Cloud Enablement for CAD Applications
Table of content Current State of Cloud-based CAD Technological Issues with CAD on the Cloud Adoption Issues Way Forward Over the last decade, multiple manufacturing-related applications have moved to the cloud to reduce hardware investments and to avail of the benefits of IT resource aggregation. CAD, which plays a crucial role in product development, is often considered a potential candidate for cloud enablement. As CAD software consumes dedicated high-end compute and graphics resources, a definite business case exists to move CAD on cloud. Moving CAD on cloud can bring multiple benefits like increased flexibility, better collaboration, and ultimately reduced cost of hardware and maintenance. AutoCad Cloud is one such example of cloud-based CAD platform which enables creating, editing, viewing, and sharing drawings without having to install it on your system. Almost all CAD ISVs are considering some form of cloud enablement, but it has not picked the pace for multiple reasons. The following sections discuss these issues and possibly how they will evolve. Current State of Cloud-based CAD Cloud has popularized the on-demand access to resources and usage-based charges. It has helped the customers to transition the cash flow from an upfront fixed cost to a variable cost. Almost all types of software can now be licensed in this model. CAD software ISVs are following this trend by shifting from perpetual license + AMC to an annual subscription model with support. For the cloud, adoption evolution can be seen in all three types of cloud adoption – IaaS, PaaS, and SaaS. There are visible progressions in each type, and a few ready solutions are already available in the market. However, there remain technology hurdles and user adoption issues. Technological Issues with CAD on the Cloud Moving CAD on cloud requires some critical pieces to be recreated to suit the cloud architecture. It would take a significant effort to redevelop these pieces and bring them to par with current levels. CAD ISVs strive to address the above and many other technical issues, with few breakthroughs. However, user adoption is still low due to various process-related issues. Adoption Issues CAD Applications have been used by various product development OEMs and their suppliers for over a quarter century. These organizations have evolved custom workflows and security processes around CAD. Moving to cloud-based CAD will need multiple adjustments to these processes, which could be a significant hurdle in adoption. In addition to the above points, there are factors like usability due to latency issues and significant concerns of the customers in the form of vendor lock-in. These have been discussed at many forums, hence not elaborated here. Way forward As cloud technology advances, some challenges could get addressed or become irrelevant. However, looking at the overall picture, cloud adoption is likely to evolve on two fronts –
Read More
Neutral 3D CAD File Formats
Table of Content Features of 3D CAD file formats Different 3D CAD File Formats Various CAD file formats have been developed in recent years. If you’re seeking the most suitable 3D model file, you need to know about the different file formats available. There are many benefits and drawbacks to each format, and you should know which one is right for your needs. Upon completion, every CAD design/model is saved in a respective file format. A 3D file format stores information about 3D models in plain text or binary data. The 3D formats encode a model’s following characteristics: However, not every 3D CAD format stores each of the data mentioned above. Each software comes with its specific 3D file formats. The variety in CAD file formats pertains to many reasons such as cost, feature, etc. It is necessary for any two software to enable interchangeability/interoperability to make things work. Before we talk about that, let’s take a quick walk through the evolution of CAD file formats. Features of 3D CAD file formats Everything comes with its variety, and CAD modeling is no stranger. As the technology evolved, CAD modeling came up in different styles and formats. Three-dimensional model files are often stored in one of two formats: Native (.dwg) or Neutral (.dxf). Native files contain the most detail, while Neutral files skip elements and contain only a basic representation. While there are many CAD Neutral file formats, not all of them are created equal. Some file formats have exceptional capabilities or features, while others are less compatible. Some formats are standardized, while others are proprietary. Considering there are different file types, they will come with specific properties. Other file types allow CAD model viewing in different ways. Some CAD files are limited to only 2D viewing to show the end customer. But since we are talking about 3D CAD models, the following are the main features of 3D CAD file formats: Native or Neutral The two main types of file formats are – Native and Neutral. Native 3D CAD file formats: All CAD design software uses a proprietary file type. Native formats are those that are native to a specific CAD system. Generally, such file types can only be viewed using the same software it was created with. However, it won’t open in a completely different design program. Proprietary files could be used in intercompany tasks. By using native file