Elevate Your Business with Solidxperts Optimization Services

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Elevate Your Business with Solidxperts Optimization Services

Maximizing the potential of your SOLIDWORKS CAD solutions starts with having the right partner by your side—someone who truly understands your unique design needs. That’s where we come in. Solidxperts optimization services aren’t just about technical fixes; they’re about finding solutions that work for you. We’ll help you streamline your engineering workflow, eliminate those frustrating traditional licensing hassles or SNL setup headaches, help you iron out your workflows, and boost your team’s collaboration capabilities with the latest tools and secure cloud solutions. No matter the size of your business or the complexity of your challenges, our tailored approach makes sure you get the most out of your 3D design solutions.

Let’s work together to transform your operations, drive innovation, and take your designs to the next level!

 

What Are Solidxperts Optimization Services?

Solidxperts optimization services combine expert process and workflow consulting, streamlined IT administration, and cutting-edge tools like SOLIDWORKS CAD, PDM, and our full range of 3D printers to elevate your engineering workflow and product development cycle.

 

Your Optimization Partner

Our SOLIDWORKS certified specialists work directly within your company, conducting a thorough analysis of the working methods across each of your departments. Their detailed evaluation ensures that no aspect is overlooked, identifying opportunities for workflow streamlining, CAD technique improvements, and improved alignment between your processes and business objectives.

 

A business professional in a suit interacts with a glowing network of interconnected icons representing processes, data, cloud storage, teamwork, and analytics, symbolizing workflow optimization, digital transformation, and technological innovation.

 

Once the evaluation is complete, you’ll receive a detailed Recommendations Report, providing actionable insights to help you maximize the value of your 3D modeling and additive manufacturing investments. With this roadmap in hand, you’ll gain clarity on how to implement cutting-edge methodologies designed to improve your ROI and enhance overall operational performance.

From improving product data management to providing new possibilities for design through additive manufacturing, experience streamlined engineering workflow and take your operations to the next level.

 

What Makes Solidxperts Optimization Services a Convenient Option?

Solidxperts provides a convenient option for businesses looking to avoid upfront complications and secure extra seats for growing teams. By eliminating the chaotic urgency often associated with implementing new tools and maximizing ROIs, we guarantee a smooth transition with minimal disruption to your workflows.

 

How Does Solidxperts Support Businesses Across Canada and Beyond?

With its main office in Montreal, Canada, and additional teams in Markham, Ontario, and Nashua, NH (USA), Solidxperts serves clients throughout North America. Whether you need help with network licenses, cloud services, or advanced 3D printing solutions, our team ensures a seamless design experience through personalized support and localized expertise.

 

Welcome to a New Dimension of Design

With the power of SOLIDWORKS CAD alongside our full suite of additive manufacturing solutions, you can revolutionize your entire design-to-manufacturing workflow. Imagine having the tools to move effortlessly from concept to production, reducing bottlenecks and enhancing efficiency at every step.

 

From the first steps of design, where ideas take shape, to advanced prototyping and seamless iteration, our optimization services provide the support and expertise you need to bring your vision to life. Whether you’re refining a single product or scaling operations, our solutions ensure your designs transition smoothly from digital models to fully integrated, operational outputs. Together, we’ll transform your processes, allowing you to innovate faster, reduce costs, and stay ahead of the competition.

 

Comprehensive Solutions: From SOLIDWORKS to PDM and Beyond

We’re here to ensure our clients have access to the advantage of the comprehensive SOLIDWORKS suite. From secure cloud integration to reintegration processes, we provide robust tools that welcome easy deployment, promotion perks, and simplify complex workflows without the worry of backdating issues.

 

Can Product Data Management Improve Engineering Workflows?

Product data management (PDM) is essential for modern businesses aiming to optimize collaboration and reduce redundancies. Solidxperts’ PDM solutions and services enhance collaboration capabilities, streamline data access, and centralize information, ensuring efficient communication across teams and projects.

 

Solidxperts for CAD Consulting

At Solidxperts, we help you unlock the full potential of SOLIDWORKS with access to the latest tools, automatic updates, and expert consulting services, all backed by our industry-leading optimization solutions. From setting up secure cloud data management to ensuring easy deployment, we simplify your engineering workflow while easing the burden of IT administration, allowing you to focus on what matters most — designing and innovating.

 

Why Businesses Across Canada Trust Solidxperts

Across Canada, we are recognized for our dedication to providing reliable, innovative engineering solutions. Whether it’s SOLIDWORKS CAD, cloud services, or IT administration, we tailor our services to meet the unique needs of businesses of all sizes.

 

From Nashua to Markham: Regional Expertise

With teams in Nashua, NH, and Markham, Ontario, Solidxperts provides tailored, local support to clients. This proximity ensures quick responses, efficient service, and consistent access to SOLIDWORKS CAD expertise.

 

Discover Our Promotions

Looking to get the most out of your investment in engineering solutions? At Solidxperts, we offer a range of promotion discounts tailored to meet diverse business needs. Whether you’re acquiring new licenses or taking advantage of the promotion price for bundled solutions, we make it easy to enhance your operations. Simply submit a purchase order during a promotion period to unlock these benefits. Visit our Promotions Page to explore all available offers.

 

Ready to Elevate Your Business?

Whether you’re a team of SOLIDWORKS veterans or just starting your journey into 3D design, we’re here to help you unlock your full potential. Together, let’s enhance productivity and efficiency across your entire enterprise with tailored solutions that fit your unique business needs.

Contact Solidxperts today, and together, we’ll create a smarter, more efficient future for your business.

The Value of Cloud-Based Solutions

Both SOLIDWORKS PDM and the 3DEXPERIENCE platform offer cloud-based options, enabling remote teams to collaborate seamlessly. By supporting mobile access and reducing the need for physical servers, cloud integration enhances team members’ ability to access the most current design data.

 

Comparing Costs

For smaller organizations, SOLIDWORKS PDM is a cost-effective solution, offering basic data management features that integrate with SOLIDWORKS. PLM requires a higher initial investment but pays off with lifecycle management of product data across departments, improving long-term productivity.

