Welcome to the SolidXperts guide on installing DraftSight Enterprise, a powerful 2D CAD software designed for large organizations. Tailored to enhance efficiency, this software offers a range of features, including network licensing, comprehensive technical support, and an intuitive interface. Our Xpert tutorial will walk you through the installation process, ensuring you unlock the full potential of DraftSight Enterprise for your team.
DraftSight Enterprise relies on the SolidNetWork license server to efficiently distribute licenses across users. To ensure smooth access for everyone within your network, this server software must be strategically installed on a centralized server or a machine that remains consistently connected.
If you’re ready to embark on the installation journey, this expert tutorial will guide you through the process, step by step. Without further ado, here is how to install Draftsight Enterprise. On the machine that will be used as the server, follow the following steps:
1 – First, download the SOLIDWORKS installation package and run setup.exe.
2 – Select “Install Server components” and “Install SOLIDNETWORK License Manager”. Click “Next”.
3 – On the next screen, after reviewing the License Agreement, select “I accept the terms of the SOLIDWORKS License Agreement”, and click “Install Now”.
4 – Then once this is installed, from the start menu open:
SOLIDWORKS Tools 20xx à SolidNetWork License Manager server 20xx
In the following message box, click “Yes”.
5 –Verify the SolidNetWork License Server Information, and click “Next”.
NOTE: Make sure firewalls are not blocking ports 25734 and 25735 on both ends of the connection.
6 – In the following Product Activation window, on the right side of the white box, click “Add” to add a serial number.
7 – Copy & paste the serial number into the box. Click “Okay”.
8 – Then, put your email address in the box and make sure to check “Automatically over the Internet”. Click “Next”.
9 – The next window confirms your licenses from SOLIDWORKS. If everything looks good, click “Finish”.
10 – Now is the time to install Draftsight on your workstations. Go to:
12 – Download and execute Draftsight.exe. Click “Run”.
13 – Choose SolidNetWorks License (SNL) and click “Next”.
14 – In the box, provide the Port@Name of the server, inserting your server name or its IP address on the local server. Click “Next”.
15 – Thoroughly review the agreement and check, “I accept the terms in the license agreement”, then click “Install”.
16 – Congratulations, you can now run DraftSight!
With DraftSight Enterprise successfully installed, your organization is perfectly positioned to leverage enhanced 2D productivity and collaboration. Don’t forget, SolidXperts is here to support your 3D journey every step of the way.
Montreal, Quebec – The SolidXperience Group, a leading provider of 3D engineering solutions in Canada and the United States, proudly announces a strategic partner withKlietsch, a distinguished German engineering firm and the developer of SolidSteel parametric. This collaboration seeks to support SolidXperience’s commitment to equipping the North American 3D design market with robust tools and comprehensive solutions. Effective January 1st, 2024, SolidXperience is the strategic partner of SolidSteel parametric in North America.
“As a Canadian with German ancestry, I’ve always had an affinity for German engineering and technology. Germany is known worldwide for having a strong engineering culture. So, forming a partnership with Klietsch, a German engineering company that developed a powerful SOLIDWORKS application, SolidSteel parametric, is a natural fit for my company. We look forward to building a strong partnership to advance this product in the North American marketplace,” says SolidXperience CEO and Founder, Alex Habrich.
Klietsch has a rich history of evolving to meet the needs of the engineering community. SolidXperience clients will benefit from Klietsch‘s extensive experience and the robust features of SolidSteel parametric, enhancing their SOLIDWORKS experience and streamlining their engineering workflows.
For more information or to learn how you can leverage SolidSteel parametric, or any of SolidXperience’s wide range of software and hardware, visit SolidXperts, or reach out directly to your SolidXperience Sales representative.
About SolidXperience:
SolidXperience is a leading provider of engineering solutions, dedicated to delivering advanced technology that empowers engineers and 3D designers. With a steadfast commitment to innovation and excellence, SolidXperience offers a range of products and services to enhance the full product development lifecycle, from ideation to manufacturing.
About Klietsch:
Klietsch is a Germany-based pioneer in engineering software, renowned for its flagship product, SolidSteel parametric. With a rich history and a commitment to technological excellence, Klietschcontinues to shape the future of engineering solutions globally.
