC the $55 million project as part of its larger assignment to build a new class of aircraft carrier called the CVN-21.
Digital Prototyping Helps Accelerate Design of Innovative Elevator System
To develop, simulate and optimize its groundbreaking design, FEC relied on Autodesk Digital Prototyping software provided by Advanced Solutions, an Autodesk Authorized Reseller and Gold Partner.
FEC used Autodesk Inventor Professional software to develop an accurate prototyping model of the elevator, Autodesk Simulation Multiphysics (formerly Algor Simulation) software to simulate its real-world performance, AutoCAD Electrical to design the electrical control system and Autodesk Vault to manage the project’s data and share it with Northrop Grumman.
“Autodesk software saved us an immeasurable amount of time,” said Scott Thompson, a mechanical engineer at FEC. “If a picture is worth a thousand words, a digital model is worth 10,000.”
Autodesk software proved particularly valuable when FEC used the dynamic design analysis method capabilities in Autodesk Simulation Multiphysics to simulate the elevator model’s response to shocks, such as those produced by underwater explosions. By running the simulation in Autodesk Simulation Multiphysics, the company identified and fixed potential problems before it performed live tests that cost $400,000 — helping it to pass the test on the first attempt.
In addition to the extensive finite element modeling tools provided in Autodesk Simulation Multiphysics, Autodesk provides simulation experts who offer technical support for all simulation users and explore the latest trends, issues and developments in simulation to help users and analysts gain knowledge and experience from fellow industry gurus.
“FEC illustrates the innovation that can be achieved by creating a single digital model to design, visualize and simulate the product, paired together with enterprise product data management,” said Robert “Buzz” Kross, senior vice president, Manufacturing Industry Group, Autodesk. “Digital Prototyping enhanced FEC designers’ and engineers’ ability to think innovatively on an ambitious endeavor such as the Naval aircraft carrier project.”
Filed under:
Autodesk
NOVA Solutions Introduces Collaboration Solution
NOVA Solutions has introduced a new product designed for collaborative learning.
The Collaboration Table features technology integration using NOVA's Trolley E-Class monitor lifts that can be controlled with the NOVALinked™ system via Crestron, Extron, AMX, or other brand controller.
The table features seating for up to five, plus a mount for a large LCD screen, making it ideal for distance learning and presentation applications. The unit also features individual CPU shelves for each user as well as a pullout keyboard tray. The center "hub" can be removed for easy access to network cables and power cords.
The Collaboration Table is constructed of high-quality, durable laminate and is available in a variety of colors.
Collaborative learning (CL) is instruction that involves students working in teams to accomplish a common goal, under conditions that include the positive interdependence, individual accountability, face-to-face interaction, collaborative skills, and group processing.
The Collaboration Table features technology integration using NOVA's Trolley E-Class monitor lifts that can be controlled with the NOVALinked™ system via Crestron, Extron, AMX, or other brand controller.
The table features seating for up to five, plus a mount for a large LCD screen, making it ideal for distance learning and presentation applications. The unit also features individual CPU shelves for each user as well as a pullout keyboard tray. The center "hub" can be removed for easy access to network cables and power cords.
The Collaboration Table is constructed of high-quality, durable laminate and is available in a variety of colors.
Collaborative learning (CL) is instruction that involves students working in teams to accomplish a common goal, under conditions that include the positive interdependence, individual accountability, face-to-face interaction, collaborative skills, and group processing.
Fishbowl Solutions Announces Migration Solution Set for Windchill®
Fishbowl Solutions, Inc., a software, services and consulting company delivering solutions for the PTC® Product Development System (PDS), has released their Migration Solution Set for Windchill®, an out-of-the-box solution for PTC Windchill PDMLink® and Pro/INTRALINK®.
Fishbowl has had success with their linkLoader solution to batch load Creo™ Elements/Pro™ (formerly Pro/ENGINEER®), AutoCAD, Inventor, and Solidworks data from a file system into Windchill. Leveraging this success, Fishbowl has expanded their migration capabilities to include:
• Migration Solution Set from Teamcenter to Windchill
• Migration Solution Set from PDMWorks to Windchill
• Migration Solution Set from Windchill to Windchill
“The faster a company can migrate accurate data into Windchill, the faster they can leverage more capabilities within Windchill, and the faster that company can begin to realize a return on their investment in Windchill.” stated Rick Passolt, Business Development Manager, Fishbowl Solutions.
Fishbowl has had success with their linkLoader solution to batch load Creo™ Elements/Pro™ (formerly Pro/ENGINEER®), AutoCAD, Inventor, and Solidworks data from a file system into Windchill. Leveraging this success, Fishbowl has expanded their migration capabilities to include:
• Migration Solution Set from Teamcenter to Windchill
• Migration Solution Set from PDMWorks to Windchill
• Migration Solution Set from Windchill to Windchill
“The faster a company can migrate accurate data into Windchill, the faster they can leverage more capabilities within Windchill, and the faster that company can begin to realize a return on their investment in Windchill.” stated Rick Passolt, Business Development Manager, Fishbowl Solutions.
Filed under:
FISHBOWL SOLUTIONS
3D Systems Acquires Print3D
ROCK HILL, S.C - 3D Systems Corporation announced today its acquisition of Print3D Corporation ("Print3D"), a startup company that develops custom parts services for CAD users through advanced desktop tools that integrate directly into their design environment. Print3D's proprietary dynamic pricing and ordering engine is designed to make quoting and ordering parts as easy as printing a document.
