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      <title>Collaborative Engineering</title>
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      <description>Collaborative Engineering</description>
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      <title>
      <![CDATA[ What’s New in SOLIDWORKS Visualize R2025x FD02 ]]>
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      <link>https://blog-contrib-prd.itvpc.solidworks.com/products/solidworks/whats-new-in-solidworks-visualize-r2025x-fd02/</link>
      <guid>https://blogs.solidworks.com/guid/21802</guid>
      <pubDate>Wed, 11 Jun 2025 12:00:42 GMT</pubDate>
      <description>
      <![CDATA[ Create more dynamic scenes for your renderings with the randomized transform options…
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      <![CDATA[ With SOLIDWORKS Visualize you don’t have to be an expert in rendering. The rendering solution features easy-to-use tools that enable you to quickly create compelling, more realistic renderings and scenes. In the latest update of SOLIDWORKS Visualize, R2025x FD02, we’ve added even more functionality to help you create more natural scenes that help you bring your designs to life. Here’s a look at what’s new:Random Position, Rotation, and Scale for Scene Elements – create more realistic renders of collections of objects.Create more dynamic and realistic renderings with the ability to randomize the Position, Scale, and Rotation of groups of models. Simply select a group of models from the Models tab, then click on the Relative Transforms tab. Under Relative Transforms, choose the parameters you want to randomize (Position, Rotation, Scale), choose the parameter range, and then toggle through the Random Seeds to select the best results for your scene.The sliding scale under Relative Transforms allows you to quickly experiment with various transformations for your group of models to produce different scene setups. It’s an easy way to check out the possibilities and set up your scene.The random Transform options are also great if you are dealing with collections of the same object, say a bowl of apples, as you can quickly scale them to different sizes to create a more natural setting.To learn more about the various settings, check out this page.Support Denoiser for CPU Render Mode – receive cleaner results faster.Create high-quality renderings faster, in fewer passes, with the ability to enable the Denoiser in CPU render, in addition to GPU mode.For those not familiar, the Denoiser helps reduce the time it takes to render high-quality images. It uses machine learning to filter out noise from renderings produced with Fast and Accurate render modes to produce professional renderings in fewer passes. For example, if a scene routinely needs 500 passes without the Denoiser, specifying 50 passes when the Denoiser is on may achieve the same rendering quality. You can learn more here.In the past, the Denoiser was not available in CPU render mode, but now everyone can benefit from using the Denoiser.To learn more about using the Denoiser for CPU Rendering, check out this page.To see these enhancements in action, log in to the What’s New page on the 3DSwym Community here.To see what else is new, see my last blog here.Did you know that 3DEXPERIENCE SOLIDWORKS is now available through our online store? Discover what it can do for you. ]]>
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      <title>
      <![CDATA[ How to Run SOLIDWORKS on a Mac ]]>
      </title>
      <link>https://blog-contrib-prd.itvpc.solidworks.com/products/solidworks/how-to-run-solidworks-on-a-mac/</link>
      <guid>https://blogs.solidworks.com/guid/22521</guid>
      <pubDate>Mon, 18 Nov 2024 13:00:30 GMT</pubDate>
      <description>
      <![CDATA[ Can you run SOLIDWORKS on a Mac? It’s one of the most…
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      <![CDATA[ One of the most common questions we get asked is “Can I run SOLIDWORKS on a Mac?” While the answer is now yes, there are some caveats. SOLIDWORKS does not run natively on macOS, which means you’ll have to implement some workarounds.Our browser-based tools, however, enable you to access professional-grade design functionalities directly from your browser. Those apps will run on any internet-connected device with no system modifications needed. Ready to learn more? Let’s dive in.SOLIDWORKS on a Mac via Virtualization and/or ParallelsOver the years, we’ve received a number of inquiries about Mac compatibility for our software. In response, we updated our system requirements to include various virtualization options. Using an application like Boot Camp, you can run Windows, rather than macOS, on your Mac device upon system startup in order to launch SOLIDWORKS. Or, you could use Parallels, which runs on macOS and launches a virtual session of Windows, through which you would be able to open and run SOLIDWORKS.However, we cannot recommend the use of virtualization or parallels over the traditional PC experience. While you can certainly use one of the workarounds mentioned above, some functionality will be limited. Not only do these workarounds require a significant amount of computing power, they also do not necessarily account for the graphics requirements needed to run SOLIDWORKS successfully. Most Macs do not come standard with the graphics cards necessary to run SOLIDWORKS. For a full list of approved graphics cards, visit our Hardware Certification page.So, while it’s possible to run SOLIDWORKS on a Mac via these workarounds, there will be limits on the experience using the