SWOOD: The ideal woodworking design software

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SWOOD: The ideal woodworking design software

SOLIDWORKS is the gold standard for 3D CAD, used in many industries, including mechanical engineering and product design. However, as a timber design software, it has certain limitations in terms of 3D timber modelling and timber production optimisation. However, when it comes to wood design and manufacturing, there are some limitations, making the process less efficient and more error-prone.

This is where SWOOD, a supplement specially designed for cabinetry, carpentry, interior design, and even the current trend VanLife! comes into play. This solution brings features specific to the wood trade that perfectly complement SOLIDWORKS, facilitating the transition from design to production. In this article, we’ll explore in detail why SWOOD is a strategic choice for optimizing your wood designs in SOLIDWORKS, highlighting its benefits, features, and impact on the productivity and profitability of companies in the industry.

SOLIDWORKS: A Powerful but Generalist Foundation

SOLIDWORKS is widely recognized for its flexibility in mechanical and industrial design. Key strengths include:

An intuitive, parametric 3D environment facilitating the design of complex parts and assemblies
Extensive integration with analysis and simulation tools (material strength, airflow, kinematics, etc.)
Advanced management of assemblies and drawings for production
A rich ecosystem of plugins and third-party solutions to extend its capabilities according to the user’s needs

However, SOLIDWORKS remains a general-purpose software. In the context of wood design, several limitations are felt:

Lack of native management of panels and wood-based materials (MDF, laminate, plywood, etc.)
Complexity of creating specific connections (grooves, mortise and tenons, lamellos, etc.)
Lack of bookcases suitable for hardware components commonly used in layout and millwork
Need to develop macros or scripts to automate certain recurring tasks. It is in this context that SWOOD brings considerable added value.

Why is SWOOD an ideal add-inn for wood design?

SWOOD is a set of modules developed specifically for the wood sector, offering a complete solution tailored to the needs of carpenters and furniture manufacturers. Unlike other generalist software, SWOOD stands out for its dedicated approach, integrating a wood CAD plugin that automates the design and assembly of panels, hardware and specific machining. Through woodworking automation, SWOOD helps significantly reduce errors, optimize material usage, and speed up the transition from design to manufacturing, making the process smoother, more cost-effective, and designed to integrate seamlessly with SOLIDWORKS. In short, it offers dedicated tools that simplify the design and production of wooden furniture, fixtures and structures.

The main modules of SWOOD:

SWOOD Design:

Advanced panel management, with automated creation of cutouts and assemblies
Smart libraries Generation of detailed bills of hardware and standard elements (hinges, slidesmaterials to optimize purchasing and production, fasteners, etcalong with comprehensive SWOOD documentation tools for better project management.)
Generation of detailed bills of materials to optimize purchasing and production
Automation of wood assemblies and constraints

SWOOD CAM:

Machining module for generating CNC programs adapted to machines in the woodworking sector
Automatic recognition of drilling and machining
Machining simulation to detect possible errors before production
Support for 3, 4 and 5 axis machines

SWOOD Nesting:

Optimization of the placement of parts on the panels to limit falls and reduce costs
Advanced management of formats and machining priorities
Management of facades and grouping of items by blank slabs

SWOOD Center

Product configurator for the wood industry. The SWOOD Center is an advanced solution for configuring tailor-made products in the world of wood and fittings. Integrated with SOLIDWORKS, this configurator optimizes process design, production, and automation.

Why choose SWOOD Center?

1. Advanced customization

Parametric configuration of furniture and layouts
Managing Product Variants and Options
Dynamic visualization of changes

2. Workflow automation

Automatic generation of production files (drawings, bills of materials, CNC programs)
Integration with SWOOD Design and SWOOD CAM
Material optimization and error reduction

3. Time saving and efficiency

Reduced design time
Simplifying processes for technical and business teams
Improved responsiveness to customer requests

An ideal solution for manufacturers and fitters

Thanks to SWOOD Center, wood professionals can standardize their designs while offering tailor-made solutions to their customers. This configurator is particularly suitable for carpenters, fitters, kitchen designers and furniture manufacturers who want to modernize their design and manufacturing process.

By integrating SWOOD Center into your workflow, you can accelerate your product time-to-market while ensuring a reliable and accurate design.

The Benefits of an Integrated woodworking software

Using SOLIDWORKS and SWOOD together provides many benefits, including:

Time saving: Automation of repetitive tasks such as inserting fasteners, managing panels and exporting files for production
Reduction of errors: Consideration of the specificities of the wood from the design stage, thus limiting corrections during the manufacturing phase
Full shop floor compatibility: Ability to generate CNC files that can be used directly by machine tools
Cost optimization: Less scrap, better management of raw materials and reduction of production times
Improved collaboration: Easier integration with other departments in the company, including production and purchasing teams

These advantages allow manufacturers to gain in competitiveness while guaranteeing optimal quality to their customers.

In addition, with SWOOD, companies can streamline their design processes, reduce human error, and maximize shop floor efficiency.

SWOOD Testimonial: Reviews and Case Studies

Many carpentry and layout companies have successfully adopted SWOOD. Here is a concrete example:

Groupe Beaubois faced the challenge of improving the efficiency of its project and streamlining its operations. To achieve this, he needed to embrace technological advancements and integrate automation and robotization into his factory. However, he quickly realized that his design software played a vital role in facilitating the flow of information on his equipment. That’s when he discovered the SWOOD solution, which was specially designed for the wood industry.

Return on investment and development prospects

Investing in SWOOD represents an initial cost that is quickly amortized thanks to productivity gains. Here are a few things to consider:

Learning time: Quick training is often enough to master the basics of the software
Material savings: Better cutting management and reduced errors
Valuation of internal skills: Designers gain autonomy and efficiency

In the future, the integration of SWOOD with technologies like artificial intelligence and 3D printing could further improve the performance of the industry.

Now, it’s your turn to take control of your production with SWOOD

If your processes are disconnected and your work seems to be in silos! Whether you’re switching from one solution to another to get your production up and running, the SOLIDWORKS + SWOOD combination is a powerful, comprehensive solution that’s perfect for you. It helps optimize design, improve accuracy, and increase efficiency, while reducing costs and errors. By integrating SWOOD into your workflow, you ensure better control of your production and increased competitiveness in the market.

If you’d like to learn more about SWOOD and its integration with SOLIDWORKS, request a demo of SWOOD for wood design today and learn how to optimize your woodworking and layout projects! Contact us or request a demo today!

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

Eiger.io: Unlocking the Full Potential of Industrial 3D Printing

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Eiger.io: Unlocking the Full Potential of Industrial 3D Printing

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Unlock the power of industrial 3D printing

Imagine having a manufacturing assistant that not only slices your parts but also optimizes strength, reduces material waste, and seamlessly integrates into your workflow. Whether you’re an engineer designing custom aerospace brackets, a manufacturer producing strong, lightweight end-use parts, or an operations manager overseeing a fleet of industrial 3D printers, Eiger.io is designed to work for you. More than just a slicer, Eiger.io is a complete industrial 3D printing platform. It offers advanced simulation, real-time analytics, and an open API that allows you to automate and optimize production.

Let’s dive into how you can take full advantage of Eiger’s industrial 3D printing capabilities.

1. The Slicer: More Than Just G-Code for Industrial 3D Printing

If you’ve ever struggled with getting the perfect balance of strength and weight in your industrial 3D-printed parts, you’ll love what Eiger can do. Unlike generic slicers, Eiger is built specifically for Markforged’s high-performance industrial 3D printers, giving you intelligent control over fiber reinforcement and part strength.

Real-World Example: Reinforcing an Industrial Robotic Arm Bracket

Say you’re designing a robotic arm bracket for an industrial 3D printing application that needs to be both strong and lightweight. With traditional 3D printing, you might print it solid for strength, making it heavy and material-intensive. But with Eiger’s fiber reinforcement controls, you can strategically add carbon fiber layers along the bracket’s stress points, matching the strength of aluminum while keeping the weight low.

Continuous Fiber Reinforcement: Place carbon fiber, Kevlar, or fiberglass in key areas for superior strength.
Smart Layering: Adjust fiber placement per layer to reduce weight without compromising durability.
Cloud-Based Industrial Slicing: Upload, slice, and print from anywhere which is perfect for remote teams or multi-location industrial operations.

What Makes Eiger’s Metal X System Ideal for 3D Printing?

Eiger also streamlines metal 3D printing, taking the guesswork out of shrinkage and sintering. If you’re printing stainless steel tooling components or heat-resistant industrial brackets, Eiger ensures dimensional accuracy by automatically compensating for material transformations before you print.