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:
Happy 2024 SOLIDWORKS enthusiasts🥳! Brace yourselves for a year brimming with boundless creativity, relentless innovation, and just a sprinkle of unconventional inventions. To embark on this exciting journey, let’s dive into the realm of SOLIDWORKS assembly modeling. As design complexity increases, mastering efficient assembly techniques becomes paramount.
To kick things off, we’ll share practical strategies to make your design process smoother and more efficient.
Component Organization
Start by establishing a structured approach to organizing your components. Utilize folders and sub-assemblies to categorize parts logically. This not only makes your assembly tree more manageable but also enhances collaboration when working in a team.
Top-Down Design
Explore the benefits of top-down design to create relationships between parts directly within the assembly. By defining key features and dimensions at the assembly level, you can ensure that changes propagate seamlessly throughout the entire design, saving time and reducing errors.
Efficient Mate Usage
Mates are powerful tools for establishing relationships between components. However, an overuse of mates can lead to performance issues. Opt for the smart use of standard mates and explore advanced mate options like width and symmetry to reduce the mate count and improve performance.
Simplified Configurations
Take advantage of configurations to manage different versions of your assembly. Create simplified configurations for specific purposes such as analysis, rendering, or lightweight viewing. This helps enhance performance during specific tasks without affecting the overall design.
SpeedPak
Integrate SpeedPak into your workflow to simplify assemblies even further. By creating a lightweight representation of your assembly, you can navigate and work with large designs more efficiently. This is particularly useful when dealing with intricate components and large assemblies.
Sub-Assembly Design
Break down your assembly into sub-assemblies based on functional or structural relationships. This modular approach makes it easier to focus on specific sections of your design, simplifies collaboration, and facilitates changes without affecting the entire assembly.
Component Patterns
Leverage component patterns to replicate parts efficiently. Whether using linear, circular, or sketch-driven patterns, this feature can save time and effort when dealing with multiple instances of the same component.
Assembly Visualization for Enhanced Assembly Insight
Take advantage of SOLIDWORKS Visualize to gain a deeper understanding of your assemblies. This powerful tool allows you to create stunning visual representations of your designs, providing invaluable insights. Use Visualize to analyze and optimize your assembly based on various parameters such as component size, mass, or custom properties. By harnessing the capabilities of SOLIDWORKS Visualize, you can identify and address potential performance bottlenecks while creating visually compelling representations of your designs. This tool not only enhances the efficiency of your assembly but also elevates your ability to communicate and showcase your work effectively.
By implementing these strategies, you can enhance your proficiency in SOLIDWORKS assembly modeling, leading to more efficient designs and improved collaboration within your team. Happy modeling!
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:
SOLIDWORKS is an indispensable tool for engineers and designers across various industries. One standout feature that elevates SOLIDWORKS to new heights is its Simulation module. This powerful tool enables users to analyze and validate their designs before physical prototypes are created, ultimately saving time and resources while ensuring optimal product performance. In this blog, we will delve into the capabilities and benefits of SOLIDWORKS Simulation, shedding light on how it empowers engineers to bring their innovative ideas to life.
Understanding SOLIDWORKS Simulation
SOLIDWORKS Simulation is a robust finite element analysis (FEA) tool integrated seamlessly into the SOLIDWORKS CAD environment. It allows engineers to subject their designs to virtual testing, simulating real-world conditions and scenarios. This simulation-driven design approach empowers users to make informed decisions early in the design process, leading to better product performance, reduced development costs, and faster time-to-market.
Key Features of SOLIDWORKS Simulation:
Structural Analysis
SOLIDWORKS Simulation provides a comprehensive suite of tools for structural analysis, allowing engineers to evaluate the effects of loads, forces, and vibrations on their designs. Whether it’s a simple static analysis or a complex dynamic simulation, this feature helps ensure that components can withstand real-world conditions.
Thermal Analysis
Thermal management is crucial in many engineering applications. SOLIDWORKS Simulation allows users to simulate heat transfer and thermal behavior within their designs. This capability is particularly beneficial for optimizing electronic components, ensuring they operate within acceptable temperature ranges.