"With Print3D we are taking an additional step towards democratizing access to affordable, safe and viable 3D content-to-print solutions for professionals and consumers alike," said Cathy Lewis Vice President Global Marketing 3D Systems.
The company plans to commercialize Print3D as a complementary custom parts service to its Quickparts(R) and 3Dproparts(TM) services and to leverage this technology to create new user tools and utilities for its entire menus of services.
"With Print3D we are taking an additional step towards democratizing access to affordable, safe and viable 3D content-to-print solutions for professionals and consumers alike," said Cathy Lewis Vice President Global Marketing 3D Systems.
The company plans to commercialize Print3D as a complementary custom parts service to its Quickparts(R) and 3Dproparts(TM) services and to leverage this technology to create new user tools and utilities for its entire menus of services.
Filed under:
3D Systems,
Mergers and Acquisitions
Embraer and Dassault Systèmes to Raise Digital Manufacturing Excellence to New Levels
Digital Factory Solution Will Bring Significant Cost Savings to Embraer’s Phenom and Legacy 500 Jets by Integrating CATIA, ENOVIA, DELMIA and 3DVIA to Create Real-Time Manufacturing.
Dassault Systèmes today announced that Embraer S.A., the world’s fourth-largest plane maker, is deploying a complete 3D solution for the design and manufacturing of its Phenom and Legacy 500 executive jets at its Melbourne, Florida, U.S. and São José dos Campos, Brazil plants. Digital Factory is a 3D source for product information aimed to reduce design and manufacturing costs by creating a single set of plans, design models and work and product instructions, all integrated into a secure, collaborative platform.
With growing market interest in executive jet purchases, Embraer required flexible technology to support an agile manufacturing operation that responded quickly to market changes, while ensuring work was done in compliance with industry requirements.
Embraer’s business challenge was to create a single PLM platform for its manufacturing and shop floor operations and to move all shop-floor data from a paper to an online environment.
“Our goal is to create a single manufacturing model to increase efficiency, reduce costs and offer a collaborative environment for designers, engineers, and floor workers to work as one team,” said Alexandre Baulé, vice president, Information Systems, Embraer. “By following one product roadmap, we will react quickly and deliver the accuracy of data and perfection of processes so critical to ensure superior performance in our Phenom and Legacy 500 jets.”
Working with Dassault Systèmes, Embraer launched two new design and manufacturing initiatives as part of its Phenom and Legacy 500 programs:
Digital Factory (DF): Using CATIA and DELMIA for virtual design, production and manufacturing, Embraer has a 3D platform for process planning and detailing, workload balancing, costing, cycle time calculations, as well as a new 3D process for design validation and optimization. A 3D master source for product information known as “Model-Based Definition,” is used by workers on the manufacturing shop floor to access design, data and work instructions with personal and tablet computers. ENOVIA’s collaborative platform helps in the process planning and manufacturing simulation of aircrafts, with final plans published in 3DVIA and delivered on-line for use by shop floor workers as well.
Manufacturing Execution System (MES): With the development of a new, common architecture, Dassault Systèmes paved the way to integrate an MES solution that allows shop floor workers and suppliers across many locations to access the latest 3D models and instructions real time, hence ensuring the accuracy of the final product and the set of instructions.
“Embraer is tapping into advanced technology solutions to help achieve significant savings by integrating key engineering, design and manufacturing operations into a single 3D model. These savings allow Embraer S.A. to re-invest resources in new industry opportunities and initiatives,” stated Marcelo Lemos, general manager, Latin America, Dassault Systèmes. “Brazil is a country of historic contributions to the aviation industry. It is an incredible opportunity to partner with Embraer, a company driving that pioneering spirit.”
Dassault Systèmes today announced that Embraer S.A., the world’s fourth-largest plane maker, is deploying a complete 3D solution for the design and manufacturing of its Phenom and Legacy 500 executive jets at its Melbourne, Florida, U.S. and São José dos Campos, Brazil plants. Digital Factory is a 3D source for product information aimed to reduce design and manufacturing costs by creating a single set of plans, design models and work and product instructions, all integrated into a secure, collaborative platform.
With growing market interest in executive jet purchases, Embraer required flexible technology to support an agile manufacturing operation that responded quickly to market changes, while ensuring work was done in compliance with industry requirements.
Embraer’s business challenge was to create a single PLM platform for its manufacturing and shop floor operations and to move all shop-floor data from a paper to an online environment.
“Our goal is to create a single manufacturing model to increase efficiency, reduce costs and offer a collaborative environment for designers, engineers, and floor workers to work as one team,” said Alexandre Baulé, vice president, Information Systems, Embraer. “By following one product roadmap, we will react quickly and deliver the accuracy of data and perfection of processes so critical to ensure superior performance in our Phenom and Legacy 500 jets.”
Working with Dassault Systèmes, Embraer launched two new design and manufacturing initiatives as part of its Phenom and Legacy 500 programs:
Digital Factory (DF): Using CATIA and DELMIA for virtual design, production and manufacturing, Embraer has a 3D platform for process planning and detailing, workload balancing, costing, cycle time calculations, as well as a new 3D process for design validation and optimization. A 3D master source for product information known as “Model-Based Definition,” is used by workers on the manufacturing shop floor to access design, data and work instructions with personal and tablet computers. ENOVIA’s collaborative platform helps in the process planning and manufacturing simulation of aircrafts, with final plans published in 3DVIA and delivered on-line for use by shop floor workers as well.