With these tools, you’re not just slicing. You’re engineering optimized industrial 3D printing solutions for real-world applications.

2. Simulation & Optimization: Smarter Industrial 3D Printing

Ever printed an industrial part only to find it breaks under load? Or wasted material on unnecessary trial-and-error iterations? Eiger eliminates the guesswork with built-in simulation and optimization tools, allowing you to predict how your industrial 3D-printed parts will perform before printing.

Real-World Example: Optimizing an Industrial Automotive Fixture

Imagine you’re designing a custom industrial fixture for an automotive assembly line. The part needs to withstand repetitive force but stay lightweight to avoid adding stress to robotic arms. Instead of printing multiple prototypes, you use Eiger’s simulation tools to:

Apply Real-World Industrial Forces: Virtually test how the fixture holds up under repeated loads.
Identify Weak Points: See where your design might fail before printing.
Auto-Optimize Fiber Placement: Adjust reinforcement only where needed, reducing print time and material use.

Result? You print a first-time-right industrial fixture that is stronger, lighter, and optimized for production without wasting time and materials on failed prints.

By leveraging Eiger Simulation, you reduce costly design iterations, improve part reliability, and ensure parts perform as expected right out of the industrial 3D printer.

3. Custom Analytics & Open API: Industrial 3D Printing at Scale

When you manage industrial 3D printing in an industrial manufacturing setting, you don’t just need a slicer. You need full visibility and automation. Whether you’re responsible for a single production line or a global fleet of industrial 3D printers, Eiger provides custom analytics and API integrations to give you complete control.

Use Case: Fleet Management in an Industrial 3D Printing Production Environment

You’re managing five industrial Markforged 3D printers across multiple locations. Instead of manually tracking print jobs, materials, and machine maintenance, Eiger provides a centralized dashboard that lets you:

Monitor all industrial 3D printers in real time: Know exactly which printers are running, which are idle, and what’s in the queue.
Automate Industrial 3D Print Job Submission: Set up an automated workflow where your ERP system submits print jobs when inventory is low.
Track Material Usage & Costs for Industrial 3D Printing: Get detailed reports on how much Onyx, carbon fiber, or metal filament is used, helping you manage budgets.

Open API: Fully Integrated Industrial 3D Printing Manufacturing

Eiger’s Open API takes automation even further by allowing you to integrate industrial 3D printing with existing manufacturing systems.

Example: Just-in-Time Industrial Production for Spare Parts

A factory maintenance team needs to replace a custom industrial sensor mount, but ordering one would take weeks. With an API-connected inventory system, Eiger can automatically detect low stock and trigger a print job, producing the part on-demand, in-house, within hours.

With this kind of integration, industrial companies can:

Reduce downtime by automating spare part production using industrial 3D printing.
Eliminate unnecessary stock by printing industrial 3D-printed parts only when needed.
Ensure consistency by pulling validated industrial 3D printing settings directly from their ERP system.

With Eiger.io’s analytics and open API, you’re not just printing—you’re optimizing an entire industrial 3D printing ecosystem.

Why Eiger.io is Built for Industrial 3D Printing Professionals?

No matter what industry you’re in aerospace, automotive, robotics, defense, or industrial manufacturing Eiger.io is built to make your industrial 3D printing smarter, stronger, and more efficient.

If you are a…

Design engineer needing high-performance industrial 3D-printed end-use parts → Eiger gives you fiber-reinforced strength with lightweight efficiency.
Production manager running multiple industrial 3D printers → Eiger lets you monitor, automate, and optimize print operations.
Manufacturer looking to integrate industrial 3D printing → Eiger’s API connects 3D printing with ERP and MES systems for seamless production planning.

Eiger.io: Your Industrial 3D Printing Powerhouse

Cloud-Based Industrial 3D Printing Convenience: Slice, print, and manage jobs from anywhere.
Advanced Fiber Control for Industrial Applications: Reinforce parts for aluminum-like strength.
Smart Simulation & Optimization for Industrial 3D Printing: Reduce failures and material waste.
Powerful Analytics & API for Industrial Manufacturing: Automate workflows and gain deeper insights.

With Eiger.io, you’re not just printing. You’re engineering, optimizing, and scaling industrial 3D printing for the future.

Ready to see how Eiger.io can transform your industrial 3D printing workflow?

What specific challenges are you facing in your industrial 3D printing process? Contact us to explore how Eiger can help you print better, work smarter, and scale faster.

Alexandre Gosselin

Director of Additive Manufacturing and Scanning Services

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Maximize Your Design Time: How Cloud Services for SOLIDWORKS Boost Productivity

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Maximize Your Design Time: How Cloud Services for SOLIDWORKS Boost Productivity

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An illustration of a laptop displaying the 3DEXPERIENCE compass interface, alongside a tablet showing a SOLIDWORKS design of a motorcycle, representing cloud-based collaboration.

Cloud Services for SOLIDWORKS revolutionize the way engineers and designers work by streamlining collaboration, data management, and project control. Say goodbye to outdated file transfers, version control nightmares, and time-consuming administrative tasks. With seamless real-time collaboration, secure cloud-based storage, and integrated project workflows, SOLIDWORKS users can focus more on innovation and design. Whether sharing models, managing revisions, or coordinating across teams, Cloud Services enhance efficiency, ensuring a smoother product development process.

Download the SOLIDWORKS Productivity Guide

Finding More Time for Design

Today’s engineers and designers face constant interruptions—meetings, emails, file management issues, time tracking, and version control headaches. With increasing project complexity, market competition, and the demand for innovation, maximizing productivity is more crucial than ever.

Studies have shown that design engineers spend only a fraction of their working hours on actual design work. The rest of their time is spent on administrative tasks, tracking files, and managing data. This inefficiency not only slows down innovation but also impacts bottom-line productivity.

Thankfully, SOLIDWORKS provides a solution. With every new SOLIDWORKS 3D CAD license, users gain access to Cloud Services, a powerful suite of tools that removes many of the barriers that slow down the design process. By connecting to the 3DEXPERIENCE platform, these tools streamline collaboration, data management, and project workflows, allowing engineers to focus on what truly matters: designing.

Let’s explore how Cloud Services for SOLIDWORKS can enhance your workflow, improve efficiency, and eliminate traditional design bottlenecks.

Seamless Collaboration with Share and Markup

Traditional design sharing methods often involve cumbersome file transfers, requiring recipients to have the right software to open and review CAD files. This process can lead to delays, miscommunication, and even file compatibility issues.

With Cloud Services, SOLIDWORKS users can instantly share 3D models with collaborators via a secure web-based link. This eliminates the need for physical file transfers and special viewing software. Internal teams, external suppliers, customers, or stakeholders can view, annotate, and discuss designs in real-time—even without a SOLIDWORKS license.

The Impact of Faster Collaboration

Collaboration is one of the biggest challenges in product development. Miscommunication between designers, engineers, and clients can lead to costly errors and significant project delays. With traditional workflows, waiting for feedback from multiple stakeholders can stretch project timelines unnecessarily.

By integrating real-time feedback loops through Share and Markup, Cloud Services ensure that everyone is working on the latest version of a design, reducing errors and streamlining decision-making. The ability to provide immediate feedback accelerates the design iteration process, leading to faster innovation cycles.

Faster design iterations with immediate feedback
Reduced miscommunication by centralizing design discussions
Easy access for non-CAD users through a simple web browser
Improved documentation with markup history and feedback logs

Store and Revise: The Power of Cloud-Based Data Management

File mismanagement is a significant timewaster in engineering workflows. Searching through emails for the right file version or accidentally working on an outdated model can lead to costly errors and project delays.

By connecting SOLIDWORKS to the 3DEXPERIENCE platform, Cloud Services provide secure, CAD-aware online storage that ensures:

Always-accessible, up-to-date design files
Elimination of duplicate or lost files
Streamlined revision control with automated version tracking

The Hidden Costs of Poor File Management

Data mismanagement costs engineering teams valuable hours. Research suggests that professionals spend nearly 20% of their workweek searching for information rather than working on productive tasks. This inefficiency can be costly, especially for companies that rely on fast turnaround times.

With Cloud Services, SOLIDWORKS users gain a single source of truth for their data. Files are always up to date, accessible from anywhere, and backed up securely. Revision tracking ensures that outdated designs never make their way into production, avoiding costly errors and wasted resources.

Additionally, features like revision bumping and check-out/check-in functionality help prevent team members from overwriting each other’s work, creating a more structured and reliable workflow.