Fluid Flow Simulation
For products that involve fluid dynamics, such as pumps, valves, or HVAC systems, SOLIDWORKS Simulation provides a fluid flow analysis tool. Engineers can visualize and analyze how liquids or gases move through their designs, enabling them to optimize performance and efficiency.
Motion Analysis
Understanding the motion of mechanical components is essential in designing machinery and mechanisms. SOLIDWORKS Simulation offers motion analysis tools that help engineers simulate and validate the movement of assemblies, ensuring proper functionality and performance.
Benefits of Using SOLIDWORKS Simulation:
Reduced Prototyping Costs
By virtually testing designs, engineers can identify and rectify potential issues before physical prototypes are created. This significantly reduces the need for costly iterations and prototyping, saving both time and resources.
Improved Product Performance
Simulation allows for a deep understanding of how a design will behave under various conditions. This insight enables engineers to optimize designs for maximum performance and reliability.
Faster Time-to-Market
The ability to perform thorough virtual testing expedites the design validation process. Engineers can make informed decisions early in the development cycle, accelerating the overall product development timeline.
Enhanced Innovation
SOLIDWORKS Simulation encourages a more iterative and innovative design process. Engineers can experiment with different concepts, knowing that they can quickly assess their viability through simulation before committing to a specific design direction.
SOLIDWORKS Simulation is a game-changer for engineers, providing a virtual testing ground that empowers them to create better, more reliable products. By seamlessly integrating simulation into the design process, SOLIDWORKS enables engineers to push the boundaries of innovation while ensuring the practicality and performance of their designs. Whether it’s structural analysis, thermal simulation, fluid flow analysis, or motion analysis, SOLIDWORKS Simulation is a versatile tool that unlocks a world of possibilities for engineers seeking to bring their creative visions to life.
To learn more about SOLIDWORKS Simulation visit our webpage, Click Here.
To reach out to an Xpert for more information or to start taking advantage of our Simulation solutions, Click Here.
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:
Welcome to the future of drafting and CAD design with the latest releases of DraftSight 2024 and 3DEXPERIENCE DraftSight R2024x GA. As we embark on this journey of innovation, we’re excited to unveil the enhancements that not only elevate the capabilities of our industry-leading 2D drafting and 3D CAD solution but also redefine the user experience.
In this article, we’ll delve into the key features that make DraftSight 2024 and 3DEXPERIENCE DraftSight R2024x GA stand out. From collaborative tools to advanced customization options, we aim to empower you with the tools you need to boost productivity and seamlessly bring your design ideas to life. So, buckle up as we explore the cutting-edge advancements that await you in these releases.
1.Support for CATIA Drawings –collaborate with clarity and precision.
Ensuring you and your partners have the best experience when collaborating is at the top of the list. In DraftSight 2024 you can import CATIA model drawings from a local disk or the 3DEXPERIENCE platform. When you import a CATIA drawing you can expect it to behave as any other DWG file so you can easily edit the drawing.
Import CATIA model space drawings from a local disk or the 3DEXPERIENCE platform.
2. Tool Palette Customization –accelerate drawing creation and ensure consistency.
The tool palettes in DraftSight 2024 are designed to heighten your productivity. For starters, you can find all your frequently used commands and features in one place. Customization extends to predefined settings including layer, color, and line type, and ensures all newly created entities conform to the pre-defined standards across drawings.
Quickly insert an existing palette with the Import Palette functionality.
You can also efficiently create new palettes simply by dragging and dropping or importing and exporting pre-existing palettes created in other 2D CAD solutions.
3. Layer Palette – enhance the legibility of drawings with greater control of how inactive layer groups display.
The new Layer Manager Palette provides quick access to all your layer commands in one place, including layers, layer states, layer previews, or isolating layers. There’s also a new Merge Layer command so you can merge multiple layers into a single layer for better control and management. Last, with the new Visibility Enhancement command you can specify how objects in inactive layer groups appear in drawing areas.
Accessibility to the tool palette has been simplified in the new CAD General workspace.
4. Export Sheet Command – rapidly create new drawings from existing files without loss of detail.
Your wish is our command. With all the new commands in DraftSight 2024, you can stay more productive than ever, including when it comes to dealing with sheets. With the new Export Sheet command, you can export all visible entities from an active sheet viewport and entities from the sheets to the new drawing.