formats, designers can ensure that their chosen components are compatible with their PLM software. Native files contain the most detailed representation of 3D CAD models. Some notable native 3D CAD file formats are AutoCAD, Parasolid, Inventor, NX, CATIA, Solidworks, etc. Neutral 3D CAD file formats: Neutral 3D CAD file formats are those that are not proprietary to a specific program or file format. These file formats are useful in transferring 3D data from one program to another but do not contain as much fine detail as native CAD files. Neutral files skip elements and include only a basic representation. Neutral CAD file formats ignore the elements that are unnecessary for the software to create the design. Since they are interoperable, they can be viewed on many programs. They are helpful for engineers and designers who need to communicate with other departments and share a single design. Moreover, Neutral formats are not as compatible with all 3D CAD software, and many users do not have the time or budget to learn each one. Neutral data come in handy if the document is distributed to end-users who don’t use CAD software. Precise or tessellated CAD designs are displayed in two ways, namely, precise or tessellated. The difference lies in the fact that the product viewed while designing looks quite different from the actual product in real life. It is particularly noticeable in the case of lines and edges that form the product shape. This differentiates between precise drawings versus tessellated drawings. CAD software uses precise lines and angles to complete complex manufacturing processes to create a product. Such specific instructions must be included in a file format to edit the actual drawing or change its design. The lines and edges are tessellated while displaying a CAD drawing for visual purposes. Type of assembly Multi-part designs present a complicated situation when choosing a file format. Depending on the type of file format, multi-part product design may be limited to one single file for the whole assembly. Alternatively, designers also opt for separate files for each component. Awareness of how a particular software will display a multi-part product or if it will display a multi-part product is essential. Parts Listings CAD designs generally come with a list of parts. Different formats have different ways of presenting this part list. Some file formats have a Bill of Materials (BOM), while others, called Flat Lists, show all parts one by one. A bill of material showcases a single part and all its positions in a drawing. The latter is better for presenting all parts of an assembly. Different 3D CAD File Formats If you plan on using the same tool for several different projects, make sure the CAD tool you’re using is compatible with the standardized formats. Otherwise, you could run into problems. Popular CAD file formats include DXF, DWF, STEP, and Solidworks. Neutral file formats are widely used nowadays as intermediate formats for converting between two proprietary formats to counter interoperability. Naturally, these two known examples of Neutral formats are STL (with a .STL extension) and COLLADA (with a .DAE extension). They are used to share models across CAD software. Neutral 3D CAD File Formats STL: STL, which stands for stereolithography, is the universal format for pure 3D information. It is used in 3D printers and is somewhat loved by CAM. STL denotes only the surface geometry of a 3D object without any representation of color, texture, or other common CAD model attributes. It is a common 3D printer file format. To optimize the file for 3D printing, you can use export settings and the Polygon Reduction tool. A stereolithography file format created by 3D Systems stores
Read More
What are BREP and CSG | Difference between BREP and CSG
Table of Content Constructive Solid Geometry Boundary Representation Differences between BREP and CSG The geometric modeling technique has revolutionized the design and manufacture of products to a great extent. Although there have been various ways of representing an object, the most commonly used modeling technique is Solid Modelling. Boundary Representation modeling and Constructive Solid Geometry modeling are the two main ways to express solid models. Constructive Solid Geometry Constructive solid geometry or C-REP/CREP, previously known as computational binary solid geometry, is a reliable modeling technique that allows the creation of a complex object from simple primitives using Boolean operations. It is based on the fundamental that a physical object can be divided into a set of primitives or basic elements combined in a particular order by following a set of rules (Boolean operations) to create an object. Typically, they are objects of simple shapes such as cuboids, cylinders, prisms, pyramids, spheres, and cones. CSG cannot represent fillets, chamfers, and other context-based features. The primitives are considered valid CSG models, where each primitive is bounded by orientable surfaces (Half-spaces). These simple primitives are in generic form and must be confirmed by the user to be used in the design. The primitive may require scaling, translation, and rotation transformations to be assigned a coveted position. There are two kinds of CSG schemes: Primitive-based CSG: A popular CSG scheme based on bounded solid primitives, R-sets.Half-space-based CSG: This CSG scheme uses unbounded