 

Wrapping Up: Choosing the Right Solution

Choosing between SOLIDWORKS PDM vs. PLM on the 3DEXPERIENCE platform depends on your organization’s specific needs. For CAD-centric teams, PDM provides a robust data management system. For teams needing product lifecycle management solutions that encompass every phase of the product development process, the 3DEXPERIENCE platform is an ideal solution.

 

Ready to Get Started?

SOLIDWORKS 2025 is packed with tools and enhancements to make your design process faster, smarter, and more collaborative. For a quick reference, download the enhancement flyer here and explore more demo videos on the official SOLIDWORKS webpage.

Don’t wait—get ready to elevate your designs with SOLIDWORKS 2025!

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Any questions? Need help? Ask one of our experts.

Whether you’re ready to get started or just have a few more questions, you can contact us toll-free:

    Revolutionizing Strength Testing with 3DEXPERIENCE Works: The Proteus Motion Story

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    Revolutionizing Strength Testing with 3DEXPERIENCE Works: The Proteus Motion Story

    Proteus Motion, a leader in innovative physical training and strength-testing systems, is reshaping the way athletes, coaches, and rehabilitation specialists approach fitness. Their cutting-edge system captures all human movements in 3D, providing a unique, data-driven approach to strength testing and training. With the help of 3DEXPERIENCE solutions, Proteus Motion overcame the challenges of modern product development to create a groundbreaking solution that delivers unmatched performance and efficiency.

     

    The Challenge: Innovating Amidst a Pandemic

    Proteus Motion set out to design a revolutionary physical training system capable of replacing 20 pieces of traditional fitness equipment while incorporating all human movements in 3D. Their goals extended beyond innovation, requiring the system to meet strict manufacturing and safety standards, be affordable to produce, and allow seamless assembly for commercial deployment.

     

    A detailed 3D design model of the Proteus Motion training system displayed within SOLIDWORKS software.

     

    However, their journey to innovation coincided with the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. Proteus Motion faced several key challenges:

     

    • Design Complexity: Achieving manufacturability, assembly, and cost efficiency while maintaining performance standards required advanced tools and techniques.
    • Stringent Safety Requirements: Adhering to ASTM International standards demanded extensive safety testing to ensure a 6X safety factor on structural components.
    • Prototyping Costs: Avoiding lengthy and expensive rounds of physical prototyping was crucial to keep the project on track and within budget.
    • Remote Collaboration: The pandemic necessitated a shift to remote work, making traditional development methods impractical.

     

    Beyond these challenges, Proteus Motion needed to deliver a system that not only worked but outperformed traditional equipment, replacing hours of training with a five-minute, data-driven workout. Faced with these obstacles, Proteus Motion turned to 3DEXPERIENCE Works solutions, which provided a cloud-based platform for collaboration, design, and innovation.

     

    The Solution: Cloud-Based Collaboration with 3DEXPERIENCE Works

    Proteus Motion implemented a suite of 3DEXPERIENCE Works tools, including 3DEXPERIENCE SOLIDWORKS Premium, 3DEXPERIENCE SOLIDWORKS Professional, 3D Creator, 3D Sculptor, and Collaborative Industry Innovator. These solutions not only met the technical requirements for design and simulation but also enabled seamless collaboration across remote teams.

     

    A dashboard view in the 3DEXPERIENCE platform showing the Proteus Motion design structure.

     

    The cloud-based 3DEXPERIENCE platform proved to be a game-changer for the company, allowing their design team to stay connected and productive despite lockdowns and office closures. It provided a single source of truth for their data, designs, and collaboration tools, ensuring nothing was lost in the transition to remote work.

     

    With the 3DEXPERIENCE platform, Proteus Motion achieved:

    • Faster Design Cycles: By leveraging cloud-based collaboration and advanced simulation tools, the team cut their design cycles by 50%.
    • Reduced Prototyping Costs: Virtual simulations replaced the need for two costly prototypes, saving approximately $20,000.
    • Optimized Manufacturing: By refining the bill of materials (BOM), Proteus Motion reduced production costs by a factor of four.
    • Streamlined Assembly: Innovations in design reduced assembly time from two weeks to just three hours.

     

    The Results: A Complete Sports Science Lab


    The Proteus Motion system redefines physical training and strength testing. By capturing all human movements in 3D, it sets a new standard in the fitness industry, replacing hours of traditional equipment use with just five minutes of its advanced system.

     

    A photorealistic rendering of the Proteus Motion system displayed in a modern gym environment.

     

    More than just a fitness machine, the system provides detailed insights into performance, making it an invaluable tool for trainers and rehabilitation specialists. Its ability to combine strength testing with motion analysis gives users a comprehensive picture of physical performance.

    The system has garnered widespread acclaim, earning innovation awards and being adopted by top athletes and organizations, including NFL star Patrick Mahomes and leading sports performance centers. According to Director of Hardware Engineering Paul Vizzio, the system is “a complete sports science lab in a box,” delivering unparalleled insights and capabilities to users.

     

    Why Proteus Motion Chose 3DEXPERIENCE Works

    Before adopting the 3DEXPERIENCE platform, Proteus Motion used a free CAD tool for initial concept development. However, as they moved toward commercialization, the limitations of their tools became apparent. They needed a professional-grade solution capable of handling the complexity of their project.

    The 3DEXPERIENCE platform provided:

    • Advanced Simulation Tools: Finite element analysis (FEA) simulations enabled the team to meet safety standards without excessive physical prototyping. These tools ensured the system could withstand the rigorous demands of real-world use.
    • Seamless Data Management: The platform’s built-in product lifecycle management (PLM) tools replaced the team’s outdated file hierarchy, enabling version control and simplifying collaboration.
    • Photorealistic Visuals: The rendering capabilities of 3DEXPERIENCE SOLIDWORKS Visualize allowed Proteus Motion to create animations and images for marketing, training, and internal design reviews.

     

    “The ROI [return on investment] that we’ve seen from 3DEXPERIENCE Works solutions has been huge,” Vizzio explained. “…Everything has just been sped up.”

