Dynamic 2D models, drawings, and AutoCAD design blocks for any product configuration

BuyDesign® Flex2D helps reduce order errors and eliminates non-value-added drafting time. It does this by extending the configuration rules in BuyDesign Configurator with a powerful geometric engine that dynamically generates dimensionally correct:

• 2D model images for display during the configuration process (SVG format).
• 2D print images for use in bid documents and other printed documents (e.g. EMF, JPEG, GIF formats).
• Intelligent AutoCAD blocks with all configuration attributes for incorporation into design drawings (DWG format).
• Annotated drawings for inclusion in bid packages, or for use by manufacturing.

All files are created without the need for a third party CAD product at execution time.

As a geometric constraints engine, Flex2D can also perform complex calculations during configuration, or when creating outputs (e.g. for manufacturing). Geometric constraints dramatically reduce the amount of complex engineering logic required to create and visualize dimensional products. This results in reduced model design time and optimal run-time performance.

BuyDesign Flex2D provides immediate visual confirmation that a configured product looks exactly the way the customer wants it to look. It can be run interactively as an integral part of the configuration process, and/or after all configuration selections are made to create and display the 2D model images. Once the configuration process is complete, the other 2D output files can be automatically generated for use in drawings, bid documents, etc.

BuyDesign Flex2D can even create complex multi-unit combination products. For example, mulled (combined) window units where the sizing of each of the units must be synchronized, and the grille bars must be properly aligned across multiple units.

Parametric BuyDesign Flex2D models used by the geometric engine are created with the 2D capabilities of the popular AutoDesk Inventor™ CAD system enhanced with a BuyDesign Flex2D plug-in. Using this innovative approach, existing drawings can often be turned into "smart" 2D models in a matter of hours.