Half-spaces. Bounded solid primitives and their boundaries are considered composite half-spaces and the surfaces of the component half- spaces, respectively. Some attributes of CSG are as follows: Boundary Representation In solid modeling and computer-aided design, boundary representation or B-rep / BREP—is the process of representing shapes using the limits. Here a solid is described as a collection of connected surface elements. BREP was one of the first computer-generated representations to represent three- dimensional objects. BREP defines an object by its spatial boundaries. It details the points, edges, and surfaces of a volume. BREP can also be explained in terms of cell domain combination. A cell is a connected limitation of the underlying geometry. There are four kinds of cells as per the spatial dimension they inhabit: A domain is a set of connected cells grouped to define boundaries. Fields define various components inside a non-manifold object.Boundary representation of models consists of two kinds of information:Topology: The main topological entities are faces, edges, and vertices.Geometry: The main geometrical entities are surfaces, curves, and points. The topological and geometrical entities are intertwined in a way where: BREP comes with its share of advantages and disadvantages, which are: Differences between BREP and CSG Boundary Representation(BREP) Constructive Solid Geometry(CSG) BREP describes only the oriented surface of a solid as a data structure composed of vertices, edges, and faces. A solid is represented as a Boolean expression of primitive solid objects of a simpler structure. A BREP object is easily rendered on a graphic display system. A CSG object is always valid because its surface is closed and orientable and encloses a volume, provided the primitives are authentic in it. Basic operations include reviewing the possible surface types, the winged-edge representation schema, and the Euler operators for BREP. Basic operations include classifying points, curves, and surfaces concerning a solid, detecting redundancies in the representation, and approximating CSG objects systematically.
Read More
Faceted Modeling and NURBS
Modern CAD systems and CAD packages enable designers to model objects and retrieve them in their formats. Some formats are interchangeable while some enforce restrictions, upon which, it becomes difficult to transfer an object model from one form to another. This article describes some of the most used CAD formats in the industry. But before we look into various CAD formats, it is essential to understand the concept of Faceted geometry and Analytic geometry (NURBS). FACETED GEOMETRY Faceted geometry, also known as discrete geometry, are models which consist of groups of polygons which is often triangles. Most Computer-Aided Design (CAD) systems typically use continuous surface and edge definitions based on NURBS. CAE simulations break down this NURBS representation into facets by a process known as meshing. The faceted models are quite appealing to engineering marketing, as such simulations are less bothered with exact physical reality and tend to emphasize on creating eye-catching visuals, such as airflow over a car, which can be incorporated into a marketing brochure. File formats typically used for faceted models are: .3ds, .dxf, .obj, .stl (Stereolithography). Almost all the faceted formats, except for STL, reflect material properties such as glass and metal by providing groupings of facets. However, such groupings are inadequate for a CAE simulation. ANALYTIC GEOMETRY (NURBS) NURBS or Non-uniform rational basis spline describes curves and surfaces with mathematical functions, and form the most common analytic geometry representations. The NURBS geometry has unlimited resolution. The NURBS definition defines the location of the boundary points and uses control points with slope definition to determine the internal shape of curves and surfaces, thereby enabling a great deal of flexibility. NURBS geometry is typically produced in CAD systems such as CATIA, Pro/Engineer, Solidworks, NX, etc. A significant drawback of NURBS geometry is that they are generally specific to the CAD packages that created them, and interchanging formats can be error-prone and inaccurate. DIFFERENCE BETWEEN FACETED GEOMETRY AND ANALYTIC GEOMETRY (NURBS) Faceted geometry NURBS geometry Facets are always guaranteed to comply with the original definition In NURBS geometry, different levels of model detail are created without losing fidelity Faceted geometry describes a shape as a mesh, points usually connected by triangles Analytic geometry defines curves and surfaces with mathematical functions Faceted geometry has limited resolution NURBS geometry has unlimited resolution Evaluating a faceted surface, one can get a shape defined by linear interpolation between known discrete points One can assess a NURBS surface anywhere and get coordinates lying on the surface Simple definition Includes topology Cons of Faceted geometry Cons of NURBS geometry Fixed resolution More computing intense No topology High data exchange Although faceted geometry has its use, NURBS geometry is superior for design and manufacturing processes. Due to the high demands on geometric precision, NURBS geometry finds its place in CAE applications. But if the modeling requirements ask for stunning visuals, faceted models are worth giving a try.