Manufacturing Execution System (MES): With the development of a new, common architecture, Dassault Systèmes paved the way to integrate an MES solution that allows shop floor workers and suppliers across many locations to access the latest 3D models and instructions real time, hence ensuring the accuracy of the final product and the set of instructions.
“Embraer is tapping into advanced technology solutions to help achieve significant savings by integrating key engineering, design and manufacturing operations into a single 3D model. These savings allow Embraer S.A. to re-invest resources in new industry opportunities and initiatives,” stated Marcelo Lemos, general manager, Latin America, Dassault Systèmes. “Brazil is a country of historic contributions to the aviation industry. It is an incredible opportunity to partner with Embraer, a company driving that pioneering spirit.”
Solid Edge reduces development time for packaging machines by 70 percent at Uflex
Uflex Engineering Division, a unit of Uflex Limited, designs and manufactures printing, packaging and converting machines (for cutting and packaging large production materials, usually roll stock, into smaller, more usable sizes and shapes). Founded in 1984, Uflex has 415 employees working at facilities spread over 11 acres near the Indian capital of New Delhi.
Uflex’s machines are used around the world to package everything from shampoos and cosmetics to pillows and mattresses. The company has introduced breakthroughs in packaging technology, such as the use of holograms. It has also received numerous international awards, including the WorldStar Award for Packaging Excellence and another for Design Innovation of the Year from Unilever.
Uflex’s goal is to be a one-stop packaging solution, providing cost-effective and innovative equipment that ensures the safe delivery of products to consumers. The company is also working to become a world leader in the field of packaging machinery. “The way to being a world-class player is paved with state-of-the-art facilities blended with world-class practices, and it shall be our endeavor to soon be placed among the top ten international players,” says Ravi Sharma, senior vice president at Uflex.
Leveraging 3D
To meet these goals, Uflex needed to accelerate the development of its machines, while maintaining high levels of product quality. A key part of this was an upgrade from a 2D computer-aided design (CAD) system to an advanced 3D solution, specifically Solid Edge® software from Siemens PLM Software.
Results
70 percent reduction of development time for new machines
Fewer design errors
Less rework
More accurate cost estimates
Lower prices for new machines
Solid Edge was chosen over other 3D CAD solutions for a number of reasons. “Solid Edge has better technology, and we could see that it would be easy to learn and easy to deploy,” says Sharma. “In addition, the support from Siemens PLM Software’s channel partner, Avantha Technologies Limited, was better than what we would have received if we had gone with other programs.” Uflex implemented Solid Edge in its design and research and development (R&D) departments. The company received training in Solid Edge from Avantha Technologies Limited and also has on-site support from Avantha when necessary.
Faster machine design, fewer errors
Since implementing Solid Edge, Uflex has seen significant gains in efficiency and productivity. “We are now able to manufacture and deliver more machines,” says Sharma. One of the ways Solid Edge does this is by greatly reducing the number of design errors, which has reduced rework on parts and assemblies.
Sharma credits the superior visualization capabilities of Solid Edge. “When we create a digital assembly of a machine in Solid Edge, we can find problems, such as interferences, that we would have missed when we were using 2D drawings,” notes Sharma. This improved level of visualization is having a positive effect on sales and marketing too. He explains, “We show virtual machines created in Solid Edge at demonstrations for customers and at trade shows. Solid Edge helps us get the order.”
In addition, using Solid Edge, Uflex quickly generates bills of materials (BOMs) from the information in the 3D assembly models.
70 percent faster product development, significant financial benefits
Uflex has reduced the development cycle for new machines by 70 percent since the upgrade to Solid Edge. This not only helps ensure on-time delivery of its machines, it also allows the company to differentiate itself from the competition, an important part of its strategy for becoming a world leader in its industry.
The effect of Solid Edge on the company’s bottom line has been a reduction in costs enabled by a dramatic drop-off in rework. Solid Edge has a financial benefit for Uflex’s customers as well. Since installing Solid Edge, Uflex has been able to lower the prices of new machines. Other important benefits of Solid Edge include more accurate cost estimates, increased product quality and higher levels of innovation. With Solid Edge, Uflex is delivering packaging equipment that preserves, protects and displays products, as well as packaging lines that operate at among the highest production rates compared to its worldwide competition.
Uflex’s machines are used around the world to package everything from shampoos and cosmetics to pillows and mattresses. The company has introduced breakthroughs in packaging technology, such as the use of holograms. It has also received numerous international awards, including the WorldStar Award for Packaging Excellence and another for Design Innovation of the Year from Unilever.
Uflex’s goal is to be a one-stop packaging solution, providing cost-effective and innovative equipment that ensures the safe delivery of products to consumers. The company is also working to become a world leader in the field of packaging machinery. “The way to being a world-class player is paved with state-of-the-art facilities blended with world-class practices, and it shall be our endeavor to soon be placed among the top ten international players,” says Ravi Sharma, senior vice president at Uflex.
Leveraging 3D
To meet these goals, Uflex needed to accelerate the development of its machines, while maintaining high levels of product quality. A key part of this was an upgrade from a 2D computer-aided design (CAD) system to an advanced 3D solution, specifically Solid Edge® software from Siemens PLM Software.