     

    Safety First: Reducing Prototyping Cycles

    Safety was a critical consideration for Proteus Motion’s design. Adhering to ASTM International standards meant ensuring a 6X safety factor on all structural components. Traditional physical testing would have required numerous prototypes and significant resources, but the 3DEXPERIENCE platform offered a better way.

    Using SOLIDWORKS Simulation, the team conducted extensive virtual tests to evaluate materials, geometry, weld processes, and heat treatments. These simulations guided design decisions, enabling Proteus Motion to optimize their system for strength, cost, and build time.

     

    A Visual Edge: Enhancing Communication with Rendering Tools

    Proteus Motion leveraged 3DEXPERIENCE SOLIDWORKS Visualize to create photorealistic animations and videos that demonstrated how their system works. These visuals were instrumental in:

    • Marketing the product to potential customers.
    • Training users and technicians.
    • Explaining the system’s value to investors and stakeholders.

     

    What’s Next? Discover SOLIDWORKS 2025 and the Latest Enhancements to the 3DEXPERIENCE Platform

    Proteus Motion’s story highlights the transformative power of 3DEXPERIENCE Works solutions. Their ability to innovate quickly and efficiently showcases the potential for other businesses to do the same.

     

    An exploded view of the Proteus Motion system, showing its internal components arranged in a dramatic visual style with a smoky, industrial background.

     

    This success story aligns perfectly with the upcoming release of SOLIDWORKS 2025, which introduces cutting-edge enhancements to streamline design, collaboration, and innovation. By combining the latest features of SOLIDWORKS 2025 with the robust tools on the 3DEXPERIENCE platform, businesses can unlock new levels of productivity and creativity.

     

    Explore the Future of Innovation

    To learn more about these innovative solutions and to explore this year’s enhancements, join us at our SOLIDWORKS 2025 launch event. See how the latest tools can empower your team to innovate faster, collaborate seamlessly, and deliver outstanding results.

    Are you ready to elevate your workflow? Reach out to our dedicated experts today to get started on your next 3D creative journey!

    The Value of Cloud-Based Solutions

    Both SOLIDWORKS PDM and the 3DEXPERIENCE platform offer cloud-based options, enabling remote teams to collaborate seamlessly. By supporting mobile access and reducing the need for physical servers, cloud integration enhances team members’ ability to access the most current design data.

     

    Comparing Costs

    For smaller organizations, SOLIDWORKS PDM is a cost-effective solution, offering basic data management features that integrate with SOLIDWORKS. PLM requires a higher initial investment but pays off with lifecycle management of product data across departments, improving long-term productivity.

     

    Wrapping Up: Choosing the Right Solution

    Choosing between SOLIDWORKS PDM vs. PLM on the 3DEXPERIENCE platform depends on your organization’s specific needs. For CAD-centric teams, PDM provides a robust data management system. For teams needing product lifecycle management solutions that encompass every phase of the product development process, the 3DEXPERIENCE platform is an ideal solution.

     

    Ready to Get Started?

    SOLIDWORKS 2025 is packed with tools and enhancements to make your design process faster, smarter, and more collaborative. For a quick reference, download the enhancement flyer here and explore more demo videos on the official SOLIDWORKS webpage.

    Don’t wait—get ready to elevate your designs with SOLIDWORKS 2025!

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    Any questions? Need help? Ask one of our experts.

    Whether you’re ready to get started or just have a few more questions, you can contact us toll-free:

      Solidxperts Rides for Wishes: A Weekend of Giving Back at the 48-Hour Bike Ride

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      Solidxperts Rides for Wishes: A Weekend of Giving Back at the 48-Hour Bike Ride

      This past weekend, from September 20th to 22nd, Solidxperts was proud to take part in the annual 48-Hour Bike Ride, an extraordinary charity event organized by the Make-a-Wish Foundation. Held at the Circuit ICAR in Mirabel, the event brought together hundreds of riders, all pedaling towards a shared goal: to help grant life-changing wishes to children battling critical illnesses.

       

      Why We Ride

      At Solidxperts, we believe in the power of community and the importance of giving back. For the third year running, our 2 teams of 6 riders jumped at the chance to participate in the Make-a-Wish bike ride, knowing that each kilometer we pedaled would bring hope and joy to children facing unimaginable challenges.

       

      Team Solidxperts at the opening of the Make-a-Wish 48-Hour Bike Ride.

       

      The Make-a-Wish Foundation’s mission resonates deeply with us. The organization grants wishes to children with serious medical conditions, providing them and their families with a beacon of hope during some of their darkest times. Whether it’s a dream vacation, meeting a celebrity, or becoming a superhero for a day, these wishes can be transformative for the children and their families, offering not only a brief escape but a lifelong memory of joy and empowerment.

       

      The Event: A 48-Hour Challenge

      This year’s event was nothing short of spectacular. Riders gathered at the ICAR Mirabel Circuit, a racetrack turned cycling course, where teams had 48 hours to take turns riding as many laps as possible. The event kicked off on the morning of Friday, September 20th, with an energetic opening ceremony, where riders heard directly from children whose lives had been changed by Make-a-Wish, setting the tone for a truly inspiring weekend.

       

      Bikes, team flags, and tents lined up along side the ICAR racetrack the Make-a-Wish 48-Hour Bike Ride.

       

      The Solidxperts team was all smiles as we donned our cycling gear, adorned with our company logo, and began our first lap. Each member took shifts throughout the weekend, riding through day and night to keep our teams going. There were moments of exhaustion, but with each pedal stroke, we were reminded of the greater purpose behind our ride—raising funds to grant wishes and changing lives.

       

      A Few Stats from the Weekend

      The 2024 edition of the Make-a-Wish 48-Hour Bike Ride was one of the largest yet, with over 3,000 riders in attendance, spread across over 500 teams.

      Over the course of the weekend, our team completed nearly 2,000 collective kilometers on the track! We’re incredibly proud of this achievement, but more importantly, we’re thrilled to have been a part of an event that makes such a meaningful impact on the lives of children and families.

       

      Solidxperts team tent at the 2024 Make-a-Wish 48-Hour Bike Ride event in Mirabel, Quebec.