Read More
Types of Geometric Modeling
Table of Content Solid Modeling Surface Modeling Wireframe Modeling The previous edition gave a brief introduction to Geometric Modeling and its features. Geometric modeling is the mathematical representation of an object’s geometry. It incorporates the use of curves to create models. It can be viewed either in 2D or 3D perspective. The general design is applied to different geometric structures, including sets and graphs. This article introduces geometric models which represent geometric objects and their properties mathematically. They can be viewed as collections of squares of different colors. On the other hand, geometric shapes can be considered mathematical equations. Geometric models can represent data in context, such as a digital image. Regardless of the modeling approach, all students should understand how CAD software works. A basic understanding of geometric modeling is essential for any aspiring designer. In contrast, button- push robots often neglect this aspect of CAD training. However, preparing students with the fundamental knowledge of geometric modeling is also critical for their competitive edge. This edition details the primary types of geometric modeling. Geometric modeling can be classified into the following: Solid Modeling Also known as volume modeling, this is the most widely used method, providing a complete description of solid modeling. Solid modeling defines an object by its nodes, edges, and surfaces; therefore, it gives a perfect and explicit mathematical representation of a precisely enclosed and filled volume. Solid modeling requires topology rules to guarantee that all covers are stitched together correctly. This geometry modeling procedure is based upon the “Half-Space” concept. A solid model begins with a solid, which is then stitched together using topology rules. Solid modeling has many benefits, including improved visualization and functional automation. CAD software can quickly calculate the actual geometry of complex shapes. A cube, for example, has six faces, a radius of 8.4 mm, and many radii. It has many angles and a shallow pyramid on each face. By applying solid modeling concepts, CAD programs can quickly calculate these attributes for a given cube. Similarly, a cube with rounded edges has many radii and faces. There are two prevalent ways of representing solid models:Constructive solid geometry: Constructive solid geometry combines primary solid objects (prism, cylinder, cone, sphere, etc.). These shapes are either added or deleted to form the final solid shape.Boundary representation: In boundary representation, an object’s definition is determined by its spatial boundaries. It describes the points, edges, and surfaces of a volume and issues the command to rotate and sweep bind facets into a third-dimensional solid. The union of these surfaces enables the formation of a surface that explicitly encloses a volume. Solid Modeling is the most widely used geometric modeling in three dimensions, and it serves the following purpose: Different solid modeling techniques are as follows: Surface Modeling Surface modeling represents the solid appearing object. Although it is a more complicated representation method than wireframe modeling, it is not as refined as solid modeling. Although surface and solid models look identical, the former cannot be sliced open the way solid models can be. This model makes use of B-splines and Bezier for controlling curves. When polygons or NURBS represent surfaces, the computer can convert the commands into mathematical models. These models are saved in files and can be opened for editing and analysis at any time. The process of importing models from other programs is often complex and problematic, resulting in ambiguous results. In contrast, surface modeling allows for precise changes to difficult surfaces. A typical surface modeling process involves the following steps: Surface modeling is used to: Geometric surface modeling has proven to be extremely useful in computer graphics. Multiresolution modeling involves the generation of various surfaces at different levels of detail and accuracy. The resulting surfaces are then applied to various problems, including general surface estimation from structured and unstructured data. One such application is a subdivision surface, which begins from a simple primitive and gradually adds tools and details. Wireframe Modeling A wireframe model is composed of points, lines, curves, and surfaces connected by point coordinates. Because the model is not solid, it is difficult to visualize, but it helps generate simple geometric shapes. The resulting model contains information on every object’s point, edge, face, and vertices. This model is beneficial for creating an orthographic isometric or perspective view. The lines within a wireframe connect to create polygons, such as triangles and rectangles, representing three-dimensional shapes when bound together. The outcome may range from a cube to a complex three-dimensional scene with people and objects. The number of polygons within a model indicates how detailed the wireframe 3D model is. Wireframe modeling helps in matching a 3D drawing model to its reference. Planar objects can be moved to a 3D location once they have been created. It allows the creator to match the vertex points to align with the desired reference and see the reference through the model. Although Wireframe modeling is a quick and easy way to demonstrate concepts, creating a fully detailed, precisely constructed model for an idea can be highly time-consuming. If it does not match what was visualized for the project, all that time and effort is wasted. In wireframe modeling, one can skip the detailed work and present a very skeletal framework that is simple to create and apprehensible to others. Using a wireframe model as a reference geometry will help you create a solid or surface model that follows a definite shape. In this way, you can easily visualize your model and select objects. The wireframe model is decomposed into a series of simple wireframes and the desired face topology.