Manage and Control: Keep Your Projects on Track

For teams working on complex product designs, effective change management and workflow control are essential. The Cloud Services integration within SOLIDWORKS allows users to:

Track design progress and manage approvals directly from within SOLIDWORKS
Assign and review tasks in real-time
Control data access and user permissions to maintain security and organization

Automating Workflows for Greater Efficiency

Manual processes, such as approving design changes, tracking tasks, and managing data permissions, often slow down progress. By automating these workflows, Manage and Control on the 3DEXPERIENCE platform removes bottlenecks and allow projects to move forward seamlessly. Teams can quickly approve changes, manage access rights, and oversee project progress without the need for lengthy email chains or unnecessary meetings.

Real-Time Collaboration: Breaking Down Communication Barriers

Engineering teams are often distributed across multiple locations, making real-time collaboration difficult. Traditional workflows involve passing files back and forth, leading to delays and version control conflicts.

With Cloud Services, SOLIDWORKS users can:

Connect instantly to team dashboards, messaging, and activity streams
Drag-and-drop tasks for streamlined project tracking
Work on a single shared dataset from day one, eliminating redundancy

Access to New Product Development Tools

Beyond core collaboration and file management features, Cloud Services offer a gateway to 3DEXPERIENCE Works, an extended suite of industry-leading tools for:

Advanced design and simulation
Integrated data and lifecycle management
Optimized manufacturing processes

Ready to Take Your SOLIDWORKS Workflow to the Next Level?

Imagine a workday where you can focus entirely on what you love—designing—without being bogged down by file chaos, endless emails, or version control headaches. That’s exactly what Cloud Services for SOLIDWORKS offers.

With real-time collaboration, secure cloud storage, and effortless project management, you can streamline your workflow, reduce errors, and free up valuable time for more creative problem-solving.

The future of design isn’t just about creating better products—it’s about working smarter, faster, and more efficiently. Cloud Services for SOLIDWORKS puts control back in your hands, letting you focus on innovation while eliminating the distractions of outdated processes.

So, why wait? Take the next step today. Whether you’re a solo designer or part of a growing engineering team, Cloud Services can revolutionize the way you work.

Download the SOLIDWORKS Productivity Guide

Interested in unlocking the full potential of your design process? Contact Solidxperts today to learn how Cloud Services can enhance your SOLIDWORKS experience!

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

Renew Your Design Focus with SOLIDWORKS Cloud Services

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Renew Your Design Focus with SOLIDWORKS Cloud Services

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A digitally enhanced futuristic scene featuring a glowing blue padlock with an inserted key, a floating pencil, and an open file folder.

SOLIDWORKS Cloud Services integrates seamlessly with the 3DEXPERIENCE platform, offering three key benefits: Share and Markup, Store and Revise, and Manage and Control. These features simplify collaboration, secure data storage, and enable structured design management. Whether you’re sharing 3D models, tracking revisions, or managing complex design changes, Cloud Services enhances your workflow, reduces inefficiencies, and keeps your team aligned. If you’re looking to streamline your design process, enhance collaboration, and maintain a single source of truth, SOLIDWORKS Cloud Services is the ultimate solution.

Download the ebook

Unlocking the Freedom to Design

SOLIDWORKS has always been about breaking barriers in CAD, making powerful design tools accessible to engineers everywhere. Today, that mission continues with Cloud Services, seamlessly connecting SOLIDWORKS CAD data to the cloud-based 3DEXPERIENCE platform. This integration is designed to eliminate inefficiencies, minimize repetitive tasks, and streamline collaboration, allowing engineers to focus on what they do best—designing.

With Cloud Services, SOLIDWORKS users gain three key advantages: Share and Markup, Store and Revise, and Manage and Control. These capabilities enable teams to work efficiently, reduce rework, and maintain a single source of truth for design data. Whether you’re a solo designer or part of a large engineering team, leveraging the cloud ensures that your workflow remains smooth, collaborative, and secure.

Share and Markup: Instant Collaboration with Stakeholders

Sharing designs has traditionally involved cumbersome processes—sending large files via email, dealing with software compatibility issues, and waiting for feedback. With Cloud Services, SOLIDWORKS eliminates these hurdles by allowing users to share designs via a simple secure link. Stakeholders can view 3D models in their web browser, add comments, and even markup designs without needing SOLIDWORKS installed.

This real-time collaboration significantly accelerates design iterations. Whether you’re working with suppliers, clients, or internal teams, feedback loops become faster and more effective. By integrating with tools like 3DPlay, recipients can interact with the model, explore assemblies, and provide precise annotations, ensuring that feedback is clear and actionable.

How it Works:

Click “Share a File” in the SOLIDWORKS Lifecycle and Collaboration toolbar.
Enter the recipient’s email and a message, then send the secure link.
The recipient can open the 3D model in a browser, view it in 3DPlay, and add markups.
Users receive notifications in SOLIDWORKS when comments or changes are made.

This cloud-based sharing method replaces the need for eDrawings or other file-sharing methods, reducing compatibility concerns and keeping data security intact.

Store and Revise: Keeping Your Designs Secure and Up-to-Date

As remote work and global collaboration become the norm, the need for centralized data storage has never been greater. SOLIDWORKS Cloud Services ensures that your designs are securely stored in a single location, accessible from any device. Gone are the days of managing complex VPN connections, external servers, or disconnected cloud platforms like Google Drive or Dropbox.

One of the biggest advantages of the 3DEXPERIENCE platform is its CAD-awareness—it understands how SOLIDWORKS files interact. Unlike traditional cloud storage solutions, renaming or revising a part doesn’t break file references. Assemblies remain intact, eliminating frustrating rework caused by broken file paths.

Key Features:

Single Source of Truth: Always work with the latest version of your design.
No External Servers Required: Reduce IT infrastructure costs and maintenance.
Automatic Revision Tracking: No more duplicate files or confusing file names.
Secure Access Controls: Define permissions for viewing, editing, and sharing files.

Supporting Apps:

3D Markup – Enables cloud-based design review with real-time comments.
Collaborative Tasks – Assign, track, and manage design work directly in SOLIDWORKS.
Compare App – Instantly visualize design changes between revisions.
Product Explorer – Navigate product structures and metadata for better decision-making.

With these capabilities, SOLIDWORKS users can eliminate version control headaches and ensure that everyone involved in the project is working with accurate, up-to-date information.

Manage and Control: Advanced Data Management for Complex Projects

For organizations requiring a higher level of control, SOLIDWORKS Cloud Services extends into formal change management and project oversight. If you need structured workflows, approval processes, or compliance tracking, the 3DEXPERIENCE platform offers robust tools to manage every stage of the design lifecycle.

Scalability at Your Pace

Cloud Services are designed to scale with your business needs. Start with simple design sharing or full-fledged product lifecycle management (PLM), the platform adapts to your requirements. Some of the tools available include:

Issue Management – Tag team members in issues and track resolution status.
Change Execution – Implement and document design changes with full traceability.
Route Management – Automate approval workflows to keep projects moving efficiently.

By transitioning to a cloud-based design and data management environment, teams can reduce costly delays, improve compliance with industry standards, and maintain full visibility over project progress.

Why Upgrade to SOLIDWORKS Cloud Services?

SOLIDWORKS Cloud Services isn’t just about storing files in the cloud—it’s a comprehensive collaboration and data management solution tailored to CAD professionals.

Seamless Integration – Works directly with your existing SOLIDWORKS environment.
Real-Time Collaboration – No more emailing files back and forth.
Secure & Scalable – Advanced access control, encryption, and revision tracking.
Built for Engineers – CAD-aware storage and structured data management.
Reduced IT Overhead – No need for external PDM servers or VPNs.

If you’re ready to streamline your design workflow and take advantage of the latest cloud-based technologies, now is the time to activate SOLIDWORKS Cloud Services. Stay ahead of the competition, enhance collaboration, and ensure your team is always working efficiently and securely.

Get Started on the 3DEXPERIENCE platform

Cloud technology is no longer a luxury—it’s a necessity for modern engineering teams. By integrating Cloud Services into SOLIDWORKS, designers and engineers can enjoy a more fluid, connected, and secure design experience. Whether you’re looking to simplify data sharing, enhance team collaboration, or implement full-scale design management, SOLIDWORKS Cloud Services has the tools to make it happen.

Download the ebook

For more information, visit SOLIDWORKS Cloud Services or contact us to learn how you can maximize your design potential today!

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

What’s New in SOLIDWORKS Visualize 2025 and Visualize Boost

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What’s New in SOLIDWORKS Visualize 2025 and Visualize Boost

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Detailed close-up rendering of a mechanical component showcasing the photorealistic capabilities of SOLIDWORKS Visualize, with intricate textures, lighting, and reflections.