Results
70 percent reduction of development time for new machines
Fewer design errors
Less rework
More accurate cost estimates
Lower prices for new machines
Solid Edge was chosen over other 3D CAD solutions for a number of reasons. “Solid Edge has better technology, and we could see that it would be easy to learn and easy to deploy,” says Sharma. “In addition, the support from Siemens PLM Software’s channel partner, Avantha Technologies Limited, was better than what we would have received if we had gone with other programs.” Uflex implemented Solid Edge in its design and research and development (R&D) departments. The company received training in Solid Edge from Avantha Technologies Limited and also has on-site support from Avantha when necessary.
Faster machine design, fewer errors
Since implementing Solid Edge, Uflex has seen significant gains in efficiency and productivity. “We are now able to manufacture and deliver more machines,” says Sharma. One of the ways Solid Edge does this is by greatly reducing the number of design errors, which has reduced rework on parts and assemblies.
Sharma credits the superior visualization capabilities of Solid Edge. “When we create a digital assembly of a machine in Solid Edge, we can find problems, such as interferences, that we would have missed when we were using 2D drawings,” notes Sharma. This improved level of visualization is having a positive effect on sales and marketing too. He explains, “We show virtual machines created in Solid Edge at demonstrations for customers and at trade shows. Solid Edge helps us get the order.”
In addition, using Solid Edge, Uflex quickly generates bills of materials (BOMs) from the information in the 3D assembly models.
70 percent faster product development, significant financial benefits
Uflex has reduced the development cycle for new machines by 70 percent since the upgrade to Solid Edge. This not only helps ensure on-time delivery of its machines, it also allows the company to differentiate itself from the competition, an important part of its strategy for becoming a world leader in its industry.
The effect of Solid Edge on the company’s bottom line has been a reduction in costs enabled by a dramatic drop-off in rework. Solid Edge has a financial benefit for Uflex’s customers as well. Since installing Solid Edge, Uflex has been able to lower the prices of new machines. Other important benefits of Solid Edge include more accurate cost estimates, increased product quality and higher levels of innovation. With Solid Edge, Uflex is delivering packaging equipment that preserves, protects and displays products, as well as packaging lines that operate at among the highest production rates compared to its worldwide competition.
Filed under:
SIEMENS,
Solid Edge
Missler Software launches TopSolid Mold 2011
Missler Software has announced the launch of TopSolid’Mold 2011 which has been released this month. TopSolid’Mold is an integrated CAD/CAM solution for the design of molds and the machining of tools for mold makers and cutting tool makers. To be efficient a CAD mold making solution should propose increased automation for repetitive mold design operations. In order to manage all projects the CAD software should ideally be completely integrated with a CAD/CAM solution that can manage all shaped forms, general mechanical engineering and machining operations in a parametric and associative way. Thanks to these qualities TopSolid’Mold has become a worldwide reference in the design and manufacture of molds.
TopSolid’Mold manages the design of the mold, the machining of the mold base, milling mold cavities, electrode production and mold assembly.
Missler Software has taken manufacturing constraints and imperatives into account when developing TopSolid’Mold and the 2011 new functions and improvements of the version have clearly an eye on manufacturing. TopSolid’Mold 2011 offers improved functions such as a more intuitive ergonomy, improved cavity block management, plastic injection simulation and a complete solution for the design and manufacturing of electrodes.
Simplified ergonomy
TopSolid’Mold has numerous management tools aimed to simplify a moldmaker’s life. The ergonomy of these functions has been worked on and simplified by offering intuitive shortcuts. Mold visualization is now, for example, available via a quick mold visualization icon which allows the user to quickly see his study without having to juggle between several windows. The link to the shortcuts is direct which offers instantaneous management and increased productivity. Neutral mode management for mold elements is now also possible.
Cavity block creation
The design of cavity block elements demands precision and perfect control. New surface tools dedicated to tool makers are now directly available in TopSolid’Design which offer flexibility and control in your design work from the design of parting surfaces to insert design and repairing imported data in TopSolid’Design. Not only do these new tools offer a more simplified and efficient management, the new “angled” parting surface function is the ideal extension of existing TopSolid’Mold tools.
Design… and simulation
A mold maker needs to validate his design before the manufacturing stage. The direct link from TopSolid to the Cadmould software from Simcon offers TopSolid’Mold users an optimised tool for the design of plastic parts and can be used as a first step in determining the feasibility, quality and cost of designing their parts and injection molds. The TopSolid’Mold operator can now analyse the part(s) to be injected as well as the various feeding elements: the runners, gates and the injection sections are automatically transferred to and recognized by Cadmould which manages the simulation of the injection process. Cadmould gives the results of your simulation analysis and validates or offers alternatives options to the design and technological choices you opted for in TopSolid’Mold.
TopSolid’Electrode
TopSolid’Electrode is an essential tool for mold makers who need to design and build electrodes. The 2011 version offers various strategies to detect and find the zones that need to be eroded. Depending on the electrode design strategy you choose (pocket detection with or without fillets, ribs) the software highlights zones that are difficult to machine and may be subject to the creation of an electrode. You can quickly and easily create your electrodes thanks to the association with surface modeling. TopSolid’Electrode manages standard or customizable electrode stock libraries. The storage of all your electrodes in independent files is essential for the efficient preparation of your electrodes for manufacturing and overall better machining management (automatic gap recognition).
TopSolid’Mold manages the design of the mold, the machining of the mold base, milling mold cavities, electrode production and mold assembly.