Read More
What is Geometric Modeling
Table of Content Representation of Geometric Models Types of Geometric Modelings Requirements for Geometric Modeling The culture of design & manufacturing incorporates various crucial aspects for producing a market- efficient product. Computer-aided Engineering or CAE is a central part of the entire manufacturing process. Over the years, the function of CAE has evolved so much that it has developed its applications depending upon the type of usage and execution. Geometric Modeling happens to be one of the most popular CAE applications. Geometric Modeling is the computer/software-generated mathematical representation of an object’s geometry. It includes both graphical and non-graphical information. This information is stored in a database and displayed as a picture. It is then possible to edit and analyze the model in different ways. As curves are easy to manipulate and bend as per application, geometric modeling uses curves extensively to construct surfaces. The formation of curves can be achieved by – a set of points, analytic functions, or other curves/functions. The mathematical representation of an object can be displayed on a computer and used for the generation of drawings, which go on for analysis and eventual manufacturing of the object. In general, there are three conventional steps to creating a geometric model: Representation of Geometric Models There are two basic types of geometric models: a two-dimensional model, which is used for technical drawing, and a three-dimensional model, which is used for computer-aided design and manufacturing. Constructing a geometric model in CAD involves using a 3D computer program to describe geometric relationships and the physical extent of a component. The models may also contain material properties and other attributes of the element, such as the mass of the component. Many CAD programs can calculate a component’s mass properties and evaluate its other physical properties. These capabilities may be crucial for flexible and adaptive manufacturing lines. There are two main types of representations in geometric modeling. The classical presentation of geometric objects consists of geometric pointsets defined by boundaries. On the other hand, modern geometric modeling uses parametric families of pointsets. Parametric families are defined using geometric operation graphs, features, and constraints. In both cases, a user interacts with an example object from the family. It may also be a surface, a volume, or a solid. In addition to these models, geometric modeling can incorporate other design and manufacturing aspects. Computer- aided engineering, or CAE, is the central component of the manufacturing process. With the help of geometric modeling applications, key elements can be created, transformed, and integrated into the desired shape. In addition to this, CAD applications can also incorporate complex mathematical operations. Types of Geometric Modelings Depending upon the representations of objects, geometric modeling system can be classified into three categories, which are: Solid modelingSolid modeling also known as volume modeling, this is the most widely used method, providing a complete description of solid modeling. Solid modeling tools allow you to build many sides of an object at once. Solid models make multiple sides at once, reducing the ambiguity in surface modeling. Surface modelingSurface modeling is another popular method. This type of modeling represents the object by its surface and is used to describe the object with a clear view of manufacturing. This method uses surface geometry to create objects with complex forms. From this clear point of view, surface modeling cannot be used to develop an internal surface of any model. Surface modeling uses Bezier and B-spines. Surface modeling is better for design engineers as it organizes the edges that define polygonal surfaces. Wireframe modelingIt is a simple modeling system used to represent the object with the help of lines only. Hence, it is also known as Line model representation. However, wireframe modeling is not enough to express complex solids; therefore, it is used to describe only wiring systems. Wireframe geometric modeling is a good option for small-scale companies, where intricate surface details are essential for product design. Requirements for Geometric Modeling The various requirements of geometric modeling are as follows: Geometric modeling is a vast and elaborate field of CAE and requires in-depth study. The following articles dive deep into the various types and facets of geometric modeling.