Abstract

SOLIDWORKS Visualize 2025 introduces powerful new features to streamline rendering workflows and elevate the quality of photorealistic visuals. Highlights include Fast Render mode, AI and Vulkan Ray Tracing for real-time previews, and API integration for automated rendering processes. The new Faded Ground option enhances scene composition, while updates to Visualize Boost simplify distributed rendering for faster outputs. With the discontinuation of NVIDIA Iray, the Stellar engine takes center stage, offering improved performance and compatibility. These updates make SOLIDWORKS Visualize 2025 an indispensable tool for designers and engineers, enabling faster, smarter, and more efficient rendering.

Introduction

The ability to create stunning, photorealistic visuals is no longer a luxury—it’s a necessity. Whether you’re pitching concepts to clients, crafting marketing materials, or simply refining your designs, tools like SOLIDWORKS Visualize make it all possible. With the release of SOLIDWORKS Visualize 2025, Dassault Systèmes has raised the bar, introducing innovative features designed to accelerate workflows, enhance rendering quality, and improve overall user experience. From AI-powered rendering modes to streamlined distributed rendering with Visualize Boost, this latest version empowers designers and engineers to bring their ideas to life like never before.

In this article, we’ll dive into the key enhancements of SOLIDWORKS Visualize 2025. Let’s explore what’s new and how these tools continue to lead in creating visually stunning content.

Fast Render Mode

One of the standout features in SOLIDWORKS Visualize 2025 is the new Fast Render mode. This mode utilizes Deep Learning artificial intelligence (AI) technology alongside advanced ray tracing to deliver real-time interactive rendering.

By rapidly eliminating noise from the viewport, Fast Render mode offers users a near-instantaneous preview of their designs, significantly accelerating the rendering process. This enhancement is particularly beneficial for users requiring quick iterations and approvals, as it reduces the time needed to produce high-quality images and animations.

Photorealistic Rendering via SOLIDWORKS API

Another significant advancement is the integration of Visualize with the SOLIDWORKS Application Programming Interface (API). This integration allows users to render SOLIDWORKS documents directly or convert them into Visualize project files through the Add-In. The API facilitates automation in the creation of photorealistic renderings, enabling a more efficient workflow and reducing manual intervention. This feature is particularly advantageous for users looking to automate repetitive tasks or integrate rendering capabilities into custom applications.

Faded Ground Option

SOLIDWORKS Visualize 2025 introduces a Faded Ground option, providing users with enhanced control over scene composition. By enabling the Faded setting under the Ground Shadow Catcher, the ground plane can be hidden without affecting the lighting and reflections on the model.

This feature is especially useful for creating composite images, as it reduces the need for post-processing and allows for seamless integration of rendered models into various backgrounds.

Enhancements in SOLIDWORKS Visualize Boost 2025

Visualize Boost has been redesigned to offer a more intuitive setup and streamlined workflows. For those unfamiliar, SOLIDWORKS Visualize Boost is an add-on that enables distributed rendering across multiple machines, effectively lightening the load on a single computer and accelerating the rendering process. The 2025 update simplifies the configuration of rendering farms, making it easier to distribute rendering tasks and achieve faster results. This enhancement is particularly beneficial for users handling complex scenes or high-resolution outputs, as it allows for efficient utilization of networked resources.

Discontinuation of NVIDIA Iray Support

With the 2025 release, SOLIDWORKS Visualize has discontinued support for the NVIDIA Iray rendering engine. The Stellar Physically Correct engine now serves as the default renderer.

Projects previously created with NVIDIA Iray will be automatically converted to the Stellar engine upon opening in SOLIDWORKS Visualize 2025. This transition ensures compatibility and takes advantage of the latest advancements in rendering technology, providing users with improved performance and quality.

Leveraging GPU Technology with Vulkan Ray Tracing API

The Fast Render mode in SOLIDWORKS Visualize 2025 leverages the Vulkan Ray Tracing API, an open-standard API for 3D graphics and computing. This integration allows users to harness the power of modern GPUs, enabling real-time, interactive ray tracing.

The result is a more responsive rendering experience, with accurate shadows and reflections, reducing the time required to achieve photorealistic results.

Improved User Experience and Workflow Efficiency

The 2025 release focuses on enhancing user experience by introducing features that streamline workflows and reduce manual effort. The integration with the SOLIDWORKS API allows for automation in rendering tasks, while the Faded Ground option minimizes the need for post-processing. Additionally, the intuitive setup of Visualize Boost facilitates the creation of rendering farms, enabling users to distribute workloads efficiently. These improvements contribute to a more efficient and user-friendly environment, allowing designers and engineers to focus on creativity and innovation.

Why Choose SOLIDWORKS Visualize?

SOLIDWORKS Visualize sets itself apart as a premier rendering tool by combining cutting-edge technology with user-friendly functionality.

Real-Time Rendering with AI-Enhanced Speed

The new Fast Render Mode leverages AI and Vulkan Ray Tracing technology to deliver real-time, noise-free previews. This revolutionary feature accelerates the rendering process, saving valuable time while ensuring the visual fidelity of your designs.

Seamless Integration with the SOLIDWORKS Ecosystem

As part of the SOLIDWORKS family, Visualize integrates smoothly with tools like SOLIDWORKS CAD and the 3DEXPERIENCE platform. This integration allows for effortless import of CAD models, direct manipulation of materials and textures, and streamlined data sharing across projects.

User-Friendly Experience

SOLIDWORKS Visualize is designed to accommodate users of all skill levels. Its intuitive interface makes it easy for beginners to produce professional-quality visuals, while advanced features empower seasoned users to refine and perfect their work.

Scalable Performance with Visualize Boost

With Visualize Boost, users can distribute rendering tasks across multiple computers for faster processing. This scalability ensures high performance even for complex projects, making it ideal for teams handling detailed models or high-resolution outputs.

Key Use Cases for SOLIDWORKS Visualize

Product Design and Marketing

From concept sketches to final prototypes, SOLIDWORKS Visualize helps designers create lifelike representations of their products. These renderings are ideal for marketing materials, investor pitches, and design reviews, enabling stakeholders to visualize the end product with clarity.

Automotive and Aerospace Industries

Industries like automotive and aerospace require precise visualizations for engineering validation and customer presentations. The Faded Ground Option allows for seamless scene composition, while advanced lighting tools ensure accurate representations of materials and finishes.

Architecture and Construction

Architectural designers use SOLIDWORKS Visualize to create immersive visuals of buildings, interiors, and outdoor spaces. The realistic rendering capabilities help clients and stakeholders envision the final result, supporting faster approvals and better decision-making.

Consumer Goods and Packaging

For consumer goods, photorealistic renderings of products and packaging play a crucial role in branding and marketing. Features like material manipulation and scene customization enable companies to highlight product details and differentiate themselves in competitive markets.

Conclusion

SOLIDWORKS Visualize 2025 brings a host of enhancements aimed at improving rendering performance, flexibility, and integration. The introduction of Fast Render mode, integration with the SOLIDWORKS API, Faded Ground option, and improvements in Visualize Boost collectively contribute to a more efficient and powerful rendering toolset. These features enable users to produce high-quality, photorealistic renderings with greater speed and ease, supporting a wide range of applications from marketing materials to design reviews.

To learn more about what SOLIDWORKS Visualize can do for your specific workflows, or to kick start your next 3D design journey, reach out to our SOLIDWORKS experts today!

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What Is LSPc Technology And How Does It Power Nexa3D Printers?

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What Is LSPc Technology And How Does It Power Nexa3D Printers?

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A 3D-printed spherical architectural model with intricate geometric details, displayed on a workbench alongside tools, filament spools, and a desktop 3D printer in the background.

When it comes to 3D printing, speed and precision are often seen as trade-offs—you either compromise on one to achieve the other or settle for mediocre results. But what if you didn’t have to? Enter Nexa3D, a company breaking the mold with its cutting-edge Lubricant Sublayer Photo-curing (LSPc) technology. This revolutionary process powers the XiP and NX series printers, enabling professionals across industries to create with unprecedented speed, accuracy, and efficiency.

Understanding LSPc Technology

At its core, LSPc technology is an advanced form of masked stereolithography (mSLA). This process transforms liquid photopolymers into solid objects with unparalleled speed and accuracy. And, unlike traditional SLA methods that utilize lasers to trace each layer, LSPc employs a high-resolution LCD screen to project entire layers simultaneously, significantly accelerating the printing process.

The LSPc Process: A Three-Phase Cycle

Squish (Layer Preparation): The build plate descends into the resin vat, compressing the liquid resin to achieve the desired layer thickness. This ensures uniformity and sets the foundation for precise curing.