software. Plus, you will need to be prepared for these solutions to require significant computing power and system modification. If you’re interested in exploring one of these options, reach out to your local reseller for support. The video below details these options further, as well as providing some insight into the potential limitations that come with running the software on a Mac.SOLIDWORKS Browser-Based SolutionsSeparate from our traditional desktop installation, solutions in the SOLIDWORKS Cloud Offer are able to run fully in your browser. The SOLIDWORKS Cloud Offer includes applications for parametric design, freeform design, sheet metal design, structure design, rendering, and detailing for manufacturing, in addition to lifecycle and data management and collaboration capabilities. Check out our page dedicated to the SOLIDWORKS Cloud Offer for a full breakdown of what this offer entails.Other SOLIDWORKS Applications for MacSOLIDWORKS also offers some additional applications for Mac, including eDrawings Viewer for macOS, and eDrawings and eDrawings Professional for iOS. DraftSight is also available for macOS download. Each of these applications offers its own distinct functionalities. For more information, visit the respective links included above.ConclusionSo, to answer the question “Does SOLIDWORKS run on a Mac,?” the answer is yes and no. It’s possible to run SOLIDWORKS on a Mac device via various virtualization tools, but this is not the recommended experience due to graphics and performance limitations that virtualization alone cannot yet solve for.Our browser-based tools, however, allow for powerful design solutions directly in your browser, and these apps can run on any connected device with identical performance. Plus, we offer additional apps, such as eDrawings Viewer and DraftSight, which have native Mac functionality.If you’re curious as to whether or not your current system specifications meet those required to run SOLIDWORKS, you can find more information on our SOLIDWORKS System Requirements page.If you’re interested in exploring any of these options further, we encourage you to contact your local reseller to see how they can help you find the best solution for you.  ]]>
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      <title>
      <![CDATA[ Unleashing the Future: SOLIDWORKS Extended Reality (XR) – A Dive into Immersive 3D Experiences ]]>
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      <link>https://blog-contrib-prd.itvpc.solidworks.com/products/solidworks/unleashing-the-future-solidworks-extended-reality-xr-a-dive-into-immersive-3d-experiences/</link>
      <guid>https://blogs.solidworks.com/guid/23583</guid>
      <pubDate>Fri, 15 Dec 2023 13:00:05 GMT</pubDate>
      <description>
      <![CDATA[ Imagine the thrill of holding your 3D design in the palm of…
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      <![CDATA[ Imagine the thrill of holding your 3D design in the palm of your hands or diving headfirst into a mesmerizing virtual world. Now, lets turn that imagination into reality.Brace yourselves for the thrilling news, the Extended Reality (XR) exporter is now at your fingertips in both SOLIDWORKS and SOLIDWORKS Visualize 2024 SP0! Get ready to elevate your design experience to unprecedented heights.Think of Extended Reality (XR) as a magical umbrella that covers all the cool immersive tech like Augmented Reality (AR), Virtual Reality (VR), and Mixed Reality (MR).It’s your passport to a whole new dimension of awesome experiences!
Augmented Reality (AR) transforms your world by seamlessly blending digital information and virtual objects into your real-life surroundings.
Example: Arranging a virtual furniture item within an office space.
Virtual Reality (VR) takes you on a journey into a simulated virtual world. Whether through a VR headset, VR room, or haptic feedback device, dive into a captivating three-dimensional environment for exploration and interaction.
Example: Take a leisurely stroll through the luxurious interior of a private jet plane.
Mixed Reality (MR), also known as hybrid reality, brings together the best of both worlds, blending the actual reality of the physical world around us with the immersive power of virtual reality. Experience MR magic with devices like Microsoft HoloLens, Magic Leap, and other MR headsets.
Example:  Drop a 3D design right onto your table while you’re standing there. Feel free to spin it, move it, and dive into interaction. Experiment with different colors or even trigger an explosive view. Your space, your digital design playground!All of this sounds incredible! Now, how can I craft and export my own XR experience?
In SOLIDWORKS CAD 2024 Standard, Professional and Premium

Access it by navigating to “File > Save as type > Extended Reality” in the File Menu.

Our XR output will now use *.glTF and *.glb file types. They’re super light and can zip 3D stuff between apps at lightning speed. Fast runtime, quick uploads/downloads, and they make interactive 3D magic on web pages. They’re basically the “JPEG of 3D” because they’re just that awesome!

These innovative file formats (.glTF and .glb) seamlessly integrates advanced features from your SOLIDWORKS file, such as:
o   Geometry &#038; Scene Hierarchyo   Appearances &#038; Textureso   Lights and Cameraso   Exploded Viewso   Motion Study Animationso   Display States and Configurations
In SOLIDWORKS Visualize 2024 Standard and Professional

Navigate to “File > Export” to access it. In the “Save as type” option, you can export in formats like *.glTF, *.glb, and a Draco compression version.