Read More
6 factors to consider while selecting any Algorithm Library
Processing geometric inputs play a crucial role in the product development cycle. Ever since the introduction of complex algorithm libraries, the NPD landscape has changed drastically, and for good. Typically, a well suitable library streamlines the work process by executing complicated tasks using a wide array of functions. An algorithm library basically works on the principle where it is fed with specific instructions to execute in a way with functionalities customised with it. For example, in manufacturing industry; there is a term known as point cloud library and it holds its expertise in converting millions of point cloud data into mesh models. There are particular algorithms to perform numerous perplexing tasks. There are platforms that use specific and unique functionalities and programming to get the job done. Manufacturing requirements, end product objectives lay down the necessities for choosing a particular algorithm library. This article sheds a light on 6 key factors to consider while selecting any algorithm library. The intersection of AI and 3D printing has long been predicted. AI can analyze a 3D model and determine which parts will fail to form the part. 3D printers can also remove material from failed regions and use AI to create a different version. AI can even analyze a part’s geometry and identify a potential problem so an alternative way to create it can be found. The end result? A better-designed part with a high rate of success. Required functionality Once data has been fed and stored, methods for compressing this kind of data become highly interesting. The different algorithm libraries come up with their own set of functionalities. Ideally, functionalities are best when developed by in-house development team, to suit up in accordance with design objectives. It is a good practice to develop functionalities to address complex operations as well as simple tasks. It is also essential to develop functions which might be of need down the line. In the end, one’s objective defines what functionality laced algorithm library will be in use. Data Size and Performance A huge data can be challenging to handle and share between project partners. A large data is directly proportional to a large processing time. All the investments in hardware and quality connections will be of little use if one is using poor performing library. An algorithm library that allows for the process of multiple scans simultaneously has to be the primary preference. One should also have a good definition of the performance expectations from the library, depending on your application whether real time or batch mode. Processing speed Libraries that automate manual processes often emphasize on processing speed, delivering improvements to either the processing or modeling. This allows for faster innovation and often better, yet singular, products. As witnessed in the case of point cloud, the ability to generate scan trees after a dataset has been processed greatly improves efficiency. A system will smooth interface that permits fast execution, greatly reduces the effort and time taken to handle large datasets. Make versus Buy This situation drops in at the starting phases of processing. Let us take an example of point cloud libraries. Some of the big brands producing point cloud processing libraries are Autodesk, Bentley, Trimble, and Faro. However, most of these systems arrive as packages with 3D modelling, thereby driving up costs. If such is the case, it is advisable to form an in-house point cloud library that suits the necessities. Nowadays, many open source platforms give out PCL to get the job done which has proven to be quite beneficial. Commercial Terms The commercial aspect also plays a vital role in while choosing an algorithmic library. Whether to opt for single or recurring payment depends upon the volume and nature of the project. There are different models to choose from, if one decides to go with licensing a commercial library: A: Single payment: no per license fees, and an optional AMC B: Subscription Based: Annual subscription, without per license fees C: Hybrid: A certain down payment and per license revenue sharing Whatever option you select, make sure there is a clause in the legal agreement that caps the increase in the charges to a reasonable limit. Storage, Platforms and Support Storage has become less of an issue than what it was even a decade ago. Desktops and laptops with more than a terabyte of capacity are all over the market. Not every algorithm library requires heavy graphics. Investing in a quality graphics card is only important if your preferred library demands heavy graphic usage. That doesn’t mean investing in cheap hardware and storage systems available. A quality processor with lot of RAM is decent if the processing task is CPU and memory intensive. Another point to look into, is the type of platform or interface to be exact, the algorithm library supports. Varied requirements call for varied platforms such as Microsoft, Mac, and Linux. The usage, and licensing should be taken into account before selecting an interface. Last but not the least, it is to mention that the inputs from customers are highly significant and there has to be a robust support system to address any grievance from the customer side. Having a trained support staff or a customized automated support system must be given high priority.
Read More
What is CAD Customization & Automation?