In addition, you can enhance the readability of a specific section, area, or view of the drawing with exported entities that are scaled views of model space, title block, and other annotative entities, such as dimensions and notes.
Export all visible entities of the active sheet viewports in model space to a new drawing with the new Export Sheet command.
5. Enhanced User Interface – easily navigate 3D models and reduce eyestrain.
To reduce eyestrain and enhance feature function visibility there’s a new default Dark mode.
There’s also a new View Navigator so you can easily switch between standard and isometric views or parallel and perspective views of a model. Its interface acts as a 3D orientation indicator that lets you see the current view direction.
The user interface features a new default dark mode to reduce eyestrain and enhance feature function visibility.
With DraftSight 2024 and 3DEXPERIENCE DraftSight R2024x GA, you’re not just keeping pace – you’re surging ahead. Whether you’re collaborating with precision through CATIA drawings, streamlining your workflow with customizable tool palettes, or enjoying the enhanced legibility offered by the Layer Palette, these releases are designed to make your design journey smoother and more efficient. The Export Sheet Command and the Enhanced User Interface are the cherries on top, ensuring that you not only create with precision but do so with reduced eyestrain and enhanced visual clarity.
As you explore the latest capabilities, we invite you to elevate your drafting experience, embrace innovation, and make the most of the tools that DraftSight 2024 and 3DEXPERIENCE DraftSight R2024x GA bring to your fingertips. If you have any questions, comments, concerns, or just want some Xpert guidance, reach out to our dedicated DraftSight teams today to learn more about how we can help bring your designs to life!
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:
Welcome to our tutorial on how to get started with Share and Markup, the powerful collaboration tool on the 3DEXPERIENCE platform. Share and Markup allows you to seamlessly collaborate with various stakeholders, even if they don’t have the 3DEXPERIENCE platform or SOLIDWORKS. Whether you need to share your designs within or outside your organization, this tutorial will walk you through the process step by step, ensuring a smooth and efficient collaboration experience.
Table of Contents
Introduction to Share and Markup
Enabling Share and Markup
Sharing Your Design
Accessing Shared Models
Marking Up and Commenting
Sending Back Markups
Managing Access
Use Cases
Introduction to Share and Markup
Share and Markup is a collaboration feature that simplifies the process of working with stakeholders who may not have direct access to the 3DEXPERIENCE platform or SOLIDWORKS. It allows you to share your designs and collaborate efficiently, all from within your SOLIDWORKS environment.
Enabling Share and Markup
Before you can start using Share and Markup, your platform administrator must enable the “Allow platform members to share content with external users by link” and “Allow external users to view and comment on shared content” options in the Platform Management dialog. This step ensures that you have access to these collaboration features.
Sharing Your Design
– Click on the “Share a File” command in SOLIDWORKS.
– Choose the format in which you want to share your design (e.g., 3DXML, PDF, or STEP).
– Configure options like “Enable guest comments” and “Restrict access to specific users”.
– Enter the email addresses of the recipients.
Accessing Shared Models
Recipients will receive an email with a link to access the shared model. They may need to set up a free 3DEXPERIENCE ID account if they don’t already have one. Once they click the link, they can access and view the model in the 3DPlay viewer.
Marking Up and Commenting
Recipients can mark up and comment on the model using intuitive tools in 3DPlay. They can save their markups/comments as snapshots, making it easy to provide feedback.
Sending Back Markups
To send the markups/comments back to the designer, recipients can use the “Send” button from the Comments window. They can add additional messages if needed.
Managing Access
You have the ability to manage access to shared models and revoke it at any time. This feature is useful when a stakeholder no longer requires access or if project roles change.
Use Cases
– Sharing 2D Drawings: Share 2D drawings with suppliers or partners for quotes or reviews.
– Sharing for Machining: Share 3D files for machining or 3D printing, and easily update the model as needed.
– Sharing Lightweight Designs: Share lightweight 3DXML models for easy viewing on various devices, perfect for marketing presentations.
Share and Markup streamlines collaboration without the need for downloads or complicated processes. It enables designers and partners to work together efficiently, allowing you to focus on design and bring products to market faster.