The Draco extension to glTF allows creators to compress mesh data within glTF files, significantly reducing file sizes.

 If you’re a SOLIDWORKS Visualize Professional user seeking Nvidia Holodeck output, I recommend using the “File > Export > Export to NVIDIA Holodeck,” option.
In a nutshell, Extended Reality (XR) rocks our world! It changes how we play with digital stuff, learn new things, team up with others, and explore the awesomeness around us. XR brings innovation to different areas, making our personal and work lives way cooler. And you know what’s super exciting? XR tech is only getting started. ]]>
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      <title>
      <![CDATA[ Tips and Tricks for Creating Realistic Renders in 3DEXPERIENCE SOLIDWORKS Visualize ]]>
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      <link>https://blog-contrib-prd.itvpc.solidworks.com/products/solidworks/tips-and-tricks-for-creating-realistic-renders-in-3dexperience-solidworks-visualize/</link>
      <guid>https://blogs.solidworks.com/guid/24677</guid>
      <pubDate>Thu, 29 Dec 2022 13:00:18 GMT</pubDate>
      <description>
      <![CDATA[ Learn a few tips and tricks that will help guide you to…
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      <![CDATA[ Anyone can simply import a 3DEXPERIENCE SOLIDWORKS part or assembly model into 3DEXPERINCE SOLIDWORKS Visualize and hit render. Will the results look great, possibly? To improve your chances of success, here’s a few tips and tricks that will help guide you to creating realistic renders in 3DEXPERIENCE SOLIDWORKS Visualize.
Appearances and Textures – both appearances and textures play a crucial role in making your model look interesting and feel more realistic. If you look closely at any object in the real world, every object has a texture finish to it.
Example: glass table, you will often see imperfections such as scratches and dust.If you look at your keyboard or computer mouse, it will more than likely have a plastic rough-textured finish to it.Try using the stock appearances library content that comes with SOLDIDWORKS Visualize as a starting point. SOLIDWORKS Visualize offers hundreds of stock appearances to select from.Then, in the Palette > Appearances tab, select the applied appearance and add a bump or displacement map texture to bring your design to life.Once you get a hang of editing and creating SOLIDWORKS Visualize appearances, take it the next level with Physically Based Rendering (PBR) materials. Read more about it here.
 Rounded Edges – sharp edges on any model is a dead giveaway for unrealistic render.
Often times it is recommend to add a bevel to all sharp edges in 3DEXPERIENCE SOLIDWORKS before importing into 3DEXPERIENCE SOLIDWORKS Visualize. However, to save time 3DEXPERIENCE SOLIDWORKS Visualize has a feature called “Corner Radius,” to help round the unwanted sharp edges for more realism.
Camera Composition – Choosing the right camera composition is key to making a successful photorealistic render.
3DEXPERIENCE SOLIDWORKS Visualize provides several camera features that will help you determine the best composition to capture the viewer’s visual attention.The Cameras “Rules of Thirds Overlay,” is a great starting point to help place your camera and model in interesting ways. Symmetry is a key balance to naturally appealing to the viewer’s eye. Sometimes having the same amount of negative space on each side of a model can help.Match Camera is a fantastic feature for matching the cameras perspective with a backplate image. The Match Camera tool can be activated by selecting the camera in the Palette > Cameras tab, then under the General sub tab, then select “Match Camera.”Depth of Field and Motion Blur are other key features to 3DEXPERIENCE SOLIDWORKS Visualize cameras that will help add realism to your image and tell deeper story.
Lighting the Scene – properly illuminating the scene significally brings out various details of the model with realistic reflections, refractions and soft shadows.  Without proper lighting your rendering will look unappealing and boring.