Table of content Steps for Creating a CAD Customization How CAD Customization is done Benefits of CAD Customization CAD Customization and Automation Perks of Automation with CAD Customization There is no doubt that computer-aided design or CAD software has changed the game of manufacturing altogether. The advent of CAD customization has provided immense value to design and production. But what is CAD customization? The manufacturing industry has been using CAD software for some time now. These are when engineering departments, R&D centers & Design departments use Computer-Aided Design (CAD) to ease the product development process, thereby reducing the entire cycle time. CAD software makes our working fast, efficient & accurate. While CAD software offers available tools, it is hard to fathom what each user may find helpful to accomplish particular tasks. Such limitations have pushed the minds of CAD system developers to come up with the capability of customizing their software to cater to their needs. With CAD customization, it is possible to modify or create new tools better suited to our needs. One of the significant improvements we can get with customization is to replace a series of commands with a single tool that accomplishes the task. CAD customization is creating specific enhancements or tools to support CAD software. As the name suggests, CAD customization means customizing or configuring OOTB (out of the box) CAD software to suit the specific needs of a particular organization. CAD customization predominantly involves developing supporting tools for CAD software. It is mainly customized which suits a client’s particular requirements. CAD software built en-masse might not satisfy the needs of every condition, as many organizations have their specific criteria. That is when customizing CAD software comes into play. Customizing existing CAD software is perhaps the fastest and most economical way of getting the work done. Steps for Creating a CAD Customization Before developing customized CAD software, make some preparations as follows: How CAD Customization is done Most CAD systems provide the following two mechanisms: Record-Edit-Play of a macro or VB code VBA stands for Visual Basic Applications, an event-driven programming language by Microsoft. It also allows integration with other applications that use VBA. The implementation of VBA in CAD customization is easy to learn and use. Developers can create application prototypes and receive feedback on designs quickly. VBA provides a highly efficient way for manipulating CAD objects and exchanging data with other applications. Develop an Add-On using Open APIs or toolkits Another method for customizing CAD software is developing add-ons using open-source API and toolkits. One can build API implementations by using a developer toolkit. Nowadays, many API’s come as open-source, which makes the whole operation a lot smoother. APIs can be fabricated as per the requirements and applied as an added feature. One crucial factor is that the API must be compatible with the CAD software. Benefits of CAD Customization Customization of CAD software has indeed introduced us to many benefits, which are as follows: CAD Customization and Automation Design Automation is a knowledge-based process where various engineering concepts are applied in real-time product development. Overlapping CAD customization with automation brings lots of advantages to the table. Since designs are customized per requirements, the outcome is quite precise and enables quick modifications. A good practice is integrating CAD customization with design, process, and systems automation when customizing CAD software. Perks of Automation with CAD Customization: Do you want to have your own customized CAD software? Prescient Technologies has a long list of clients who benefitted a lot from a customized CAD software specifically created for their needs. If you wish to look into our portfolio..
Read More
Why CAD Customization is needed
As previously stated; one might encounter complex design situations in engineering scenarios. Earlier, designs were drawn on sheets with pen and necessary scaling instruments and manufactured manually using old school techniques. But now, with the advent of CAD customization, the entire work-process has become easier and smoother than ever. When CAD customization is integrated in CAD software application, a number of advantages occur. With CAD customization, the production of a drawing and design of a mechanical component can be generated with great accuracy. This facilitates the engineers to have tools to make quick modifications to any issues found in the design. The design can be customized according to the needs outlined before or after the CAD design is generated. Need for CAD Customization Implementing a functionality that does not exist in the OOTB package: The activity of CAD customization is carried out when a particular organization needs tailor made CAD software to address their need. It might be a separate functionality that a specific task needs or it might be about a format. Challenges with CAD customization Like every other entity out there, CAD customization comes with its own drawback. One big challenge with CAD customization is keeping it in sync with the latest technology in the market. Also, every CAD software is gets its new releases so it becomes quite hectic to keep a check and customizing accordingly. We have learned before how add-ons/plug-ins has been introduced to add new features to CAD software. Such add-ons are also prone to updates which need to be worked upon to make it compatible with customized software. Modern technology, however, is working its way towards making the process of updating and customizing a more lenient process.
Read More
Points to consider while developing regression suite for CAD Projects
As the development of software makes its progress, there comes a stage where it needs to be evaluated before concluding it as the final output. This phase is usually known as testing. Testing detects and pinpoints the bugs and errors in the software, which eventually leads to rectification measures. There are instances where the rectifications bring in new errors, thus sending it back to another round of testing, hence creating a repeating loop. This repeated testing of an already tested application to detect errors resulting from changes has a term — Regression Testing. Regression testing is the selective retesting of an application to ensure that modifications carried out has not caused unintended effects in the previously working application. In simple words, to ensure all the old functionalities are still running correctly with new changes. This is a very common step in any software development process by testers. Regression testing is required in the following scenarios: Although, every software application requires regression testing, there are specific points that apply to different applications, based on their functioning and utility. Computer-Aided design or CAD software applications require specific points to keep in mind before undergoing regression testing. Regression testing can be broadly classified into two categories, UI Testing and Functionality Testing. UI testing stands for User Interface which is basically testing an applications graphical interface. Numerous testing tools are available for carrying out UI testing. However, functional testing presents situation for us. This content focuses on the points to take care while carrying out functional regression testing. Here are most effective points to consider for functional regression testing: Failure to address performance issues can hamper the functionality and success of your application, with unwelcome consequences for end users if your application doesn’t perform to expectations.
Read More