Missler Software has taken manufacturing constraints and imperatives into account when developing TopSolid’Mold and the 2011 new functions and improvements of the version have clearly an eye on manufacturing. TopSolid’Mold 2011 offers improved functions such as a more intuitive ergonomy, improved cavity block management, plastic injection simulation and a complete solution for the design and manufacturing of electrodes.
Simplified ergonomy
TopSolid’Mold has numerous management tools aimed to simplify a moldmaker’s life. The ergonomy of these functions has been worked on and simplified by offering intuitive shortcuts. Mold visualization is now, for example, available via a quick mold visualization icon which allows the user to quickly see his study without having to juggle between several windows. The link to the shortcuts is direct which offers instantaneous management and increased productivity. Neutral mode management for mold elements is now also possible.
Cavity block creation
The design of cavity block elements demands precision and perfect control. New surface tools dedicated to tool makers are now directly available in TopSolid’Design which offer flexibility and control in your design work from the design of parting surfaces to insert design and repairing imported data in TopSolid’Design. Not only do these new tools offer a more simplified and efficient management, the new “angled” parting surface function is the ideal extension of existing TopSolid’Mold tools.
Design… and simulation
A mold maker needs to validate his design before the manufacturing stage. The direct link from TopSolid to the Cadmould software from Simcon offers TopSolid’Mold users an optimised tool for the design of plastic parts and can be used as a first step in determining the feasibility, quality and cost of designing their parts and injection molds. The TopSolid’Mold operator can now analyse the part(s) to be injected as well as the various feeding elements: the runners, gates and the injection sections are automatically transferred to and recognized by Cadmould which manages the simulation of the injection process. Cadmould gives the results of your simulation analysis and validates or offers alternatives options to the design and technological choices you opted for in TopSolid’Mold.
TopSolid’Electrode
TopSolid’Electrode is an essential tool for mold makers who need to design and build electrodes. The 2011 version offers various strategies to detect and find the zones that need to be eroded. Depending on the electrode design strategy you choose (pocket detection with or without fillets, ribs) the software highlights zones that are difficult to machine and may be subject to the creation of an electrode. You can quickly and easily create your electrodes thanks to the association with surface modeling. TopSolid’Electrode manages standard or customizable electrode stock libraries. The storage of all your electrodes in independent files is essential for the efficient preparation of your electrodes for manufacturing and overall better machining management (automatic gap recognition).
Filed under:
TopSolid
National Instruments Unveils NI LabVIEW for LEGO® MINDSTORMS® Robotics
NI and LEGO Education Make Industry-Grade Software Available for High School Classrooms.
National Instruments today introduced LabVIEW for LEGO MINDSTORMS, a new education-focused version of the company’s professional LabVIEW graphical system design software. Developed specifically for secondary school students to use with the LEGO Education robotics platform in classrooms or competitions, LabVIEW for LEGO MINDSTORMS is a teaching tool that helps students visually control and program MINDSTORMS NXT robots, while learning the same software used by scientists and engineers. The high-school-focused programming environment joins the already successful line of LEGO Education robotics platforms, which includes LEGO Education WeDo™ software for elementary students and LEGO MINDSTORMS Education NXT software for middle school students.
“LabVIEW for LEGO MINDSTORMS completes the National Instruments and LEGO Education ‘robotics for all ages’ learning platform,” said Stephan Turnipseed, president of LEGO Education North America. “We now can deliver a framework of age-appropriate, hands-on learning technology and curricula that continuously progress with student skill level and learning objectives, from elementary all the way through university.”
LabVIEW for LEGO MINDSTORMS is optimized for classroom use with instructional videos, tutorials and teaching resources created exclusively for high school students and teachers using LEGO MINDSTORMS Education and TETRIX by Pitsco. It introduces students to advanced concepts such as autonomous robotics and scientific measurements using real-world examples and replacing obscure syntax with an intuitive graphical interface. Because of this, the software is ideal for teachers seeking to engage students with technology in a fun, hands-on way.
“My students learn better when they learn by doing,” said Tim Jump, director of advanced competitive science at Benilde-St. Margaret’s college-preparatory school in St. Louis, Minn. “Incorporating the hands-on learning of LabVIEW and LEGO robotics into my classroom makes it possible for me to explore and experiment right along with the students. The platform not only makes learning engineering fun, but it makes teaching it fun too.”
The software also provides consistency for students participating in FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) extracurricular robotics programs, making it possible for students to learn robotics using a singular programming platform across all levels of competition as well as in their classrooms. This learning continuity helps cultivate valuable career-ready skills and proficiency with the LabVIEW platform, which students can use in university and, ultimately, in industry.
LabVIEW for LEGO MINDSTORMS is available for purchase exclusively through LEGO Education and its authorized resellers. Additionally, through a new website, K12Lab.com, National Instruments helps teachers share curriculum materials and connect to a community of educators and technical advisors.
National Instruments today introduced LabVIEW for LEGO MINDSTORMS, a new education-focused version of the company’s professional LabVIEW graphical system design software. Developed specifically for secondary school students to use with the LEGO Education robotics platform in classrooms or competitions, LabVIEW for LEGO MINDSTORMS is a teaching tool that helps students visually control and program MINDSTORMS NXT robots, while learning the same software used by scientists and engineers. The high-school-focused programming environment joins the already successful line of LEGO Education robotics platforms, which includes LEGO Education WeDo™ software for elementary students and LEGO MINDSTORMS Education NXT software for middle school students.
