PTC, The Product Development Company®, today completed its acquisition of MKS Inc., developer of MKS Integrity®, an industry-leading platform for software application lifecycle management (ALM).
MKS Integrity coordinates and manages all activities and artifacts associated with developing software-intensive products, including requirements, models, code and test, ensuring comprehensive lifecycle traceability. By combining MKS Integrity with PTC's industry-leading product lifecycle management (PLM) solutions, PTC is reshaping the way manufacturers integrate product hardware and software, enabling them to improve product quality, accelerate time-to-market, and reduce risk and total service costs.
Software has become an integral, embedded component of most manufactured products today - everything from automobiles and medical devices to smart phones and children's toys. For example, cars rolling off today's assembly lines include more than 100 million lines of embedded software code and nearly three quarters of all medical device innovation is now attributed to software changes. Yet, while software is critical to future product innovation, it is commonly managed independently from the physical product in which it is embedded.
According to Gartner, Inc., "manufacturers aren't paying enough attention to system engineering, product requirements management and quality monitoring as software increasingly becomes part of manufactured products."[1] A new generation of integral system engineering solutions is needed that can optimize requirements communication, collaboration and verification across the entire product development lifecycle.
"Software engineering has become a fundamental backbone element in today's product development process," said James Heppelmann, president and CEO of PTC. "As a result, companies are seeking a much more comprehensive management approach to their product lifecycle. By combining MKS Integrity with our PLM portfolio, PTC is setting a new standard for unified product lifecycle management with the industry's only truly integral product configuration, collaboration and change management solution."
The combination of MKS Integrity and PTC's industry-leading PLM solutions enable manufacturers to:
Enable best practices across hardware and software development lifecycles.
Establish a ‘single source of truth' through the creation of a unified product definition and bill of materials (BOM) combining hardware and software components for both.
Increase engineering visibility across the entire development process to improve product quality, traceability, and long-term serviceability.
Drive innovation, accelerate time to market and reduce development costs by optimizing the entire development process and minimizing errors to improve customer satisfaction and help protect the manufacturer's brand.
For PTC, the addition of the MKS Integrity product line also opens up significant new market opportunities. The company expects to see strong revenue synergies as the benefits of combining hardware and software development processes are introduced to a broader customer base.
"The product engineering organization of the future will be dominated by software developers, producing far more complex products in far shorter release cycles," continued Heppelmann. "Based on our review of the market, there is no other product that comes close to delivering the kind of value that MKS Integrity provides. What we're really talking about with our strategy is the opportunity for manufacturers to fundamentally rethink the way they develop products across the board."
May 31, 2011
PTC Sets New Standard for Managing Hardware and Software Development Lifecycles with MKS Integrity Acquisition
Filed under:
Mergers and Acquisitions,
PTC
SolidWorks Helps Thule Tackle Sports Gear Transport Challenges
Virtual Prototyping Reduces Time and Cost of Physical Tests.
Thule®, the premier brand in multipurpose roof racks, has standardized on SolidWorks® software to quickly introduce smart innovations for transporting bicycles, boats, skis, snowboards, luggage, and more.
Thule challenges itself to offer a “perfect fit” across a staggering range of gear and vehicle brands whose rooflines vary across models, styles, and years. In every case, Thule tests its racks to be strong enough to carry the appropriate cargo, plus whatever the customer has loaded on top of it, at 90 mph, in buffeting crosswinds, and on bumpy, twisty roads. Carriers must last for years under such conditions, and preferably outlive the car. They must lock the gear down, yet be simple for anyone except a thief to unload. And, in the tradition of the brand, they must look great.
“We face a lot of design challenges, and SolidWorks helps us meet them with intuitive software for designing products, configuring them for all kinds of vehicles, shortening the prototyping cycle, and collaborating within and beyond the organization,” said Joe Flaherty, technical design manager, new product development, for Thule’s North American vehicle solutions business.
A recent breakthrough product developed in SolidWorks is a new “foot” – the piece of the carrier that attaches to the car. The foot includes an integrated AcuTight Tensioning Tool, a built-in torque gauge, to ensure the rack is tight enough without over tightening. “When a customer asks how tight is tight, we as engineers should provide the answer,” said Flaherty. “Now we do.”
Thule has a rigorous protocol for testing new products. Engineers attach the physical prototype to a vehicle, take it out on a dirt track, fill the rack with the gear it’s intended to carry, then add more weight to simulate customer overloading. Then they speed around the track, aiming for holes and bumps until the rack proves it will do its job. It’s time-consuming and expensive when a prototype fails, so Thule engineers use SolidWorks Simulation software to help ensure the prototype passes the test with minimal renditions. “In its ability to predict behavior and save work, it’s like a time machine on your desk,” said Flaherty.
Thule also saves time by sharing designs with business areas around the world in the SolidWorks native file format those units use. At its headquarters in Sweden, Thule’s product development department has used SolidWorks since 1996. In fact, they were one of Sweden’s first SolidWorks users. Thule’s manufacturing partners globally also use SolidWorks, so there’s never a need to spend time translating files and repairing the ensuing damage.
“We cooperate very closely with our U.S. product development department,” said Peter Karlsson at Thule’s Swedish BU OES product development department. “The new foot that attaches the carrier to the car for instance, was basically developed here, and is now adapted to different car models by both our U.S. and Swedish engineers. The communication between our departments is very smooth and easy thanks to SolidWorks.”
Thule engineers further ensure quality by efficiently communicating with product managers and other non-CAD users by creating animations in SolidWorks and by sharing designs over email using eDrawings® software. eDrawings also enables easy design review in conference rooms and other settings where CAD workstations aren’t available, but laptops are.
“At Thule, we are all aware of the brand we’ve built and the need to continually strengthen it at every opportunity with smart products that always fit,” Flaherty said. “SolidWorks is a big part of that.”
Thule relies on authorized SolidWorks resellers CADD Edge in the U.S. and MP Engineering in Sweden for ongoing software training, implementation, and support.
Thule®, the premier brand in multipurpose roof racks, has standardized on SolidWorks® software to quickly introduce smart innovations for transporting bicycles, boats, skis, snowboards, luggage, and more.
Thule challenges itself to offer a “perfect fit” across a staggering range of gear and vehicle brands whose rooflines vary across models, styles, and years. In every case, Thule tests its racks to be strong enough to carry the appropriate cargo, plus whatever the customer has loaded on top of it, at 90 mph, in buffeting crosswinds, and on bumpy, twisty roads. Carriers must last for years under such conditions, and preferably outlive the car. They must lock the gear down, yet be simple for anyone except a thief to unload. And, in the tradition of the brand, they must look great.
“We face a lot of design challenges, and SolidWorks helps us meet them with intuitive software for designing products, configuring them for all kinds of vehicles, shortening the prototyping cycle, and collaborating within and beyond the organization,” said Joe Flaherty, technical design manager, new product development, for Thule’s North American vehicle solutions business.
A recent breakthrough product developed in SolidWorks is a new “foot” – the piece of the carrier that attaches to the car. The foot includes an integrated AcuTight Tensioning Tool, a built-in torque gauge, to ensure the rack is tight enough without over tightening. “When a customer asks how tight is tight, we as engineers should provide the answer,” said Flaherty. “Now we do.”
Thule has a rigorous protocol for testing new products. Engineers attach the physical prototype to a vehicle, take it out on a dirt track, fill the rack with the gear it’s intended to carry, then add more weight to simulate customer overloading. Then they speed around the track, aiming for holes and bumps until the rack proves it will do its job. It’s time-consuming and expensive when a prototype fails, so Thule engineers use SolidWorks Simulation software to help ensure the prototype passes the test with minimal renditions. “In its ability to predict behavior and save work, it’s like a time machine on your desk,” said Flaherty.
Thule also saves time by sharing designs with business areas around the world in the SolidWorks native file format those units use. At its headquarters in Sweden, Thule’s product development department has used SolidWorks since 1996. In fact, they were one of Sweden’s first SolidWorks users. Thule’s manufacturing partners globally also use SolidWorks, so there’s never a need to spend time translating files and repairing the ensuing damage.
“We cooperate very closely with our U.S. product development department,” said Peter Karlsson at Thule’s Swedish BU OES product development department. “The new foot that attaches the carrier to the car for instance, was basically developed here, and is now adapted to different car models by both our U.S. and Swedish engineers. The communication between our departments is very smooth and easy thanks to SolidWorks.”
Thule engineers further ensure quality by efficiently communicating with product managers and other non-CAD users by creating animations in SolidWorks and by sharing designs over email using eDrawings® software. eDrawings also enables easy design review in conference rooms and other settings where CAD workstations aren’t available, but laptops are.
“At Thule, we are all aware of the brand we’ve built and the need to continually strengthen it at every opportunity with smart products that always fit,” Flaherty said. “SolidWorks is a big part of that.”
Thule relies on authorized SolidWorks resellers CADD Edge in the U.S. and MP Engineering in Sweden for ongoing software training, implementation, and support.
Filed under:
SolidWorks
Hankook Delcam to show complete open implantology at SIDEX
Delcam's Korean joint venture, Hankook Delcam, will demonstrate the company’s complete open system for the design and manufacture of dental implant restorations at the SIDEX exhibition in Seoul from 24th to 26th June. Delcam 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.
The expanded range of Delcam software 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.
The expanded range of Delcam software 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
3D Systems Corporation Celebrates its Transfer to NYSE from NASDAQ
Executives and guests of 3D Systems Corporation visited the New York Stock Exchange to celebrate the company’s transfer to the NYSE from NASDAQ. The company also held an investor day event at the NYSE. Rock Hill, S.C.-based 3D Systems Corporation began trading on the New York Stock Exchange today under the new ticker symbol “DDD.”
In honor of this occasion, President and Chief Executive Officer Abe Reichental rang the NYSE Opening Bell.
In honor of this occasion, President and Chief Executive Officer Abe Reichental rang the NYSE Opening Bell.
Filed under:
3D Systems
GRAPHISOFT Supports Japan Relief Efforts
GRAPHISOFT Japan has announced that it is supporting the relief efforts in Japan, following the March earthquake and tsunami that left parts of the island nation in ruins.
Through the end of June, GRAPHISOFT Japan will donate to the Japanese Red Cross ¥10,000 for every full version of ArchiCAD sold and ¥5,000 for every ArchiCAD Solo version sold. Furthermore, colleagues of GRAPHISOFT’s Japan office have donated over ¥100,000. Donations, which are being sent at the end of each month, were already made at the end of March and April.
“We believe that in times of such terrible disasters, successful businesses are duty-bound to help with the rebuilding efforts. Through our initiative, we would like to contribute to the rebuilding efforts in the most effective way, which we believe is a simple cash donation,” said Bence Kovacs, Managing Director, GRAPHISOFT Japan.
For further information about GRAPHISOFT Japan’s efforts, please click here: http://www.graphisoft.co.jp/community/update/20110325.html
Through the end of June, GRAPHISOFT Japan will donate to the Japanese Red Cross ¥10,000 for every full version of ArchiCAD sold and ¥5,000 for every ArchiCAD Solo version sold. Furthermore, colleagues of GRAPHISOFT’s Japan office have donated over ¥100,000. Donations, which are being sent at the end of each month, were already made at the end of March and April.
“We believe that in times of such terrible disasters, successful businesses are duty-bound to help with the rebuilding efforts. Through our initiative, we would like to contribute to the rebuilding efforts in the most effective way, which we believe is a simple cash donation,” said Bence Kovacs, Managing Director, GRAPHISOFT Japan.
For further information about GRAPHISOFT Japan’s efforts, please click here: http://www.graphisoft.co.jp/community/update/20110325.html
Filed under:
Graphisoft
SolidCAM Asia Pacific Reseller meeting in Bangkok
SolidCAM recently held a reseller meeting in Asia Pacific to launch the release of SolidCAM 2011 and the revolutionary new technology iMachining.
Attendees from 15 countries in Asia Pacific gathered at the Rajamangala University of Technology Thanyaburi in Bangkok, Thailand to learn more about our newest developments. All the participants had an active part in learning and seeing what SolidCAM had to offer in this new version.
SolidCAM 2011 includes an advanced Turning and Mill/Turn options and many more features, as well as the revolutionary new iMachining technology. iMachining brings efficiency to a new level for CAM users - with an optimal toolpath and a Technology Wizard for automatic calculation of cutting conditions. It’s a Revolution in CNC machining – that saves up to 70% of machining time and increase tool life dramatically!
It is important for SolidCAM that the resellers not only learn and watch the demonstrations about our latest developments but also be able to practically implement their new knowledge on actual programming and machining. Therefore at this meeting each reseller was given the chance to practice what they have learned on the field, first by programming and then by machining a part on the advanced CNC machines. Feedback from this experience was extremely positive on how this advanced new technology is intuitive and easy to use.
This Reseller meeting was a huge success as each participant witnessed not only impressive live demonstrations of SolidCAM Engineers, but also special successful testing of the new iMachining and 5 axis technologies in University CNC milling centre during the daily live machining held each day at this event.
This event opened a great opportunity for us to work closely with the Rajamangala University of Technology Thanyaburi in Bangkok, Thailand. Throughout the meeting, the professors of Rajamangala University worked in close cooperation with our staff to learn more about SolidCAM, especially after witnessing the great results during the live machining, they were eager to start using and teaching SolidCAM at their university.
Throughout the presentations and the live daily cutting, feedback received from participants during this meeting was extremely positive. A unanimous opinion that SolidCAM 2011 and iMachining is the complete machining solution for all CAM needs.
Eddie Pevzner, SolidCAM Asia Pacific Sales Manager: "Starting with our seamless single-window integration in SolidWorks along with the amazing iMachining technology and all the new advanced features in our newest version SolidCAM 2011, we offer our customers the best CAD/CAM-Solution to meet all of the CAM industry's needs. I'm sure that this great practical experience will give all SolidCAM Resellers much more confidence while facing all sorts of existing and potential CAM customers."
Attendees from 15 countries in Asia Pacific gathered at the Rajamangala University of Technology Thanyaburi in Bangkok, Thailand to learn more about our newest developments. All the participants had an active part in learning and seeing what SolidCAM had to offer in this new version.
SolidCAM 2011 includes an advanced Turning and Mill/Turn options and many more features, as well as the revolutionary new iMachining technology. iMachining brings efficiency to a new level for CAM users - with an optimal toolpath and a Technology Wizard for automatic calculation of cutting conditions. It’s a Revolution in CNC machining – that saves up to 70% of machining time and increase tool life dramatically!
It is important for SolidCAM that the resellers not only learn and watch the demonstrations about our latest developments but also be able to practically implement their new knowledge on actual programming and machining. Therefore at this meeting each reseller was given the chance to practice what they have learned on the field, first by programming and then by machining a part on the advanced CNC machines. Feedback from this experience was extremely positive on how this advanced new technology is intuitive and easy to use.
This Reseller meeting was a huge success as each participant witnessed not only impressive live demonstrations of SolidCAM Engineers, but also special successful testing of the new iMachining and 5 axis technologies in University CNC milling centre during the daily live machining held each day at this event.
This event opened a great opportunity for us to work closely with the Rajamangala University of Technology Thanyaburi in Bangkok, Thailand. Throughout the meeting, the professors of Rajamangala University worked in close cooperation with our staff to learn more about SolidCAM, especially after witnessing the great results during the live machining, they were eager to start using and teaching SolidCAM at their university.
Throughout the presentations and the live daily cutting, feedback received from participants during this meeting was extremely positive. A unanimous opinion that SolidCAM 2011 and iMachining is the complete machining solution for all CAM needs.
Eddie Pevzner, SolidCAM Asia Pacific Sales Manager: "Starting with our seamless single-window integration in SolidWorks along with the amazing iMachining technology and all the new advanced features in our newest version SolidCAM 2011, we offer our customers the best CAD/CAM-Solution to meet all of the CAM industry's needs. I'm sure that this great practical experience will give all SolidCAM Resellers much more confidence while facing all sorts of existing and potential CAM customers."
Air Force Research Labs and Honda Aircraft Company to Deliver Keynotes at 2011 Aerospace Engineering Conference Co-Hosted by LMS and dSPACE
Troy, MI – LMS North America, leading partner in test and mechatronic simulation, and dSPACE, a global provider of solutions for developing ECU software and mechatronic controls, are pleased to announce the keynote speakers for the 2011 Aerospace Engineering Conference to be held Aug. 29-30, 2011, at the Hilton Waterfront Beach Resort in Huntington Beach, California. This year’s conference will host the following keynote speakers: Steve Iden, Integrated Vehicle and Energy Technology (INVENT) Program Manager at Air Force Research Labs (AFRL) Masa Hirvonen, ManagerITF, Systems Engineering and Analysis, Honda Aircraft Company Inc., Eng Carlos Henrique Berto, Manager Systems development, optimization and integration - Embraer Dirk Van den Berghen, Executive Vice-President & Chief Sales Operations Officer of LMS Kevin Kott, President of dSPACE, Inc.
"We are greatly pleased that Mr. Steve Iden and Mr. Masa Hirvonen will present their visionary approach to the unique engineering challenges in the aerospace industry," commented Marc Boonen, President – LMS Americas. "Our mutual aim is to provide a meeting place for the aviation and space community to exchange ideas and find ways to respond to the current challenges in the industry." Commented Kevin Kott, President – dSPACE Inc.
The 2011 Americas Aerospace Engineering Conference will provide an excellent opportunity to explore the latest technological evolution in mechatronic simulation, systems integration and test-based engineering processes contributing to faster aircraft development maturity and better risk mitigation.
Leading Aviation and Space manufacturers and integrators are focused on the continued advance of mechatronic systems, dynamic systems engineering and systems integration to enhance their product performance, while improving efficiency and power management. Crucial to this focus is earlier development and integration of control systems using a model-based systems engineering (MBSE) development process. This process combines the classical mechanical product development process in parallel with the electrical and software development to bring products to market faster with improved performance. LMS and dSPACE solutions and services are complimentary in this domain, and this conference will provide customer cases and real-world examples of these solutions benefiting our customers.
