Feature Article

Exploring new dimensions: Manufacturers turning CAD models into marketing, sales, service tools

Interactive product manuals developed by Logicom might bring out the handyman in you. In the repair manual for a boiler, the program guides you through the intricate wirework and mechanical layouts of the device in animated steps, visually directing you to the critical springs and control panels. This is just one example of the practical uses some forward-thinking manufacturers are finding for 3D CAD data.
Read more

An unspoiled ride: Bike that cleans water wins pedal-powered product design contest

Environmentalists have long advocated bicycle commuting as a way of reducing the harmful emissions from automobiles. But the winners of an innovative product design contest have developed a prototype for bicycle that also combats water pollution.
Read more

A time saver: Sony shrinks vehicle development cycles with 3D CAD software

Sony’s Professional Services Division greatly reduced the time it takes to produce custom-made outside broadcast vehicles by automating its design process using the Pro/ENGINEER 3D CAD software suite from PTC.
Read more

Rapid PLM: Dassault targets midmarket with "express" version of ENOVIA SmartTeam 

Dassault Systèmes has introduced an easy-to-install product life-cycle management solution tailored for medium-size companies. This is a departure from Dassault’s history of catering primarily to top-tier manufacturing organizations.
Read more

Research

Profitable Design Chains: Global Product Design Comes of Age

Global design strategies have matured significantly over the last two years. Global design continues to grow, but companies now turn to the global workforce not only to reduce costs but also to accelerate product innovation. This fundamental shift in strategy is accompanied by evolving approaches to the operation of global design chains. Initial forays into global design sacrificed strategic needs, such as protecting product IP, in pursuit of rapid cost reduction. This Aberdeen Group report serves as a road map for companies seeking to reap more sustainable, strategic benefits from global design strategies while reducing the business risks associated with global design.
Read more