       

      More Than Just Cycling

      The 48-Hour Bike Ride was about more than just cycling. It was a community coming together, united by a shared cause. Between shifts, riders gathered to share stories, cheer each other on, and enjoy the family-friendly activities on-site. The event featured everything from food trucks and music to games for the kids.

       

      Solidxperts team relaxing in the team tent between relay race stints at the 2024 Make-a-Wish 48-Hour Bike Ride event in Mirabel, Quebec.

       

      For the Solidxperts team, these moments of camaraderie and connection were just as important as the hours spent on the bike. We met new friends, bonded with our teammates, and were continually inspired by the stories of the children whose wishes were being granted. Every interaction was a reminder of the profound impact the event has on so many lives.

       

      The Power of Teamwork

      The 48-Hour Bike Ride is a test of endurance, but it’s also a celebration of teamwork. Solidxperts has always valued collaboration in the workplace, and that same spirit was alive on the track. Team members took turns, strategizing our shifts to keep the momentum going, supporting each other when fatigue set in, and celebrating each milestone we reached together.

      We couldn’t have done it without the dedication of every rider on our team, nor without the support of our friends and family who cheered us on from the sidelines. Special shoutout to the incredible event volunteers who kept us hydrated, fed, and motivated throughout the weekend!

       

      Looking Forward to Next Year

      As the event came to a close on Sunday, September 22nd, we were tired but filled with pride. The final laps were bittersweet as we reflected on the incredible journey we’d taken together, not just over the past 48 hours, but in the months of preparation and fundraising leading up to the event.

      Though the 2024 edition of the 48-Hour Bike Ride has come to an end, the impact will last far beyond this weekend. We’re already looking forward to next year, eager to participate again and continue supporting the Make-a-Wish Foundation in their mission to bring hope, strength, and joy to children facing critical illnesses.

       

      How You Can Help

      The Solidxperts team may have completed our ride, but the need for support continues year-round. You, too, can make a difference!

      If you’d like to donate, get involved, or learn more about the charity efforts, visit the event website at Make-a-Wish.ca.

      The ride might be over, but our efforts won’t stop! Our fundraising continues, donate today through our official Make-a-Wish Foundation links below:

       

       

      Thank You!

      We want to extend our deepest thanks to everyone who supported us during this year’s 48-Hour Bike Ride. Whether you donated, cheered us on, or simply followed our journey, your support means the world to us—and to the children and families whose lives are forever changed by the Make-a-Wish Foundation.

      Stay tuned for more updates from Solidxperts as we continue to find ways to give back and make a difference in our community. Until next time, keep riding for a cause!

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      Whether you’re ready to get started or just have a few more questions, you can contact us toll-free:

        The Rise of Robot-as-a-Service: Revolutionizing Business Automation

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        The Rise of Robot-as-a-Service: Revolutionizing Business Automation

        Introduction

        Robot(ics)-as-a-Service, or RaaS for short, is an emerging business model that works kind of like how you subscribe to apps or online services, but for robots. This innovative approach offers robotic automation solutions on a subscription basis, allowing companies to harness the power of advanced robotics without the hefty upfront investment. For small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), RaaS presents an exciting opportunity to stay competitive and agile in a dynamic market.

        Industries that make stuff, sell stuff, or help keep us healthy are jumping on this trend to better automate tasks while keeping costs down.

         

        What is Robot-as-a-Service (RaaS)?

        Robots sorting, packing, and transporting goods around a warehouse

         

        RaaS provides businesses with access to robotic systems through a subscription model. It mixes old-school robotics with new tech like AI, machine learning, and cloud computing to make it easier and cheaper for businesses of all sizes to get into automation.

        Instead of purchasing and maintaining robots, companies can rent them, paying regular fees that cover the cost of the machines, maintenance, software updates, and support services.

        This approach offers scalability, reduced risk, and access to the latest robotic technologies, making automation more accessible and cost-effective.

         

        The Growing Importance of RaaS in Business Automation

        RaaS offers a cost-effective, scalable solution for businesses to improve efficiency and agility in a dynamic market. Thanks to its inherent flexibility and growth potential, it allows businesses to optimize their operations without high upfront costs, using a subscription or usage-based model.

         

        A simple robotic arm in a manufacturing setting positioned in front of an empty conveyor belt

         

        Also, RaaS adapts to changing market conditions, enabling quick adjustments in robotic resources and maintaining predictable costs. Providers handle maintenance, upgrades, and support, ensuring the latest technology is always in use.

         

        Exploring the Benefits of RaaS for Businesses

        RaaS makes it easier and more cost-effective for businesses to leverage advanced robots. Businesses can boost productivity and flexibly adapt how they operate to keep up with highly competitive markets.

         

        Cost Efficiency and Scalability

        By adopting a RaaS model, organizations find it simpler to make their processes more efficient and bring in new automation ideas. Predictable costs make it easier for new businesses to start using this technology, and services can be tailored specifically to what each business needs.

        Also, RaaS allows businesses to scale their robotic operations up or down based on their needs. This flexibility is particularly useful for industries with fluctuating demands, such as manufacturing, warehousing, and logistics.

         

        Enhanced Productivity and Operational Flexibility

        At the heart of the RaaS model, you’ll find a big boost in how much work gets done and how flexible operations can be. With RaaS on their side, companies can smooth out their processes, become more efficient, and quickly adjust when their customer wants and needs change.

         

        Impact of RaaS on Key Industries

        Manufacturing

        RaaS revolutionizes manufacturing by enabling SMEs to automate production lines, reducing labor costs and increasing efficiency. With flexible subscription models, companies can scale their robotic workforce based on demand, ensuring optimal productivity without significant capital expenditure.

         

        Warehousing and Logistics

        In warehousing and logistics, RaaS can streamline operations by automating tasks such as sorting, packing, and transportation. This leads to faster order fulfillment, reduced errors, and improved inventory management, essential for maintaining a competitive edge in the fast-paced e-commerce sector.

         

        Healthcare

        RaaS can enhance healthcare delivery by providing robotic assistance in surgeries, rehabilitation, and patient care. These advanced robotic solutions can improve precision, reduce recovery times, and increase the overall quality of care, making them invaluable assets for healthcare providers.