If you have any questions or need assistance, feel free to contact us. Our Xperts here to help you get the most out of Share and Markup for your design collaboration needs.
SOLIDWORKS CAD 2024 is a landmark release that redefines the 3D CAD landscape. Driven by user feedback, it introduces groundbreaking features that promise to revolutionize design, engineering, and collaboration. This year’s release is guided by 3 major principles that seek to define the future of Computer-Aided Design:
Efficiency is a constant focus. Streamlined workflows in assemblies, parts, features, and drawings simplify complex tasks. Features like the Defeature Silhouette option make large assembly management a breeze while previewing and editing dimensions upon entity selection saves valuable time.
Clear communication is critical. Enhanced chain dimensioning and the ability to exclude hidden sketches ensure that design intent is communicated accurately.
Intelligent and flexible workflows are paramount. Whether you’re working on sheet metal designs, complex structures, electrical routing, or comprehensive documentation, SOLIDWORKS equips you with tools to work more intelligently.
With the release of SOLIDWORKS CAD 2024, users can expect a host of innovative enhancements designed to improve productivity, communication, and collaboration. In this article, we’ll dive into the top ten enhancements that SOLIDWORKS has in store for its users in the 2024 release.
SOLIDWORKS CAD 2024 introduces a game-changing feature – Previous Release Compatibility. This allows users to save their files in formats that are compatible with SOLIDWORKS versions up to two years prior to the latest release. This means you can collaborate effortlessly with colleagues or clients who might be using older versions of the software, eliminating compatibility issues, and streamlining your workflow.
#2 Assemblies: Streamlined Design and Collaboration
In large assembly projects, efficiency is crucial. SOLIDWORKS CAD 2024 simplifies large assembly design, documentation, and collaboration with several new features. The Defeature Silhouette option allows you to create simplified versions of your models based on criteria such as custom property, mass property, and file name. You can also represent post-assembly machining operations using the “Insert Assembly into Part” feature.
#3 Parts and Features: Sketching and Dimensioning Made Easy
This release focuses on making sketching and dimensioning more efficient. You can now preview and edit dimensions as soon as you select one or more entities. The new Symmetric option for Linear Patterns simplifies bidirectional, symmetric patterns. Additionally, displaying the unit of measurement as a custom property in notes and tables ensures clarity in your design intent.
#4 Drawings and Detailing: Clear Communication
Clear and efficient communication is vital in engineering. SOLIDWORKS CAD 2024 enhances your drawing and detailing capabilities. Improved chain dimensioning alignment and adherence to drawing standards ensure that your design intent is communicated clearly. Dangling dimensions can be cleaned up more efficiently by reattaching them to the proper reference points. You can also exclude hidden sketches from DXF™ Flat-Pattern, reducing post-processing work.
#5 Sheet Metal: Meeting Manufacturing Standards
Sheet metal design is made easier in the 2024 release. The new Rip tool lets you create rips in hollow or thin-walled cylindrical and conical bodies, simplifying the flattening process. Other enhancements include the Normal Cut option for slots when tabs are created at an angle and the automatic propagation of slots to all instances of a tab that intersects a specific part. You can even create a stamp/form feature on the fly using just a Sketch, eliminating the need for form tool creation.
#6 Structure Systems: Faster and Easier Weldments
Creating weldments becomes faster and requires fewer modifications in SOLIDWORKS 2024. With improved corner treatment functionality, you can speed up the editing and management of corner treatments. The software now automatically creates an open corner for the addition of a connection block with a new corner treatment option, saving valuable time in your design process.
#7 Routing: Complex Electrical Routing Made Easy
Handling complex electrical routing scenarios is more straightforward with new options for flattening, reorienting, and displaying wires and connectors. You can update only the current 3D electrical route and add electrical routes as either single segments or as groups of discrete wires in electrical bundles. These enhancements enhance routing design clarity and efficiency.
#8 SOLIDWORKS Electrical: Speedier Documentation
Better performance is a constant priority, and SOLIDWORKS Electrical delivers just that. Key enhancements include the ability to insert auto balloons in SOLIDWORKS Electrical 2D cabinet layout drawings and the ability to shorten lists using ranges. Excel automation now automatically resets undefined macro variables, making documentation more informative and faster.