LMS offers physical testing, virtual simulation and model-based systems engineering solutions and services for mission critical attributes such as power & energy management, ground loads, ECS, flight controls, systems integration and structural dynamics. dSPACE offers integrated hardware and software tools for developing and testing electronic control units. dSPACE systems are used in all stages of product development from initial validation of ideas to software validation and verification in production programs. dSPACE tools contribute significantly to increasing product quality/reliability by providing test systems and in reducing development costs by increasing rate of innovation and efficiency in bringing products to market.The first day (August 29th) of the conference will include keynote presentations by our customers and senior leadership in the morning followed by lunch. The afternoon will include management presentations by key customers on the application of leading edge technologies to advance their product development process. The second day of the conference will provide customer application presentations, technology updates and technical workshops for our attendees to see and learn from their colleagues and experts from LMS and dSPACE.
"We are greatly pleased that Mr. Steve Iden and Mr. Masa Hirvonen will present their visionary approach to the unique engineering challenges in the aerospace industry," commented Marc Boonen, President – LMS Americas. "Our mutual aim is to provide a meeting place for the aviation and space community to exchange ideas and find ways to respond to the current challenges in the industry." Commented Kevin Kott, President – dSPACE Inc.
The 2011 Americas Aerospace Engineering Conference will provide an excellent opportunity to explore the latest technological evolution in mechatronic simulation, systems integration and test-based engineering processes contributing to faster aircraft development maturity and better risk mitigation.
Leading Aviation and Space manufacturers and integrators are focused on the continued advance of mechatronic systems, dynamic systems engineering and systems integration to enhance their product performance, while improving efficiency and power management. Crucial to this focus is earlier development and integration of control systems using a model-based systems engineering (MBSE) development process. This process combines the classical mechanical product development process in parallel with the electrical and software development to bring products to market faster with improved performance. LMS and dSPACE solutions and services are complimentary in this domain, and this conference will provide customer cases and real-world examples of these solutions benefiting our customers.
LMS offers physical testing, virtual simulation and model-based systems engineering solutions and services for mission critical attributes such as power & energy management, ground loads, ECS, flight controls, systems integration and structural dynamics. dSPACE offers integrated hardware and software tools for developing and testing electronic control units. dSPACE systems are used in all stages of product development from initial validation of ideas to software validation and verification in production programs. dSPACE tools contribute significantly to increasing product quality/reliability by providing test systems and in reducing development costs by increasing rate of innovation and efficiency in bringing products to market.The first day (August 29th) of the conference will include keynote presentations by our customers and senior leadership in the morning followed by lunch. The afternoon will include management presentations by key customers on the application of leading edge technologies to advance their product development process. The second day of the conference will provide customer application presentations, technology updates and technical workshops for our attendees to see and learn from their colleagues and experts from LMS and dSPACE.
May 30, 2011
COMSOL Introduces the Microfluidics Module
The new Microfluidics Module from COMSOL provides an integrated environment for modeling microfluidic and rarefied flows.
COMSOL, Inc., the makers of the award winning COMSOL Multiphysics simulation software, today announced the release of the Microfluidics Module. Based on COMSOL Multiphysics, the Microfluidics Module brings easy-to-use tools for the study of microfluidic devices and rarefied gas flows. The module is designed for researchers, engineers, and experimentalists in the fields of microfluidics and vacuum science. Target application areas include lab-on-chip devices, digital microfluidics, biosensors, electrokinetic and magnetokinetic devices, inkjet technology, and vacuum system design. The module is accompanied by a suite of tutorial and industrially relevant models that serve as both instructional examples and as a foundation for future work.
“The simulation of microfluidic devices frequently requires multiple physical effects to be incorporated,” comments Dr. James Ransley, developer of the Microfluidics Module with COMSOL, Inc. “The Microfluidics Module offers a range of tools to deal with single- and multi-phase flows, transport and chemical reactions, flow in porous media, and rarefied flows. Thanks to the single user-interface in COMSOL for modeling all physics, these phenomena can be seamlessly coupled with thermal and electromagnetic effects.”
Specialized Microfluidics Interfaces
The Microfluidics Module includes interfaces for single-phase flow. With these interfaces users can simulate such applications as compressible gas flows at low pressures, non-Newtonian flows (for example blood flow), and laminar and creeping flows that typically occur in lab-on–a-chip systems.
A particular strength in this module is its modeling interfaces for executing two-phase flow simulations using the level set, phase field, and moving mesh methods. A variety of important fluid-interface effects are included such as surface tension forces, capillary forces, and Marangoni effects.
These flow simulation tools and the multiphysics capabilities of COMSOL make it easy to set up coupled electrokinetic and magnetohydrodynamic models for the simulation of electrophoresis, magnetophoresis, dielectrophoresis, electroosmosis, and electrowetting effects that are used alone or in combinations in both existing and emerging passive electronic display technologies for their basic function.
The COMSOL Model Wizard lets Microfluidics Module users choose from a wide range of functionalities to address fluid flow and other coupled phenomena.
“We strongly believe that the Microfluidics Module will offer a very attractive set of tools for our electronic display customers,” comments Dr. Ransley. Chemical diffusion for multiple dilute species is also included in the module, enabling the simulation of processes occurring in lab-on-chip devices and biosensors.
Molecular Flow
The Microfluidics Module comes with a new free molecular flow interface that uses the fast angular coefficient method and allows for simulations where the molecular mean free path is much longer than the geometric dimensions. Combined with COMSOL’s LiveLink interfaces for industry-standard CAD packages, this tool is invaluable for vacuum system design because it enables users to run quick parametric studies of chamber geometries and pump configurations.
Tutorials
The Microfluidics Module is supplied with a set of fully documented industrially relevant and tutorial models:
Capillary Rise
Jet Instability
Drug Delivery System
Electrokinetic Valve
Electroosmotic Mixer
Electrowetting Lens
Lamella Mixer
Star Chip
Viscous Catenary
Vacuum Capillary
Ion Implanter
“The Microfludics Module combines proven and robust multiphysics solvers with the easy-to-use user interface of COMSOL together with a range of solutions targeted at microfluidics applications,” concludes Dr. Ransley. “The net result is a product with unprecedented ease of use which can handle arbitrarily complicated industrial and academic problems.”
Microfluidics Module Highlights
COMSOL, Inc., the makers of the award winning COMSOL Multiphysics simulation software, today announced the release of the Microfluidics Module. Based on COMSOL Multiphysics, the Microfluidics Module brings easy-to-use tools for the study of microfluidic devices and rarefied gas flows. The module is designed for researchers, engineers, and experimentalists in the fields of microfluidics and vacuum science. Target application areas include lab-on-chip devices, digital microfluidics, biosensors, electrokinetic and magnetokinetic devices, inkjet technology, and vacuum system design. The module is accompanied by a suite of tutorial and industrially relevant models that serve as both instructional examples and as a foundation for future work.
“The simulation of microfluidic devices frequently requires multiple physical effects to be incorporated,” comments Dr. James Ransley, developer of the Microfluidics Module with COMSOL, Inc. “The Microfluidics Module offers a range of tools to deal with single- and multi-phase flows, transport and chemical reactions, flow in porous media, and rarefied flows. Thanks to the single user-interface in COMSOL for modeling all physics, these phenomena can be seamlessly coupled with thermal and electromagnetic effects.”
Specialized Microfluidics Interfaces
The Microfluidics Module includes interfaces for single-phase flow. With these interfaces users can simulate such applications as compressible gas flows at low pressures, non-Newtonian flows (for example blood flow), and laminar and creeping flows that typically occur in lab-on–a-chip systems.
A particular strength in this module is its modeling interfaces for executing two-phase flow simulations using the level set, phase field, and moving mesh methods. A variety of important fluid-interface effects are included such as surface tension forces, capillary forces, and Marangoni effects.
These flow simulation tools and the multiphysics capabilities of COMSOL make it easy to set up coupled electrokinetic and magnetohydrodynamic models for the simulation of electrophoresis, magnetophoresis, dielectrophoresis, electroosmosis, and electrowetting effects that are used alone or in combinations in both existing and emerging passive electronic display technologies for their basic function.
The COMSOL Model Wizard lets Microfluidics Module users choose from a wide range of functionalities to address fluid flow and other coupled phenomena.
“We strongly believe that the Microfluidics Module will offer a very attractive set of tools for our electronic display customers,” comments Dr. Ransley. Chemical diffusion for multiple dilute species is also included in the module, enabling the simulation of processes occurring in lab-on-chip devices and biosensors.
Molecular Flow
The Microfluidics Module comes with a new free molecular flow interface that uses the fast angular coefficient method and allows for simulations where the molecular mean free path is much longer than the geometric dimensions. Combined with COMSOL’s LiveLink interfaces for industry-standard CAD packages, this tool is invaluable for vacuum system design because it enables users to run quick parametric studies of chamber geometries and pump configurations.
Tutorials
The Microfluidics Module is supplied with a set of fully documented industrially relevant and tutorial models:
Capillary Rise
Jet Instability
Drug Delivery System
Electrokinetic Valve
Electroosmotic Mixer
Electrowetting Lens
Lamella Mixer
Star Chip
Viscous Catenary
Vacuum Capillary
Ion Implanter
“The Microfludics Module combines proven and robust multiphysics solvers with the easy-to-use user interface of COMSOL together with a range of solutions targeted at microfluidics applications,” concludes Dr. Ransley. “The net result is a product with unprecedented ease of use which can handle arbitrarily complicated industrial and academic problems.”
Microfluidics Module Highlights
- Model single-phase, multiphase, and porous media flows with dedicated physics interfaces.
- Multiphase flows can be simulated with Level Set, Phase field, and Moving Mesh physics interfaces.
- Incorporation of essential microfluidic effects such as electrophoresis, magnetophoresis, dielectrophoresis, electroosmosis, and electrowetting.
- Model chemical diffusion with multiple dilute species. Diffusion and reactions in one phase of a two-phase flow with the two-phase flow moving mesh interface.
- Solve stationary, highly rarefied flows, such as flows in high vacuum systems, using the free molecular flow interface.
Filed under:
COMSOL
FE-DESIGN releases new version of TOSCA Fluid
FE-DESIGN has announced a new version of TOSCA Fluid. This new version 2.2.0 of the modular system for topology optimization of channel flow problems now also includes a full support of STAR-CCM+ CFD Solver (Versions 5 and 6). This important functional enhancement enables users of the high-performance CFD technology CCM+ to benefit from the efficient optimization strategies for channel flows provided by TOSCA Fluid.
Additional new features and enhancements will cover, among others, higher usability with improved graphical user interface (GUI) and enhanced logging and error handling, simplified licensing setup and an improved mechanism for treating mesh interfaces. A new, advanced STL format support including multiple face zones facilitates fast and seamless refeed of optimization results into the original CFD setup, allowing easy set-up of automatic validation runs.
A new, improved smoothing algorithm has been added to prevent shrinkage of the result surfaces during the smoothing process (available for optional selection in the GUI).
ANSYS FLUENT support has been upgraded to version 12.1.4. Support for STAR-CD will be discontinued with the next major release version of TOSCA Fluid.
With your existing TOSCA Fluid 2.1.0 licence you can check out the new feature today. Just download the installation files from myFED.
Additional new features and enhancements will cover, among others, higher usability with improved graphical user interface (GUI) and enhanced logging and error handling, simplified licensing setup and an improved mechanism for treating mesh interfaces. A new, advanced STL format support including multiple face zones facilitates fast and seamless refeed of optimization results into the original CFD setup, allowing easy set-up of automatic validation runs.
A new, improved smoothing algorithm has been added to prevent shrinkage of the result surfaces during the smoothing process (available for optional selection in the GUI).
ANSYS FLUENT support has been upgraded to version 12.1.4. Support for STAR-CD will be discontinued with the next major release version of TOSCA Fluid.
With your existing TOSCA Fluid 2.1.0 licence you can check out the new feature today. Just download the installation files from myFED.
Biotech & piping experts re-examine plant design efficiency
Growing global demand for biotech and chemical plant expertise is forcing a rethink of efficiency in plant design. At industry conferences across Europe, CAD Schroer’s engineering design experts are showing visitors a flexible, productive way forward.
Strong global demand for new production and process plants has increased project competition between traditional plant contractors and newer services providers. Many engineering departments, keen to maximise quality and efficiency, are stepping on from 2D or 3D mechanical CAD software. They are looking for a mid-market 3D solution ideally suited for flexible large-scale plant design -without the big implementation burden associated with some complex plant engineering systems.
MPDS4 PLANT DESIGN - Interactive Demo
At the PCH pharma and chemical industries convention in Lyon, France, and the FDBR piping technologies conference in Stuttgart, Germany, engineering software experts CAD Schroer presented their perspective on efficient plant design and factory layout.
Building 3D on a 2D Legacy
“At the PCH we spoke to biotech companies commissioning and building new plants throughout the world,” says CAD Schroer’s Joseph Brouwers. “Engineering Project Managers increasingly want to visualise their plants in 3D to benefit from easy project communication and interference checking, avoiding expensive mistakes during construction. But they don’t want to lose the investment in their existing 2D layouts. We make the transition from 2D to 3D easy, because MPDS4 can integrate and build on 2D data. And with our factory modelling service, clients can get the first 3D project off the ground very quickly.”
MPDS4 Quickstart Service
MPDS4 straddles the gap between 2D to 3D factory layout and full plant design. It delivers flexible catalog-driven applications for large-scale layouts, whether the focus is on 3D factory buildings based on 2D layouts, with fast auto-routing of conveyor lines; or intelligent 3D pipe routing with vessel, HVAC and steel design in complex chemical plants.
Flexibly dealing with plant changes
“Some of the engineers we spoke to at FDBR complained about the lack of flexibility of some plant software when the design had to be changed mid-project,” adds CAD Schroer’s Sergej Schachow. “Today’s design process is iterative; customers change their mind or requirements; factories have to be adapted to new production processes. MPDS4 allows engineers to change designs on the fly during client meetings, and existing 3D layouts easily form the basis of new projects.”
Flexible Plant Design Software
PCH and FDBR visitors saw a huge benefit in moving from 2D concepts to 3D building design to fully-fledged piping and plant design with one integrated, flexible, large-scale design tool. CAD Schroer will be attending many other digital plant, engineering and water technology events this year.
Strong global demand for new production and process plants has increased project competition between traditional plant contractors and newer services providers. Many engineering departments, keen to maximise quality and efficiency, are stepping on from 2D or 3D mechanical CAD software. They are looking for a mid-market 3D solution ideally suited for flexible large-scale plant design -without the big implementation burden associated with some complex plant engineering systems.
MPDS4 PLANT DESIGN - Interactive Demo
At the PCH pharma and chemical industries convention in Lyon, France, and the FDBR piping technologies conference in Stuttgart, Germany, engineering software experts CAD Schroer presented their perspective on efficient plant design and factory layout.
Building 3D on a 2D Legacy
“At the PCH we spoke to biotech companies commissioning and building new plants throughout the world,” says CAD Schroer’s Joseph Brouwers. “Engineering Project Managers increasingly want to visualise their plants in 3D to benefit from easy project communication and interference checking, avoiding expensive mistakes during construction. But they don’t want to lose the investment in their existing 2D layouts. We make the transition from 2D to 3D easy, because MPDS4 can integrate and build on 2D data. And with our factory modelling service, clients can get the first 3D project off the ground very quickly.”
MPDS4 Quickstart Service
MPDS4 straddles the gap between 2D to 3D factory layout and full plant design. It delivers flexible catalog-driven applications for large-scale layouts, whether the focus is on 3D factory buildings based on 2D layouts, with fast auto-routing of conveyor lines; or intelligent 3D pipe routing with vessel, HVAC and steel design in complex chemical plants.
Flexibly dealing with plant changes
“Some of the engineers we spoke to at FDBR complained about the lack of flexibility of some plant software when the design had to be changed mid-project,” adds CAD Schroer’s Sergej Schachow. “Today’s design process is iterative; customers change their mind or requirements; factories have to be adapted to new production processes. MPDS4 allows engineers to change designs on the fly during client meetings, and existing 3D layouts easily form the basis of new projects.”
Flexible Plant Design Software
PCH and FDBR visitors saw a huge benefit in moving from 2D concepts to 3D building design to fully-fledged piping and plant design with one integrated, flexible, large-scale design tool. CAD Schroer will be attending many other digital plant, engineering and water technology events this year.
Filed under:
CAD Schroer
Bentley Systems' Greg, Keith, Barry, and Ray Bentley Honored With George Washington Medal Awarded by Engineers' Club of Philadelphia
Philadelphia Mayor Michael Nutter Congratulated the Four Brothers For Their Contributions to Engineering Innovation and Job Creation in the Philadelphia Area.
PHILADELPHIA – Be Together: The Bentley User Conference – Bentley Systems, Incorporated, the leading company dedicated to providing comprehensive software solutions for sustaining infrastructure, today announced at this annual gathering of infrastructure professionals that Greg Bentley, CEO; Keith Bentley, CTO; Barry Bentley, executive VP; and Ray Bentley, executive VP, have been named the 2011 recipients of the George Washington Medal by the Engineers’ Club of Philadelphia. The award acknowledges outstanding contributions to technological progress through engineering management. During the award presentation, Philadelphia Mayor Michael A. Nutter was on hand to congratulate the four brothers for their contributions to engineering innovation, as well as to the economic growth of the Greater Philadelphia area through job creation. Incubated in Philadelphia, Bentley Systems’ international headquarters is in Exton, Chester County, Pa., where 500 of its nearly 3000 colleagues are based.
In his remarks to those gathered at the award luncheon, held yesterday at the Pennsylvania Convention Center in Philadelphia, Mayor Nutter said, “Philadelphia is a city with a long history of invention and innovation. Today, Bentley Systems continues those historic achievements, and I would like to congratulate the Bentley brothers for the tremendous work they do in our city.”
Chuck Pennoni, chairman, Pennoni Associates, and a past recipient of the medal, said in presenting the award, “The Bentley brothers have demonstrated that the core values of honesty, integrity, and service are compatible with successful entrepreneurship.”
Among the Bentley brothers’ many contributions to engineering recognized were Bentley Systems’ comprehensive software solutions for the design, construction, and operations of infrastructure. These solutions are used by architects, engineers, constructors, geospatial professionals, and owner-operators to sustain infrastructure around the world. The brothers were also commended for their ongoing support of educational outreach to students and encouragement of science, technology, education, and math (STEM) programs, most notably through the company’s long-standing sponsorship of the National Engineers Week Future City Competition, including hosting the National Finals.