         

        Aerospace and Defense

        In aerospace and defense, RaaS supports complex manufacturing processes and maintenance tasks. Robotic systems can handle intricate assembly operations, conduct inspections, and perform maintenance in hazardous environments, improving safety and efficiency.

         

        A small robot performing maintenance on a commercial airplane in an empty hangar

         

        How SOLIDWORKS Supports RaaS Adoption for SMEs

        The SOLIDWORKS portfolio offers a comprehensive suite of tools that can support SMEs in adopting an RaaS model:

         

        1. SOLIDWORKS 3D CAD: Essential for designing robotic components and systems, SOLIDWORKS 3D CAD allows for precise modeling and assembly, ensuring robust and efficient robotic solutions.
        2. SOLIDWORKS Simulation: This tool enables SMEs to test and validate robotic designs under real-world conditions, ensuring reliability and performance before deployment.
        3. SOLIDWORKS Electrical: By integrating electrical systems with mechanical designs, SOLIDWORKS Electrical ensures seamless functionality and reduces the complexity of robotic systems.
        4. SOLIDWORKS PDM (Product Data Management): Managing design data and documentation, SOLIDWORKS PDM ensures version control and collaboration, crucial for developing and maintaining robotic systems.
        5. SOLIDWORKS Manage: Providing advanced data management capabilities, SOLIDWORKS Manage helps SMEs oversee the lifecycle of robotic systems, from development to deployment and maintenance.
        6. SOLIDWORKS Composer: This tool aids in creating technical documentation, ensuring that RaaS clients have access to clear instructions for operating and maintaining robots.
        7. SOLIDWORKS Visualize: High-quality rendering and visualization capabilities of SOLIDWORKS Visualize help create compelling marketing materials and presentations, essential for promoting RaaS offerings.

         

        Tips and Strategies for Successful RaaS Deployment

        An android automaton sitting in an office meeting room, appearing thoughtful

         

        To make sure a RaaS setup works well, companies need to think about a few key things. First off, they should really look into what they specifically need and want to achieve, then pick a RaaS provider that has the right robots and tech for those needs.

        It’s also crucial to get how the service model and pricing work with the chosen provider. This means looking at initial costs, ongoing fees for subscriptions, and any extra charges that might pop up.

        On top of this, it’s important for businesses to train their employees so everyone knows how to use these robotic tools properly. And don’t forget about keeping in touch with your RaaS provider regularly; talking things through can help sort out any bumps along the way during setup or later on down the line.

        By following these steps and using robotics within an appropriate service model, businesses can effectively use RaaS to achieve successful automation.

         

        Conclusion

        By leveraging the SOLIDWORKS software portfolio, SMEs can design, simulate, and manage robotic systems effectively, facilitating the adoption of the RaaS model. This not only democratizes access to cutting-edge robotic technology but also empowers SMEs to enhance their operational efficiency, reduce costs, and stay competitive in their respective industries.

        Embracing RaaS with the support of SOLIDWORKS tools can unlock new levels of innovation and productivity, enabling SMEs to thrive in an increasingly automated world.

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        Whether you’re ready to get started or just have a few more questions, you can contact us toll-free:

          Why Material Matters: Choosing the Best 3D Printing Filament

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          Why Material Matters: Choosing the Best 3D Printing Filament

          The Basics of FDM 3D Printing Materials

          When it comes to 3D printing, the material you choose is just as important as the printer itself. Filament is the thermoplastic feedstock used in fused deposition modeling (FDM) 3D printers. It is a continuous slender plastic thread spooled into a reel, with diameters ranging from 1.75 mm to 2.85 mm. Filament comes in various types, each with its own unique properties.

          3D printers use different mechanisms to extrude the filament and build up layers to create your final model.

           

          How Filament Choice Impacts Your 3D Printing Project

          The choice of 3D printing filament can have a significant impact on the outcome of your 3D printing project. Different filaments have different properties, such as strength, flexibility, and temperature resistance. Understanding these properties and how they relate to your project is crucial for achieving the desired results.

          For example, if you’re printing functional parts that require strength and durability, ABS or PETG would be suitable choices. On the other hand, if you’re creating decorative or artistic pieces, PLA or specialty filaments like wood or even metal may be more appropriate.

           

          Exploring Just a Few Types of Available 3D Printer Filaments

          PLA (Polylactic Acid)Spool of blue Raise3D PLA 3D printing filament

          PLA is one of the most popular filaments for 3D printing. It is a biodegradable and environmentally friendly filament that is derived from renewable resources such as cornstarch or sugarcane. PLA is easy to print with and offers good dimensional accuracy. It is known for its vibrant colors and smooth surface finish. PLA is commonly used for prototyping, hobbyist projects, and decorative prints. It is compatible with most commercially available FDM printers and can be printed at lower temperatures compared to other filaments.

           

          Raise3D grey ABS 3D printing filament spoolABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene)

          ABS is a popular filament known for its durability and impact resistance. It has a higher melting temperature compared to PLA, making it suitable for functional parts that require strength and toughness. ABS is commonly used in applications such as automotive parts, electronic enclosures, and industrial prototypes. It can be challenging to print with due to its tendency to warp and emit strong fumes during printing. However, with proper printer settings and a heated bed, ABS can produce high-quality prints with excellent mechanical properties.

           

          PET (Polyethylene terephthalate)Spool of Raise3D PET 3D printing filament in black

          PET is a popular 3D printing filament known for its strength and flexibility. Its durability and impact resistance ensure long-lasting printed objects, while its flexibility allows for complex shapes without cracking. Additionally, it offers excellent chemical resistance and is food-safe, making it suitable for kitchen items. PET is easy to print with a lower risk of warping and can be used on most standard 3D printers. Being recyclable, it also provides an eco-friendly option for various 3D printing projects.

           

          Spool of Raise3D PETG 3D printing filament in blackPETG (Polyethylene terephthalate glycol)

          PETG is a variation of PET that offers improved impact resistance and chemical resistance. It’s a versatile filament known for its balance of strength, flexibility, and temperature resistance. It is commonly used for functional parts, mechanical components, and consumer products that require durability and impact resistance. PETG has excellent layer adhesion, making it ideal for strong and durable prints. Additionally, it is FDA-approved for food contact, making it a popular choice for printing kitchen utensils and containers.