#9 SOLIDWORKS MBD: Clear Communication Downstream
In SOLIDWORKS MBD, several updates improve communication downstream to manufacturing. These include the ability to export a hole table when publishing a part to 3D PDF, edit dangling dimensions and reattach them to a feature in the model, and export custom properties from a part or assembly to the STEP 242 format. These updates ensure your design intent is communicated clearly in 3D.
#10 SOLIDWORKS Visualize: Realistic Renderings
SOLIDWORKS Visualize allows users to create compelling appearances with advanced real-life rendering capabilities. You can now select appearance types and optimize their parameters more easily with a simplified interface. Adjusting textures and texture maps provides greater control and fidelity. Combining normal and displacement maps and applying vector displacement allows you to replicate the realistic appearance of various surfaces, from metal to glass to plastic.
SOLIDWORKS CAD 2024 is a powerful and user-centric release that underscores its position as a leader in 3D CAD software. With an unwavering commitment to user-driven innovation, a focus on interoperability and collaboration, streamlined workflows, improved clarity and communication, and increased efficiency and productivity, SOLIDWORKS empowers engineers and designers to tackle their most challenging projects with confidence. As technology continues to evolve, SOLIDWORKS remains a reliable partner for professionals seeking to bring their design visions to life with greater ease and effectiveness.
Working offline in 3DEXPERIENCE SOLIDWORKS allows you to continue working on your CAD models even when you don’t have an internet connection. Here are the steps to work offline in 3DEXPERIENCE SOLIDWORKS:
Step #1: Save Your Files Locally
1 – Open the 3DEXPERIENCE SOLIDWORKS application on your computer.
2 – Log into the 3DEXPERIENCE platform.
3 – Open the model or file you plan to work on while offline. You can do this by either dragging and dropping it into SOLIDWORKS or choosing “Open from 3DEXPERIENCE.”
4 – Make sure to lock the file and its components on the platform to prevent others from making changes while you work offline.
5 – The file is now cached locally on your computer.
Step #2: Switch to Offline Mode
1 – In the upper right corner of the SOLIDWORKS interface, click on your user icon.
2 – Click the globe icon next to ‘Work Offline.’
3 – A dialog box will appear, providing information about working offline and allowing you to set the offline time (up to 30 days).
4 – Click ‘OK’ to switch to offline mode.
Step #3: Work Offline
1 – While working offline, you can make changes to your locally cached files.
2 – Save your changes using local save options like ‘Save to This PC’ or ‘Save As New.’
3 – You can continue working on your files without an internet connection.
Step #4: Save Your Files Back Online
1 – To switch back to online mode, click your user icon again and then click the globe icon next to ‘Work Offline.’
2 – Open the files you saved locally while offline.
3 – Use the SOLIDWORKS save options, including ‘Save to 3DEXPERIENCE,’ to save your files back to the 3DEXPERIENCE platform.
4 – Your files are now synchronized with the online platform, and you can continue working online.
Remember that you can work offline for a maximum of 30 consecutive days. Ensure you plan your offline work in advance and save the necessary files locally before going offline. Additionally, create desktop shortcuts for locally installed apps to access them while offline.
Working offline in 3DEXPERIENCE SOLIDWORKS allows you to be productive even when you don’t have an internet connection. This feature can be particularly useful for remote work or situations where a stable internet connection is not available.
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:
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.
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.
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.”
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.
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:
In the world of modern manufacturing, where precision and efficiency reign supreme, the role of a Shop Floor Programmer has emerged as a crucial cog in the production machine. But what exactly does a Shop Floor Programmer do, and why is it so vital in today’s manufacturing landscape? In this article, we’ll demystify the Shop Floor Programmer role, both on the 3DEXPERIENCE platform and on the production floor, and shed light on why it’s an indispensable part of the quickly digitalizing modern manufacturing process.
The Shop Floor Programmer: A Key Player in CNC Machining
At its core, the Shop Floor Programmer is the mastermind behind the CNC (Computer Numerical Control) machines on the shop floor. These professionals are responsible for translating intricate design blueprints and concepts into a language that machines can understand and execute. In essence, they bridge the gap between design and reality, turning digital visions into tangible products.