Commenting on receiving the award, Greg Bentley said, “My brothers and I are honored to accept this prestigious award. The Engineers’ Club of Philadelphia does outstanding work promoting and supporting the endeavors of the region’s engineers, and we congratulate its leaders for the valuable work they do. The George Washington Medal is not only bestowed upon my brothers and me, but also on all our colleagues at Bentley Systems who, through their hard work and dedication, enable us to meet our company’s goal of supporting the enterprises and professionals who design, build, and operate the world’s infrastructure.”
Founded in 1877, the Engineers’ Club of Philadelphia is dedicated to the advancement of the engineering field including its various disciplines, the professional development of its members, and networking among technical professionals. Its vision is to be the Engineering and Technical Center of the Delaware Valley.
PHILADELPHIA – Be Together: The Bentley User Conference – Bentley Systems, Incorporated, the leading company dedicated to providing comprehensive software solutions for sustaining infrastructure, today announced at this annual gathering of infrastructure professionals that Greg Bentley, CEO; Keith Bentley, CTO; Barry Bentley, executive VP; and Ray Bentley, executive VP, have been named the 2011 recipients of the George Washington Medal by the Engineers’ Club of Philadelphia. The award acknowledges outstanding contributions to technological progress through engineering management. During the award presentation, Philadelphia Mayor Michael A. Nutter was on hand to congratulate the four brothers for their contributions to engineering innovation, as well as to the economic growth of the Greater Philadelphia area through job creation. Incubated in Philadelphia, Bentley Systems’ international headquarters is in Exton, Chester County, Pa., where 500 of its nearly 3000 colleagues are based.
In his remarks to those gathered at the award luncheon, held yesterday at the Pennsylvania Convention Center in Philadelphia, Mayor Nutter said, “Philadelphia is a city with a long history of invention and innovation. Today, Bentley Systems continues those historic achievements, and I would like to congratulate the Bentley brothers for the tremendous work they do in our city.”
Chuck Pennoni, chairman, Pennoni Associates, and a past recipient of the medal, said in presenting the award, “The Bentley brothers have demonstrated that the core values of honesty, integrity, and service are compatible with successful entrepreneurship.”
Among the Bentley brothers’ many contributions to engineering recognized were Bentley Systems’ comprehensive software solutions for the design, construction, and operations of infrastructure. These solutions are used by architects, engineers, constructors, geospatial professionals, and owner-operators to sustain infrastructure around the world. The brothers were also commended for their ongoing support of educational outreach to students and encouragement of science, technology, education, and math (STEM) programs, most notably through the company’s long-standing sponsorship of the National Engineers Week Future City Competition, including hosting the National Finals.
Commenting on receiving the award, Greg Bentley said, “My brothers and I are honored to accept this prestigious award. The Engineers’ Club of Philadelphia does outstanding work promoting and supporting the endeavors of the region’s engineers, and we congratulate its leaders for the valuable work they do. The George Washington Medal is not only bestowed upon my brothers and me, but also on all our colleagues at Bentley Systems who, through their hard work and dedication, enable us to meet our company’s goal of supporting the enterprises and professionals who design, build, and operate the world’s infrastructure.”
Founded in 1877, the Engineers’ Club of Philadelphia is dedicated to the advancement of the engineering field including its various disciplines, the professional development of its members, and networking among technical professionals. Its vision is to be the Engineering and Technical Center of the Delaware Valley.
Filed under:
Bentley
Deliberating on Engineering Design Services would boost the engineering and manufacturing sector in West Bengal: CII
The Engineering Design Services (EDS) industry over the last couple of years has moved from one off project based delivery to a partnership model. Many new industries are vying for EDS utilization. The growth of the industry is fast and expected to be double digit in next couple of years. The situation has created a plethora of new business & operational models, novel utilities, innovative frameworks, and immense knowledge base. Today Indian Engineering Services Companies are helping through innovative ways setting up operations or implementation of projects of global Engineering Giants.
Against this backdrop, CII Eastern Region organized a Conference on Engineering Design Services (EDS) today in Kolkata. The central theme of the conference was “Future Growth Potential”. This was the first of its kind initiative in the eastern region to deliberate on the present status and future opportunities in engineering design services sector.
Addressing the Conference, Mr Anand Sen, Vice President – TQM & Shared Services, Tata Steel Limited & Chairman, CII Jharkhand State Council stated that optimism, new ideas and innovation are the three most critical attributes for the growth and development of the EDS industry. He said that in India, the market is governed by earlier standards which prevent the companies to become absolutely successful in their endeavours. The companies must find solutions based on new age materials. Organisations must evolve both on the service and technical font to become global leaders in EDS.
Mr Tamal Dasgupta, Managing Director, Webel and Chairman, ICTE Subcommittee, CII Eastern Region avowed that The Indian IT – ICT - ITeS industry has established itself firmly as the spearhead of the country’s global ambitions. Engineering Design Services is an area where India has good growth potential. The manufacturing industry in developed countries is witnessing flat growth. They are eyeing the emerging markets. As they push the products they also have started designing and developing their product in outsource mode in the emerging market as a survival strategy.
Mr Dasgupta stated that manufacturers – aircraft, automobiles, white goods – are gravitating towards Asia looking for newer markets as well as cheaper development and design solutions. The Engineering Design Services vertical will cash on the same to have a substantial growth as the Indian IT outsourcing market had seen a few years back.
He affirmed that the opportunity of growth in infrastructure in the eastern part of India is immense which will require a dedicated support of this sector. This can generate enough business opportunities for the Engineering Services companies.
Mr R K Agrawal, Deputy Chairman, CII Eastern Region affirmed that India with its natural competitive advantage is likely to play a big role in various segments of the engineering services industry. The Indian engineering industry is rapidly growing as a major outsourcing hub with a compounded annual growth rate (CAGR) of more than 30 per cent. Automotive, telecom and aerospace are the major verticals that spend heavily on outsourcing engineering services. The EDS companies will have to have winning strategy to conquer the market.
Mr Arup Dasgupta, Vice Chairman, ICTE Subcommittee, CII Eastern Region and Managing Director, Metalogic Systems Private Limited said that EDS has been one of the early adopters of the globalisation phenomenon. The increasing sophistication and maturity of the EDS industry has meant a significant change in customer perception of service providers. Customers have begun to view service providers as strategic partners owing to greater confidence in their EDS capabilities.
Dr Saugat Mukherjee, Regional Director, CII Eastern Region stated that to boost the engineering and manufacturing sector in West Bengal, an urgent need was felt to deliberate on the Engineering Design Services. Capability building in EDS would help in creating high precision mother industry and promoting investment in the manufacturing space.
Dr Mukherjee further stated that to address the issues and challenges in EDS industry, CII has created a core group in the state to promote the sector and today’s forum is the first of its kind initiative in the Region. The core group would also work towards upgrading the basic skills set required by the sector.
Against this backdrop, CII Eastern Region organized a Conference on Engineering Design Services (EDS) today in Kolkata. The central theme of the conference was “Future Growth Potential”. This was the first of its kind initiative in the eastern region to deliberate on the present status and future opportunities in engineering design services sector.
Addressing the Conference, Mr Anand Sen, Vice President – TQM & Shared Services, Tata Steel Limited & Chairman, CII Jharkhand State Council stated that optimism, new ideas and innovation are the three most critical attributes for the growth and development of the EDS industry. He said that in India, the market is governed by earlier standards which prevent the companies to become absolutely successful in their endeavours. The companies must find solutions based on new age materials. Organisations must evolve both on the service and technical font to become global leaders in EDS.
Mr Tamal Dasgupta, Managing Director, Webel and Chairman, ICTE Subcommittee, CII Eastern Region avowed that The Indian IT – ICT - ITeS industry has established itself firmly as the spearhead of the country’s global ambitions. Engineering Design Services is an area where India has good growth potential. The manufacturing industry in developed countries is witnessing flat growth. They are eyeing the emerging markets. As they push the products they also have started designing and developing their product in outsource mode in the emerging market as a survival strategy.
Mr Dasgupta stated that manufacturers – aircraft, automobiles, white goods – are gravitating towards Asia looking for newer markets as well as cheaper development and design solutions. The Engineering Design Services vertical will cash on the same to have a substantial growth as the Indian IT outsourcing market had seen a few years back.
He affirmed that the opportunity of growth in infrastructure in the eastern part of India is immense which will require a dedicated support of this sector. This can generate enough business opportunities for the Engineering Services companies.
Mr R K Agrawal, Deputy Chairman, CII Eastern Region affirmed that India with its natural competitive advantage is likely to play a big role in various segments of the engineering services industry. The Indian engineering industry is rapidly growing as a major outsourcing hub with a compounded annual growth rate (CAGR) of more than 30 per cent. Automotive, telecom and aerospace are the major verticals that spend heavily on outsourcing engineering services. The EDS companies will have to have winning strategy to conquer the market.
Mr Arup Dasgupta, Vice Chairman, ICTE Subcommittee, CII Eastern Region and Managing Director, Metalogic Systems Private Limited said that EDS has been one of the early adopters of the globalisation phenomenon. The increasing sophistication and maturity of the EDS industry has meant a significant change in customer perception of service providers. Customers have begun to view service providers as strategic partners owing to greater confidence in their EDS capabilities.
Dr Saugat Mukherjee, Regional Director, CII Eastern Region stated that to boost the engineering and manufacturing sector in West Bengal, an urgent need was felt to deliberate on the Engineering Design Services. Capability building in EDS would help in creating high precision mother industry and promoting investment in the manufacturing space.
Dr Mukherjee further stated that to address the issues and challenges in EDS industry, CII has created a core group in the state to promote the sector and today’s forum is the first of its kind initiative in the Region. The core group would also work towards upgrading the basic skills set required by the sector.
Delcam's ArtCAM JewelSmith at JCK Las Vegas Show
Delcam will demonstrate how its ArtCAM JewelSmith software for artistic CADCAM allows jewelers, pewter-smiths, silversmiths and goldsmiths to create highly-crafted custom pieces or complete lines on booth B6682 at JCK Las Vegas, at the Mandalay Bay Hotel and Convention Center from 3rd to the 7th June.
In the latest release, a great deal of technology from Delcam’s industry-leading CAM system, PowerMILL, has been incorporated into ArtCAM JewelSmith to give even faster calculation times. Before the toolpaths are sent to the machine, the artist can check the appearance of the resulting piece using ArtCAM’s new and improved toolpath simulation. This gives the designer the opportunity to alter their calculations prior to machining, saving both time and money.
To suit individual methods of working, ArtCAM gives users the freedom to customize and save their preferred interface layout. This enables every user to set up the software to give quicker access to the commands that they use most frequently. Similarly, commands that are rarely used can be hidden from the initial menu choices.
The software comes with a library of clip-art that new customers can use to create their first models. All these examples can be scaled or combined to give initial designs ready for machining. In addition, designs can be imported in DXF, DWG, AI and EPS 2D formats, plus designs from Alias Wavefront, 3D Studio and other members of the ArtCAM family.
For users that prefer to create their own designs, the software includes a range of drawing tools for creating both geometric and free-form shapes, and also for editing and repairing imported 2D files. The options for text creation support a wide range of standard fonts and also give complete control over spacing, kerning, and line and paragraph formatting. This makes it very convenient for jewelers creating school rings or adding personal sentiments to their customer’s piece.
To help visualize the design, ArtCAM offers rendering in numerous materials, including gold and platinum. Jewelry pieces can be assembled on screen, with the gems set in place, assigned materials to the various parts of the jewelry piece, then moved and rotated within a fully reflective environment. If clients are not available for onsite viewing of finished designs, realistic images can be sent to the customer for final approval in a rotatable 3D pdf.
In the latest release, a great deal of technology from Delcam’s industry-leading CAM system, PowerMILL, has been incorporated into ArtCAM JewelSmith to give even faster calculation times. Before the toolpaths are sent to the machine, the artist can check the appearance of the resulting piece using ArtCAM’s new and improved toolpath simulation. This gives the designer the opportunity to alter their calculations prior to machining, saving both time and money.
To suit individual methods of working, ArtCAM gives users the freedom to customize and save their preferred interface layout. This enables every user to set up the software to give quicker access to the commands that they use most frequently. Similarly, commands that are rarely used can be hidden from the initial menu choices.
The software comes with a library of clip-art that new customers can use to create their first models. All these examples can be scaled or combined to give initial designs ready for machining. In addition, designs can be imported in DXF, DWG, AI and EPS 2D formats, plus designs from Alias Wavefront, 3D Studio and other members of the ArtCAM family.
For users that prefer to create their own designs, the software includes a range of drawing tools for creating both geometric and free-form shapes, and also for editing and repairing imported 2D files. The options for text creation support a wide range of standard fonts and also give complete control over spacing, kerning, and line and paragraph formatting. This makes it very convenient for jewelers creating school rings or adding personal sentiments to their customer’s piece.
To help visualize the design, ArtCAM offers rendering in numerous materials, including gold and platinum. Jewelry pieces can be assembled on screen, with the gems set in place, assigned materials to the various parts of the jewelry piece, then moved and rotated within a fully reflective environment. If clients are not available for onsite viewing of finished designs, realistic images can be sent to the customer for final approval in a rotatable 3D pdf.
Filed under:
Delcam
Rand Worldwide Wins ARCHIBUS' "Best Customer Service and Support Award"
Rand Worldwide announced that Senior Facilities Management Consultant Keith Newell from the Facilities Management team at Rand Worldwide (www.rand.com) was presented with the 2011 Best Customer Service and Support Award from ARCHIBUS Inc., a leading worldwide provider of real estate, infrastructure and facility management solutions.
The global Business Partner Awards are presented to professionals supporting ARCHIBUS and Newell was chosen as the 2011 American winner. This selection represents the third time in the last five years that a Rand Worldwide consultant has been honored by ARCHIBUS Inc.
Duke University’s Dan Parler, Director of Plant Accounting, a long-time customer of Rand Worldwide’s Facilities Management division, nominated Newell. Dan and his team were impressed with the tailored ARCHIBUS solution that Newell and his team deployed which met all of their unique, challenging requirements. The nomination form asked customers to rate the service and support provided on a scale from 1-10 according to: response time, training ability, technical problem resolution, software knowledge, and understanding of business issues. Newell received a perfect 10 from his customer in every category.
“We have had a long and successful partnership with Rand Worldwide for more than 15 years and we feel that their work on this most recent implementation was simply outstanding,” said Parler. “I think they have provided us with the best enterprise system possible to track our construction projects and the complex financial details related to each. Now our team has access to any development or renovation and its financial history at the touch of a button.”
Newell is a member of Rand Worldwide’s Facilities Management Professional Services group (www.rand.com/fm). The Facilities Management team provides consulting, training, implementation and support for government agencies, educational institutions, healthcare organizations, and corporate real estate holders. The team helps organizations make informed business decisions which reduce asset life cycle costs, and increase enterprise-wide productivity and profitability. These results are accomplished by helping facilities managers and decision makers with timely, easy-to-access facility, property, and asset information.
The global Business Partner Awards are presented to professionals supporting ARCHIBUS and Newell was chosen as the 2011 American winner. This selection represents the third time in the last five years that a Rand Worldwide consultant has been honored by ARCHIBUS Inc.
Duke University’s Dan Parler, Director of Plant Accounting, a long-time customer of Rand Worldwide’s Facilities Management division, nominated Newell. Dan and his team were impressed with the tailored ARCHIBUS solution that Newell and his team deployed which met all of their unique, challenging requirements. The nomination form asked customers to rate the service and support provided on a scale from 1-10 according to: response time, training ability, technical problem resolution, software knowledge, and understanding of business issues. Newell received a perfect 10 from his customer in every category.
“We have had a long and successful partnership with Rand Worldwide for more than 15 years and we feel that their work on this most recent implementation was simply outstanding,” said Parler. “I think they have provided us with the best enterprise system possible to track our construction projects and the complex financial details related to each. Now our team has access to any development or renovation and its financial history at the touch of a button.”
Newell is a member of Rand Worldwide’s Facilities Management Professional Services group (www.rand.com/fm). The Facilities Management team provides consulting, training, implementation and support for government agencies, educational institutions, healthcare organizations, and corporate real estate holders. The team helps organizations make informed business decisions which reduce asset life cycle costs, and increase enterprise-wide productivity and profitability. These results are accomplished by helping facilities managers and decision makers with timely, easy-to-access facility, property, and asset information.
Schneider Form GmbH uses Proleis and decides to implement Tebis CAM across the entire group
In search of a powerful manufacturing planning and PDM system and a single-platform strategy to go with it, Schneider Form GmbH in Dettingen unter Teck has selected Proleis and Tebis CAD/CAM. The mold manufacturer with 300 employees offers its customers end-to-end solutions in the die casting and plastics processing sectors, ranging from product development to prototypes to validated 70-t production tooling. Numerous awards and patents have made Schneider Form a center of innovation in mold making.
To achieve faster and more efficient manufacturing processes, Schneider Form has decided to implement a more comprehensive system for its production planning. The objective was to find a solution that could be integrated to the greatest possible degree with the Tebis CAD/CAM software already in use. That’s why the company selected the Proleis production planning and PDM system also offered by Tebis. The decision was supported by an analysis indicating poten-tial savings of hundreds of thousands of euros annually, ensuring Schneider Form that the investment would pay for itself in a relatively short time. This analysis was provided by Tebicon GmbH, a Tebis AG consulting and implementation subsidiary, on the basis of expenditure and cost data pro-vided by Schneider Form employees. The Tebicon experts will also be responsible for implementing Proleis for production planning and data management, thus ensuring that its potential can be fully and smoothly exploited.
In order to further back up this strategic system decision, Schneider Form also ran a benchmark test with other CAD/CAM systems. Tebis won in this test, especially with regard to computing times and surface quality.
"Just as we create solutions for our customers that deliver the best-possible returns throughout their entire life span, we also rely on quality and long-term partnerships when it comes to our own infrastructure", explains Dr. Louis Schneider, the Managing Director of Schneider Form. "Here the Tebis solutions are a perfect fit, in production planning and data management as well as with CAD/CAM functions. Our investments will pay off quickly through substantially higher productivity."
