Let’s be clear, working in a multi-CAD environment is not uncommon. For a variety of reasons, manufacturers can end up with more than one CAD system in operation. This could be for many reasons, including supplier driven demands, as a result of an acquisition, or due to customer requirement.
Nothing works in isolation. This is especially true in our increasingly connected world. So, it’s no surprise that, in an engineering environment, one of the ways the effectiveness of a CAD tool is measured by the extent it is able to interact with other processes and systems. Think about it this way, when you use a sophisticated CAD tool, but find you cannot integrate this information to other parts of your product development process, this limits the effectiveness of the system. So what are the characteristics to look for, to ensure your CAD tool is as effective as possible?
Many manufacturers are currently in a position where they are using several CAD applications. This could be because of customer needs, external suppliers, or even internal departments using different CAD packages. While it is not always possible to reduce the number of CAD packages that you have to use, in instances where you can, there are clear advantages. Let's take a look at 4 key factors that make CAD consolidation a viable and profitable choice for many manufacturers.
It’s not unusual for manufacturers to have to work with multiple CAD systems. This could be because suppliers, subcontractors, customers, or even a different department are using a different CAD package. Due to the proliferation of 3D CAD systems and the range of different packages, this can create enormous difficulties for manufacturers when they try to use these models with their own CAD software.
Today we’re going to look at consolidating CAD software. We’re going to take a look at some of the benefits of moving to a single, consistent CAD platform. While there will be cases when this isn’t a feasible option, for instance customer requirements, it a large number of cases it is a solid strategy for your company.
Having to use a CAD tool that doesn’t match your needs isn’t just frustrating; it can lead to serious problems with your product development. Think about it, if you have an unsuitable tool, delays and mistakes become almost inevitable.
For modern companies, working with multiple CAD tools is a reality. In a recent PTC survey, it was revealed that companies are using an average of 2.7 different CAD systems internally. There are several reasons that companies might be using different CAD tools. For example, different departments might have different tools that they like to use. Or, it might be that a key customer is using a different system to you, so you also need adopt their CAD software.
Working in multi-CAD environment can be a real challenge for engineering and designers. Discrepancies between different CAD tools can mean hours spent cleaning up data and ensuring that legacy data is fully integrated.
We’re very excited to announce the details of out PTC Creo Improving 2D & 3D design event. This free one-day event will be held at Brooklands museum, the birthplace of British motorsport.
Product design often happens in a multi-team setting. While there are many advantages of this, including being able to scale more quickly or access particular expertise, there are drawbacks.