Cure (Layer Solidification): An LED light engine projects UV light through the LCD mask, curing the resin in the specified pattern. This simultaneous exposure allows for rapid layer formation without compromising detail.

Peel (Layer Separation): The lubricated interface facilitates the gentle separation of the cured layer from the vat’s membrane as the build plate rises, preparing for the next cycle. This minimizes the peel force and stress on the part, reducing the risk of defects or layer detachment.

Comparing LSPc to Traditional 3D Printing Technologies

Faster than Traditional SLA Printers

Traditional SLA printers use lasers to trace each layer, resulting in longer production times for large or detailed parts. In contrast, Nexa3D’s LSPc technology cures entire layers simultaneously, achieving remarkable speeds without compromising quality.

Higher Resolution than DLP Printers

While DLP printers can produce parts quickly, their resolution often decreases as the build area increases. Nexa3D’s use of high-resolution LCD masking ensures consistent quality across the entire build platform, making it ideal for precision 3D printing.

Superior Surface Finish

The lubricated sublayer minimizes stress during the peeling process, preventing defects like layer shifts or uneven surfaces. This results in smooth, professional grade finishes that are superior to many other 3D printing methods.

Nexa3D Printers Utilizing LSPc Technology

Nexa3D’s XiP and NX series printers bring the power of Lubricant Sublayer Photo-curing (LSPc) technology to life, offering unmatched speed, precision, and versatility for professionals across industries. Whether you’re prototyping a breakthrough product or ramping up production, these printers are designed to keep you ahead of the curve.

XiP Desktop 3D Printer: Compact Powerhouse for Professionals

Perfect for designers, engineers, and small teams, the Nexa3D XiP is a high-performance desktop resin printer that delivers industrial-grade results in a sleek, compact package. It’s fast, reliable, and easy to use—ideal for creating high-quality prototypes in record time.

NXE 400Pro: For Big Ideas and Bigger Prints

When you need a printer that can handle large-scale production without missing a beat, the NXE 400Pro is the answer. Its large build volume and high-speed performance make it the go-to choice for industries like automotive, healthcare, and aerospace.

XiP Pro: The Ultimate Industrial Resin Printer

If productivity and versatility are your priorities, the XiP Pro is a game-changer. With its unmatched build volume and ultra-fast print speeds, it’s designed for large-scale manufacturing that doesn’t compromise on quality.

Designing for Optimal LSPc Performance

To fully leverage the capabilities of Nexa3D printers, it’s essential to design models that align with the nuances of LSPc technology. Thoughtful design considerations can enhance print quality, reduce errors, and optimize production efficiency.

Wall Thickness Recommendations

Minimum Wall Thickness: For reinforced walls, a minimum thickness of 0.3 mm is achievable, especially when oriented vertically. Freestanding walls should maintain a minimum of 0.5 mm to ensure structural integrity. However, for optimal reliability across various orientations, a thickness greater than 1 mm is recommended.

Maximum Wall Thickness: Walls thicker than 5 mm may require extended post-curing times or additional heating to ensure complete curing. It’s advisable to keep wall thickness below 5 mm when possible.

Hole Design Considerations

Vertical Holes: A minimum diameter of 0.3 mm is acceptable, but for consistent results, a diameter greater than 0.8 mm is recommended.

Non-Vertical Holes: Opaque resins can accommodate holes as small as 0.6 mm, while clear resins may require diameters exceeding 2 mm to account for light transmission during curing.

Blind Holes: To facilitate proper resin drainage and curing, limit blind hole depths to less than three times their diameter.

Overhangs and Spans

Horizontal Overhangs: Overhangs extending beyond 2 mm should be supported to prevent sagging or deformation.

Angled Overhangs: Design overhangs with angles steeper than 30° to allow for self-supporting structures. Shallower angles may require additional supports or design modifications.

Engraving and Embossing

Character Height: For clear and legible text, use a minimum character height of 4 mm.

Emboss/Engrave Depth: Maintain a depth equal to or greater than the line width, with a minimum of 0.5 mm, to ensure visibility and structural integrity.

Addressing Cupping Effects

Cup-shaped features can create vacuum effects during the peeling phase, leading to defects or print failures. To mitigate this:

Vent Holes: Incorporate vent holes at the base of concave features to facilitate resin drainage and equalize pressure.

Orientation Adjustments: Position cup-shaped features at angles that minimize vacuum formation and enhance stability.

Optimizing Support Structures and Part Orientation

Proper support structures and strategic part orientation are crucial for achieving high-quality prints with Nexa3D’s LSPc technology. These factors influence surface finish, dimensional accuracy, and overall print success.

Support Strategies

Mitigating Layer Lines: Pronounced layer lines often result from inadequate support. Enhancing support density or incorporating cone supports can provide additional stability, reducing the appearance of layer lines.

Contact Point Adherence: Ensure sufficient contact points between supports and the part to prevent detachment during printing. Adjusting support parameters, such as contact width and penetration depth, can improve adhesion.

Part Orientation Tips

Walls and Overhangs: Orient walls with a minimum angle of 30° to promote self-supporting structures. Horizontal overhangs exceeding 2 mm should be oriented to minimize unsupported spans or supplemented with supports.

Tall and Slender Parts: Limit the height of slender parts to reduce movement during printing. Widening the support base and adding supports to steep surfaces can enhance stability.

Advantages of Nexa3D’s High-Speed 3D Printing

Nexa3D printers equipped with LSPc technology offer distinct advantages that set them apart from other resin 3D printers. Whether your goal is industrial 3D printing or fast prototyping, these benefits make Nexa3D an essential tool for professionals across industries.

Unmatched Speed

The simultaneous curing of entire layers drastically reduces production times. LSPc: The secret to Nexa3D’s unmatched performance lies in its efficiency, achieving speeds up to 6.5 times faster than traditional SLA or DLP methods. This makes Nexa3D printers a top choice for high-volume production and rapid design iterations.

Precision and Surface Quality

Thanks to the high-resolution LCD masking system, Nexa3D printers deliver exceptional accuracy, capturing even the most intricate design details. The controlled peeling process ensures smooth surface finishes, reducing the need for post-processing and delivering parts ready for functional or aesthetic use straight off the printer.

Large Build Volume

Unlike many other resin printers, Nexa3D printers offer a large build volume, enabling users to print bigger parts or multiple smaller components simultaneously. This flexibility is ideal for industries requiring batch production or large-scale prototypes.

Versatility in Applications

From flexible and impact-resistant materials to temperature-resistant resins, Nexa3D printers support a wide range of photopolymers, allowing users to tailor their prints to specific needs. This makes them perfect for diverse applications, including 3D printing for automotive, medical device 3D printing, and consumer product prototyping.

Reduced Costs and Waste

By optimizing resin usage and minimizing consumable wear, Nexa3D’s LSPc technology reduces overall operating costs. Faster production times and minimal material waste further contribute to cost efficiency, providing significant ROI for businesses.

Why Choose the XiP and NX Series?

With the XiP and NX series, you’re not just getting a printer—you’re unlocking the tools to push boundaries, bring bold ideas to life, and stay ahead in a rapidly evolving additive manufacturing market. These printers embody the best of advanced 3D printing technology, from their lightning-fast production speeds to their ability to produce intricate designs with precision 3D printing.

So why settle for slow, limited, or outdated technology? Whether you’re prototyping the next big thing or ramping up production, Nexa3D gives you the power to do it faster, better, and smarter. The future of high-speed 3D printing is here—are you ready to join the revolution?

Reach out to Solidxperts today and explore how Nexa3D’s innovative solutions can transform your 3D printing workflows.

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Raise3D Printers: Revolutionizing Prototyping

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Raise3D Printers: Revolutionizing Prototyping

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The ability to quickly iterate designs and produce high-quality prototypes can be the difference between successful product launches and falling behind the competition. This is where Raise3D printers excel, revolutionizing the prototyping process with cutting-edge technology and user-centric features.

By offering a seamless blend of precision, flexibility, and efficiency, Raise3D printers empower designers and engineers to transform ideas into physical objects faster than ever before. Their advanced capabilities, such as independent dual extruders, auto bed leveling, and a uniform build area, not only optimize the printing process but also solve common challenges in prototyping.

Whether you’re working with standard materials like PLA and ABS or experimenting with more advanced filaments like carbon fiber composites, Raise3D printers provide a versatile solution that caters to diverse prototyping needs across industries.

What Makes Raise3D Printers Stand Out?

Raise3D printers excel with innovative design and high-quality performance, offering a stable printing platform equipped with innovative printing platform features like auto bed leveling and flexible build plates. Their uniform build area ensures precise results across various materials, including PLA, ABS, PETG, and carbon fiber composites, allowing for consistent layer accuracy even in complex designs.