To achieve faster and more efficient manufacturing processes, Schneider Form has decided to implement a more comprehensive system for its production planning. The objective was to find a solution that could be integrated to the greatest possible degree with the Tebis CAD/CAM software already in use. That’s why the company selected the Proleis production planning and PDM system also offered by Tebis. The decision was supported by an analysis indicating poten-tial savings of hundreds of thousands of euros annually, ensuring Schneider Form that the investment would pay for itself in a relatively short time. This analysis was provided by Tebicon GmbH, a Tebis AG consulting and implementation subsidiary, on the basis of expenditure and cost data pro-vided by Schneider Form employees. The Tebicon experts will also be responsible for implementing Proleis for production planning and data management, thus ensuring that its potential can be fully and smoothly exploited.
In order to further back up this strategic system decision, Schneider Form also ran a benchmark test with other CAD/CAM systems. Tebis won in this test, especially with regard to computing times and surface quality.
"Just as we create solutions for our customers that deliver the best-possible returns throughout their entire life span, we also rely on quality and long-term partnerships when it comes to our own infrastructure", explains Dr. Louis Schneider, the Managing Director of Schneider Form. "Here the Tebis solutions are a perfect fit, in production planning and data management as well as with CAD/CAM functions. Our investments will pay off quickly through substantially higher productivity."
Elmo Solutions Releases Agni Link CAD-ERP Integration For Acomba Accounting Suite
Elmo Solutions announces the immediate availability CAD-ERP data integration for Acomba Accounting Suite compatible with SolidWorks, Autodesk (News - Alert) Inventor, AutoCAD and SolidWorks PDM.
Agni Link is a client-server companion to CAD / PDM / PLM applications that provides real-time, bidirectional data integration with ERP systems, among which:
Microsoft (News - Alert) Dynamics NAV (Navision)
Microsoft Dynamics AX (Axapta)
Microsoft Dynamics GP (Great Plains)
Microsoft Dynamics SL (Solomon)
Microsoft Dynamics CRM
Acomba Accounting Suite
This outstanding application offers a unique and reliable way to integrate CAD, PDM, PLM and ERP data, automatically resolving discrepancies, and allowing editing of product data using possible values obtained "live" from the ERP applicaton, thus ensuring perfect synchronization of both data sets and completely eliminating redundant data entry as well as costly errors. Agni Link connectors are currently available for the following applications:
Dassault Systemes (News - Alert) SolidWorks
Autodesk Inventor
AutoCAD
AutoCAD Electrical
AutoCAD Mechanical
AutoCAD Architectural
Dassault Systemes Workgroup PDM
Dassault Systemes Enterprise PDM
Autodesk Vault
Agni Link can process and synchronize a wide range of product data from either environment, including:
Bills of Materials (BoMs)
Estimating
Sales Quotes
CRM data
"We are excited to launch this new version of Agni Link," said Ricardo Talbot, Science Officer at Elmo Solutions. "Making our application compatible with Acomba Accounting Suite helps us offer our customers compelling benefits at price points that ensure an excellent ROI. They can now enjoy a new way to access the most advanced and efficient method of integrating the CAD, PDM, PLM and ERP silos of information. We are confident that this improved CAD-ERP data integration technology will make the solution even more attractive to potential users."
Agni Link is an easy-to-deploy CAD-ERP data integration solution that can be installed in less than 60 seconds.
Agni Link is a client-server companion to CAD / PDM / PLM applications that provides real-time, bidirectional data integration with ERP systems, among which:
Microsoft (News - Alert) Dynamics NAV (Navision)
Microsoft Dynamics AX (Axapta)
Microsoft Dynamics GP (Great Plains)
Microsoft Dynamics SL (Solomon)
Microsoft Dynamics CRM
Acomba Accounting Suite
This outstanding application offers a unique and reliable way to integrate CAD, PDM, PLM and ERP data, automatically resolving discrepancies, and allowing editing of product data using possible values obtained "live" from the ERP applicaton, thus ensuring perfect synchronization of both data sets and completely eliminating redundant data entry as well as costly errors. Agni Link connectors are currently available for the following applications:
Dassault Systemes (News - Alert) SolidWorks
Autodesk Inventor
AutoCAD
AutoCAD Electrical
AutoCAD Mechanical
AutoCAD Architectural
Dassault Systemes Workgroup PDM
Dassault Systemes Enterprise PDM
Autodesk Vault
Agni Link can process and synchronize a wide range of product data from either environment, including:
Bills of Materials (BoMs)
Estimating
Sales Quotes
CRM data
"We are excited to launch this new version of Agni Link," said Ricardo Talbot, Science Officer at Elmo Solutions. "Making our application compatible with Acomba Accounting Suite helps us offer our customers compelling benefits at price points that ensure an excellent ROI. They can now enjoy a new way to access the most advanced and efficient method of integrating the CAD, PDM, PLM and ERP silos of information. We are confident that this improved CAD-ERP data integration technology will make the solution even more attractive to potential users."
Agni Link is an easy-to-deploy CAD-ERP data integration solution that can be installed in less than 60 seconds.
May 26, 2011
Hawkes Ocean Technologies Makes Underwater Airplanes with Autodesk Inventor Software
Company Relies on Autodesk 3D CAD Software to Create New Class of Ocean Submersibles.
SAN RAFAEL, Calif - The deep sea, not space, is the latest frontier for achieving new records of exploration, and Hawkes Ocean Technologies (Hawkes) is leading the way with its series of winged submersibles that fly through the water, operating much like underwater aircraft. For its innovative research vehicles, Hawkes has been named May Inventor of the Month by Autodesk, Inc. (NASDAQ: ADSK).
With their unique ability for underwater flight and unprecedented range, speed and maneuverability, Hawkes DeepFlight submersibles make it easier and more cost effective to explore parts of the ocean that were previously out of reach — offering the potential to significantly expand scientific knowledge of the ocean that covers nearly three-fourths of the Earth’s surface. In fact, Hawkes is currently completing DeepFlight Challenger, the world’s deepest submersible that will be used by the Virgin Oceanic Five Dives project to venture to the bottom of the world’s oceans. Additionally, Hawkes is furthering the development of its DeepFlight winged submersibles and is working on its fifth generation DeepFlight vehicle.
Digital Prototyping Enables Team to Develop New Ideas
“It is impossible to overstate the importance that Autodesk Inventor software has played in our operations,” said Graham Hawkes, founder and chief engineer of Hawkes. “The ability to design in 3D doesn’t just make us more efficient at realizing our ideas — it enables us to come up with entirely new ideas in the first place. It has completely changed the way we do things.”
The DeepFlight series of manned craft represent a fundamental advance in the way submersibles operate, transforming them from “underwater balloons” that use ballast to rise and sink, to craft that are capable of underwater flight -- much the same way that the original aviators made the leap from hot air balloons and blimps to fixed-wing aircraft.
Hawkes relied heavily on Autodesk Digital Prototyping software to design the DeepFlight Super Falcon, a fourth-generation winged submersible capable of carrying two passengers that weighs a fraction of the weight of a conventional two-seat submersible.
By taking advantage of Inventor 3D mechanical design software, Hawkes was able to design the Super Falcon in parallel with another submersible model with a team of just four engineers. By contrast, one of its first generation submersibles — designed without Inventor — required a team of more than 10 engineers.
“Digital Prototyping enables Hawkes to make very effective use of its resources as it dreams up previously unimagined forms of underwater transportation,” said Robert “Buzz” Kross, senior vice president, Manufacturing Industry Group at Autodesk. “Their innovative submersibles are sure to fire the public imagination and provide inspiration for a new era of exploration and discovery.”
SAN RAFAEL, Calif - The deep sea, not space, is the latest frontier for achieving new records of exploration, and Hawkes Ocean Technologies (Hawkes) is leading the way with its series of winged submersibles that fly through the water, operating much like underwater aircraft. For its innovative research vehicles, Hawkes has been named May Inventor of the Month by Autodesk, Inc. (NASDAQ: ADSK).
With their unique ability for underwater flight and unprecedented range, speed and maneuverability, Hawkes DeepFlight submersibles make it easier and more cost effective to explore parts of the ocean that were previously out of reach — offering the potential to significantly expand scientific knowledge of the ocean that covers nearly three-fourths of the Earth’s surface. In fact, Hawkes is currently completing DeepFlight Challenger, the world’s deepest submersible that will be used by the Virgin Oceanic Five Dives project to venture to the bottom of the world’s oceans. Additionally, Hawkes is furthering the development of its DeepFlight winged submersibles and is working on its fifth generation DeepFlight vehicle.
Digital Prototyping Enables Team to Develop New Ideas
“It is impossible to overstate the importance that Autodesk Inventor software has played in our operations,” said Graham Hawkes, founder and chief engineer of Hawkes. “The ability to design in 3D doesn’t just make us more efficient at realizing our ideas — it enables us to come up with entirely new ideas in the first place. It has completely changed the way we do things.”
The DeepFlight series of manned craft represent a fundamental advance in the way submersibles operate, transforming them from “underwater balloons” that use ballast to rise and sink, to craft that are capable of underwater flight -- much the same way that the original aviators made the leap from hot air balloons and blimps to fixed-wing aircraft.
Hawkes relied heavily on Autodesk Digital Prototyping software to design the DeepFlight Super Falcon, a fourth-generation winged submersible capable of carrying two passengers that weighs a fraction of the weight of a conventional two-seat submersible.
By taking advantage of Inventor 3D mechanical design software, Hawkes was able to design the Super Falcon in parallel with another submersible model with a team of just four engineers. By contrast, one of its first generation submersibles — designed without Inventor — required a team of more than 10 engineers.
“Digital Prototyping enables Hawkes to make very effective use of its resources as it dreams up previously unimagined forms of underwater transportation,” said Robert “Buzz” Kross, senior vice president, Manufacturing Industry Group at Autodesk. “Their innovative submersibles are sure to fire the public imagination and provide inspiration for a new era of exploration and discovery.”
Filed under:
Autodesk
Altair to Showcase New Method of Optimizing Weight of Composite Fan Blades at ASME Turbo Expo 2011
Altair also will unveil two white papers on simulation for aerospace turbine design at June conference in Vancouver.
TROY, Mich – Altair Engineering, Inc today announced that it will deliver a paper presentation at ASME Turbo Expo 2011, describing a new application for optimizing the weight of composite fan blades using Altair’s HyperWorks suite of computer-aided design tools. Altair also will welcome attendees to its exposition booth (#341), where it will unveil two white papers, one on efficient model setup for aerospace engines and the other discussing optimized cooling passages on turbine blades.
The presentation, delivered by Altair Executive Director – Global Aerospace, Robert Yancey, will highlight a paper by one of the turbo-machinery industry’s most renowned engineers, Altair’s Dr. J.S. Rao of Bangalore, India. Titled “Concept Optimal Design of Composite Fan Blades,” the paper outlines a procedure to determine the composite layout of a given baseline design for metallic fan blades. Employing OptiStruct and other HyperWorks simulation, analysis and optimization solutions, the simulation process employs composite materials in place of titanium to gain a substantial weight savings, without affecting the performance of the engine blade.
ASME Turbo Expo 2011 will be held June 6-10 at the Vancouver Convention and Exposition Centre in Vancouver, British Columbia. Yancey will present Dr. Rao’s work on June 10 from 8-10 a.m. in session 21-1: Design of Gas Turbines and Components. Among the Altair staff at the conference will be the firm’s leading technical specialist in the turbo domain, Chief Applications Engineer Michael Dambach.
“Composite fan blades are relatively new,” Yancey said, “and this is Altair’s first application of its popular HyperWorks software to fan blades. The turbine engine market has been our fastest-growing sector in the aerospace industry in recent years, and Altair’s new process is designed to provide custom templates to help aerospace engineers automate the complicated analysis involved in fan-blade design.”
Turbo Expo 2011 is sponsored by ASME (founded as the American Society of Mechanical Engineers) and is the largest and longest-running turbo machinery conference in the world. Its location alternates annually between North America and Europe. Attendees who visit the Altair booth during the conference also will have the opportunity to register for Altair’s annual HyperWorks Technology Conference (HTC) June 22-23 in Orlando, Fla. Registrants will be placed in a drawing to have room expenses paid for during the conference.
Visit Altair’s turbo engine homepage for more information on Altair’s white papers and participation in Turbo Expo 2011.
TROY, Mich – Altair Engineering, Inc today announced that it will deliver a paper presentation at ASME Turbo Expo 2011, describing a new application for optimizing the weight of composite fan blades using Altair’s HyperWorks suite of computer-aided design tools. Altair also will welcome attendees to its exposition booth (#341), where it will unveil two white papers, one on efficient model setup for aerospace engines and the other discussing optimized cooling passages on turbine blades.
The presentation, delivered by Altair Executive Director – Global Aerospace, Robert Yancey, will highlight a paper by one of the turbo-machinery industry’s most renowned engineers, Altair’s Dr. J.S. Rao of Bangalore, India. Titled “Concept Optimal Design of Composite Fan Blades,” the paper outlines a procedure to determine the composite layout of a given baseline design for metallic fan blades. Employing OptiStruct and other HyperWorks simulation, analysis and optimization solutions, the simulation process employs composite materials in place of titanium to gain a substantial weight savings, without affecting the performance of the engine blade.
ASME Turbo Expo 2011 will be held June 6-10 at the Vancouver Convention and Exposition Centre in Vancouver, British Columbia. Yancey will present Dr. Rao’s work on June 10 from 8-10 a.m. in session 21-1: Design of Gas Turbines and Components. Among the Altair staff at the conference will be the firm’s leading technical specialist in the turbo domain, Chief Applications Engineer Michael Dambach.
“Composite fan blades are relatively new,” Yancey said, “and this is Altair’s first application of its popular HyperWorks software to fan blades. The turbine engine market has been our fastest-growing sector in the aerospace industry in recent years, and Altair’s new process is designed to provide custom templates to help aerospace engineers automate the complicated analysis involved in fan-blade design.”
Turbo Expo 2011 is sponsored by ASME (founded as the American Society of Mechanical Engineers) and is the largest and longest-running turbo machinery conference in the world. Its location alternates annually between North America and Europe. Attendees who visit the Altair booth during the conference also will have the opportunity to register for Altair’s annual HyperWorks Technology Conference (HTC) June 22-23 in Orlando, Fla. Registrants will be placed in a drawing to have room expenses paid for during the conference.
Visit Altair’s turbo engine homepage for more information on Altair’s white papers and participation in Turbo Expo 2011.
Winners Announced for Nemetschek Engineering Group's International User Contest
At the 7th User Contest, six prizewinners from all over Europe impress with efficient design of complex engineering structures.
München - The winners have been chosen for the Nemetschek Engineering Group’s International User Contest 2011: the submissions of Prodis plus s.r.o. (Bratislava), amsler bombeli et associés sa (Lausanne), Statika s.r.o. (Prague), Movares (Utrecht) and Tractebel Engineering (Gennevilliers) beat 117 other submissions from 19 different countries. In addition, a Special Jury BIM Prize was also awarded to provide particular recognition to the implementation of certain criteria such as Building Information Modeling (BIM) and interoperability. This was awarded to the Inginerie Structurala engineering firm in Bucharest.
Evaluated by an international jury
This was the 7th biennial competition aimed at all engineering and design firms working with software from the Nemetschek Engineering Group – i.e. with software from Nemetschek Allplan, Nemetschek Scia, Nemetschek Engineering (Precast), Frilo and Glaser. For the first time, the categories were defined so that users of different Nemetschek Group software products could compete in the same categories. In all five design categories - from buildings to public construction, industrial and plant construction, industrial design and special projects - both structural analysis and CAD applications are represented. An independent, international jury with nine engineering specialists from industry, research and education evaluated the submitted projects by originality, complexity, technical level and use of the software functions. The Nemetschek Engineering Group awarded a total of € 9,000; each winner receives a prize of € 1,500.
According to Jean-Pierre Rammant, Head of the Nemetschek Engineering Group and CEO of the coordinating company Nemetschek Scia, the competition is now well-established in the engineering sector: “We are proud to receive 117 high-quality projects from 91 offices in 19 countries”. He goes on to describe the increasingly important role of BIM, which the jury also confirmed in its final appraisal: "The different design partners, architects, engineering professionals and draftspersons have made even greater use than ever of the innovative options of BIM and interoperability. Nemetschek software has demonstrated its efficiency once again."
An overview of winning projects
Category 1 (Buildings): River House in Bratislava/Slovak Republic
The River House is the predominant building in the multi-functional River Park complex on the left bank of the Danube in Bratislava. The structural analysis was performed by Bratislava-based firm Prodis plus s.r.o. The complex with its irregular trapezoid form consists of four raised blocks with 203 luxury residences, high-quality offices, and a five-star hotel.
Category 2 (Civil Structures): Hans Wilsdorf Bridge in Geneva/Switzerland
After its planned completion in 2012, the Hans Wilsdorf Bridge in Geneva will have a span of 85.4 meters and a width of 15.5 m. Steel profiles (40x40 cm) give the construction its elliptical shape. Due to its complex tubular geometry, the structural engineers at the amsler bombeli et associés sa office in Lausanne developed several models for their structural analyses.
Category 3 (Industrial Buildings and Plants): Warehouse for Spent Nuclear Fuel in the Czech Republic
After analyzing three variants in advance – one building, a combined building and two separate buildings – the designers at Statika s.r.o. in Prague divided the building complex between a reception building and the storage building itself. The fuel rod warehouse has a monolithic reinforced concrete framework and a prefabricated roof, also of monolithic construction. The project was also selected because of the complexity of special load cases covering scenarios such as seismic activity, plane impact and explosions.
Category 4 (Industrialized Planning): Freeway Fly-Over Kerensheide, The Netherlands
Designed by the Movares traffic planning company, the Kerensheide (A2/A76) freeway fly-over is planned for completion in mid-2012. It is around 590 meters long and 17 meters wide, consisting of 11 segments with a maximum span of 57.2 meters. To save time and costs during the construction phase, the designers used BIM during the 3D draft phase – particularly for the reinforcement drawings and details and based on the data exchange format.