“LabVIEW for LEGO MINDSTORMS completes the National Instruments and LEGO Education ‘robotics for all ages’ learning platform,” said Stephan Turnipseed, president of LEGO Education North America. “We now can deliver a framework of age-appropriate, hands-on learning technology and curricula that continuously progress with student skill level and learning objectives, from elementary all the way through university.”
LabVIEW for LEGO MINDSTORMS is optimized for classroom use with instructional videos, tutorials and teaching resources created exclusively for high school students and teachers using LEGO MINDSTORMS Education and TETRIX by Pitsco. It introduces students to advanced concepts such as autonomous robotics and scientific measurements using real-world examples and replacing obscure syntax with an intuitive graphical interface. Because of this, the software is ideal for teachers seeking to engage students with technology in a fun, hands-on way.
“My students learn better when they learn by doing,” said Tim Jump, director of advanced competitive science at Benilde-St. Margaret’s college-preparatory school in St. Louis, Minn. “Incorporating the hands-on learning of LabVIEW and LEGO robotics into my classroom makes it possible for me to explore and experiment right along with the students. The platform not only makes learning engineering fun, but it makes teaching it fun too.”
The software also provides consistency for students participating in FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) extracurricular robotics programs, making it possible for students to learn robotics using a singular programming platform across all levels of competition as well as in their classrooms. This learning continuity helps cultivate valuable career-ready skills and proficiency with the LabVIEW platform, which students can use in university and, ultimately, in industry.
LabVIEW for LEGO MINDSTORMS is available for purchase exclusively through LEGO Education and its authorized resellers. Additionally, through a new website, K12Lab.com, National Instruments helps teachers share curriculum materials and connect to a community of educators and technical advisors.
GstarCAD Founders Invited to Attend the Centenary Celebration Ceremony of Tsinghua University
Beijing - Tsinghua University, one of China's foremost higher learning institutions, hold the Centenary Celebration Ceremony at the Great Hall of People on April 24, attended by Chinese President Hu Jintao, Premier Wen Jiabao and other state and Communist Party leaders with Three Nobel Prize winners, Lee Tsung-dao, Yang Chen-ning and Lee Yuan-tseh all as Tsinghua Alumni. President of Gstarsoft Co., Ltd. Lu Xiang, Vice President Huang Meiyu and Pan Li, etc., who are founders of GstarCAD, were also invited to attend the ceremony on behalf of Tsinghua alumni from computer technology industry.
Over the past hundred years, Tsinghua has grown from a small preparatory school for students to study abroad to China's top university that boasts a first-class education and world-leading facilities. Tsinghua is an important center in China for nurturing talented students and promoting advanced scientific research, and producing more than 170,000 graduates, many of whom have become distinguished scholars and leaders in all walks of life. GstarCAD founders Lu Xiang, Huang Meiyu and Pan Li are model representatives of these graduates.
Inspired by the Tsinghua mottos “Self-discipline and Social Commitment,” “Rigor, Diligence, Veracity, and Creativity,” and its core spirit “Patriotism, Devotion and Pursuing Excellence”, the founders created GstarCAD in 1992, which is dedicated to providing the fast, powerful and DWG-compatible CAD software for customers and partners worldwide. Through more than 19 years’ arduous and unremitting technology innovation and practical application research, now GstarCAD has been recognized as a leading provider of 2D/3D CAD software and solutions for the industries involving AEC, mechanical, manufacturing, electrical, GIS, survey and mapping, civil, etc. Integrity, confidentiality and reliability have undoubtedly been GstarCAD’s priority for the progressive development.
Over the past hundred years, Tsinghua has grown from a small preparatory school for students to study abroad to China's top university that boasts a first-class education and world-leading facilities. Tsinghua is an important center in China for nurturing talented students and promoting advanced scientific research, and producing more than 170,000 graduates, many of whom have become distinguished scholars and leaders in all walks of life. GstarCAD founders Lu Xiang, Huang Meiyu and Pan Li are model representatives of these graduates.
Inspired by the Tsinghua mottos “Self-discipline and Social Commitment,” “Rigor, Diligence, Veracity, and Creativity,” and its core spirit “Patriotism, Devotion and Pursuing Excellence”, the founders created GstarCAD in 1992, which is dedicated to providing the fast, powerful and DWG-compatible CAD software for customers and partners worldwide. Through more than 19 years’ arduous and unremitting technology innovation and practical application research, now GstarCAD has been recognized as a leading provider of 2D/3D CAD software and solutions for the industries involving AEC, mechanical, manufacturing, electrical, GIS, survey and mapping, civil, etc. Integrity, confidentiality and reliability have undoubtedly been GstarCAD’s priority for the progressive development.
Significant productivity gains with TopSolid 7.5
TopSolid 7.5, the latest version of the TopSolid integrated CAD/CAM solution has been launched at the beginning of this month. The key characteristics of the TopSolid 7 CAD solution are:
Significant performance benefits - The end user of the new software generation benefits from productivity gains estimated at being 30% superior to traditional solutions thanks to such characteristics as partial loading and very fast realistic rendering.
Built-in Product Data Management (PDM) – All data management actions are carried out directly in TopSolid (rename, move, copy/paste, …) and data is shared and secured transparently (guaranteed data integrity, PDM messenger, …)
FreeShape – A new concept to TopSolid which implies that users do not need a history tree to edit imported parts
Major improvements in the 7.5 version:
The « toleranced » part
Thanks to this new function TopSolid 7.5 generates parts ready to be manufactured from the initial part designed by the R&D Department without having to completely redesign the part.
