3D CAD Generator
BuyDesign Flex3D: CAD automation for dynamic 3D models and more
The BuyDesign® Flex3D CAD automation module accelerates the design and delivery of configured products while reducing cost and freeing valuable engineering time. It fully leverages the power of 3D CAD technology to automate the generation of configuration-specific detailed 3D models, drawings, and manufacturing information for individual customer orders.
BuyDesign Flex3D works with 3D CAD systems to dynamically generate configuration-specific outputs based on features, options, and dimensions specified during configuration. Detail drawings and manufacturing information can then be generated from those models using standard CAD capabilities. Flex3D uses model templates that are developed using industry standard 3D CAD systems. The model templates contain parametric relationships and geometric constraints that are dynamically resolved at run-time to generate CAD outputs.
We are experienced in applying BuyDesign Flex3D with both PTC PRO/Engineer and SolidWorks.
Rapid Creation of As-Engineered Product Definitions
BuyDesign Flex3D dramatically reduces the time and cost required to produce configuration-specific product definitions at an as-engineered level of detail and accuracy suitable for use by engineering, sales and manufacturing. It replaces time-consuming and tedious manual CAD operator activity with automatic generation of:
- High level models and quote drawings to support product visualization and customer collaboration during the configuration and sales process.
- Specification drawings and CAD files (e.g. DXF, IGS, STP files) for delivery to the customer once the order is placed.
- Shop drawings such as detail, section, quality and inspection drawings at the assembly, subassembly, and component level for use by manufacturing.
- Detailed assembly models for use by engineers for further engineering analysis or to generate CNC instructions for numerically controlled equipment.
Innovative Design Methodology
Using the BuyDesign Flex3D design methodology, designers leverage BuyDesign Configurator rules along with their existing 3D CAD system to develop product family models. These models are then used as templates for the automatic generation of configuration-specific product designs. In addition to supporting the automatic generation process, this approach speeds the design process. It produces product family models that are faster and less expensive to develop and maintain than traditional 3D models developed using the CAD system alone.
- A 'design for customization' approach establishes the guidelines and standards to create product family models that provide maximum flexibility and ease of configuration.
- A design reference database enables the use of highly modular 3D models that combine to represent the complete product family by mapping input variables to the various sub-models, their attributes, and their location, position, and orientation within the completed product.
- A testing application provides the tools for designers to easily exercise and verify product family models before releasing them for use in the automated generation process.