Category 5 (Special Projects): Confluences Museum in Lyon/France
Scheduled to open its doors in 2014 the Musée des Confluences in Lyon is intended to reflect the latest developments in science. In their design, the architects from Coop Himmelb(l)au, supported by the experts from Tractebel Engineering France,combine three entities: a crystal-like construction and a steel cloud rest on a two-storey, reinforced concrete base building. Like the transparent crystal with its glass reception area, the cloud is also a steel construction. Its 7 stories seem to float on three steel supports and 12 concrete pillars.
Special Jury BIM Prize: Orchidea Tower in Bucharest/Romania
The special jury prize goes to the Bucharest-based Inginerie Structurala engineering firm. The project comprises two adjacent, almost 83-meter high office buildings in the form of a butterfly. The planned location is on the left back of the Dambovita river in Bucharest. Romania is in an earthquake-endangered zone and the aquiferous subsurface presented another design challenge.
Book with all submitted projects
The "Nemetschek Engineering User Contest Book" presents all 117 submitted projects. The book appears on May 26, 2011 in a print run of 6,000, as well as in e-book format. The book’s 250 pages give the reader a detailed look at the structures as well as an idea of the possibilities of contemporary, professional design and implementation. A hard cover book is available free of charge at all participating Nemetschek Engineering Group companies.
München - The winners have been chosen for the Nemetschek Engineering Group’s International User Contest 2011: the submissions of Prodis plus s.r.o. (Bratislava), amsler bombeli et associés sa (Lausanne), Statika s.r.o. (Prague), Movares (Utrecht) and Tractebel Engineering (Gennevilliers) beat 117 other submissions from 19 different countries. In addition, a Special Jury BIM Prize was also awarded to provide particular recognition to the implementation of certain criteria such as Building Information Modeling (BIM) and interoperability. This was awarded to the Inginerie Structurala engineering firm in Bucharest.
Evaluated by an international jury
This was the 7th biennial competition aimed at all engineering and design firms working with software from the Nemetschek Engineering Group – i.e. with software from Nemetschek Allplan, Nemetschek Scia, Nemetschek Engineering (Precast), Frilo and Glaser. For the first time, the categories were defined so that users of different Nemetschek Group software products could compete in the same categories. In all five design categories - from buildings to public construction, industrial and plant construction, industrial design and special projects - both structural analysis and CAD applications are represented. An independent, international jury with nine engineering specialists from industry, research and education evaluated the submitted projects by originality, complexity, technical level and use of the software functions. The Nemetschek Engineering Group awarded a total of € 9,000; each winner receives a prize of € 1,500.
According to Jean-Pierre Rammant, Head of the Nemetschek Engineering Group and CEO of the coordinating company Nemetschek Scia, the competition is now well-established in the engineering sector: “We are proud to receive 117 high-quality projects from 91 offices in 19 countries”. He goes on to describe the increasingly important role of BIM, which the jury also confirmed in its final appraisal: "The different design partners, architects, engineering professionals and draftspersons have made even greater use than ever of the innovative options of BIM and interoperability. Nemetschek software has demonstrated its efficiency once again."
An overview of winning projects
Category 1 (Buildings): River House in Bratislava/Slovak Republic
The River House is the predominant building in the multi-functional River Park complex on the left bank of the Danube in Bratislava. The structural analysis was performed by Bratislava-based firm Prodis plus s.r.o. The complex with its irregular trapezoid form consists of four raised blocks with 203 luxury residences, high-quality offices, and a five-star hotel.
Category 2 (Civil Structures): Hans Wilsdorf Bridge in Geneva/Switzerland
After its planned completion in 2012, the Hans Wilsdorf Bridge in Geneva will have a span of 85.4 meters and a width of 15.5 m. Steel profiles (40x40 cm) give the construction its elliptical shape. Due to its complex tubular geometry, the structural engineers at the amsler bombeli et associés sa office in Lausanne developed several models for their structural analyses.
Category 3 (Industrial Buildings and Plants): Warehouse for Spent Nuclear Fuel in the Czech Republic
After analyzing three variants in advance – one building, a combined building and two separate buildings – the designers at Statika s.r.o. in Prague divided the building complex between a reception building and the storage building itself. The fuel rod warehouse has a monolithic reinforced concrete framework and a prefabricated roof, also of monolithic construction. The project was also selected because of the complexity of special load cases covering scenarios such as seismic activity, plane impact and explosions.
Category 4 (Industrialized Planning): Freeway Fly-Over Kerensheide, The Netherlands
Designed by the Movares traffic planning company, the Kerensheide (A2/A76) freeway fly-over is planned for completion in mid-2012. It is around 590 meters long and 17 meters wide, consisting of 11 segments with a maximum span of 57.2 meters. To save time and costs during the construction phase, the designers used BIM during the 3D draft phase – particularly for the reinforcement drawings and details and based on the data exchange format.
Category 5 (Special Projects): Confluences Museum in Lyon/France
Scheduled to open its doors in 2014 the Musée des Confluences in Lyon is intended to reflect the latest developments in science. In their design, the architects from Coop Himmelb(l)au, supported by the experts from Tractebel Engineering France,combine three entities: a crystal-like construction and a steel cloud rest on a two-storey, reinforced concrete base building. Like the transparent crystal with its glass reception area, the cloud is also a steel construction. Its 7 stories seem to float on three steel supports and 12 concrete pillars.
Special Jury BIM Prize: Orchidea Tower in Bucharest/Romania
The special jury prize goes to the Bucharest-based Inginerie Structurala engineering firm. The project comprises two adjacent, almost 83-meter high office buildings in the form of a butterfly. The planned location is on the left back of the Dambovita river in Bucharest. Romania is in an earthquake-endangered zone and the aquiferous subsurface presented another design challenge.
Book with all submitted projects
The "Nemetschek Engineering User Contest Book" presents all 117 submitted projects. The book appears on May 26, 2011 in a print run of 6,000, as well as in e-book format. The book’s 250 pages give the reader a detailed look at the structures as well as an idea of the possibilities of contemporary, professional design and implementation. A hard cover book is available free of charge at all participating Nemetschek Engineering Group companies.
Filed under:
Contest
Fishbowl Solutions Releases Google Search Appliance Connector for Oracle Universal Content Management
Fishbowl Solutions, an Oracle Enterprise Content Management and WebCenter Specialized Gold Partner and a Google Enterprise Partner, has announced the release of their Google Search Appliance Connector for Oracle Universal Content Management (Oracle UCM). This software component enables integration between Oracle UCM and a Google Search Appliance (GSA). With Fishbowl’s GSA Connector for Oracle UCM, users have an alternative to the standard database search options of Oracle UCM by harnessing the power of the Google’s search technology inside the firewall.
Fishbowl’s GSA Connector integrates organizational websites, intranets and document management systems that are managed by Oracle UCM with the GSA device. Once integrated with Oracle UCM, the GSA indexes the content and metadata in the Oracle Content Server database. When users perform searches in Oracle UCM, the search results are returned using the familiar Google.com list view interface. The GSA is also extensible to index sources beyond Oracle UCM including file shares and other content stores, as well as content stored in the cloud and the public web, providing users with a single place from which to search all enterprise content and provide a truly universal search experience.
“Our mission is to help organizations solve knowledge sharing problems. With the GSA Connector, organizations combine an industry leading content repository with an industry leading search technology,” said Tim Gruidl, President of Fishbowl Solutions. “Connecting UCM and a Google Search Appliance allows organizations to increase employee productivity by empowering users to gain more immediate access to the content and data they need.”
Fishbowl’s Google Search Appliance Connector supports Oracle UCM 10 and 11g. Features of the connector include:
○ Ability to search multiple Oracle UCM instances
○ Search text, date and integer metadata fields
○ Intelligently Process SiteStudio Sites
○ Results link to full-context web pages instead of XML files
○ Content in hidden sections is not indexed
○ Selectively include or exclude metadata fields from search index per content server instance
○ Ability to use custom search result templates and interfaces
As a Google Enterprise Partner, Fishbowl Solutions has the ability to resell the Google Search Appliance. Oracle UCM customers now have the convenience of working with one software, hardware and integration services provider to improve and maximize their enterprise search capabilities.
Fishbowl Solutions was founded in 1999. Their areas of expertise include: Oracle Enterprise Content Management (Oracle ECM) and PTC’s Product Development System (PDS). Fishbowl Solutions is an officially certified Oracle ECM and WebCenter Specialized Partner with an outstanding reputation of working with the Oracle (formerly Stellent) Enterprise 2.0 product suite, specializing in content management, and has become an industry leader in the software and consulting industry.
Fishbowl’s GSA Connector integrates organizational websites, intranets and document management systems that are managed by Oracle UCM with the GSA device. Once integrated with Oracle UCM, the GSA indexes the content and metadata in the Oracle Content Server database. When users perform searches in Oracle UCM, the search results are returned using the familiar Google.com list view interface. The GSA is also extensible to index sources beyond Oracle UCM including file shares and other content stores, as well as content stored in the cloud and the public web, providing users with a single place from which to search all enterprise content and provide a truly universal search experience.
“Our mission is to help organizations solve knowledge sharing problems. With the GSA Connector, organizations combine an industry leading content repository with an industry leading search technology,” said Tim Gruidl, President of Fishbowl Solutions. “Connecting UCM and a Google Search Appliance allows organizations to increase employee productivity by empowering users to gain more immediate access to the content and data they need.”
Fishbowl’s Google Search Appliance Connector supports Oracle UCM 10 and 11g. Features of the connector include:
○ Ability to search multiple Oracle UCM instances
○ Search text, date and integer metadata fields
○ Intelligently Process SiteStudio Sites
○ Results link to full-context web pages instead of XML files
○ Content in hidden sections is not indexed
○ Selectively include or exclude metadata fields from search index per content server instance
○ Ability to use custom search result templates and interfaces
As a Google Enterprise Partner, Fishbowl Solutions has the ability to resell the Google Search Appliance. Oracle UCM customers now have the convenience of working with one software, hardware and integration services provider to improve and maximize their enterprise search capabilities.
Fishbowl Solutions was founded in 1999. Their areas of expertise include: Oracle Enterprise Content Management (Oracle ECM) and PTC’s Product Development System (PDS). Fishbowl Solutions is an officially certified Oracle ECM and WebCenter Specialized Partner with an outstanding reputation of working with the Oracle (formerly Stellent) Enterprise 2.0 product suite, specializing in content management, and has become an industry leader in the software and consulting industry.
Filed under:
FISHBOWL SOLUTIONS
Jaguar Land Rover accelerates design and development process with OPTIS' physics-based rendering software for visualisation
OPTIS, a software developer for the scientific simulation of light and human vision, has announced that Jaguar Land Rover is using its SPEOS software tool to accelerate the design and development process at its car manufacturing sites in the UK.
Typically it can take four years to develop a new car from concept to prototype but by the use of visualization techniques enabled by OPTIS’s software, Jaguar Land Rover is able to reduce both the time and investment required to build a full prototype car.
SPEOS software enables engineers to verify that a particular design works well at all levels by the exact analysis and measurement of both the ergonomic criteria and perceived quality of material surfaces from the occupant’s perspective and under unlimited ambient lighting conditions. This solution helps designers to optimize and improve the layout of the car interior, all illuminated graphics as well as the car’s headlights by precisely developing multiple, virtual prototypes and verifying the design integration. The OPTIS software also helps with the development of more rigorous specifications of materials that can be used in particular cars. It can even help to define new products.
Jaguar Land Rover also uses traditional rendering solutions, often useful for initial marketing pictures before the development has started. The difference between these traditional solutions and SPEOS is SPEOS’ ability to accurately measure the physical – and thus optical – properties of the materials and lighting sources, as well as the occupant’s visual perception. This physics based approach ensures that the virtual prototype will accurately predict the reality of the final product and in any lighting conditions, from any perspective.
There will be no last-minute surprises when the car goes into production.
OPTIS’s physics-based rendering SPEOS software is fully integrated in the CATIA V5 PLM solution. This is a key advantage as it processes the CAD-data generated in the design process and optically models the performance. It simulates the performance of the vehicle from the relative position of the occupant and helps engineers to visualise how the interior reacts with light in different conditions. It helps accurately model light sources and surfaces from the perspective of each occupant.
SPEOS enables Jaguar Land Rover to look at the propagation of light throughout the vehicle and the internal and external effects of different components they may use, as well as the effect of a sunny or night-time environment. The optical precision of SPEOS helps them with standards verification, component compliance and gives them the ability to easily review a number of iterations. This reduces the cost of expensive prototype parts and provides senior management an optically accurate view of the finished design.
OPTIS says that SPEOS is the only truly physics-based rendering tool with the power to model the physical properties of light and maps the path and interaction of light with different surfaces, and uniquely, how these interactions will be perceived by the occupants. The software is used throughout the design process to study the vision and visibility for different driver positions depending on size and seating configuration, helping to avoid potentially dangerous reflections for the driver.
Jaguar Land Rover are currently looking to implement the SPEOS software in their Virtual Reality center, to allow designers, engineers and ergonomists to interact with their designs in a fully immersive 3D environment.
“We are delighted to welcome Jaguar Land Rover as a major customer,” said Pete Moorhouse, VP Sales & Marketing at OPTIS. “We have worked closely with the Jaguar Land Rover team to efficiently implement our solutions and guarantee that full advantage can be taken as quickly as possible. I look forward to supporting Jaguar Land Rover throughout their virtual prototyping activities”.
Jacques Delacour, President & CEO, OPTIS, added, “I am really proud to include Jaguar Land Rover as an Optis customer. Jaguar Land Rover is at the forefront of automotive manufacture and is using the SPEOS software in a number of innovative and exciting ways that help its design process and visualisation.”
Typically it can take four years to develop a new car from concept to prototype but by the use of visualization techniques enabled by OPTIS’s software, Jaguar Land Rover is able to reduce both the time and investment required to build a full prototype car.
SPEOS software enables engineers to verify that a particular design works well at all levels by the exact analysis and measurement of both the ergonomic criteria and perceived quality of material surfaces from the occupant’s perspective and under unlimited ambient lighting conditions. This solution helps designers to optimize and improve the layout of the car interior, all illuminated graphics as well as the car’s headlights by precisely developing multiple, virtual prototypes and verifying the design integration. The OPTIS software also helps with the development of more rigorous specifications of materials that can be used in particular cars. It can even help to define new products.
Jaguar Land Rover also uses traditional rendering solutions, often useful for initial marketing pictures before the development has started. The difference between these traditional solutions and SPEOS is SPEOS’ ability to accurately measure the physical – and thus optical – properties of the materials and lighting sources, as well as the occupant’s visual perception. This physics based approach ensures that the virtual prototype will accurately predict the reality of the final product and in any lighting conditions, from any perspective.
There will be no last-minute surprises when the car goes into production.
OPTIS’s physics-based rendering SPEOS software is fully integrated in the CATIA V5 PLM solution. This is a key advantage as it processes the CAD-data generated in the design process and optically models the performance. It simulates the performance of the vehicle from the relative position of the occupant and helps engineers to visualise how the interior reacts with light in different conditions. It helps accurately model light sources and surfaces from the perspective of each occupant.
SPEOS enables Jaguar Land Rover to look at the propagation of light throughout the vehicle and the internal and external effects of different components they may use, as well as the effect of a sunny or night-time environment. The optical precision of SPEOS helps them with standards verification, component compliance and gives them the ability to easily review a number of iterations. This reduces the cost of expensive prototype parts and provides senior management an optically accurate view of the finished design.
OPTIS says that SPEOS is the only truly physics-based rendering tool with the power to model the physical properties of light and maps the path and interaction of light with different surfaces, and uniquely, how these interactions will be perceived by the occupants. The software is used throughout the design process to study the vision and visibility for different driver positions depending on size and seating configuration, helping to avoid potentially dangerous reflections for the driver.
Jaguar Land Rover are currently looking to implement the SPEOS software in their Virtual Reality center, to allow designers, engineers and ergonomists to interact with their designs in a fully immersive 3D environment.
“We are delighted to welcome Jaguar Land Rover as a major customer,” said Pete Moorhouse, VP Sales & Marketing at OPTIS. “We have worked closely with the Jaguar Land Rover team to efficiently implement our solutions and guarantee that full advantage can be taken as quickly as possible. I look forward to supporting Jaguar Land Rover throughout their virtual prototyping activities”.
Jacques Delacour, President & CEO, OPTIS, added, “I am really proud to include Jaguar Land Rover as an Optis customer. Jaguar Land Rover is at the forefront of automotive manufacture and is using the SPEOS software in a number of innovative and exciting ways that help its design process and visualisation.”
Autodesk to Present at Bank of America Merrill Lynch Technology Conference
Autodesk, Inc today announced that its senior vice president, architecture, engineering and construction, Jay Bhatt, will present at the Bank of America Merrill Lynch Technology conference on June 2, 2011 at 11:15 a.m. Eastern Time.
Autodesk, Inc. also announced that it will broadcast its annual meeting of stockholders live via its website on Thursday, June 16, 2011 at 3:00 p.m. Pacific Time.
A live webcast and audio archive for both events will be available on www.autodesk.com/investors.
Autodesk, Inc. also announced that it will broadcast its annual meeting of stockholders live via its website on Thursday, June 16, 2011 at 3:00 p.m. Pacific Time.
A live webcast and audio archive for both events will be available on www.autodesk.com/investors.
Filed under:
Autodesk
Delcam's PowerMILL takes NRE to the forefront of race-car engineering
NRE estimates that it's Delcam software improves productivity by over 20%.
Programming its five-axis machining centres with Delcam’s PowerMILL CAM software has taken Noonan Race Engineering (NRE) in Queensland to the forefront of race-car engineering in Australia and overseas. Without the software and its broad range of machining strategies, it would be so much more difficult for NRE to produce the sort of race-specification engines and specialised components that the company is becoming famous for developing.
PowerMILL enables NRE to translate its outstanding designs into products that can be marketed and sold worldwide. "To NRE, CNC machining is not just a form of engineering, it is pure art,” said Jamie Noonan, one of the founding partners at the company. "Our customers look at our products and are amazed at how the toolpaths flow and add character to the product.”
That’s no accident as the company uses the inbuilt versatility of the Delcam software to ‘tweak’ things and add extra dimensions to their machining. "With PowerMILL, we have the ability to control the toolpaths to a very high degree, creating not only a proven performance product but also a stunning world-class finished result,” added Mr. Noonan. "The porting strategies have also enabled us to bring another key area of our products in-house.”