In fact several modifications have to be made to designed parts before manufacturing can happen. This is to ensure that manufacturing constraints, such as using the correct tolerances, are respected. Missler Software is a software developer that takes into account manufacturing imperatives throughout the entire product development lifecycle and does not only worry about managing the CAD definition of the part. The French software developer’s philosophy of offering a complete solution right up to and including the actual programming of the machine tool means that manufacturing considerations are taken into account in the CAD stage.
Today’s Methods Department often has to completely redesign parts which will be manufactured. This obviously leads to huge time losses and repeat data entry. TopSolid 7.5 eliminates this unnecessary step by taking such manufacturing imperatives as constraints into account from the beginning. Not only can TopSolid 7.5 apply the correct tolerances to parts designed using TopSolid but it can also manage tolerances for imported parts designed using another CAD software (thanks to the FreeShape function)
Workflow
TopSolid 7.5 offers operators a solution to manage approval cycles when a change happens at any stage throughout the lifecycle (this function is called Workflow in TopSolid). The Workflow functions are directly integrated in TopSolid 7.5 and are completely transparent for the user. There is, therefore, no need to work with an external workflow application. TopSolid 7.5 offers facilitated automation of the approval process which reduces the risk of errors being made and improves efficiency and communication within the company.
Complete 2D draft
Missler Software understands the importance of having complete and detailed 2D plans and does not consider that 2D drafts are something of the past in today‘s 3D world. We all know that contracts are still signed based on 2D plans.
Today’s manufacturing companies still need to make impressive 2D draft documents which are complete and meet industry standards without having to use an external 2D application. For this reason improved draft creation is one of the key improvements in TopSolid 7.5. Here are just some of the key draft improvements in the 7.5 version:
Cartesian dimensions
Automatic dimensions and annotations
Table and split table creation
Piping module
Machine designers often need to design pipelines and may, from time to time, have to connect piping elements, use components such as elbows, tubes etc. and generate 3D piping views and BOMs for manufacturing. TopSolid 7.5 offers many improvements and new piping functions including the possibility to manage multiple unfolding. This new functions generates significant time gains for the R&D Department who can now automatically generate and manage all unfolding from the assembly stage.
Significant performance benefits - The end user of the new software generation benefits from productivity gains estimated at being 30% superior to traditional solutions thanks to such characteristics as partial loading and very fast realistic rendering.
Built-in Product Data Management (PDM) – All data management actions are carried out directly in TopSolid (rename, move, copy/paste, …) and data is shared and secured transparently (guaranteed data integrity, PDM messenger, …)
FreeShape – A new concept to TopSolid which implies that users do not need a history tree to edit imported parts
Major improvements in the 7.5 version:
The « toleranced » part
Thanks to this new function TopSolid 7.5 generates parts ready to be manufactured from the initial part designed by the R&D Department without having to completely redesign the part.
In fact several modifications have to be made to designed parts before manufacturing can happen. This is to ensure that manufacturing constraints, such as using the correct tolerances, are respected. Missler Software is a software developer that takes into account manufacturing imperatives throughout the entire product development lifecycle and does not only worry about managing the CAD definition of the part. The French software developer’s philosophy of offering a complete solution right up to and including the actual programming of the machine tool means that manufacturing considerations are taken into account in the CAD stage.
Today’s Methods Department often has to completely redesign parts which will be manufactured. This obviously leads to huge time losses and repeat data entry. TopSolid 7.5 eliminates this unnecessary step by taking such manufacturing imperatives as constraints into account from the beginning. Not only can TopSolid 7.5 apply the correct tolerances to parts designed using TopSolid but it can also manage tolerances for imported parts designed using another CAD software (thanks to the FreeShape function)
Workflow
TopSolid 7.5 offers operators a solution to manage approval cycles when a change happens at any stage throughout the lifecycle (this function is called Workflow in TopSolid). The Workflow functions are directly integrated in TopSolid 7.5 and are completely transparent for the user. There is, therefore, no need to work with an external workflow application. TopSolid 7.5 offers facilitated automation of the approval process which reduces the risk of errors being made and improves efficiency and communication within the company.
Complete 2D draft
Missler Software understands the importance of having complete and detailed 2D plans and does not consider that 2D drafts are something of the past in today‘s 3D world. We all know that contracts are still signed based on 2D plans.
Today’s manufacturing companies still need to make impressive 2D draft documents which are complete and meet industry standards without having to use an external 2D application. For this reason improved draft creation is one of the key improvements in TopSolid 7.5. Here are just some of the key draft improvements in the 7.5 version:
Cartesian dimensions
Automatic dimensions and annotations
Table and split table creation
Piping module
Machine designers often need to design pipelines and may, from time to time, have to connect piping elements, use components such as elbows, tubes etc. and generate 3D piping views and BOMs for manufacturing. TopSolid 7.5 offers many improvements and new piping functions including the possibility to manage multiple unfolding. This new functions generates significant time gains for the R&D Department who can now automatically generate and manage all unfolding from the assembly stage.