The platform’s advanced features address common printing challenges such as uneven heating and poor adhesion, preventing issues like warping or layer shifting. This helps deliver smoother, higher-quality print results with fewer manual adjustments, creating a more stable printing process overall.

How Does Raise3D Improve Rapid Prototyping?

By combining robust hardware with user-centric enhancements, Raise3D not only optimizes the printing experience but also makes it accessible for users at all skill levels. This reliability in prototyping accelerates the development process, enabling designers and engineers to achieve top-quality prototypes efficiently.

Taking a look at specifics, Raise3D’s independent dual extruders allow users to print with multiple filaments simultaneously, such as TPU and nylon, or even water-soluble support materials like PVA. This capability supports the rapid prototyping cycle by enabling quicker production of complex parts with minor surface contour changes.

Additionally, the incorporation of Ethernet connectivity enhances communication and data transfer, which can further streamline the agile development cycle, accelerating testing phases and helping to bring ideas to life faster.

What are the key features of Raise3D printers?

Raise3D printers boast advanced features like dual extrusion, a sizable build volume, and a sturdy frame. They offer high precision, compatibility with various filaments, and user-friendly interfaces. These qualities make Raise3D printers ideal for professionals seeking top-notch prototyping capabilities.

Why Is a Flexible Build Plate Important?

A flexible build plate is essential for reducing the risk of potential print damage during part removal. Raise3D printers come with flexible build plates that make it easier to remove final print jobs without the need for tools, resulting in a smoother and easier experience. Additionally, improved bed adhesion ensures that the first layer stays in place, preventing common printing problems like warping or lifting.

Advanced Extruders: Independent and Modular

Raise3D’s extruder technology takes the printing process to another level with both independent dual extruders and series dual extruder configurations. These independent modular extruders can print with a variety of filaments, including PC and ASA, offering versatility in material choices. The front cover of the extruder is also easily accessible for replacement of components or regular scheduled interventions, ensuring an efficient maintenance process.

Raise3D’s Printing Platform: Stability and Versatility

Raise3D’s lineup, including models like the Pro2, Pro3, and E2, offers printing platforms designed for stability and versatility, catering to various prototyping needs. Each model features a uniform build area, providing more stable performance and a consistent foundation across different project sizes. For instance, the Pro3 Plus boasts a spacious build volume of 12x12x23.8 inches, making it ideal for larger industrial parts, while still maintaining the precision required for intricate desktop models.

Does Raise3D’s Auto Bed Leveling Improve Print Quality?

Auto bed leveling (ABL) is a significant advantage for any 3D printer, and Raise3D’s auto bed leveling technology ensures that the print nozzles maintain the correct distance from the printing platform throughout the job. This prevents uneven printing and enhances the accuracy of the surface contour changes. As a result, users achieve better overall print quality and a more efficient process.

All models come with auto bed leveling and flexible build plates, ensuring excellent bed adhesion and reducing warping across various materials, from ABS and PETG to flexible filaments like TPU. This versatility allows Raise3D printers to support applications ranging from small-scale prototyping to producing full-sized functional parts.

Power Loss Recovery for Uninterrupted Workflow

These printers are equipped with a power loss recovery feature that ensures continuity even during unexpected power outages. This capability allows the printer to resume from the last point in the print job, minimizing wasted materials and time. It is a crucial feature that supports a seamless workflow in an agile development cycle.

Printing Various Materials

The hot end of Raise3D printers is engineered to handle a range of filament types, from flexible TPE to durable carbon fiber composites. Its high-temperature capabilities enable the printing of specialized materials like nylon, enhancing the scope of rapid prototyping applications. This adaptability is crucial for projects that require different material properties in a single prototype.

Ensuring Quality with Efficient Maintenance

To maintain high printing standards without constant management, Raise3D printers are designed to keep maintenance simple, efficient, and easy. The replacement of components, such as print nozzles, can be done with minimal effort, and regular scheduled interventions help to avoid any potential print damage.

Navigating Common Printing Problems with Raise3D Solutions

Raise3D printers effectively address common printing issues like poor bed adhesion, warping, and uneven prints with advanced features designed for reliability. The flexible build plate allows for easy removal of finished parts while minimizing potential print damage. Auto bed leveling ensures the print nozzles stay correctly aligned with the printing surface, preventing layer shifts and enhancing print accuracy. Additionally, Raise3D’s heated build platform helps maintain consistent temperatures across the print bed, further reducing the risk of warping. These features work together to deliver a smoother, more reliable printing experience with fewer interruptions and consistently high-quality results.

Conclusion: Empowering Agile Development Cycles

Raise3D printers accelerate the rapid prototyping cycle and streamline the printing process for a better overall experience with their advanced extruder technology, auto bed leveling, power loss recovery, and versatile material compatibility. A valuable tool for any business engaged in agile development, Raise3D printers offer users an easier printing experience, better print results, and the right solution for truly agile prototyping.

Expand your 3D printing capabilities or take your first steps into additive manufacturing with confidence.

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Leveraging 3DEXPERIENCE for Sustainable Product Design

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Leveraging 3DEXPERIENCE for Sustainable Product Design

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As the world grapples with climate change and resource depletion, there is a growing urgency to adopt sustainable practices. For businesses involved in product development, this means rethinking how products are designed, manufactured, and managed throughout their life cycle. Integrating sustainability into the core of product design is not only a response to consumer demand for eco-friendly products but also a strategic move to meet regulatory requirements and achieve long-term business success.

The 3DEXPERIENCE platform stands out as a comprehensive solution that empowers you and your business to embrace sustainable innovation. With tools for lifecycle assessment, virtual twin simulations, and real-time data analysis you can easily optimize your products’ overall environmental impact. Make informed decisions about materials, production methods, and energy consumption to significantly reduce environmental footprints. This approach helps businesses align with sustainability goals, such as zero carbon targets and circular economy principles, while also unlocking opportunities for cost savings and improved brand reputation.

Why Choose 3DEXPERIENCE for Sustainable Product Design?

Leveraging the 3DEXPERIENCE for sustainable product design empowers you to integrate lifecycle assessment directly into the product development process. Monitor a product’s environmental footprint every step of the way, from raw material extraction to the end of its life cycle, by embedding sustainability goals directly into your design principles.

Reducing the Environmental Impact of Products

The platform helps identify the environmental impact of your designs early in the design process. By simulating various factors such as energy consumption, water use, and waste generation in a virtual space you can make better-informed decisions to minimize the carbon footprint and land use associated with manufacturing processes, paving the way for more sustainable production practices.

Leveraging Virtual Twins

Virtual twin technology is a powerful feature of the 3DEXPERIENCE platform that allows you to create digital replicas of your products. By using virtual twins, teams can test different materials and manufacturing methods, reducing the need for physical prototypes and limiting waste generation.

Designing for a More Sustainable World: Key Practices

Your teams can make products more sustainable by carefully choosing materials and implementing smart practices throughout the product development cycle. Gain real-time insights into the environmental conservation aspects of different design choices from directly within your 3DEXPERIENCE platform. This enables your teams to optimize material use and adopt greener design practices.

How Does Advanced Digitalization Support Sustainable Innovation?

The platform’s advanced digitalization capabilities provide you with innovative solutions to assess and improve product sustainability. By leveraging real-time data, you can monitor the environmental impact of your designs and make adjustments to support zero carbon goals. Create new products while ensuring production processes align with broader sustainability goals.

Circular Economy and Sustainable Product Development

Adopting circular economy principles is essential for sustainable development. Leveraging the 3DEXPERIENCE for sustainable product design supports a circular economy by empowering your business to design products with recyclability in mind. By optimizing the use of materials and considering the product’s life cycle from start to finish, the platform encourages the creation of environmentally friendly products that can be easily disassembled and reused, reducing overall waste and raw material consumption.

Enhancing Lifecycle Assessment with a Single Platform

3DEXPERIENCE streamlines the lifecycle assessment process by providing all necessary tools on a single platform. Teams can evaluate the product’s life cycle in detail, considering factors like energy consumption, land use, and water use, ensuring the manufacturing processes contribute positively toward a more sustainable future.

Supporting the Entire Product Lifecycle with Sustainable Practices

From the initial design phase to the end of the product’s life, 3DEXPERIENCE helps businesses incorporate sustainable practices into every step. The platform supports waste reduction, smart material use, and optimized production processes, ensuring that the entire product lifecycle supports sustainability goals.

Can 3DEXPERIENCE Facilitate the Production of Environmentally Friendly Products?