SOLIDWORKS Visualize offers different ways of lighting your scene. High Dynamic Range (HDR) environments, physical lights (Area, Directional, Spot and IES Profiles) and Emissive Appearances.Best of all, SOLIDWORKS Visualize library content offers a variety of lighting content to select from.I hope these tips and tricks help guide you to creating realistic renders in 3DEXPERIENCE SOLIDWORKS Visualize. You can also catch my session on Deep Dive into SOLIDWORKS Visualize Latest Features at the upcoming 3DEXPEREINCE World 2023 taking place in Nashville, Tennessee February 12-15, 2023. You can now register here. ]]>
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      <title>
      <![CDATA[ Top Ten Design-to-Manufacturing Enhancements in SOLIDWORKS 2022 ]]>
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      <link>https://blog-contrib-prd.itvpc.solidworks.com/products/solidworks/top-ten-design-to-manufacturing-enhancements-in-solidworks-2022/</link>
      <guid>https://blogs.solidworks.com/guid/25997</guid>
      <pubDate>Wed, 03 Nov 2021 12:00:22 GMT</pubDate>
      <description>
      <![CDATA[ Let’s take a quick look at the top ten design to manufacturing…
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      <![CDATA[ Earlier this fall, Dassault Systèmes launched SOLIDWORKS® 2022, part of our portfolio of 3D design solutions. SOLIDWORKS 2022 features performance enhancements and expanded functionalities that improve workflows for design, documentation, data management, and validation. In addition, the connection to the 3DEXPERIENCE Platform, as well as to the entire 3DEXPERIENCE® Works portfolio, has been expanded, letting you tackle more challenges, from design to manufacturing, while enabling cloud-based computing and collaboration.Let’s take a quick look at my favorite top ten design-to-manufacturing enhancements in SOLIDWORKS 2022.1) Assembly Performance and WorkflowWork faster with large assemblies through expanded workflows and improved performance. Save time when opening, closing, and saving assemblies with improved performance for these functions. Open subassemblies faster using Large Design Review mode. From your assembly in Large Design Review mode, open subassemblies in Large Design Review mode or resolved mode.2) Expanded Use of Detailing ModeSave time when opening and detailing a SOLIDWORKS drawing. Access Detailing mode for all drawings, regardless of the SOLIDWORKS version you saved them in or whether you saved them in Detailing mode. Open a drawing in Detailing mode directly from an assembly in Large Design Review mode.3) More Efficient Geometric Dimensioning and TolerancingWork faster and more intuitively when tolerancing your designs. Work directly in the graphics area guided by the user interface in building feature control frames cell by cell. Create tolerance frames per ISO 1101:2017 and the associated standards of ISO 2692, ISO 5458, ISO 5459, and ISO 8015.4) eDrawings Viewer Enhancements in SOLIDWORKS PDMSave significant time when previewing your SOLIDWORKS files. Access all eDrawings® features from within Microsoft® File Explorer. Switch from a bitmap image to an eDrawings 3D model using a new Load Preview button. Use the markup icon that indicates if annotations are available for this file.5) Blended Curvature-Based Mesh Is Now the DefaultSave time with more robust and efficient mesh capabilities. Successfully mesh bodies that didn’t mesh before with the enhanced Blended Curvature-Based Mesh. Specify mesh controls on bodies outside the global range to reduce mesh size and expedite solution time.6) Streamlined Plastics Simulation WorkflowsStreamline your plastics simulation workflow with the new Plastics Manager and Plastics Material data updates. Obtain recommendations for up to four suitable injection locations, as well as a preview of how the part will fill.7) Improved DWG-based Design and CommunicationEase the transition from AutoCAD to DraftSight® and improve user productivity. Create customizable blocks to represent multiple configurations of one block to simplify communications. Convert and edit AutoCAD® Dynamic Blocks to reuse legacy DWG files.8) Improved Electrical Design and DocumentationSave time when working with documentation, large projects, and routing.  Create more detailed and visual reports and more accurate electrical harness documentation for faster manufacturing. Speed up the creation of schematic, 2D and 3D designs for large projects. Accelerate the routing of 3D wires, cables, and harnesses.9) Streamlined Quality Control ProcessesSecurely manage and collaborate on your inspection projects on the 3DEXPERIENCE platform.   Fully automate the creation of inspection documents with the new APIs. Bring existing SOLIDWORKS drawings, parts, and assemblies directly into SOLIDWORKS Inspection.10) Improved Collaboration and Data Sharing Accelerate innovation and decision-making by connecting SOLIDWORKS 3D CAD to the cloud-based 3DEXPERIENCE platform, where you can easily manage and share all your data and collaborate with others. Using 3DEXPERIENCE SOLIDWORKS, access your favorite 3DEXPERIENCE commands from multiple places within SOLIDWORKS, including the File menu, Command Manager, and Context menu, with support for all 3DEXPERIENCE operations. Increase your competitive advantage by tapping into the power and breadth of the 3DEXPERIENCE Works portfolio.Learn MoreMany of the SOLIDWORKS 2022 enhancements have been developed to let you work smarter by focusing on high-value activities while letting the system handle more repetitive, routine, and time-consuming tasks. At the same time, SOLIDWORKS incorporates a range of specialized new improvements that make it faster than ever to execute sophisticated designs, such as configuration tables, part modeling enhancements, and hybrid modeling.More and more people are working remotely in today’s world, which typically requires an increasingly flexible environment. The 3DEXPERIENCE Works portfolio is a suite of tools from SOLIDWORKS and Dassault Systèmes that brings your entire organization together in one secure environment in the cloud.3DEXPERIENCE Works enables efficiencies across multiple stages of product development: concept, design, simulation, and manufacturing. Everyone works together—including management—from the same, real-time data.To discover the entire story of SOLIDWORKS 2022 or ask further questions or get a demo, please contact your local reseller. ]]>