Filed under:
TopSolid
Lexip announces 3D mouse support for TopSolid CAD/CAM applications
Missler Software and Lexip have today announced that native Lexip 3D mouse support has been added to the TopSolid CAD/CAM software range. Missler Software, the number 2 CAD/CAM supplier in France and Lexip, manufacturer of 3D professional mice, have worked closely together to offer 3D design professionals a high-performance solution combining the advantages of the Lexip 3DM-PRO mouse with TopSolid’s exceptional CAD/CAM capabilities. The Lexip 3DM-PRO mouse now manages all TopSolid functions via a dedicated plug-in. The collaboration between the 2 French companies is a result of increasing requests from professionals for a common solution to optimize performance. The new partnership offers significant productivity gains by bringing the full range of 3D mouse benefits to TopSolid customers.
Lexip is dedicated to providing high-technology solutions which facilitate product design and thereby speed-up product commercialization. TopSolid users who work with the 3DM-Pro mouse do not need to move their hand from the 3D mouse to manipulate 3D design movements which increases productivity and simplifies work processes” affirms Eric Delattre, Sales and Marketing Director for Lexip.
“Lexip’s 3D mouse will help TopSolid customers to get to grips with 3D modeling. Thanks to the mouse’s many pre-programmed functions TopSolid’s numerous functions are now quickly available to its users without having to learn keyboard short-cuts. 3D navigation is very intuitive with the 3DM-Pro mouse thanks to Lexip’s “Tilt-n-Roll” technology. For our advanced TopSolid designers the possibility to customize the mouse functions for more efficient TopSolid navigation and control should be greatly appreciated” explains Dominique Laffret, Vice-President of Strategic Relations for Missler Software.
CAD professionals spend hours in front of their PCs and must manipulate their mouse with great precision. To increase the comfort and productivity of these designers Lexip designed a completely new and revolutionary 3D mouse. Unlike traditional mice limited to two axis movements, the 3DM-Pro mouse allows the user to navigate easily and intuitively in 3 dimensions using all 6 degrees of freedom (3 translations and 3 rotations): just press down the body of the 3DM-Pro mouse forwards or backwards, to the right or left or use the joystick, to simultaneously pan, zoom and rotate your 3D model or environment.
One of the great benefits of this ergonomic, soft-touch mouse which fits naturally in the user’s hand is the fact that designers can work for long hours without feeling excessive tiredness. The numerous 3DM-Pro buttons which can be configurated are accessible without distorting one’s fingers.
Technical specifications of the 3DM-Pro mouse:
Lateral joystick
3D navigation
Indestructible ceramic feet
Ergonomic shape for comfortable working experience
Automatic application detection
3200 dpi laser for precise drawing and editing
Dpi setting (from 800 to 3200)
7 buttons which can be programmed independently
2.0 USB gold plated connectors
Braided 2m long cord sets
Lexip is dedicated to providing high-technology solutions which facilitate product design and thereby speed-up product commercialization. TopSolid users who work with the 3DM-Pro mouse do not need to move their hand from the 3D mouse to manipulate 3D design movements which increases productivity and simplifies work processes” affirms Eric Delattre, Sales and Marketing Director for Lexip.
“Lexip’s 3D mouse will help TopSolid customers to get to grips with 3D modeling. Thanks to the mouse’s many pre-programmed functions TopSolid’s numerous functions are now quickly available to its users without having to learn keyboard short-cuts. 3D navigation is very intuitive with the 3DM-Pro mouse thanks to Lexip’s “Tilt-n-Roll” technology. For our advanced TopSolid designers the possibility to customize the mouse functions for more efficient TopSolid navigation and control should be greatly appreciated” explains Dominique Laffret, Vice-President of Strategic Relations for Missler Software.
CAD professionals spend hours in front of their PCs and must manipulate their mouse with great precision. To increase the comfort and productivity of these designers Lexip designed a completely new and revolutionary 3D mouse. Unlike traditional mice limited to two axis movements, the 3DM-Pro mouse allows the user to navigate easily and intuitively in 3 dimensions using all 6 degrees of freedom (3 translations and 3 rotations): just press down the body of the 3DM-Pro mouse forwards or backwards, to the right or left or use the joystick, to simultaneously pan, zoom and rotate your 3D model or environment.
One of the great benefits of this ergonomic, soft-touch mouse which fits naturally in the user’s hand is the fact that designers can work for long hours without feeling excessive tiredness. The numerous 3DM-Pro buttons which can be configurated are accessible without distorting one’s fingers.
Technical specifications of the 3DM-Pro mouse:
Lateral joystick
3D navigation
Indestructible ceramic feet
Ergonomic shape for comfortable working experience
Automatic application detection
3200 dpi laser for precise drawing and editing
Dpi setting (from 800 to 3200)
7 buttons which can be programmed independently
2.0 USB gold plated connectors
Braided 2m long cord sets
Filed under:
TopSolid
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
Popular Articles
- EskoArtwork’s new ArtiosCAD 7.6 boosts designer productivity and provides seamless workflow integration
- Surfware's free SURFCAM Student Learning Version Now Available for download
- MecSoft’s VisualMILL for SolidWorks helps in manufacturing of custom racing flange
- FISHER/UNITECH Acquires SolidVision
- ITI TranscenData Releases CADIQ 6.0
- Delcam Sales Partner SEACAM appoints twelfth partner in Brazil
- Donny Askin to Lead Gerber Technology's Software Solutions Business
- LEGO engineer uses Hans Schiesser scholarship to study at Delcam
- Autodesk Acquires Assets From BOSS International, Inc.
- BWIR Announces DesignACE 2010