Structured Roles on the 3DEXPERIENCE platform
Roles on the 3DEXPERIENCE platform are meticulously designed to mirror vital positions within the industry, ensuring that users have access to the apps, tools, and capabilities on the platform they’ll need to excel in their position. The Shop Floor Programmer role is no exception, as it’s crafted to empower professionals in CNC machining and shop floor management with a comprehensive toolkit to meet the demands of manufacturing.
Equipping Shop Floor Programmers for Success
To excel in the Shop Floor Programmer role, on the 3DEXPERIENCE platform, and in the manufacturing industry at large, individuals need a combination of technical prowess and a deep understanding of the manufacturing process. Here are the essential tools and skills that empower them to thrive:
CNC Programming Expertise: Proficiency in CNC programming is at the core of the role. This includes understanding the intricacies of toolpath generation, G-code programming, and machine kinematics.
CAD Design Familiarity: A solid grasp of computer-aided design (CAD) is essential for maintaining CAD-associativity and ensuring that design changes seamlessly propagate to CNC programs.
Simulation Proficiency: Mastery of simulation tools is crucial to validate CNC programs, detect potential issues, and optimize machining operations. This requires an eye for detail and a knack for problem-solving.
Machining Process Knowledge: Shop Floor Programmers must be well-versed in various machining processes, tool assemblies, and CNC accessories to create efficient and collision-free programs.
Adaptability: The modern manufacturing landscape is constantly evolving. Shop Floor Programmers must stay updated with the latest industry trends and technologies to adapt to changes effectively.
3DEXPERIENCE platform Mastery: Finally, expertise in navigating and utilizing the 3DEXPERIENCE platform’s features and capabilities is fundamental. This includes harnessing the CNC Programming Wizard, CAD-associative instant update, toolpath verification, and more.
By equipping themselves with these essential tools and skills, professionals can excel in the Shop Floor Programmer role, ensuring the seamless translation of design concepts into high-precision, real-world products. This structured approach not only empowers individuals but also elevates the entire manufacturing process, contributing to enhanced efficiency, reduced downtime, and ultimately, greater success in the industry.
How does the Shop Floor Programmer role on the 3DEXPERIENCE platform help?
The Shop Floor Programmer role on the 3DEXPERIENCE platform provides users with a comprehensive set of tools and features that significantly enhance their daily tasks and responsibilities in CNC machining and shop floor management.
Streamlines CNC Programming: The role simplifies the creation of CNC programs by offering an intuitive programming wizard. This means that users, even those with limited programming experience, can efficiently generate CNC programs for a wide range of machining operations, reducing the time and effort required.
Ensures CAD-Associativity: Users can maintain strong associativity between their CNC programs and the original CAD designs. This instant-update feature ensures that any design changes are automatically reflected in the CNC program, reducing the risk of errors, and ensuring that the manufacturing process remains synchronized with design updates.
Facilitates Toolpath Verification: Shop Floor Programmers can quickly verify and fine-tune toolpaths using the platform’s toolpath verification and editing capabilities. This enables them to identify and rectify any issues before they lead to costly errors during actual machining, reducing downtime and material wastage.
Enables Advanced Simulation: The role empowers users to visualize and simulate CNC programs in a virtual environment. This capability allows them to detect accessibility problems, tool collisions, or other potential issues before they occur on the shop floor. It’s like having a digital testing ground to ensure program safety.
Supports Prismatic and Wire EDM Operations: Users can create CNC programs for both prismatic machining and Wire EDM operations, expanding their capabilities to handle a wide variety of manufacturing needs.
Maximizes Machine Tool Utilization: Shop Floor Programmers can optimize CNC programs to reduce non-value-added motions, minimize machining cycle times, and prevent collisions with other in-process parts. This efficient programming helps maximize machine tool utilization, leading to increased productivity.
Mitigates Production Risks: By considering the physical environment of the CNC machines, tool assemblies, and accessories, the Shop Floor Programmer role helps reduce the risk of unexpected issues and production delays. Users can create CNC programs that are tailored to the specific machine and tooling, ensuring a smoother production process.