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      <![CDATA[ Futureproof Your Product Design – 7 Technologies Your Design Solution Should Support ]]>
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      <link>https://blog-contrib-prd.itvpc.solidworks.com/products/solidworks/futureproof-your-product-design-7-technologies-your-design-solution-should-support/</link>
      <guid>https://blogs.solidworks.com/guid/26079</guid>
      <pubDate>Tue, 19 Oct 2021 12:00:18 GMT</pubDate>
      <description>
      <![CDATA[ Learn more about keeping pace with the latest and greatest technologies that…
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      <![CDATA[ It can seem overwhelming to keep pace with the latest and greatest technologies that intersect with engineering and manufacturing: 3D printing, cloud computing, artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning, augmented reality, virtual reality, smart factories, and the internet of things (IoT). There is so much to consider, especially in a delicate economy that continually faces unpredictable disruptions.Even so, staying on top of new technologies can be essential for product innovation and remaining competitive in a worldwide market. There was a day when what had worked in the past would carry you into the future. However, old ways of doing things may no longer be enough. The stability and security of businesses may ironically rely upon their abilities to adapt and embrace change.Leveraging technology to your advantageTech-Clarity research finds that 84 percent of top-performing companies rate new technology as very important or extremely important to their innovation goals. Companies need to prepare now with the right design processes and tools to take advantage of the latest technologies. Those who ignore the latest trends may risk their survival. Let’s take a closer look at just three technologies that are impacting product development.(If you want to skip ahead and learn more details now, download Tech-Clarity’s research report  Futureproof Your Product Design – 7 Technologies Your Design Solution Should Support to learn how you can adopt the technologies that will help futureproof your business.)Alternative realitiesAugmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) are exciting technologies with potential. In an AR/VR environment, engineers can test their designs themselves. This will give them insights into design choices to ensure they are engineering the right customer experience.AR/VR can also offer a great way to improve collaboration with customers as you can offer your customers a realistic experience that isn’t possible when viewing a 3D model on a 2D screen. Customers can then provide feedback early in the design lifecycle so that engineers can consider their input before making physical prototypes.According to Tech Clarity, 24 percent of top-performing companies say AR/VR will help them become more competitive.The Internet of Things (IoT)Despite having a weird and slightly obscure name for an enabling technology, the IoT adds connectivity and intelligence, so that products can interact with their environments in innovative ways. Part of this is because the IoT creates opportunities to extend product value with new services.With IoT, companies can stay connected with their products, which in turn means connecting with their customers. Consequently, engineers can get insight into how customers actually use the product. With this insight, engineers can base their design decisions on proven customer use cases.Over a quarter of top-performing companies said the IoT will help them make more competitive products, according to Tech Clarity’s survey.New MaterialsAdvances in material science has created more applications and opportunities for additive manufacturing. Materials also create opportunities to reduce weight, improve energy efficiency, and increase durability. Plus, they enable innovations such as flexible electronics, smart materials that react to their environment, improved sustainability, and more.All of this can help companies offer something their competitors may not have.New materials do change product design; they have different properties that impact strength, integrity, weight, and performance. Engineers need to understand those properties to avoid over-engineering products while still meeting both requirements and cost targets.Thirty-six percent of top-performing companies report that new materials will improve their competitiveness.Cloud ComputingA large percentage (44%) of top-performing companies identify the cloud as a technology that will improve competitiveness over the next decade. In 2018, only 29% felt this way about the cloud, but results over the past few years prove real-world benefits to product development companies.The cloud lowers IT and maintenance costs and can minimize the requirements for expensive workstations, while making CAD more accessible on a variety of devices. Plus, resources can work from any location with an Internet connection and a web browser. It offers greater flexibility, making it easier to add team members or functionality based on project needs. This allows engineering needs to drive software requirements rather than IT decisions.Most importantly, from an engineering perspective, it breaks down departmental silos and makes it easier to share data and work together