Yes, 3DEXPERIENCE facilitates the development of environmentally friendly products by offering tools that integrate sustainability into the entire value chain. With the ability to simulate various aspects of a product’s environmental footprint, such as energy consumption and waste generation, companies can ensure each product aligns with their sustainability goals.

3DEXPERIENCE for a Greener Future

Achieving sustainability requires more than intentions; it demands integrating eco-friendly practices into every step of product development. The 3DEXPERIENCE platform offers businesses the tools they need to design friendly products that meet sustainability goals, embrace circular economy principles, and reduce the environmental impact of production processes.

By leveraging virtual twin technology, advanced digitalization, and real-time data, businesses can minimize waste, reduce energy consumption, and select sustainable materials, optimizing their manufacturing processes toward zero carbon goals. This approach leads to environmentally friendly products while providing business benefits such as cost savings, enhanced reputation, and regulatory compliance.

Toward Zero Carbon Goals: A Commitment to Sustainability

3DEXPERIENCE supports innovation by encouraging teams to consider waste reduction, sustainable materials use, and end-of-life management from the start. As companies strive for a greener future, the platform ensures sustainability becomes a core principle throughout the value chain.

In a world where sustainability is a crucial differentiator, 3DEXPERIENCE offers a unified solution to drive responsible innovation. Adopting 3DEXPERIENCE for sustainable product design helps businesses create eco-friendly products and meet sustainability goals, paving the way for a future where environmental conservation is integral to product development.

Want to know more? Want to get started on your sustainability journey? Reach out to our experts for advice on how to get started and to discover just how green the grass can be!

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How PDM Improves Collaboration for Remote Engineering Teams

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How PDM Improves Collaboration for Remote Engineering Teams

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For an increasingly connected world, remote work is becoming the norm, especially in industries like engineering, where design and product development require input from experts across various locations. The shift to remote work presents challenges, particularly when it comes to maintaining clear communication, managing heavy design data, and ensuring consistency throughout your engineering process.

With the increasing reliance on digital tools, companies need efficient solutions to keep everyone on the same page, regardless of where they’re working. SOLIDWORKS PDM provides a centralized hub where teams can securely store, access, and manage critical product data such as schematics, CAD models, and bills of materials (BOMs).

By bridging the gap between remote engineering teams and offering secure access to product and design information, SOLIDWORKS PDM not only enhances collaboration but frees up your team to spend less time on management and more time on innovation and driving product development forward.

What is Product Data Management (PDM)?

Product Data Management (PDM) is a digital system that helps engineering teams organize and control their product data throughout the development process. For SOLIDWORKS PDM, this is your Vault. It acts as a centralized repository where team members can store, share, and track revisions of design files, schematics, and other crucial documents. Remote engineers can easily access the information they need, resulting in less time spent searching for files and more time on actual product development.

For more information on What PDM is and why it’s important, check out our latest blog on the subject!

How Does PDM Support Remote Engineering Teams?

Successful remote engineering teams thrive on smooth and efficient collaboration. SOLIDWORKS PDM plays a critical role in making this possible for teams dispersed across different locations through user-friendly features and CAD-aware file sharing capabilities. For example:

SOLIDWORKS PDM enables remote teams to collaborate seamlessly by centralizing all product data, including CAD models and documentation, in a secure vault. Through cloud or VPN access, engineers can retrieve and update files from anywhere, ensuring they always work with the latest versions.
PDM’s version control tracks every change, preventing overwrites and ensuring clarity on who made edits and when. Automated revision management reduces errors and keeps projects on track.
File sharing is simplified. Engineers can check files in and out, with controllable permissions ensuring secure access to sensitive data.
Customizable workflows automate approvals and change requests, allowing global teams to maintain momentum without delays.
Integration with SOLIDWORKS CAD and BOM management ensures consistency and efficiency across all product development stages.

Remote engineering teams can retrieve, modify, and update files in real time, ensuring that everyone works with the most current version of the data, reducing the risk of errors or duplication. By leveraging these features, SOLIDWORKS PDM helps your teams stay connected to their product data, collaborate effectively, and maintain high levels of productivity, no matter where they are in the world.

Can PDM Improve Communication for Remote Engineering Teams?

Absolutely. By integrating product data management with communication tools such as emails and messaging platforms, engineers and project managers can easily discuss design data and track changes in real-time. The use of software that combines CAD tools and data management solutions creates a collaborative environment, ensuring everyone is working from the latest versions of schematics and designs.

How Does PDM Integrate with CAD Tools?

SOLIDWORKS PDM is designed to work seamlessly within your familiar SOLIDWORKS CAD environment. By linking your CAD information directly to the product data management system, remote engineers can track revisions, update models, and share designs in real-time. This seamless connection ensures that all product development tasks are carried out using the most up-to-date data, reducing errors and improving overall efficiency.

Handling Change Orders

Tracking change orders is one of the most important aspects of any engineering process. SOLIDWORKS PDM provides transparency by ensuring all changes are documented and reviewed by the necessary stakeholders, regardless of location. This ensures that the latest version of any design is available for all team members, reducing confusion, and improving project workflows.

Enhancing Collaboration with Schematics and BOM Management

Handling complex projects involving detailed schematics and BOM can be a challenge for remote teams. PDM simplifies this by providing an organized platform where engineers can collaborate, track changes, and ensure that all information is accessible in one place. This leads to more efficient engineering processes and a smoother overall product development lifecycle.

Startups and Growing Companies

For startups and smaller companies, implementing a product data management system might seem like a significant investment. However, the ability to manage product data effectively from the outset can greatly improve scalability. As remote work becomes more common, PDM ensures that all team members can access necessary information, contributing to smoother project timelines and efficient workflows.

A Solution for Global Collaboration

For globally dispersed teams, effective data management is key. A well-implemented PDM system facilitates seamless collaboration between offices located in different parts of the world. By managing data centrally, remote engineers can work on shared projects without geographical limitations, leading to more efficient workflows and faster time-to-market.

Best Practices for Remote Work in Engineering

Remote engineers and project managers benefit from establishing best practices when working with PDM. Regularly reviewing change orders, organizing BOMs, and maintaining open lines of communication are essential for keeping projects on track. With PDM in place, these practices become easier to follow, ensuring consistency across the board.

Why Choose Cloud-Based Solutions for Remote Engineers?

Cloud-based solutions, like the 3DEXPERIENCE platform, have transformed how remote engineering teams collaborate. By hosting product data management on the cloud, teams no longer need to worry about local servers or hardware issues. Instead, they can access their designs from anywhere, as long as there’s an internet connection. This flexibility allows teams to stay productive even when working from different locations.

What Role Does PLM Play in Remote Collaboration?

PDM manages product data, while PLM oversees the entire product lifecycle. Integrated together, these solutions assist remote teams in managing design, logistics, manufacturing, and end-of-life processes for a holistic view of the product journey.

Benefits of Combining Systems

Taking this integration one step further, incorporating enterprise resource planning (ERP) with your PDM ensures better coordination between design and manufacturing. By linking the BOM from CAD with ERP systems, companies can better manage production schedules, raw materials, and delivery timelines. This is particularly helpful for remote teams, as it keeps all departments aligned with project milestones and progress.

Streamlining Engineering Processes

The use of PDM allows engineering teams to follow best practices for managing product development and engineering processes. By providing a structured way to manage design data, teams avoid duplicate files, conflicting versions, and communication breakdowns. This is essential when working remotely, as remote engineers need to rely on efficient data management to avoid costly mistakes.

Final Thoughts on PDM for Remote Engineering Teams

With a product data management system in place, remote engineers can easily collaborate across different regions and time zones, ensuring that everyone is working with the latest files and data. This creates a more streamlined workflow, where design revisions, change orders, and BOMs are managed in a single platform that all team members can access with an internet connection. Additionally, integrating PDM with other tools like CAD and PLM solutions further enhances this collaboration, providing an end-to-end solution for managing not only product data but also the broader aspects of the product lifecycle.

For companies of all sizes—from established corporations to growing startups—implementing PDM can transform how projects are managed and executed, leading to more efficient engineering processes and faster time-to-market. Stay connected, collaborative, and productive, no matter where you and your team members are in the world.

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Advanced Solutions: 3D Printing for Custom Automotive Parts

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Advanced Solutions: 3D Printing for Custom Automotive Parts

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The automotive industry has seen a surge in customization demands as drivers seek personalized solutions for their vehicles. 3D printing for custom automotive parts has revolutionized how performance and aftermarket upgrades are created, offering new possibilities for car enthusiasts, mechanics, and small businesses alike.

What Types of Parts Can You Print?

The limit is your imagination! Print brake rotors or trailer hitches, or custom car parts like air vents and acceleration pedals. Plus, exterior accessories can be rapidly prototyped and adjusted just as easily. You can even print car body parts or specialized fixtures that cater to unique styles.