           

          TPU (Thermoplastic polyurethane)A 3D printed TPU part being compressed by hand

          TPU is a flexible filament that is widely used for creating elastic parts and prototypes. It offers excellent resistance to abrasion, chemicals, and oils, making it suitable for applications that require flexibility and durability. TPU is commonly used in industries such as automotive, footwear, and prosthetics. It can be printed with ease on most FDM printers and does not require a heated bed. TPU is available in various shore hardness ratings, allowing for different levels of flexibility and elasticity in prints.

           

          Specialized 3D Printing Filaments

          In addition to the common filaments used in 3D printing, there are specialized filaments that offer unique properties for specific applications. These filaments are often infused with different materials to enhance their properties. Some examples of specialized filaments include carbon fiber-infused filaments, which offer high strength and rigidity, and metal-infused filaments, which allow for the printing of metal-like objects. These specialized filaments are commonly used in industries such as aerospace, automotive, and jewelry.

           

          Spool of Markforged Onyx 3D printing filamentOnyx by Markforged: High Performance Carbon Fiber

          Onyx is a high-performance carbon fiber filament developed by Markforged. It combines the strength and rigidity of carbon fiber with the ease of printing with nylon. Onyx is known for its excellent dimensional stability, high strength-to-weight ratio and resistance to heat and chemicals. It is commonly used in industries such as aerospace, automotive, and defense for applications that require lightweight yet strong parts. Onyx can be printed on Markforged 3D printers, which are specifically designed to handle the unique properties of this filament.

           

          Metal 3D Printing: Stainless Steel, Copper, and moreSteel engine impeller 3D printed on the Markforged Metal X

          3D printing with metal filaments allows for the creation of metal-like objects without the need for traditional metalworking processes. These filaments are composed of a mixture of metal powder and a binding agent. After printing, the object can be further processed to remove the binding agent and sinter the metal particles together, resulting in a solid metal part.

          While an expensive and infrastructure-heavy investment, 3D printing with metal filaments offers the ability to create complex geometries and customized metal parts with good mechanical properties.

           

          Factors to Consider When Selecting a Filament

          When choosing a filament for your 3D printing project, consider factors like strength, durability, flexibility, temperature resistance, and printer compatibility. Filaments such as ABS, PETG, or carbon fiber are suitable for strength, while TPU works well for flexibility. For high temperatures, consider polycarbonate. Always remember to check compatibility with your printer’s settings!

           

          Assessing the Strength and Durability Needs of Your Project

          When selecting a filament for your 3D printing project, it is essential to assess the strength and durability needs of your project. Consider the intended use of the printed object and the level of stress it will be subjected to. If you require high strength and impact resistance, filaments like ABS, PETG, or carbon fiber-infused filaments may be suitable. These filaments offer excellent mechanical properties and can withstand heavy loads and impacts.

           

          Considering Flexibility and Elasticity for Functional Parts

          For functional parts that require flexibility and elasticity, it is important to consider filaments that can meet these requirements. TPU is a popular choice for flexible prints. It offers excellent flexibility and resilience, making it ideal for applications such as phone cases, prosthetics, and wearables. TPE (Thermoplastic elastomer) is another flexible filament that provides a soft and rubber-like texture. It is commonly used for creating gaskets, seals, and other parts that require high flexibility.

           

          Temperature and Environmental Resistance

          Temperature and environmental resistance are important considerations when selecting a 3 D printing filament. Different filaments have different temperature ranges at which they perform optimally. For example, PLA can be printed at relatively low temperatures (180-230°C) and is suitable for most everyday applications. On the other hand, filaments like polycarbonate (PC) and polyetherimide (PEI) have higher temperature resistance and can withstand elevated temperatures (up to 340-380°C). These filaments are commonly used in applications that require exceptional heat resistance, such as aerospace components and automotive parts.

           

          Cost-Effectiveness and Availability

          Cost-effectiveness and availability are key factors when selecting 3D printing filament. PLA is popular for being affordable and widely available, as well as eco-friendly. PETG is valued for its strength and durability with better impact resistance than PLA. While PLA and PETG are cost-effective and common, ABS and Nylon may be pricier but offer unique strengths. ABS provides high strength and temperature resistance for functional parts, while Nylon offers flexibility and durability for specialized applications like gears. Finding this balance depends heavily on the user, projects, and printing frequency.

          Consider how you prefer to source your materials. Are you more comfortable dealing with a consistent supplier, or are the readily available 3D printing filaments on Amazon enough for your needs? It’s important to consider the specific requirements of your project and budget constraints when selecting a 3D printing filament. By balancing cost-effectiveness and availability, you can ensure that you choose the best filament for your 3D printing needs.

           

          Balancing Quality with Budget Constraints

          Similarly, choosing the right 3D printing filament involves balancing quality and budget. High-quality filaments offer superior performance but come at a higher cost. Research and comparing brands can help find affordable options with satisfactory results. Reading reviews and seeking recommendations can identify cost-effective choices. Experimenting with different types of filaments can help strike a balance between quality and budget based on project requirements.

           

          Application-Specific Recommendations

          Different 3D printing applications require different 3D printing filament types to achieve optimal results. By selecting the right material for your specific application, you can ensure that your 3D prints meet the desired functionality and performance requirements.

           

          Prototyping with Precision: Choosing the Right Material

          When it comes to precision prototyping, choosing the right 3D printing filament is crucial to achieve accurate and detailed prints. Different materials offer varying levels of precision and surface finish.

          PLA (Polylactic Acid) is a popular choice for precise prototyping due to its low shrinkage and excellent dimensional accuracy. It provides smooth and clean prints, making it ideal for visual models and product prototypes. Additionally, PLA is easy to print with and offers a wide range of colors to choose from.

          ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) is another material suitable for precision prototyping. It offers better temperature resistance and durability compared to PLA, making it suitable for functional prototypes that require strength and impact resistance.