for both technical and non-technical team members.Futureproof Your BusinessCompanies must innovate to stay ahead of competitors and bring winning products to market faster than ever. Fortunately, technological advancements have created opportunities to increase innovation. However, to leverage these new technologies, companies must select the right design tools that best take advantage of technology breakthroughs. To be successful, you will need the right design tools to support product development. Learn more by downloading Tech-Clarity’s research report  Futureproof Your Product Design – 7 Technologies Your Design Solution Should Support to learn how you can adopt the technologies that will help futureproof your business.Or contact your local reseller to see how SOLIDWORKS and the cloud-based 3DEXPERIENCE platform can help you maximize new technologies to outpace the competition. ]]>
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      <![CDATA[ Nerding Out With GPUs, Visualize, and YouTube’s Linus Tech Tips ]]>
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      <link>https://blog-contrib-prd.itvpc.solidworks.com/products/solidworks/nerding-out-with-gpus-visualize-and-youtubes-linus-tech-tips/</link>
      <guid>https://blogs.solidworks.com/guid/27303</guid>
      <pubDate>Fri, 28 Aug 2020 12:00:54 GMT</pubDate>
      <description>
      <![CDATA[ Summer’s hot, and so are these renderings. Sit back, relax, and take…
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      <![CDATA[ It’s summer and here in Pennsylvania, we’ve had some blazing hot days. And, in some of their recent videos, Linus Tech Tips has showcased blazing fast renderings while testing powerful GPUs using SOLIDWORKS Visualize.No, I didn’t just write this article for the purpose of writing out that intro. But if I had, would you really blame me?Our friends at Linus Tech Tips are back using SOLIDWORKS products to explore a topic I can assure you that SOLIDWORKS users like myself love to geek out over. Namely: GPUs! Last time we checked in with them on the SOLIDWORKS Blog, we talked about how Linus and SOLIDWORKS Champion Alex Clark were busy using SOLIDWORKS Flow Simulation to perform transient analyses on cooling mods to an 8K camera.This time, they’re using SOLIDWORKS Visualize – their go-to in this area – to test, at a side-by-side level, the relative power of several GPU configurations on different engineering laptops.While these videos are hugely entertaining, I also want to note that there are many ways to ensure you’re working on a technically supported workstation configuration when it comes to SOLIDWORKS Visualize. One of the best ways is to check out this site, which contains recommended drivers for many popular cards from several manufacturers.Stay cool, and stay rendering! ]]>
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      <![CDATA[ Vermeer Corporation Accelerates Large Machinery Development with SOLIDWORKS ]]>
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      <link>https://blog-contrib-prd.itvpc.solidworks.com/products/solidworks/vermeer-corporation-accelerates-large-machinery-development/</link>
      <guid>https://blogs.solidworks.com/guid/27651</guid>
      <pubDate>Tue, 26 May 2020 12:00:04 GMT</pubDate>
      <description>
      <![CDATA[ SOLIDWORKS is helping enable the third generation of leadership at Vermeer Corporation…
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      <![CDATA[ In 1939 Gary Vermeer, a 21-year-old farmer with a passion for doing things, better, and faster, and easier, designed and built a cab for a John Deere tractor. While other farmers were freezing from exposure as they worked their Iowa fields in early spring, Vermeer stayed warm in his innovative cab.In 1943 Vermeer invented a mechanical wagon hoist that made unloading corn from many farms far easier, and fellow area farmers requested hoists for themselves. To fill that need, Vermeer and his cousin Ralph founded Vermeer Corporation in 1948, now a global leader in the manufacture of machinery and equipment for agriculture, biomass, tree care, landscape, rental, recycling, forestry, utility, pipeline, and mining markets.Vermeer’s philosophy for success has always been finding a need and filling that need with the best product. In 1971 Vermeer heard a friend was about to get rid of his cattle due to difficulty in finding at least four people to help put up his hay. Vermeer knew there had to be a better way, and developed the one-ton round hay baler, thereby changing hay baling into a one-man operation and transforming the hay industry.By the 1980s Vermeer Corporation was international. In the 1990s Vermeer’s horizontal directional drill technology enabled the quick installation of the network of underground fiber cables that helped advance the dot-com boom.Accelerating Development by Automating ProcessesToday Vermeer manufactures over 100 product models. To accomplish its goals, Vermeer needs to develop new equipment and machinery designs more efficiently. That’s why the company added SOLIDWORKS Simulation, product data management (PDM), and technical communication tools to streamline development.Vermeer has increased its development and production throughput with automated workflows with the SOLIDWORKS PDM system. The corporation has achieved additional system automation using the SOLIDWORKS Application Programming Interface (API).