PowerMILL undertakes an automatic division of the port machining process between areas that can be reached using three-axis techniques, and those that require positional or continuous five-axis operation. With most machine tools, using three-axis or positional five-axis cutting offers greater rigidity and so allows more accurate machining, at higher speeds, with less vibration of the cutter. However, most engine ports require continuous five-axis machining for part of their manufacture.
PowerMILL automatically optimises the overall machining sequence so that as much material as possible is removed with three-axis and positional five-axis operation, and that continuous five-axis machining is only used where necessary. This reduces the overall machining time, while maintaining the required level of surface finish.
The sequence uses a spiral motion for the roughing cuts but gives the operator a choice between using a spiral or a plunging approach for the finish machining. Using a spiral approach produces cusps across the flow of gas and so increases turbulence, while using the plunging technique gives cusps parallel to the flow direction and speeds the passage of the gas mixture through the port.
PowerMILL also divides the CAD model automatically to create the surfaces that will be machined from either end of the port. The user can specify the length of the overlap between the two sets of toolpaths to ensure a smooth transition between the two areas.
Such detailed control is not possible in many other programs, especially for five-axis machining, or may be very time consuming. Time is a luxury when developing race engines and associated products. There’s always another race just around the corner and teams demand rapid delivery, as well as more power and reliability.
"We’ve trialled other software programs that claim to do the same and we still think our Delcam systems improve our overall productivity in excess of 20% – which is a huge gain,” stated Mr. Noonan.
NRE supplies engineered race products to a number of motorsport sectors – drag racing, circuit racing, speedway, boat racing and rallying. As with any supplier to this industry, they are continually pushing the boundaries to deliver more power without sacrificing reliability.
The company has received approval from the National Hot Rod Association – the premier US governing body for championship drag racing in North America – for competitors to use the NRE X1 aluminium Billet Hemi Top Alcohol cylinder head, based on a big-block Chrysler engine in the ‘Blown Alcohol’ classes. NRE is the only overseas supplier to receive this stamp of approval from the NHRA.
In Australia, NRE has supplied engines and engineering expertise to many V8 Supercar teams, perhaps the most well known are Brad Jones Racing and Paul Morris Motorsports. The company’s facilities contain all the equipment needed to design, manufacture and test the race products they develop, including state-of-the-art, five-axis machines.
"The ability to work with simple 2D toolpaths all the way through to very complex five-axis surface machining, while maintaining simple-to-use forms, is of great benefit,” added Andrew Collins, joint business partner and head of the machining area at NRE. "In a lot of cases, suppliers of CAD packages don’t complement the CAM package. With PowerMILL and PowerSHAPE, Delcam’s design software, you are getting two genuine heavy hitters in their own right, which are really made for each other.”
Mr. Collins and Mr. Noonan agreed that any product is only as good as the support behind it.
"It was obvious from the outset that our local agent, Camplex, was very passionate about the software,” said Mr. Noonan. "For me, it made the whole relationship click, from training through to ongoing problem solving and support. Knowing that the support is in place when we need it is worth its weight in gold.”
Programming its five-axis machining centres with Delcam’s PowerMILL CAM software has taken Noonan Race Engineering (NRE) in Queensland to the forefront of race-car engineering in Australia and overseas. Without the software and its broad range of machining strategies, it would be so much more difficult for NRE to produce the sort of race-specification engines and specialised components that the company is becoming famous for developing.
PowerMILL enables NRE to translate its outstanding designs into products that can be marketed and sold worldwide. "To NRE, CNC machining is not just a form of engineering, it is pure art,” said Jamie Noonan, one of the founding partners at the company. "Our customers look at our products and are amazed at how the toolpaths flow and add character to the product.”
That’s no accident as the company uses the inbuilt versatility of the Delcam software to ‘tweak’ things and add extra dimensions to their machining. "With PowerMILL, we have the ability to control the toolpaths to a very high degree, creating not only a proven performance product but also a stunning world-class finished result,” added Mr. Noonan. "The porting strategies have also enabled us to bring another key area of our products in-house.”
PowerMILL undertakes an automatic division of the port machining process between areas that can be reached using three-axis techniques, and those that require positional or continuous five-axis operation. With most machine tools, using three-axis or positional five-axis cutting offers greater rigidity and so allows more accurate machining, at higher speeds, with less vibration of the cutter. However, most engine ports require continuous five-axis machining for part of their manufacture.
PowerMILL automatically optimises the overall machining sequence so that as much material as possible is removed with three-axis and positional five-axis operation, and that continuous five-axis machining is only used where necessary. This reduces the overall machining time, while maintaining the required level of surface finish.
The sequence uses a spiral motion for the roughing cuts but gives the operator a choice between using a spiral or a plunging approach for the finish machining. Using a spiral approach produces cusps across the flow of gas and so increases turbulence, while using the plunging technique gives cusps parallel to the flow direction and speeds the passage of the gas mixture through the port.
PowerMILL also divides the CAD model automatically to create the surfaces that will be machined from either end of the port. The user can specify the length of the overlap between the two sets of toolpaths to ensure a smooth transition between the two areas.
Such detailed control is not possible in many other programs, especially for five-axis machining, or may be very time consuming. Time is a luxury when developing race engines and associated products. There’s always another race just around the corner and teams demand rapid delivery, as well as more power and reliability.
"We’ve trialled other software programs that claim to do the same and we still think our Delcam systems improve our overall productivity in excess of 20% – which is a huge gain,” stated Mr. Noonan.
NRE supplies engineered race products to a number of motorsport sectors – drag racing, circuit racing, speedway, boat racing and rallying. As with any supplier to this industry, they are continually pushing the boundaries to deliver more power without sacrificing reliability.
The company has received approval from the National Hot Rod Association – the premier US governing body for championship drag racing in North America – for competitors to use the NRE X1 aluminium Billet Hemi Top Alcohol cylinder head, based on a big-block Chrysler engine in the ‘Blown Alcohol’ classes. NRE is the only overseas supplier to receive this stamp of approval from the NHRA.
In Australia, NRE has supplied engines and engineering expertise to many V8 Supercar teams, perhaps the most well known are Brad Jones Racing and Paul Morris Motorsports. The company’s facilities contain all the equipment needed to design, manufacture and test the race products they develop, including state-of-the-art, five-axis machines.
"The ability to work with simple 2D toolpaths all the way through to very complex five-axis surface machining, while maintaining simple-to-use forms, is of great benefit,” added Andrew Collins, joint business partner and head of the machining area at NRE. "In a lot of cases, suppliers of CAD packages don’t complement the CAM package. With PowerMILL and PowerSHAPE, Delcam’s design software, you are getting two genuine heavy hitters in their own right, which are really made for each other.”
Mr. Collins and Mr. Noonan agreed that any product is only as good as the support behind it.
"It was obvious from the outset that our local agent, Camplex, was very passionate about the software,” said Mr. Noonan. "For me, it made the whole relationship click, from training through to ongoing problem solving and support. Knowing that the support is in place when we need it is worth its weight in gold.”
Filed under:
Delcam
ZWSOFT Announces Product Release of ZW3D 2011
GUANGZHOU, China - ZWSOFT, a supplier of 2D and 3D CAD/CAM solutions to the AEC and MCAD industries, announced the release of ZW3D 2011, an all-in-one, affordable CAD/CAM software, which takes engineers from concept to finished product in an integrated, collaborative environment. ZW3D 2011 is available in six languages including Chinese Traditional, Czech, English, German, Japanese, and Polish, while French, Italian, Portuguese, Spanish, and Turkish versions are coming soon.
ZW3D 2011 is easier, smarter, and faster than previous versions. Users are invited to download ZW3D 2011 from http://zw3d.zwcad.org/download_form.php?id=107, to experience the latest productivity enhancing features developed by ZWSOFT.
This latest release of the award winning ZW3D 2011 offers users the following highlighted features:
SmoothFlowTM Direct Edit
SmoothFlow combines the speed and flexibility of direct modeling with the precise control of dimension-driven designs, while simultaneously supporting the functionality of history-based modeling, making ZW3D one of the most advanced CAD systems available.
Integrated PartSolutionsTM Library
Over a million parts from leading suppliers to international standards such as ANSI, ISO and DIN are included, simplifying the creation of fully featured models and assemblies.
Core & Cavity Calculation in One Step
Create a core and cavity in one simple step. Combined with the new multiple electrode extraction tools, mold design has never been easier.
Automatic 3D Feature Machining
Automatic 3D Feature Machining analyses the topology of the model and applies the most appropriate tool paths. Holes and sculptured surfaces are all automatically machined, typically reducing programming times by 50% and machining times by 30%.
ZW3D 2011 is easier, smarter, and faster than previous versions. Users are invited to download ZW3D 2011 from http://zw3d.zwcad.org/download_form.php?id=107, to experience the latest productivity enhancing features developed by ZWSOFT.
This latest release of the award winning ZW3D 2011 offers users the following highlighted features:
SmoothFlowTM Direct Edit
SmoothFlow combines the speed and flexibility of direct modeling with the precise control of dimension-driven designs, while simultaneously supporting the functionality of history-based modeling, making ZW3D one of the most advanced CAD systems available.
Integrated PartSolutionsTM Library
Over a million parts from leading suppliers to international standards such as ANSI, ISO and DIN are included, simplifying the creation of fully featured models and assemblies.
Core & Cavity Calculation in One Step
Create a core and cavity in one simple step. Combined with the new multiple electrode extraction tools, mold design has never been easier.
Automatic 3D Feature Machining
Automatic 3D Feature Machining analyses the topology of the model and applies the most appropriate tool paths. Holes and sculptured surfaces are all automatically machined, typically reducing programming times by 50% and machining times by 30%.
Filed under:
ZWCAD
Bluebeam Software Wins AIA Expo Best in Show Booth Award
BLUEBEAM SOFTWARE Architects and designers voted Bluebeam Software's booth as Best in Show at the 2011 AIA National Convention and Expo.
PASADENA, Calif - Bluebeam Software, the maker of innovative PDF solutions for paperless workflows, today announced its selection as Best in Show winner of the AIA Expo 2011 Best Booth Awards for the creative display and demo of its digital platform, Bluebeam PDF Revu®.
The American Institute of Architects 2011 National Convention and Design Exposition, held May 12-14 in New Orleans, featured 800 exhibitors demonstrating the latest innovations that help architects work smarter. The Expo named 5 finalists for its Best Booth Awards, narrowed down from 45 entrants. Bluebeam was awarded top honors.
Bluebeam won Best in Show based on the creativity and clarity of its exhibit presentation, its sustainability and forward thinking, unique product presentation, and the positive interaction of its staff with booth visitors, which included a "secret panel" of architects who served as judges.
"The Best Booth Awards judges are among the country's leading architects and designers. To have them recognize Bluebeam for our exhibit design is a huge honor," said Stephani Haynes, Director of Worldwide Marketing for Bluebeam. "We strive to demonstrate, in a friendly and helpful way, how our software can help solve workflow problems. Knowing that our design as well as our approach were so well received from the judges is very exciting."
Bluebeam PDF Revu gives architects a powerful, sustainable way to communicate with project teams digitally and paperlessly, significantly reducing unnecessary paper and ink usage and costs while increasing collaboration. The company demonstrated this at the AIA Expo in a 20x30 booth modeled after the "Station 32" command center of the superhero of its software, Mighty Bluebeam, who uses Revu to digitize project workflows to bits and bytes.
Inside the booth, Bluebeam had four main demo stations and other displays that illustrated the many possibilities for its digital PDF solution. The cutting edge exhibit included Wacom pen input monitors, Motion Tablet PC's, and interactive SMARTBoards, demonstrating some of the ways Revu can digitize project workflows on the road, at job sites and in the office.
PASADENA, Calif - Bluebeam Software, the maker of innovative PDF solutions for paperless workflows, today announced its selection as Best in Show winner of the AIA Expo 2011 Best Booth Awards for the creative display and demo of its digital platform, Bluebeam PDF Revu®.
The American Institute of Architects 2011 National Convention and Design Exposition, held May 12-14 in New Orleans, featured 800 exhibitors demonstrating the latest innovations that help architects work smarter. The Expo named 5 finalists for its Best Booth Awards, narrowed down from 45 entrants. Bluebeam was awarded top honors.
Bluebeam won Best in Show based on the creativity and clarity of its exhibit presentation, its sustainability and forward thinking, unique product presentation, and the positive interaction of its staff with booth visitors, which included a "secret panel" of architects who served as judges.
"The Best Booth Awards judges are among the country's leading architects and designers. To have them recognize Bluebeam for our exhibit design is a huge honor," said Stephani Haynes, Director of Worldwide Marketing for Bluebeam. "We strive to demonstrate, in a friendly and helpful way, how our software can help solve workflow problems. Knowing that our design as well as our approach were so well received from the judges is very exciting."
Bluebeam PDF Revu gives architects a powerful, sustainable way to communicate with project teams digitally and paperlessly, significantly reducing unnecessary paper and ink usage and costs while increasing collaboration. The company demonstrated this at the AIA Expo in a 20x30 booth modeled after the "Station 32" command center of the superhero of its software, Mighty Bluebeam, who uses Revu to digitize project workflows to bits and bytes.
Inside the booth, Bluebeam had four main demo stations and other displays that illustrated the many possibilities for its digital PDF solution. The cutting edge exhibit included Wacom pen input monitors, Motion Tablet PC's, and interactive SMARTBoards, demonstrating some of the ways Revu can digitize project workflows on the road, at job sites and in the office.
Filed under:
Bluebeam
Prasenjit Dari to represent India in "Jewellery Skills" at the 41st World Skills Competition
Mumbai - The Gem Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC) announced the final representative from India to the 41st World Skills International, 2011 scheduled from October 5th to 8th, 2011 at London.
The skills included Setting, Refining, Cutting, Sawing, Filing, Drilling, Milling, Scrapping, Forming Wires, Soldering, Wire Drawing, Embossing, Polishing & Designing or any skill equivalent and related to jewellery making.
At an event organized by GJEPC in association with the National Skills Development Corporation (NSDC) at the Indian Institute of Gems & Jewellery Campus, Andheri, Mumbai, Farah Ali Khan, one of India's leading and prominent Jewellery Designer graced the occasion as the Chief Guest and conferred the finalist with this award. GJEPC in association with NSDC conducted training programmes and rigorous selection process for the National Team for 'Jewellery' skills.
Speaking at the Occasion, Mr. Sanjay Kothari, Vice Chairman, GJEPC said, "GJEPC takes the onus to prepare and train the candidate strenuously over next few months to represent India at this global platform. We are confident that the winner will do India and the industry proud and bring accolades home. India is a predominant leader in diamonds, jewellery is our heritage, tradition and jewellery making is our legacy. India has in borne talent when it comes to jewellery making and we craft masterpieces around the globe" India is an established centre for diamond, Gems & Jewellery globally, it's time to take the Nation and the industry to the next level and strive towards being recognised as a "Design Centre" in Jewellery making the world over", continued Mr. Kothari.
Prasenjit Dari was announced the winner among 14 of India's top talents who participated at the competition followed by Ruchika Navale as the runner up. Over the past 2 days, a jury consisting of Shimul Vyas from NID, Mahesh Rao, Ashok Minnawala, Pankaj Parekh, Venugopal, Parag Vyas & Col Kharbanda, who are undoubtedly the best voices in the industry deliberated over the results & announced this young talent from Kolkata as the rightful representative for India.
India has been invited for the first time to participate by the Amsterdam-based not-for-profit organization and over 150,000 visitors are expected to attend. Plans are progressing to make this the best World Skills Competition globally.WSI is the largest vocational skills competition globally. It takes place in a different country every two years and brings together over 1,000 young people, up to 22 years of age, from across the world to compete in a variety of skills ranging from welding to web designing.
The skills included Setting, Refining, Cutting, Sawing, Filing, Drilling, Milling, Scrapping, Forming Wires, Soldering, Wire Drawing, Embossing, Polishing & Designing or any skill equivalent and related to jewellery making.
At an event organized by GJEPC in association with the National Skills Development Corporation (NSDC) at the Indian Institute of Gems & Jewellery Campus, Andheri, Mumbai, Farah Ali Khan, one of India's leading and prominent Jewellery Designer graced the occasion as the Chief Guest and conferred the finalist with this award. GJEPC in association with NSDC conducted training programmes and rigorous selection process for the National Team for 'Jewellery' skills.
Speaking at the Occasion, Mr. Sanjay Kothari, Vice Chairman, GJEPC said, "GJEPC takes the onus to prepare and train the candidate strenuously over next few months to represent India at this global platform. We are confident that the winner will do India and the industry proud and bring accolades home. India is a predominant leader in diamonds, jewellery is our heritage, tradition and jewellery making is our legacy. India has in borne talent when it comes to jewellery making and we craft masterpieces around the globe" India is an established centre for diamond, Gems & Jewellery globally, it's time to take the Nation and the industry to the next level and strive towards being recognised as a "Design Centre" in Jewellery making the world over", continued Mr. Kothari.
Prasenjit Dari was announced the winner among 14 of India's top talents who participated at the competition followed by Ruchika Navale as the runner up. Over the past 2 days, a jury consisting of Shimul Vyas from NID, Mahesh Rao, Ashok Minnawala, Pankaj Parekh, Venugopal, Parag Vyas & Col Kharbanda, who are undoubtedly the best voices in the industry deliberated over the results & announced this young talent from Kolkata as the rightful representative for India.
India has been invited for the first time to participate by the Amsterdam-based not-for-profit organization and over 150,000 visitors are expected to attend. Plans are progressing to make this the best World Skills Competition globally.WSI is the largest vocational skills competition globally. It takes place in a different country every two years and brings together over 1,000 young people, up to 22 years of age, from across the world to compete in a variety of skills ranging from welding to web designing.
Filed under:
Contest
3D Systems Commences Trading On New York Stock Exchange
Unveils New Corporate Identity And Ticker Symbol "DDD"
3D Systems Corporation (NYSE: DDD) announced today that it is commencing trading on the New York Stock Exchange this morning under the new ticker symbol “DDD” and is revealing its new corporate identity.