          PETG (Polyethylene Terephthalate Glycol) is also a good option for precision prototyping. It offers a balance of strength, flexibility, and dimensional stability, making it suitable for a wide range of applications.

          By selecting the right material for precision prototyping, you can ensure that your prints accurately represent your design and meet your quality expectations.

           

          Functional Parts and Mechanical Components: What Works Best?

          When it comes to printing functional parts and mechanical components, choosing the right filament is essential to ensure durability and performance. Different materials offer varying mechanical properties and characteristics.

          TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane) is an excellent choice for parts that require flexibility and resilience. It offers high elasticity and impact resistance, making it suitable for gaskets, seals, and other flexible components.

          Nylon is known for its exceptional strength and toughness, making it ideal for functional parts that require durability and high load-bearing capabilities. It also offers good chemical resistance, making it suitable for applications in harsh environments.

          ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) is a versatile material that provides a balance of strength, impact and temperature resistance. It is commonly used for functional parts in various industries, including automotive and aerospace.

          By choosing the right filament for functional parts and mechanical components, you can ensure that your 3D prints meet the required performance standards and withstand the intended applications.

          Frequently Asked Questions

          How does the choice of filament material impact the quality of a 3D printed object?

          The choice of 3D printing filament plays a crucial role in determining the quality of a 3D printed object. Different materials have unique properties such as strength, flexibility, and durability, which directly affect the performance and appearance of the printed object. Factors such as layer adhesion, dimensional accuracy, and surface finish are influenced by the filament material used.

          How do I determine the best 3D printing filament for my project?

          To determine the best filament for your 3D printing project, consider the specific requirements of the print, such as desired strength, flexibility, and temperature resistance. Additionally, take into account the printer compatibility and budget constraints. Conducting research and consulting experienced users can provide valuable insights and recommendations.

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            Defying Limitations: Bowhead Corporation, SOLIDWORKS, and the 3DEXPERIENCE Platform

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            Defying Limitations: Bowhead Corporation, SOLIDWORKS, and the 3DEXPERIENCE Platform

            Christian Bagg, co-founder of Bowhead Corporation, is an admitted adrenaline junkie and outdoor enthusiast. After a snowboarding accident left him paralyzed from the waist down, all Bagg could think about was returning to his “normal” activities. His passion drove him to invent a mountain bike that accommodated the inability to use his legs. Although he was psyched to get back in the saddle again, another life-changing event lay just around the corner.

            Bagg loaned one of his bikes to a camp for disabled children. There he witnessed a 14-year-old girl with cerebral palsy, who rarely spoke, return excited and energized from her first-ever experience of complete freedom on a bike. “Best day of my life!” she exclaimed. Her incredible joy galvanized Bagg’s mission: His company, Bowhead Corporation, would make access to mountain trails, woodland hikes, and the beauty of the great outdoors a reality for people around the world who have disabilities.

            https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=88KPf6_Tq2A

             

            Designs Evolve as Company Grows

            With SOLIDWORKS 3D CAD, Bowhead Corp. introduced its innovative hybrid ATV/mountain bike a year ahead of schedule. Along with streamlining design efficiency, SOLIDWORKS Simulation enabled the Bowhead team to reduce its need for prototypes, which helped the company produce the bike with dramatically lower costs.

             

            The first Bowhead Reach bike was delivered in November 2018. The company quickly learned that some riders were jumping over obstacles while sailing the bike up to eight feet in the air.

             

            Bowhead Corporation, SOLIDWORKS, and the 3DEXPERIENCE Platform

             

            This prompted Bowhead to modify the base design by beefing up the shock absorber. It also replaced the throttle and braking controls with forearm paddles and built helmet-mounted bite throttles for use by quadriplegics.

             

            “Now we have three bikes. We [also] have customer service, operations, engineering, and inventory management,” says Bagg. “SOLIDWORKS plays a role in every piece of our company.”

             

            The growing company needed a data management and collaboration solution to continue working as an efficient and unified team.

             

            Everyone on the Same Page

            With 800 to 900 parts, Bowhead bikes are complex. “The [cloud-based] 3DEXPERIENCE platform became a way to manage an engineering company, not just to engineer the parts,” notes Bagg. “It was a funny moment realizing … that SOLIDWORKS and the 3DEXPERIENCE platform were more than just engineering tools,” he recalls. “They became this sort of marriage counselor between operations and customer service and engineering. It was a way for everyone to look at a problem in a focused manner and then deal with it as a team.”

             

            Bowhead Corporation, SOLIDWORKS, and the 3DEXPERIENCE Platform

             

            Modifications during product development can originate from the shop floor, designers, managers, and even customers. “When you are working with a complex product like ours, it is very important that you stay on top of the changes,” says Mechanical Engineer Sanket Patil. “A simple change affects everything, be it in your assembly or processes.”

             

            The browser-based aspect of the 3DEXPERIENCE platform brings familiarity to any user who accesses the internet. “One of the things that I really enjoyed was giving access to the platform to non-CAD users who needed access to it because they do so much with the data,” notes Patil. “I didn’t have to hold their hand [or teach them anything]. I sent them a link where they created their user credentials, and they started using the system like pros from day one.”

             

             

            “You find different ways of using the tool that wouldn’t be obvious to an engineer. By using 3DEXPERIENCE, things become less obscure, and everyone starts speaking the same language. As a communication tool, we finally have one way to bring everybody together.”

            -Christian Bagg, co-founder of Bowhead Corporation

             

            Control As a Positive Force

            Managing all product data, parts, inventory, and bills of material is critical for Bowhead’s operational efficiency, collaboration, and success.

             

            VP of Engineering Roger McPherson notes, “… to maintain the quality of our product, control is really important. The 3DEXPERIENCE platform has been useful for us in that way. We must make sure that our changes—and they come from everywhere—are managed whether from builders, customers, quality, or suppliers. We must manage that [data in an automated way].”

             

             

            “All of our data is on the platform,” adds Patil. “We use the maturity states to control if a particular document or a part file or a drawing is being worked or if it’s released. This helps us to understand what is in the latest revision or what is the latest state of a drawing or a file.” Before using the 3DEXPERIENCE platform, Bowhead’s revision control was basically renaming a part file to something like “revision 1.11.2,” or “FINAL final revision.”