“We are constantly using SOLIDWORKS, PDM, and the API to their furthest extents to tie the tools together, automate workflow processes, and work better with SOLIDWORKS,” says Johnson.For example, Vermeer leverages the controlled and automated environment of the API to customize its design review and design checking process. The system pulls an eDrawings® file of each design, and design checkers provide feedback via its markup capabilities.SOLIDWORKS PDM also pays dividends at Vermeer by automating the company’s engineering change (ECN) process. “Our ECN process is quite complex with a different series of tasks for various personnel,” Johnson notes. “All these things have to be done before an engineering change is made, with several checks and balances built into the process.”SOLIDWORKS PDM controls the entire process, which guarantees each user follows all the steps they are responsible for. This automation ensures no step is missed while accelerating and improving ECN management.Leveraging Design Data Across EnterpriseIn addition to automating design and engineering tasks, the SOLIDWORKS PDM system at Vermeer benefits other related functions, including Manufacturing, Purchasing, and Technical Writing Groups.Personnel in these areas use SOLIDWORKS PDM contributor licenses to access and leverage design data—for production referencing, quoting, and documentation/illustration development. With SOLIDWORKS Composer software, the Technical Writing Group can more quickly and easily transform SOLIDWORKS design models into 3D renderings and exploded-view illustrations.“Anyone who needs a drawing can use PDM to get it,” Johnson points out. “Manufacturing personnel can print drawings on the shop floor, Purchasing can get drawings for quotes, and Technical Writing can obtain models for manipulation in SOLIDWORKS Composer without having design edit access.With SOLIDWORKS Composer software, Vermeer technical writers can more easily transform SOLIDWORKS design models into 3D renderings and exploded-view illustrations in product documentation without the help of the engineers who created the designs.“We anticipate dramatic improvements to our user, service, and parts manuals in the coming years,” says Johnson enthusiastically.Making Better Products FasterThe third generation of leadership at Vermeer Corporation is working to carry on Gary Vermeer’s passion for innovation and continuous improvement.“We are getting more and more efficient, and our development and production throughput have grown since we implemented SOLIDWORKS Product Data Management (PDM),” says Greg Johnson, project engineer, engineering applications. “Our machines involve very large assemblies—some in the 10,000-part range—so finding ways to automate processes is important.”Check out Vermeer corporation’s website to learn more about their products. To see how SOLIDWORKS can help you innovate both design and internal product development processes, contact your local reseller. ]]>
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      <![CDATA[ Designing Freedom for Disabled People to Enjoy the Great Outdoors ]]>
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      <link>https://blog-contrib-prd.itvpc.solidworks.com/products/solidworks/designing-freedom-for-disabled-people-to-enjoy-the-great-outdoors/</link>
      <guid>https://blogs.solidworks.com/guid/27934</guid>
      <pubDate>Mon, 23 Mar 2020 14:18:08 GMT</pubDate>
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      <![CDATA[ Christian Bagg develops wheelchairs, skis, and bikes that enable paraplegics, quadriplegics, and…
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      <![CDATA[ In 1996 Christian Bagg was a 20-year-old outdoor enthusiast living large when a snowboarding accident left him paralyzed from the waist down.After his injury, Bagg wanted to return to a life of doing whatever he wanted, which involved an unabashed love of the outdoors and, let’s face it, being an adrenaline junkie. Still, even readily available wheelchairs would not adequately accommodate his considerable height, much less avail him of the needed freedom his thrill seeking requires. That motivated Bagg to spend the past two decades developing wheelchairs, skis, and other conveyances that enable paraplegics, quadriplegics, and other disabled people to visit and explore the great outdoors.Bagg’s most prized invention is a mountain bike he designed and built for himself. Little did he know that loaning one of his bikes to a camp for disabled children would change his life—again. Bagg 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.Her exclamation after the ride: “Best day of my life!” was a turning point for Bagg. Her incredible joy helped galvanize the mission of the company he eventually founded: He would make access to mountain trails, woodland hikes, and the beauty of the great outdoors a reality for disabled people around the world.Bagg was studying to be a machinist when he was injured, so he had knowledge of how things work, but minimal design skills. The powerful and easy-to-use capabilities of SOLIDWORKS® compensated for his lack of design experience.When he first envisioned an electric-powered, three-wheeled bike with a two-wheel articulating front end, he bought a Markforged 3D printer. He asked Will Gill, whom he knew from the University of Calgary machine shop, if he could run the printer and help create a 3D-printed prototype out of carbon fiber.Thus their new company, Bowhead Corp. (named for the headwaters of the Bow River in the Canadian Rockies), was born. Gill had used SOLIDWORKS 3D design tools as a student and liked how easily the software interfaced with Markforged carbon-fiber 3D printers.Therefore, he and Bagg chose SOLIDWORKS for Entrepreneurs for its design, simulation, communication, and visualization tools to complete the development of their innovative bike, the Bowhead Reach®, a hybrid between a mountain bike and an all-terrain vehicle (ATV).With SOLIDWORKS for Entrepreneurs Gill completely redrew Bagg’s design, taking the concept to the next level. SOLIDWORKS for Entrepreneurs then enabled the pair to cut a full year off the development cycle of the Bowhead Reach by reducing the number of prototyping cycles and leveraging 3D printing for development, prototyping, and production—all at dramatically lower cost than a more traditional design and manufacturing path would incur.“The Reach required complicated configurations and complex 3D-printed assemblies, for which SOLIDWORKS provides the perfect solution. By driving design iterations with SOLIDWORKS and 3D printing, we were able to launch the Reach sooner than anticipated due to reduced prototyping time,” Gill explains.SOLIDWORKS’ capability of facilitating the creation of complex assemblies using multi-body parts is especially advantageous to Bowhead. Instead of 3D printing unwieldy components or assemblies of several large parts, Gill used SOLIDWORKS’ multi-body part design tools to create what he calls “Lego®-type” designs, in which large parts or assemblies are broken down into multiple bodies—like Lego bricks. Once printed, these parts click together to form larger parts or an assembly. “By driving design iterations with SOLIDWORKS and 3D printing, we were able to