Leverages Intellectual Property: Users can define and store machining processes as templates, standardizing and automating repetitive tasks. This not only saves time but also ensures consistency in manufacturing, leveraging the company’s intellectual property and enhancing productivity.
Facilitates Rapid Response to Changes: With native associativity between machining programs and engineering/manufacturing data, users can quickly adapt to design changes or variations. This ability to respond effectively to engineering or manufacturing changes ensures a smoother transition from design to production.
In essence, the Shop Floor Programmer role on the 3DEXPERIENCE platform equips users with the tools and capabilities needed to streamline CNC programming, reduce errors, optimize machining processes, and mitigate production risks. It empowers them to excel in their daily jobs by making CNC programming more efficient, precise, and adaptable to the demands of modern manufacturing.
Why the Shop Floor Programmer Matters
The Shop Floor Programmer plays a pivotal role in ensuring that the manufacturing process runs smoothly and efficiently. By creating efficient NC programs and validating them through simulation, Shop Floor Programmers help minimize downtime due to errors or unexpected issues during production. They employ strategies to optimize toolpaths, reduce non-value-added motion, and avoid collisions, ultimately reducing the machining cycle time and maximizing machine tool utilization.
Shop Floor Programmers consider the physical environment of the CNC machines, tool assemblies, and accessories, reducing the risk of unexpected problems that could lead to production delays. Storing and reusing machining processes as templates not only saves time but also ensures consistency in manufacturing, leveraging a company’s intellectual property for greater productivity. With strong associativity between machining programs and design data, the Shop Floor Programmer role enables concurrent engineering, shortening the design-to-manufacturing cycle and allowing rapid responses to changes.
In conclusion, the Shop Floor Programmer is not just a behind-the-scenes operator; they are the orchestrators of precision and efficiency on the manufacturing floor. Their ability to create, validate, and optimize CNC programs, while seamlessly integrating them with design data, is instrumental in meeting the demands of modern manufacturing. As technology continues to advance, the role of Shop Floor Programmers will only become more critical in ensuring that businesses stay competitive and deliver top-quality products to the market.
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:
Seamlessly transition from SOLIDWORKS Desktop to 3DEXPERIENCE SOLIDWORKS, and experience a new dimension of design and collaboration. With secure cloud data management, increased collaboration capabilities, and reduced IT administration, 3DEXPERIENCE SOLIDWORKS empowers your team to work smarter and faster.
Option 2: Upgrade to SOLIDWORKS TERM w/Cloud Services
Opt for SOLIDWORKS TERM with Cloud Services, a flexible and convenient option that combines the power of SOLIDWORKS with the benefits of cloud-based solutions. Say goodbye to traditional licensing hassles and welcome easy deployment and automatic updates for a seamless design experience.
Promotion Perks:
This promotion covers both Standalone and Network licenses (SNL), making it suitable for businesses of all sizes.
Take advantage of the promotion price and add as many new licenses (3DEXPERIENCE SOLIDWORKS or SOLIDWORKS TERM w/Cloud Services) as you need on the same Purchase Order, with no limit on extra seats.
Enjoy the promotion discount for 3 years, whether purchased annually or upfront.
Even after the promotion period, you’ll continue to benefit with a 25% discount on successive years.
Option 1: For licenses <1 year expired( Pay 2 Years Forward Upfront )
Get back on track with SOLIDWORKS CAD w/Cloud Services. By paying upfront for the next two years, you not only regain access to the powerful features of SOLIDWORKS but also enjoy cloud services to boost collaboration and efficiency.
Promotion Perks:
No need to worry about backdating and penalties. We’ll waive them for you!
Regain access to your design projects and continue where you left off, without any interruptions.
Option 2: For licenses >1 year expired ( Pay 3 Years Forward Upfront )
If your license has been expired for over a year, we understand the urgency to get back in the game. With this option, you can secure SOLIDWORKS CAD ALC w/Cloud Services.
Promotion Perks:
Our team is here to support your reintegration process, and we’ll waive backdating and penalties for a smooth transition.
Take advantage of the comprehensive SOLIDWORKS suite and unleash your creativity with the latest tools and features.