Custom 3D Printed Car Parts & Prototypes

Prototyping is faster and more cost-effective with 3D printing for custom automotive parts. The ability to quickly iterate designs for automotive applications, whether for exterior accessories or brake rotors, gives designers a competitive edge.

At Solidxperts, our printers help automotive businesses develop prototypes that precisely meet their specific needs.

Nylon and ABS: Durability Meets Functionality

The combination of nylon and ABS offers a strong, durable option for automotive applications. These materials are excellent for ducts and fixtures that need to withstand high heat or mechanical stress. Prints made from these materials are often indistinguishable from those that are traditionally manufactured, in terms of functionality.

Can You Save on Production Costs?

With 3D printing, a.k.a. additive manufacturing, production costs are significantly reduced. Traditional manufacturing methods require expensive molds and tooling, but FDM and fusion-based processes bypass these, allowing for fast prototyping and production. This benefit is particularly useful for small businesses offering aftermarket upgrades.

How Does 3D Printing Improve Aftermarket Customization?

3D printed car parts are a popular choice for creating custom exterior accessories, from car body pieces to brake rotors. Unlike traditional manufacturing methods, 3D printing offers flexibility and precision for these specific needs.

Enhance Performance with Custom Accessories

Additive manufacturing allows you to create custom car accessories tailored to your vehicle’s exact specifications. From flat surface panels to knobs and interior components, printed accessories ensure that you get the perfect fit and functionality for your aftermarket upgrades.

Why is Nylon a Game-Changer in Automotive 3D Printing?

Materials like nylon and carbon fiber have made a significant impact in automotive applications. These materials offer durable solutions for pieces that require strength, such as trailer hitches or knobs. Nylon is often paired with carbon fiber for even stronger automotive applications, increasing functionality and longevity.

Nylon vs. TPU

Choosing the right material can make all the difference in aftermarket upgrades. Nylon offers high strength, while TPU provides flexibility, ideal for custom pieces like knobs or exterior accessories. The versatility of these materials opens doors for pieces that perfectly match a vehicle’s performance requirements.

Considering 3D Printing for Custom Automotive Parts?

When it comes to 3D printing for custom automotive parts, precision and reliability are paramount. At Solidxperts, we provide FDM printers specifically designed for automotive applications, offering advanced features such as heated chambers and large build volumes. These features are crucial for producing strong, durable components like carbon fiber-reinforced nylon parts that meet the rigorous demands of the automotive industry.

Whether you’re creating prototypes to fine-tune designs or manufacturing final products, Solidxperts’ 3D printing solutions ensure superior quality and functionality. Our printers excel at delivering high-performance parts, from exterior accessories and fixtures to critical performance parts, all while reducing production costs and allowing for rapid iteration.

With Solidxperts’ advanced 3D printing technology, you can produce custom car parts that not only meet but exceed expectations.

Do You Need a Heated Chamber?

A heated chamber is crucial in maintaining consistent material temperatures during the printing process. This feature ensures that car body pieces, especially those requiring a smooth, flat surface, maintain quality throughout production.

Durable, Custom Car Parts from Your Desktop

Solidxperts offers desktop 3D printers capable of producing high-quality custom car pieces right from your workspace. Some of the printers in our lineup are designed to handle advanced materials like carbon fiber and ABS, making them perfect for manufacturing durable fixtures, nozzles, and more.

Precision and Functionality with Markforged

Markforged industry-leading printers are designed to handle a wide range of materials, from carbon fiber and nylon to TPU and ABS, ensuring high strength and durability.

You can produce car parts with reinforced carbon fiber filaments, delivering strength comparable to metal while significantly reducing weight—perfect for automotive applications where both strength and lightness are crucial. Whether you’re working on brake rotors, ducts, or structural performance parts, the precision of Markforged printers ensures accuracy down to the finest details.

Additionally, Markforged’s heated chambers and cloud-based software, Eiger, optimize print performance and streamline the process, lowering production costs and shortening turnaround times.

With these cutting-edge technologies, Solidxperts empowers clients to achieve remarkable results, making additive manufacturing a cost-effective and highly functional solution for any automotive customization project.

Conclusion

3D printing has transformed the way we approach custom automotive parts, offering unmatched flexibility, speed, and precision in manufacturing. Whether you’re a small business looking to reduce production costs or a car enthusiast seeking unique aftermarket upgrades, 3D printing is the key to unlocking endless possibilities. From performance parts to interior accessories and fixtures, the ability to tailor each component to your vehicle’s specific needs is now more accessible than ever.

With nylon, carbon fiber, TPU, and other advanced materials available, you can produce durable, high-quality prints that not only perform well but also last longer. For everything from prototypes to ducts to finishing with flat surfaces, Solidxperts’ range of 3D printers ensures precise and functional results for any automotive application. As the demand for customization grows, now is the perfect time to explore how 3D printing can revolutionize your approach to automotive manufacturing.

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:

Request a Quote

SWOOD: The ideal woodworking design software

SOLIDWORKS: A Powerful but Generalist Foundation

Why is SWOOD an ideal add-inn for wood design?

The main modules of SWOOD:

SWOOD Design:

SWOOD CAM:

SWOOD Nesting:

SWOOD Center

Why choose SWOOD Center?

1. Advanced customization

2. Workflow automation

3. Time saving and efficiency

An ideal solution for manufacturers and fitters

The Benefits of an Integrated woodworking software

SWOOD Testimonial: Reviews and Case Studies

Return on investment and development prospects

Now, it’s your turn to take control of your production with SWOOD

Eiger.io: Unlocking the Full Potential of Industrial 3D Printing

1. The Slicer: More Than Just G-Code for Industrial 3D Printing

Real-World Example: Reinforcing an Industrial Robotic Arm Bracket

What Makes Eiger’s Metal X System Ideal for 3D Printing?

2. Simulation & Optimization: Smarter Industrial 3D Printing

Real-World Example: Optimizing an Industrial Automotive Fixture

3. Custom Analytics & Open API: Industrial 3D Printing at Scale

Open API: Fully Integrated Industrial 3D Printing Manufacturing

Why Eiger.io is Built for Industrial 3D Printing Professionals?

Eiger.io: Your Industrial 3D Printing Powerhouse

Ready to see how Eiger.io can transform your industrial 3D printing workflow?

Maximize Your Design Time: How Cloud Services for SOLIDWORKS Boost Productivity

Finding More Time for Design

Seamless Collaboration with Share and Markup

The Impact of Faster Collaboration

Store and Revise: The Power of Cloud-Based Data Management

The Hidden Costs of Poor File Management

Manage and Control: Keep Your Projects on Track

Automating Workflows for Greater Efficiency

Real-Time Collaboration: Breaking Down Communication Barriers

Access to New Product Development Tools

Ready to Take Your SOLIDWORKS Workflow to the Next Level?

Renew Your Design Focus with SOLIDWORKS Cloud Services

Unlocking the Freedom to Design

Share and Markup: Instant Collaboration with Stakeholders

How it Works:

Store and Revise: Keeping Your Designs Secure and Up-to-Date

Key Features:

Supporting Apps:

Manage and Control: Advanced Data Management for Complex Projects

Scalability at Your Pace

Why Upgrade to SOLIDWORKS Cloud Services?

What’s New in SOLIDWORKS Visualize 2025 and Visualize Boost

Abstract

Introduction

Fast Render Mode

Photorealistic Rendering via SOLIDWORKS API

Faded Ground Option

Enhancements in SOLIDWORKS Visualize Boost 2025

Discontinuation of NVIDIA Iray Support

Leveraging GPU Technology with Vulkan Ray Tracing API

Improved User Experience and Workflow Efficiency

Why Choose SOLIDWORKS Visualize?

Real-Time Rendering with AI-Enhanced Speed

Seamless Integration with the SOLIDWORKS Ecosystem

User-Friendly Experience

Scalable Performance with Visualize Boost

Key Use Cases for SOLIDWORKS Visualize

Product Design and Marketing

Automotive and Aerospace Industries

Architecture and Construction

Consumer Goods and Packaging

Conclusion

What Is LSPc Technology And How Does It Power Nexa3D Printers?

Understanding LSPc Technology

The LSPc Process: A Three-Phase Cycle

Comparing LSPc to Traditional 3D Printing Technologies

Nexa3D Printers Utilizing LSPc Technology

XiP Desktop 3D Printer: Compact Powerhouse for Professionals

NXE 400Pro: For Big Ideas and Bigger Prints

XiP Pro: The Ultimate Industrial Resin Printer

Designing for Optimal LSPc Performance