Technology Eases the Switch to 3D Design

By Kris Kasprzak, Siemens PLM Software

Aberdeen Group recently reported that 3D cuts design time more than 45 percent and post-design changes by 43 percent compared to 2D. So why haven’t more companies migrated to 3D? Many express concerns about data translation, learning curves, and the loss of 2D design skills. Several new technologies simplify the switch from 2D to 3D design, making these concerns moot.

  Reliable 2D-to-3D data translations are a big concern. Most CAD applications translate 2D data, but not all make the switch to 3D more seamless by retaining key elements such as layers and XRefs, line types,  colors, and annotations. Also, automatic 1-to-1 scaling of drawing views is a must in keeping drawing sheet text the appropriate size. Applications like Solid Edge with Synchronous Technology accommodate these needs — complete with fonts matching AutoCAD’s — ensuring drawings retain their original look and feel.

  Once you import a 2D file, your 3D system dictates your options. Completing 2D projects while learning 3D works best for many users. Others want to start in 3D immediately yet access 2D as needed. For them, a drawing that can be driven with dimensions exposes them to parametric design as they work in 2D — a concept needed for 3D. Software like Solid Edge does this. Additionally, this capability allows parametric 2D drawings of mechanical systems, meaning that unknown variables, for example pulley spacing given a fixed belt length, can be analyzed.

  Imported 2D machine or factory layouts can also initiate the 3D modeling process. Using 2D early in the layout process simplifies assembly design by letting you solve fit and position before creating 3D parts. After you create a 3D model, you can find part interference and create drawings quickly. Again, depending on the 3D system, you have levels of capability at this step. Systems like ours speed layout work by assigning portions of a 2D drawing representing parts or assemblies to virtual components. This lets you experiment with the bill of materials before committing to 3D modeling.

  The last use of imported 2D is 3D part creation. Generally,  this process transforms 2D top, front, and side views into a 3D part. Then, 2D views are transferred to the 3D sketch planes used to create 3D shapes. Solid Edge simplifies this process with drag handles on the migrated sketches that you can push or pull to create 3D geometry.

  Still, editing 3D models is the real challenge. Historically, 3D modeling required users skilled in building parametric models so that future changes came without unpredictable results. While 2D users knew how to draw and edit, learning the equivalent steps in 3D was difficult. Again,  new tools let 2D users use familiar skills while leveraging 3D technology.

  For example, 2D users can edit by drawing a fence and stretching geometry into place. Having that same concept in 3D eases the transition. Also, during a stretching operation, 2D users expect a certain level of results without having to establish a complex system of relationships to control the outcome. New technology now offers a combination of feature-based, history-free design that does not require establishing feature relationships for a desired result. This lets you leverage 2D designs in 3D faster and with less downtime learning 3D.

  Getting products to market quicker is key to success. Most manufacturers know that 2D design is not up to the task. Some companies still worry that switching to 3D’s more productive design environment is daunting. That was true in the past. New technologies remove the old barriers and bring the speed and simplicity of 2D into 3D.

Kris Kasprzak is the director of Solid Edge marketing for Siemens PLM Software. Send feedback to [email protected].