3D Systems invented the first 3D printing technology 25 years ago, changing the way people develop their products across marketplaces from transportation and recreation to healthcare and consumer goods. Through continued innovation, the company is developing a comprehensive menu of compelling 3D printers and services. 3D Systems’ content-to-print solutions are transforming entire industries as users are transitioning its powerful tools from new product design and rapid prototyping to rapid manufacturing of end use parts and custom products.
“Similar to the way that social media, mobile apps and the internet changed how we communicate, publish, shop, travel, and search; affordable 3D content-to-print solutions could transform the way we design, communicate, game, market and manufacture,” said Abe Reichental, President and CEO of 3D Systems. “Our new corporate identity reflects our passion and purpose; empowering professionals and consumers to create and make in 3D.”
3D Systems Corporation (NYSE: DDD) announced today that it is commencing trading on the New York Stock Exchange this morning under the new ticker symbol “DDD” and is revealing its new corporate identity.
3D Systems invented the first 3D printing technology 25 years ago, changing the way people develop their products across marketplaces from transportation and recreation to healthcare and consumer goods. Through continued innovation, the company is developing a comprehensive menu of compelling 3D printers and services. 3D Systems’ content-to-print solutions are transforming entire industries as users are transitioning its powerful tools from new product design and rapid prototyping to rapid manufacturing of end use parts and custom products.
“Similar to the way that social media, mobile apps and the internet changed how we communicate, publish, shop, travel, and search; affordable 3D content-to-print solutions could transform the way we design, communicate, game, market and manufacture,” said Abe Reichental, President and CEO of 3D Systems. “Our new corporate identity reflects our passion and purpose; empowering professionals and consumers to create and make in 3D.”
Filed under:
3D Systems
think3 Inc. Files for Chapter 11 Bankruptcy Protection
AUSTIN, Texas - think3 Inc., based in Austin, Texas, announced that it filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in the Western District of Texas, Austin Division, on May 18.
“We determined that this was the best course of action to preserve value for think3,” said Becky Roof, think3’s Chief Restructuring Officer. “Certain actions taken by the Italian trustee appointed for insolvency proceedings of think3’s Italian registered branch and subsidiary have caused disruptions in think3’s business and resulted in a lawsuit being filed against think3 by Versata FZ-LLC. We hope to have speedy and productive discussions among all parties to quickly resolve these issues. In the meantime, Versata has advised think3 that Versata intends to continue to service, support, and further develop the think3 products that Versata acquired.”
During hearings held on May 23, think3 received interim approval for secured post-petition financing and authority to employ AP Services LLC as crisis managers and Rebecca A. Roof as President, Secretary, and Chief Restructuring Officer.
think3 Inc. is engaged in the business of computer software creation, licensing, sales and support. Its products include Computer Aided Design (“CAD”) and Product Lifecycle Management (“PLM”). think3, Inc. develops and sells the think3 products exclusively for the China market. The think3 product portfolio – which includes ThinkDesign, ThinkPLM, and ThinkDesign PLM – are developed and sold in the US, Europe, and other markets in Asia by Versata.
“We determined that this was the best course of action to preserve value for think3,” said Becky Roof, think3’s Chief Restructuring Officer. “Certain actions taken by the Italian trustee appointed for insolvency proceedings of think3’s Italian registered branch and subsidiary have caused disruptions in think3’s business and resulted in a lawsuit being filed against think3 by Versata FZ-LLC. We hope to have speedy and productive discussions among all parties to quickly resolve these issues. In the meantime, Versata has advised think3 that Versata intends to continue to service, support, and further develop the think3 products that Versata acquired.”
During hearings held on May 23, think3 received interim approval for secured post-petition financing and authority to employ AP Services LLC as crisis managers and Rebecca A. Roof as President, Secretary, and Chief Restructuring Officer.
think3 Inc. is engaged in the business of computer software creation, licensing, sales and support. Its products include Computer Aided Design (“CAD”) and Product Lifecycle Management (“PLM”). think3, Inc. develops and sells the think3 products exclusively for the China market. The think3 product portfolio – which includes ThinkDesign, ThinkPLM, and ThinkDesign PLM – are developed and sold in the US, Europe, and other markets in Asia by Versata.
Filed under:
Financials,
think3
May 25, 2011
Nordex Selects VISTAGY's FiberSIM® Software to Develop Composite Wind Turbine Blades
Leading wind energy firm uses FiberSIM to enhance transfer of data between design and analysis as well as to expedite engineering change orders.
VISTAGY, Inc today announced that Nordex, one of the world’s premier manufacturers of high-efficiency wind turbines for onshore use, has purchased FiberSIM® software to streamline its entire design-to-manufacturing process for composite wind turbine blades. Nordex is using FiberSIM to develop detailed ply designs, accurate flat patterns and manufacturing output, and complete documentation for the engineering release.
FiberSIM will enable Nordex to enhance the automation of its product development process and optimize assembly glue gaps. Nordex also notes that FiberSIM is a “powerful tool” for composite design and manufacturing when used within its Creo Elements/Pro (previously Pro/ENGINEER) CAD system. FiberSIM is fully integrated into the PTC Creo Elements/Pro, Dassault Systèmes CATIA, and Siemens NX CAD systems.
“Transferring data between design and analysis can be extremely time-consuming,” said Hendrik Klein, chief designer in the Nordex Rotor Blade Division. “But during the testing phase we recognized that if we had a design tool that had a seamless interface to our CAE analysis tools, it would enable us to significantly reduce the product development cycle.
“FiberSIM also enhances the automation of our development processes, helps us improve blade quality, and alleviates time-consuming reworks in the factory.”
“We’re very pleased that Nordex, one of the premier names in wind energy, has recognized the value of FiberSIM,” said Dr. Olivier Guillermin, director of product & market strategy for VISTAGY. “As the wind industry moves toward bigger and more complex blade designs, we’re seeing a maturation of the wind blade engineering process worldwide, and VISTAGY’s products and services are playing a key role in that development.”
As a technological leader among suppliers of megawatt turbines, Nordex benefits particularly from the global trend towards large-scale wind turbines. The product range includes one of the largest series of wind power systems in the world (N80/N90/N100, 2,500 kW) with more than 1,500 of these turbines having been produced to date. This means that Nordex has a crucial edge in terms of experience in operating large turbines compared to most of its competitors in the sector. Overall, Nordex has installed more than 4,400 turbines with a capacity in excess of 6,600 MW around the world. With exports accounting for over 95 percent of its business, Nordex also has a strong position in international high-growth regions. The company has offices and subsidiaries in 19 countries. In total, the Group employs more than 2,500 people worldwide.
VISTAGY, Inc today announced that Nordex, one of the world’s premier manufacturers of high-efficiency wind turbines for onshore use, has purchased FiberSIM® software to streamline its entire design-to-manufacturing process for composite wind turbine blades. Nordex is using FiberSIM to develop detailed ply designs, accurate flat patterns and manufacturing output, and complete documentation for the engineering release.
FiberSIM will enable Nordex to enhance the automation of its product development process and optimize assembly glue gaps. Nordex also notes that FiberSIM is a “powerful tool” for composite design and manufacturing when used within its Creo Elements/Pro (previously Pro/ENGINEER) CAD system. FiberSIM is fully integrated into the PTC Creo Elements/Pro, Dassault Systèmes CATIA, and Siemens NX CAD systems.
“Transferring data between design and analysis can be extremely time-consuming,” said Hendrik Klein, chief designer in the Nordex Rotor Blade Division. “But during the testing phase we recognized that if we had a design tool that had a seamless interface to our CAE analysis tools, it would enable us to significantly reduce the product development cycle.
“FiberSIM also enhances the automation of our development processes, helps us improve blade quality, and alleviates time-consuming reworks in the factory.”
“We’re very pleased that Nordex, one of the premier names in wind energy, has recognized the value of FiberSIM,” said Dr. Olivier Guillermin, director of product & market strategy for VISTAGY. “As the wind industry moves toward bigger and more complex blade designs, we’re seeing a maturation of the wind blade engineering process worldwide, and VISTAGY’s products and services are playing a key role in that development.”
As a technological leader among suppliers of megawatt turbines, Nordex benefits particularly from the global trend towards large-scale wind turbines. The product range includes one of the largest series of wind power systems in the world (N80/N90/N100, 2,500 kW) with more than 1,500 of these turbines having been produced to date. This means that Nordex has a crucial edge in terms of experience in operating large turbines compared to most of its competitors in the sector. Overall, Nordex has installed more than 4,400 turbines with a capacity in excess of 6,600 MW around the world. With exports accounting for over 95 percent of its business, Nordex also has a strong position in international high-growth regions. The company has offices and subsidiaries in 19 countries. In total, the Group employs more than 2,500 people worldwide.
Filed under:
VISTAGY
Concepts NREC Advancing Clean and Efficient Turbine Technology at ASME Turbo Expo
Concepts NREC, a world leader in turbomachinery-focused design and development, CAE/CAM software and manufacturing services, will have significant presence at the ASME 2011 Turbine Technical Conference and Exposition (ASME 2011 Turbo Expo) June 6-10 at the Vancouver Convention & Exhibition Centre in Vancouver, B.C. The theme for the show is Advancing Clean and Efficient Turbine Technology, and Concepts NREC will exemplify this theme with two technology sessions as well as a next-generation turbomachinery design system demonstration for engineers, designers, and manufacturers.
“Making turbomachinery more efficient and reliable is the most effective and least controversial way we can address our society’s energy and environmental needs,” says Mark Anderson, Vice President of Software Development for Concepts NREC, who will demonstrate the company’s turbomachinery design system. “With 50-plus years of pioneering expertise, Concepts NREC understands the realities of making turbomachinery more efficient and can optimize designs for enhanced performance with competitive life cycle cost.”
Advancing turbomachinery technology through innovative design concepts and effective computer aided design tools is crucial to solving our world’s energy problems. For example, optimization plays an important role as every one percent (1%) gain in efficiency can account for noticeable gains in fuel conservation. In order to successfully orchestrate current and future developments in clean and efficient turbomachinery systems, engineers and technologists must know what solution options and design tools are available to them. At ASME 2011 Turbo Expo, Concepts NREC will exhibit its leading-edge Agile Engineering Design System®, including such turbomachinery tools as Pushbutton CFD® for easy three-dimensional flow analysis, TurboOpt II™ for design optimization, and TurboMatch™ for initial turbocharger sizing.
Additionally, Concepts NREC will showcase its TurboGreen™ Energy program of world-class innovative services, including engineering design of turbomachinery systems and components such as: efficient and wide-flow range turbochargers, high-performance and low-cost energy recovery turbines, reliable pumping machinery, and turbomachinery for sustainable energy solutions. These design services and advanced technology developments continue to successfully propel novel energy systems programs sponsored by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) and a diversity of product development projects for clients working with biogas, biomass, geothermal, hydro, nuclear, solar, tidal, wave and wind power generation technologies.
“Because Concepts NREC recognizes the need for educational advancement, its energy experts help industry professionals cross the educational and technological chasm and push limits to achieve maximum efficiencies,” adds Anderson.
Concepts NREC provides technical courses and webinars throughout the year, and three of its representatives will participate in ASME 2011 Turbo Expo programs – two as program chairs and one presenting an original program developed by Concepts NREC. The programs are:
Tuesday, June 7, 10:15 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. in COMM 33 –Turbomachinery: Radial Turbomachinery; 33-5 Turbocharger Compressors II with Dr. Colin Osborne, session organizer and Chief Engineer for Concepts NREC. This session will address developments in component aerodynamic design aspects for centrifugal compressors as well as installation effects for turbocharger compressors.
Wednesday, June 8, 2:30 to 5:00 p.m. in COMM 18 – Microturbines & Small Turbomachinery; 18-8 Turbochargers: Design & Optimization II with Dr. Louis Larosiliere, session co-chair and Director, Aero/Hydro Engineering for Concepts NREC. This session will cover developments in turbocharger optimization with emphasis on improved energy recovery turbines.
Thursday, June 9, 12:30 p.m. on the Exhibitor’s Stage in the Exposition Hall – Concepts NREC’s “Next Generation Turbomachinery Design Systems” with Mark Anderson, Vice President of Software Development for Concepts NREC. Anderson will discuss the crucial role Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) plays and where software capabilities are heading to advance energy solutions.
“Making turbomachinery more efficient and reliable is the most effective and least controversial way we can address our society’s energy and environmental needs,” says Mark Anderson, Vice President of Software Development for Concepts NREC, who will demonstrate the company’s turbomachinery design system. “With 50-plus years of pioneering expertise, Concepts NREC understands the realities of making turbomachinery more efficient and can optimize designs for enhanced performance with competitive life cycle cost.”
Advancing turbomachinery technology through innovative design concepts and effective computer aided design tools is crucial to solving our world’s energy problems. For example, optimization plays an important role as every one percent (1%) gain in efficiency can account for noticeable gains in fuel conservation. In order to successfully orchestrate current and future developments in clean and efficient turbomachinery systems, engineers and technologists must know what solution options and design tools are available to them. At ASME 2011 Turbo Expo, Concepts NREC will exhibit its leading-edge Agile Engineering Design System®, including such turbomachinery tools as Pushbutton CFD® for easy three-dimensional flow analysis, TurboOpt II™ for design optimization, and TurboMatch™ for initial turbocharger sizing.
Additionally, Concepts NREC will showcase its TurboGreen™ Energy program of world-class innovative services, including engineering design of turbomachinery systems and components such as: efficient and wide-flow range turbochargers, high-performance and low-cost energy recovery turbines, reliable pumping machinery, and turbomachinery for sustainable energy solutions. These design services and advanced technology developments continue to successfully propel novel energy systems programs sponsored by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) and a diversity of product development projects for clients working with biogas, biomass, geothermal, hydro, nuclear, solar, tidal, wave and wind power generation technologies.
“Because Concepts NREC recognizes the need for educational advancement, its energy experts help industry professionals cross the educational and technological chasm and push limits to achieve maximum efficiencies,” adds Anderson.
Concepts NREC provides technical courses and webinars throughout the year, and three of its representatives will participate in ASME 2011 Turbo Expo programs – two as program chairs and one presenting an original program developed by Concepts NREC. The programs are:
Tuesday, June 7, 10:15 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. in COMM 33 –Turbomachinery: Radial Turbomachinery; 33-5 Turbocharger Compressors II with Dr. Colin Osborne, session organizer and Chief Engineer for Concepts NREC. This session will address developments in component aerodynamic design aspects for centrifugal compressors as well as installation effects for turbocharger compressors.
Wednesday, June 8, 2:30 to 5:00 p.m. in COMM 18 – Microturbines & Small Turbomachinery; 18-8 Turbochargers: Design & Optimization II with Dr. Louis Larosiliere, session co-chair and Director, Aero/Hydro Engineering for Concepts NREC. This session will cover developments in turbocharger optimization with emphasis on improved energy recovery turbines.
Thursday, June 9, 12:30 p.m. on the Exhibitor’s Stage in the Exposition Hall – Concepts NREC’s “Next Generation Turbomachinery Design Systems” with Mark Anderson, Vice President of Software Development for Concepts NREC. Anderson will discuss the crucial role Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) plays and where software capabilities are heading to advance energy solutions.
CIMdata Acquires Collaborative Product Development Associates, LLC
CIMdata augments its management consulting capabilities by strengthening and expanding its research agenda, expertise, and market presence.
CIMdata, Inc has announced the acquisition of Collaborative Product Development Associates, LLC (CPDA), a well-known, leading provider of critical analyses of PLM activities. For nearly twenty-five years CPDA, and its predecessor D.H. Brown Associates, Inc., has been instrumental in providing organizations with in-depth, objective information for assessing technology, business goals, and implementation roadmaps to support engineering and manufacturing. The synergistic combination of these companies represents the merger of two extremely knowledgeable organizations—CIMdata’s broad strategic PLM management consulting and CPDA’s deep expertise in emerging PLM domains complement one another exceptionally well.
According to Peter A. Bilello, CIMdata’s President, “Key CPDA employees and events (e.g., the PLM Road Map conference and research Councils) will become an integral part of the merged organization’s offerings. In addition, all CPDA clients will have access to CIMdata’s full range of knowledge, expertise, and best-in-class PLM management consulting and educational services.”
Since the inception of PLM and software-based PLM solutions (e.g., product data management, computer-aided design, simulation & analysis, etc.) that enable this strategic business approach, the expansion in the depth and breadth of the market has been dramatic. To support this continuous expansion and serve their customers’ changing needs, firms like CIMdata and CPDA have consistently demonstrated their capacity to evolve and adapt with innovative services to PLM solution suppliers and deep expertise to industrial users of PLM. The acquisition of CPDA represents a merger of two strong organizations who have both played key roles in defining and developing the PLM industry. Both organizations have been able to prosper because of their thought leadership and their ability to strategically evolve their offerings as well as their market positioning.
“2011 marks CIMdata’s twenty-ninth year in operation, and this acquisition marks the next evolutionary step in CIMdata’s long and successful history of delivering PLM-focused management consulting and research services,” according to Mr. Bilello. He went on to state, “CPDA’s history is equally rich and impressive, dating back to D.H. Brown Associates. The CPDA team represents some of the most knowledgeable experts in the PLM industry today. They provide a wealth of intelligence and expertise that is deep and practical as well as forward looking and thought provoking. CPDA’s knowledge base, clients, industry leading PLM Road Map conference, and research activities dovetail with CIMdata’s broad PLM perspective, and will significantly augment CIMdata’s management consulting services and market intelligence research offerings. We are delighted and excited with the opportunities that lie ahead for CIMdata.”
Commenting on the acquisition, Donald H. Brown, formerly Chairman of CPDA, who joins CIMdata as an Executive Consultant, stated, “I am excited to be joining forces with such an outstanding team. CPDA and CIMdata have both been leaders in the PLM industry, and through our combined organizations we blend our strengths to better serve an evolving industry. This creates an excellent opportunity for us to continue providing valuable consulting services, thought leadership, and research to the industry for years to come.” Key CPDA employees have joined CIMdata and will support current and new research programs as well as all existing CIMdata and CPDA methodologies and services.