             

            Great Communication Prevents Delays

            Clear communication eliminates confusion and prevents duplicate or missed work, which improves productivity and speeds up the development process. When information is shared openly and effectively, all team members can make informed decisions faster and more effectively.

             

            “As you grow your company, you really must grow the way you communicate. Having a cohesive, one-stop shop for communication has been, from a management side, the biggest addition of the 3DEXPERIENCE platform to the SOLIDWORKS engineering platform,” says Bagg.

             

             

            For example, the company’s assembly team can now see inside the glass doors of an engineering room, so they feel like part of the engineering team. The 3DEXPERIENCE platform enables all key departments to give feedback on the design earlier in the process, which can help prevent misunderstandings and associated delays downstream.

             

            Secure and Easy File Sharing

            “We quite frequently share information (3D data and 2D drawings) with external stakeholders [via the 3DEXPERIENCE platform],” says Operations Specialist Tatiana Place. Some suppliers use the files to produce Bowhead parts. Others use 2D drawings to supplement the 3D model. Bowhead also sends files to a firm that supports the company’s engineering change processes when Bowhead’s in-house team needs additional help.

             

             

            Place loves how the 3DEXPERIENCE platform has replaced cumbersome and confusing email communications and supports its collaboration with suppliers. “[The platform] has enabled us to amplify our workforce and continually innovate the rate that we come up with ideas,” concludes Place. “I can’t imagine a world without 3DEXPERIENCE right now.”

             

            If you’d like more information about how the 3DEXPERIENCE platform can improve your data management, collaboration, and communication, contact our dedicated team of Xperts to learn how to make the platform part of your SOLIDWORKS workflow.

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              The SolidXperience Group Reveals Designs to Mass Produce Custom Ventilators in Response to the COVID-19 Crisis

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              The SolidXperience Group Reveals Designs to Mass Produce Custom Ventilators in Response to the COVID-19 Crisis

              St. Laurent. April 3, 2020 – A journey of a thousand miles starts with just one step. For The SolidXperience Group, that step happened on March 21st, 2020 on a couch in the socially distant living room of CEO, Alex Habrich. While watching the news with his wife, Susie, both growing increasingly concerned with the spread of COVID-19, she came across an advertisement for the Code Life Ventilator Challenge. Knowing him and the abilities of the people he employs, it was the perfect opportunity. “I know you can do this – go save lives”. That was all it took!

              Our directive was clear: Design a low-cost, simple, easy-to-use, and easy-to-build ventilator that could serve COVID-19 patients, as quickly as possible. The following day Alex asked for volunteers, and a diverse team was curated from three companies and various backgrounds.

              “This project is a collaboration of people from both Canada and the United States, with everyone teleworking!” – Alex P. Habrich, The SolidXperience Group CEO

              Within 24 hours a team was gathered, within 8 days the designs were submitted to the challenge hosts, and within a month The SolidXperience Group will be testing a fully functional prototype of the complete OXYGEN field-ready ventilator system.

              “It feels like drowning is”, the most common report from the COVID-19 patients requiring breathing assistance, and with that imagery, we took inspiration from the simplicity of a scuba breathing apparatus. The SolidXperience Group officially began tackling the problem on March 23rd, ready to help save the world however they could.

              The group quickly decided the best course of action would be to produce a machine that could both conventionally connect in a hospital setting and run as a stand-alone unit in developing countries or emergency overflow.

              The next step was to analyze the given product specifications and start creating schematic diagrams defining the required parts and showing how those parts interact to create the desired results. With the help of the project’s panel of medical advisors, the group was able to take the initial schematic designs and modify them as a collaborative team. All online!

              Then commenced several fast-paced days of editing, revision, discussion, and decision. Affordability always being a key factor. The device needed survivability, an intuitive setup and user interface, easily maintained and replaceable parts, and it needed to be kept as inexpensive to manufacture, in mass, as possible. This iterative process proceeded until March 29th at which time schematics were finalized. With the engineering in place, product design took off.

              Next, packaging: getting all the required components to fit into a manageable, transportable, robust, easy-to-operate, and reliable case. Under the pressure of the CODE LIFE contest entry submission date of March 31st, this process was successfully started and completed on March 30th. Concurrently, the digital interface was coded to manage the internal valves, solenoids, and sensors necessary to provide a clear and secure on/off readout and warning alarms.

              11:58 p.m. March 31st, 2020 – The SolidXperience Group successfully submitted their entry to the CODE LIFE Ventilator Challenge and walked away with a new purpose.

              Inspired by how quickly and efficiently his team was able to redesign the ventilator system while physically separated and baffled by the inflated asking price for current machines, Alex decided regardless of the outcome of the contest, The SolidXperience Group would produce their more reliable and less expensive ventilators.

              The fight isn’t over yet, however! In the coming weeks, several more steps need to be taken quickly to meet the hopeful deadline of May 1st for a functioning prototype. As the physical pieces of the first construction are gathered the interface code must be tested and refined, and the assembly must go through a series of tests and simulations to determine that it meets pre-set standards and can be labeled ‘medical grade’.

              Both companies in The SolidXperience Group, SolidXperts, and Mecanica Solutions, eagerly look forward to stepping out into the world, continuing our thousand-mile journey, and doing what we can to help save lives all over the world.

              Thank you to the following team members and professionals for their part in the success of this project!

              Galin Brankov
              Mélanie Giroux
              Heather Gliniecki
              Alex Gosselin
              Alex Habrich
              Nikhil Kaila
              Nikita Lambert
              Chung Ping Lu
              Alexandr Magder
              Sheldon Magder
              Steven Murphy
              Jean-François Niaison
              John Nolin
              Sakineh Orangi
              Rod Peck
              Michael Prioriello
              Alain Provost
              Charles-Olivier Provost
              Raphaël Reid
              Erica Saunders
              Benjamin Whatleym

              Check back regularly and follow us on social media to never miss an update. Reach out to us with any questions.

               

               

              Wash your hands, stay home, and stay safe!

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