launch the Reach sooner than anticipated due to reduced prototyping time.”The first Bowhead Reach bike was delivered to the first customer in November 2018, and Bagg and Gill learned that riders were not content with just riding the bike but were jumping it over obstacles.“When we first designed the Reach, we didn’t think that people would be jumping it eight feet into the air,” Gill explains. “After learning more about how our customers use the bike, we took our base design and made modifications to support specialized uses, such as beefing up the shock absorber for jumping or replacing the throttle and braking controls with forearm paddles for use by quadriplegics.”“SOLIDWORKS for Entrepreneurs not only helped us launch the bike early, but it also has enabled us to address other functions and requirements quickly,” Gill continues. “Whether we’re conducting topology and simulation studies to create a lighter, stronger suspension; using SOLIDWORKS Composer to automate development of our user manual; or leveraging SOLIDWORKS Visualize to create exciting, compelling imagery, SOLIDWORKS solutions support our mission of helping disabled people enjoy the great outdoors.”Connect with Bowhead Corp. on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube. Listen to Christian Bagg’s story on SOLIDWORKS Born to Design podcast. And, please, feel free to share your comments below. ]]>
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      <![CDATA[ Faster Product Development Cycle Times with SOLIDWORKS Solutions ]]>
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      <link>https://blog-contrib-prd.itvpc.solidworks.com/products/solidworks/faster-product-development-cycle-times-with-solidworks-solutions/</link>
      <guid>https://blogs.solidworks.com/guid/28019</guid>
      <pubDate>Fri, 28 Feb 2020 13:00:25 GMT</pubDate>
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      <![CDATA[ CP Manufacturing’s initial migration from 2D to SOLIDWORKS 3D design resulted in…
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      <![CDATA[ Since 1977 CP Manufacturing has established itself as the world leader in manufacturing advanced systems and equipment for the recycling and waste industries, including the design, building, and installation of hundreds of waste recycling facilities and related material separation machinery and equipment worldwide, including the design of the first aluminum-can flatteners and densifiers.As a leading innovator, CP Manufacturing is known for its superior engineering and technology. As demand for CP’s custom-engineered plants and equipment continues to grow, the need to streamline processes, increase throughput, and expand product development has become critically important for supporting rapid, ongoing growth.Supporting Rapid GrowthCP Manufacturing’s initial migration from 2D to SOLIDWORKS 3D design resulted in 200 percent faster development cycles. CP’s implementation of SOLIDWORKS PDM Professional and automation achieved via SOLIDWORKS’ Application Programming Interface (API) produced 400 percent faster development cycles, helping support and sustain dramatic growth by the recycling systems manufacturer.According to Engineering Manager Jason Kerns, “We’ve had to move into a new facility that’s three times as large, we doubled the size of our engineering department, and we dramatically increased product development throughput. With SOLIDWORKS integrated solutions, we’ve been able to support rapid, sustainable growth without missing a beat, primarily because of our ability to automate sales, marketing, design, and production.”Automating ProcessesSOLIDWORKS PDM API has enabled CP Manufacturing to automate many of its product development and manufacturing workflows and tasks. CP has also integrated SOLIDWORKS PDM with its Epicor® enterprise resource planning (ERP) system, for example, to automatically:
        Create SOLIDWORKS models, associated visuals, and equipment lists from data in a sales layout
        Generate DXF® files to drive CP’s laser cutters, press brakes, and water-jet cutters
        Notify electrical engineering whenever BOM changes require motor horsepower modifications
        Upload BOM information directly into CP’s ERP system to drive preproduction planning without manual intervention
Kerns notes, “The flexibility that we enjoy automating processes with the SOLIDWORKS API saves us a ton of time and money.”Gaining a Competitive EdgeUsing both SOLIDWORKS Visualize Professional and SOLIDWORKS Composer™ with the Demo3DVR virtual reality (VR) plug-in for SOLIDWORKS enables CP to create compelling photo-realistic visuals and immersive VR-based representations of the company’s recycling facilities for customers and prospects.This gives CP a clear competitive edge: “The combination of all of our SOLIDWORKS visualization solutions really helps to set us apart,” Kerns notes.To read more details about using SOLIDWORKS to support rapid, sustained growth, go to https://www.solidworks.com/story/cp-manufacturing-inc. ]]>
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