According to Alan Christman, CIMdata’s Chairman, “This acquisition brings together two exceptionally influential PLM management consulting and research firms. As CIMdata enters its third decade of delivering globally recognized services, the merged organization is well suited to continue to deliver unsurpassed client support. We are very excited about the additional potential the combined organizations bring to our industrial and PLM solution supplier clients. There is no doubt that CIMdata will continue to evolve and thrive as the PLM industry changes.”
The company continues to be managed by CIMdata’s current board of Directors from its headquarters in Ann Arbor, Michigan, with subsidiaries and consulting resources spread around the world.
CIMdata, Inc has announced the acquisition of Collaborative Product Development Associates, LLC (CPDA), a well-known, leading provider of critical analyses of PLM activities. For nearly twenty-five years CPDA, and its predecessor D.H. Brown Associates, Inc., has been instrumental in providing organizations with in-depth, objective information for assessing technology, business goals, and implementation roadmaps to support engineering and manufacturing. The synergistic combination of these companies represents the merger of two extremely knowledgeable organizations—CIMdata’s broad strategic PLM management consulting and CPDA’s deep expertise in emerging PLM domains complement one another exceptionally well.
According to Peter A. Bilello, CIMdata’s President, “Key CPDA employees and events (e.g., the PLM Road Map conference and research Councils) will become an integral part of the merged organization’s offerings. In addition, all CPDA clients will have access to CIMdata’s full range of knowledge, expertise, and best-in-class PLM management consulting and educational services.”
Since the inception of PLM and software-based PLM solutions (e.g., product data management, computer-aided design, simulation & analysis, etc.) that enable this strategic business approach, the expansion in the depth and breadth of the market has been dramatic. To support this continuous expansion and serve their customers’ changing needs, firms like CIMdata and CPDA have consistently demonstrated their capacity to evolve and adapt with innovative services to PLM solution suppliers and deep expertise to industrial users of PLM. The acquisition of CPDA represents a merger of two strong organizations who have both played key roles in defining and developing the PLM industry. Both organizations have been able to prosper because of their thought leadership and their ability to strategically evolve their offerings as well as their market positioning.
“2011 marks CIMdata’s twenty-ninth year in operation, and this acquisition marks the next evolutionary step in CIMdata’s long and successful history of delivering PLM-focused management consulting and research services,” according to Mr. Bilello. He went on to state, “CPDA’s history is equally rich and impressive, dating back to D.H. Brown Associates. The CPDA team represents some of the most knowledgeable experts in the PLM industry today. They provide a wealth of intelligence and expertise that is deep and practical as well as forward looking and thought provoking. CPDA’s knowledge base, clients, industry leading PLM Road Map conference, and research activities dovetail with CIMdata’s broad PLM perspective, and will significantly augment CIMdata’s management consulting services and market intelligence research offerings. We are delighted and excited with the opportunities that lie ahead for CIMdata.”
Commenting on the acquisition, Donald H. Brown, formerly Chairman of CPDA, who joins CIMdata as an Executive Consultant, stated, “I am excited to be joining forces with such an outstanding team. CPDA and CIMdata have both been leaders in the PLM industry, and through our combined organizations we blend our strengths to better serve an evolving industry. This creates an excellent opportunity for us to continue providing valuable consulting services, thought leadership, and research to the industry for years to come.” Key CPDA employees have joined CIMdata and will support current and new research programs as well as all existing CIMdata and CPDA methodologies and services.
According to Alan Christman, CIMdata’s Chairman, “This acquisition brings together two exceptionally influential PLM management consulting and research firms. As CIMdata enters its third decade of delivering globally recognized services, the merged organization is well suited to continue to deliver unsurpassed client support. We are very excited about the additional potential the combined organizations bring to our industrial and PLM solution supplier clients. There is no doubt that CIMdata will continue to evolve and thrive as the PLM industry changes.”
The company continues to be managed by CIMdata’s current board of Directors from its headquarters in Ann Arbor, Michigan, with subsidiaries and consulting resources spread around the world.
Filed under:
CIMdata,
CPDA,
Mergers and Acquisitions
Wilfried Vancraen (CEO Materialise) Wins RTAM/SME Industry Achievement Award
Wilfried Vancraen was selected to receive this prestigious award by the RTAM/SME Industry Achievement Award Subcommittee in recognition of his exceptional contributions and accomplishments in the Rapid Technologies & Additive Manufacturing industry.
A pioneer in his industry, Wilfried (Fried) Vancraen has been developing breakthroughs in the medical and industrial applications of Additive Manufacturing (AM) at Materialise for more than 20 years. From the very beginning, Fried has concentrated on researching and developing solutions for the transfer of data to AM machines. Today, there is an entire range of market leading software solutions offered by Materialise for use in the industrial and medical applications of AM. Software developed at Materialise has allowed the company, and many others like it, get more out of the AM process and has pushed for the adoption of AM technologies in a growing range of fields.
Fried also pioneered several major applications in the AM sector including stereolithographic medical models, colored stereolithographic medical models, perforated support structures, RapidFit Fixtures, surgical guides for oral and orthopaedic surgeons, and automated hearing aid design. Furthermore, as he strongly values the growth of the industry as a whole, he has long offered solutions developed at Materialise to others for the benefit of the entire AM industry.
The award nomination, submitted by Colleen Wivell (Director of Materialise USA) focused on two initiatives Fried has recently undertaken: the launch of the i.materialise website and the creation of the Additive Manufacturing Branding Initiative (AMBI).
In 2010, Materialise launched a new consumer website called i.materialise, which allows consumers to express themselves by turning their ideas into 3D reality. The website empowers consumers to create designs that enrich their lives and enables them to share their sense of beauty with the people around them by adding unique touches to their environment. With this service, Materialise brings twenty years of experience with high-quality 3D printing within everyone's reach. The i.materialise effort is a revolutionary push towards a global understanding and love for 3D printing.
Also in 2010, Fried gave Additive Manufacturing another boost by uniting the industry leaders through the creation of the Additive Manufacturing Branding Initiative (AMBI). This initiative was introduced in May of last year, when Materialise hosted the first "CEO Summit" at the RAPID show. During this meeting, Fried inspired the CEO's of the major OEMs and material providers with his vision to unite the industry with the intension of growing the market rather than fighting for market share.
After EuroMold in December 2010, eleven companies committed to the effort (3D Systems Corporation, CONCEPT Laser GmbH, DSM, envisionTEC, EOS, Materialise, Objet, ReaLizer, Stratasys, voxeljet technology GmbH, and Z Corporation). Today, the members gathered again to hear a presentation by the true agency (formally thepubagency, Belgium) with ideas for a PR campaign to increase the awareness of Additive Manufacturing. In the next few weeks, the AMBI group will be voting on the plan for moving forward with this effort.
Fried is truly a pioneer and an influential leader whose visionary solutions play an integral role in the growth and profitability of the AM industry. He is dedicated to the Materialise mission to “innovate product development resulting in a better and healthier world through software and hardware infrastructure and in-depth knowledge of additive manufacturing.” It is this mission that has inspired the breakthroughs and innovations for which he is being recognized. It is exciting that he has won this award and has been acknowledged for his achievements.
A pioneer in his industry, Wilfried (Fried) Vancraen has been developing breakthroughs in the medical and industrial applications of Additive Manufacturing (AM) at Materialise for more than 20 years. From the very beginning, Fried has concentrated on researching and developing solutions for the transfer of data to AM machines. Today, there is an entire range of market leading software solutions offered by Materialise for use in the industrial and medical applications of AM. Software developed at Materialise has allowed the company, and many others like it, get more out of the AM process and has pushed for the adoption of AM technologies in a growing range of fields.
Fried also pioneered several major applications in the AM sector including stereolithographic medical models, colored stereolithographic medical models, perforated support structures, RapidFit Fixtures, surgical guides for oral and orthopaedic surgeons, and automated hearing aid design. Furthermore, as he strongly values the growth of the industry as a whole, he has long offered solutions developed at Materialise to others for the benefit of the entire AM industry.
The award nomination, submitted by Colleen Wivell (Director of Materialise USA) focused on two initiatives Fried has recently undertaken: the launch of the i.materialise website and the creation of the Additive Manufacturing Branding Initiative (AMBI).
In 2010, Materialise launched a new consumer website called i.materialise, which allows consumers to express themselves by turning their ideas into 3D reality. The website empowers consumers to create designs that enrich their lives and enables them to share their sense of beauty with the people around them by adding unique touches to their environment. With this service, Materialise brings twenty years of experience with high-quality 3D printing within everyone's reach. The i.materialise effort is a revolutionary push towards a global understanding and love for 3D printing.
Also in 2010, Fried gave Additive Manufacturing another boost by uniting the industry leaders through the creation of the Additive Manufacturing Branding Initiative (AMBI). This initiative was introduced in May of last year, when Materialise hosted the first "CEO Summit" at the RAPID show. During this meeting, Fried inspired the CEO's of the major OEMs and material providers with his vision to unite the industry with the intension of growing the market rather than fighting for market share.
After EuroMold in December 2010, eleven companies committed to the effort (3D Systems Corporation, CONCEPT Laser GmbH, DSM, envisionTEC, EOS, Materialise, Objet, ReaLizer, Stratasys, voxeljet technology GmbH, and Z Corporation). Today, the members gathered again to hear a presentation by the true agency (formally thepubagency, Belgium) with ideas for a PR campaign to increase the awareness of Additive Manufacturing. In the next few weeks, the AMBI group will be voting on the plan for moving forward with this effort.
Fried is truly a pioneer and an influential leader whose visionary solutions play an integral role in the growth and profitability of the AM industry. He is dedicated to the Materialise mission to “innovate product development resulting in a better and healthier world through software and hardware infrastructure and in-depth knowledge of additive manufacturing.” It is this mission that has inspired the breakthroughs and innovations for which he is being recognized. It is exciting that he has won this award and has been acknowledged for his achievements.
Filed under:
Award
SpaceClaim Continues to Aggressively Expand Reseller Channels Globally
More than 200% Sales Growth Reflects Demand for 3D Engineering Software that Drives Innovation, Eliminates Inefficiencies, and Opens New Market Opportunities.
SpaceClaim today announced the rapid expansion of global channels to resell SpaceClaim Engineer. Channel growth was across North America, China and Europe with many resellers choosing to move from the mature market of CAD software to the significant opportunity SpaceClaim addresses to enable engineering teams to rapidly develop and test new product concepts with a lower total cost-of-ownership.
SpaceClaim recently announced that in 2010 sales tripled and new customers increased 40% year-over-year. New resellers in 2011 expand SpaceClaim’s channel by over 45% and join top-tier OEMs that include TRUMPF, ANSYS, and Flow Corporation. Over 70% of SpaceClaim’s sales are now achieved through channels.
“AGS 3D offers cutting-edge 3D technology solutions with expertise in design, rapid prototyping and technology implementation,” said Richard Honey, CEO of AGS 3D. “SpaceClaim’s ease of use and flexibility arm our customers with engineering software that will save them time, reduce errors and enable them to be more innovative. SpaceClaim will help us expand our business and compete more effectively.”
New channel partners covering educational, manufacturing and machining markets include:
North America
AGS 3D
Anvil Prototype & Design
AlmaCam
Empire Technical Training Systems
Moss Enterprises
Paperless Parts
Peak Solutions
Red Rocks Product Development
Tricove Consulting
Europe
DT Software Co. Ltd.
XISIS
WDS
AES
China
PERA Global
“As SpaceClaim has moved from early adopters to major installations, we are focused on expanding our channels to ensure the broadest reach possible,” said Steve Costello, Vice President of Sales, Americas, SpaceClaim. “Enabling engineers to communicate in 3D prior to release to CAD drives better design decisions, shortens time-to-market and improves customer satisfaction. We look forward to working with channel partners to leverage new market opportunities.”
SpaceClaim today announced the rapid expansion of global channels to resell SpaceClaim Engineer. Channel growth was across North America, China and Europe with many resellers choosing to move from the mature market of CAD software to the significant opportunity SpaceClaim addresses to enable engineering teams to rapidly develop and test new product concepts with a lower total cost-of-ownership.
SpaceClaim recently announced that in 2010 sales tripled and new customers increased 40% year-over-year. New resellers in 2011 expand SpaceClaim’s channel by over 45% and join top-tier OEMs that include TRUMPF, ANSYS, and Flow Corporation. Over 70% of SpaceClaim’s sales are now achieved through channels.
“AGS 3D offers cutting-edge 3D technology solutions with expertise in design, rapid prototyping and technology implementation,” said Richard Honey, CEO of AGS 3D. “SpaceClaim’s ease of use and flexibility arm our customers with engineering software that will save them time, reduce errors and enable them to be more innovative. SpaceClaim will help us expand our business and compete more effectively.”
New channel partners covering educational, manufacturing and machining markets include:
North America
AGS 3D
Anvil Prototype & Design
AlmaCam
Empire Technical Training Systems
Moss Enterprises
Paperless Parts
Peak Solutions
Red Rocks Product Development
Tricove Consulting
Europe
DT Software Co. Ltd.
XISIS
WDS
AES
China
PERA Global
“As SpaceClaim has moved from early adopters to major installations, we are focused on expanding our channels to ensure the broadest reach possible,” said Steve Costello, Vice President of Sales, Americas, SpaceClaim. “Enabling engineers to communicate in 3D prior to release to CAD drives better design decisions, shortens time-to-market and improves customer satisfaction. We look forward to working with channel partners to leverage new market opportunities.”
Filed under:
SpaceClaim
AspenTech Enables Faster Decision-Making for Oil & Gas Assets in New Release of aspenONE® Software
Aspen Conceptual Design Builder Completes Models in Minutes, Reducing Risk When Developing Upstream Assets.
Aspen Technology today introduced Aspen Conceptual Design Builder (Aspen CDB) software that optimizes many aspects of upstream production facilities. A key component of Aspen HYSYS® Upstream in the latest release of aspenONE software, this innovative modelling tool enables rapid development and cost screening of new design alternatives to improve enterprise decision making for oil & gas assets.
“The upstream business operates in an incredibly challenging and highly capital intensive environment. Owner operators need to make sound judgments on design options for their asset investment decisions. Aspen Conceptual Design Builder gives customers a competitive advantage in this highly volatile market, allowing them to automate and accelerate vital business processes,” said Vikas Dhole, Vice President Engineering Product Management, AspenTech.
“Our study managers and engineers are always looking for innovative solutions to build on our capabilities in Conceptual and Front End Engineering Studies for our clients. Seeing these capabilities integrated into the HYSYS product suite will help us review more options and maintain best practices at the onset of projects,” said John Hargreaves, Chief Process Engineer, Wood Group PSN.
The patent-pending Aspen CDB reduces the risk associated with developing an upstream asset, and optimizes the transfer of Conceptual to Front-End Engineering Design across organizations and functions. This is achieved by establishing a consistent, streamlined, and collaborative approach to design and decision making processes, while minimizing project schedules and engineering man-hours.
Using Aspen CDB software, multiple design scenarios can be studied throughout an asset’s entire operational life cycle such as production capabilities, energy consumption, emissions output, and the associated capital and operating expense analysis. This allows each development strategy to be evaluated for technical and commercial feasibility, as well as early identification of project risks, which helps companies achieve higher return on investment.
Aspen CDB rapidly generates detailed Aspen HYSYS simulation case files for each design scenario, reducing the time to build a detailed Aspen HYSYS simulation model from days to minutes. Engineers can calculate appropriate equipment sizes and weights to create more accurate and consistent economic evaluation of the proposed conceptual designs.
Other enhancements to Aspen HYSYS make it easier to calculate Green House Gas (GHG) emissions to help evaluate overall compliance with regulations. Additionally, using new methods for treating acid gases to remove CO2 and H2S using rate-based distillation and amines are available, as well as a more streamlined way to characterize reservoir fluids.
Aspen CDB is a key component of aspenONE Engineering software suite, an integrated lifecycle solution -- from conceptual design through to plant start-up and operations support -- enabling process engineers to model, build, and operate safer, competitive, more reliable process plants.
Aspen Technology today introduced Aspen Conceptual Design Builder (Aspen CDB) software that optimizes many aspects of upstream production facilities. A key component of Aspen HYSYS® Upstream in the latest release of aspenONE software, this innovative modelling tool enables rapid development and cost screening of new design alternatives to improve enterprise decision making for oil & gas assets.
“The upstream business operates in an incredibly challenging and highly capital intensive environment. Owner operators need to make sound judgments on design options for their asset investment decisions. Aspen Conceptual Design Builder gives customers a competitive advantage in this highly volatile market, allowing them to automate and accelerate vital business processes,” said Vikas Dhole, Vice President Engineering Product Management, AspenTech.
“Our study managers and engineers are always looking for innovative solutions to build on our capabilities in Conceptual and Front End Engineering Studies for our clients. Seeing these capabilities integrated into the HYSYS product suite will help us review more options and maintain best practices at the onset of projects,” said John Hargreaves, Chief Process Engineer, Wood Group PSN.
The patent-pending Aspen CDB reduces the risk associated with developing an upstream asset, and optimizes the transfer of Conceptual to Front-End Engineering Design across organizations and functions. This is achieved by establishing a consistent, streamlined, and collaborative approach to design and decision making processes, while minimizing project schedules and engineering man-hours.
Using Aspen CDB software, multiple design scenarios can be studied throughout an asset’s entire operational life cycle such as production capabilities, energy consumption, emissions output, and the associated capital and operating expense analysis. This allows each development strategy to be evaluated for technical and commercial feasibility, as well as early identification of project risks, which helps companies achieve higher return on investment.
Aspen CDB rapidly generates detailed Aspen HYSYS simulation case files for each design scenario, reducing the time to build a detailed Aspen HYSYS simulation model from days to minutes. Engineers can calculate appropriate equipment sizes and weights to create more accurate and consistent economic evaluation of the proposed conceptual designs.
Other enhancements to Aspen HYSYS make it easier to calculate Green House Gas (GHG) emissions to help evaluate overall compliance with regulations. Additionally, using new methods for treating acid gases to remove CO2 and H2S using rate-based distillation and amines are available, as well as a more streamlined way to characterize reservoir fluids.
Aspen CDB is a key component of aspenONE Engineering software suite, an integrated lifecycle solution -- from conceptual design through to plant start-up and operations support -- enabling process engineers to model, build, and operate safer, competitive, more reliable process plants.
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