Wednesday, May 25, 2016

COMSOL Announces Simulation Apps Support of 5G, IoT

BURLINGTON, MA, USA, May 25, 2016 - COMSOL, the leading provider of multiphysics modelling, simulation, and application design software, has announced support for app development that furthers work toward 5G and the IoT. Several of these application examples will be introduced at the International Microwave Symposium (IMS) 2016. The COMSOL Multiphysics software and its Application Builder provides simulation experts with the tools needed to turn their detailed physics and mathematical models into easy-to-use simulation apps for use by everyone in their organization and beyond. “We wanted to show designers how easy it is to build a customized easy-to-use interface based on their detailed model in order to let anyone in product development test different operating conditions and configurations,” said Jiyoun Munn, technical product manager of the RF Module at COMSOL.

This app created with COMSOL Multiphysics, simulates a single slot-coupled microstrip patch antenna fabricated on a multilayered low temperature co-fired ceramic (LTCC) substrate. Users may control inputs such as properties of a single antenna and array geometry. Results show the far-field radiation pattern of the antenna array and its directivity.

This app created with COMSOL Multiphysics, simulates a single slot-coupled microstrip patch antenna fabricated on a multilayered low temperature co-fired ceramic (LTCC) substrate. Users may control inputs such as properties of a single antenna and array geometry. Results show the far-field radiation pattern of the antenna array and its directivity.

As we work toward 5G and the Internet of Things (IoT), designers of RF and microwave devices will benefit from multiphysics modelling and simulation of antennas and circuits, not limited to RF and microwaves but extending to the range of millimetre waves and Terahertz. The latest release of the RF Module in COMSOL Multiphysics comes with several application examples that allow COMSOL software users to run, inspect, and use the apps – allowing them to see how straightforward it is to turn their model into a custom application.

Of interest to antenna designers is the Slot-Coupled Microstrip Patch Antenna Array Synthesizer demo app, pictured here. It simulates an FEM model of a device that is fabricated on a multilayered low temperature co-fired ceramic (LTCC) substrate, and extends the results to the user-specified array configuration.

The results include S-parameter, electric field distribution on each layer, far-field radiation pattern of the antenna array, and its directivity. The far-field radiation pattern is calculated by multiplying the array factor and the single antenna radiation pattern to perform an efficient far-field analysis without simulating a complicated full array model, allowing the app user to independently obtain their simulation results within seconds. “Given how competitive the race is to deliver the best 5G solutions, building simulation apps for an entire team will allow designers to share their expertise easily and free up resources to develop new concepts,” adds Munn.

Using COMSOL Multiphysics, microwave and RF designers can couple electromagnetic simulations with heat transfer, structural mechanics, fluid flow, and other physical phenomena, allowing them to represent coupled physics effects as they would occur in the real world. That means being able to accurately investigate designs and fully benefit from the virtual prototyping capabilities COMSOL offers.

The upcoming version of the RF Module, which is scheduled to be released shortly after the International Microwave Symposium (IMS) 2016, strengthens its design and test feasibility by including new tutorial models such as a log-periodic antenna for EMI/EMC Testing, and a signal integrity (SI) and time-domain reflectometry (TDR) analysis of adjacent microstrip lines. The Application Libraries also include detailed model examples guiding users to perform very fast prototyping with high accuracy through reduced-order model simulation techniques based on asymptotic waveform evaluation (AWE) and frequency-domain modal methods.

About COMSOL

COMSOL is a global provider of simulation software for product design and research to technical enterprises, research labs, and universities. Its COMSOL Multiphysics product is an integrated software environment for creating physics-based models and simulation apps. A particular strength is its ability to account for coupled or multiphysics phenomena. Add-on products expand the simulation platform for electrical, mechanical, fluid flow, and chemical applications. Interfacing tools enable the integration of COMSOL Multiphysics simulations with all major technical computing and CAD tools on the CAE market. Simulation experts rely on the COMSOL Server product to deploy apps to their design teams, manufacturing departments, test laboratories, and customers throughout the world. Founded in 1986, COMSOL employs more than 400 people in 22 offices worldwide and extends its reach with a network of distributors. For more information, visit https://www.comsol.com.

Wednesday, May 18, 2016

Stratasys to Offer Universal Design-to-3D Print Software with GrabCAD Print

MINNEAPOLIS, MN, USA and REHOVOT, Israel, May 18, 2016 - Stratasys Ltd. (Nasdaq:SSYS), the 3D printing and additive manufacturing solutions company, unveiled a bold, new software strategy designed to make 3D printing significantly easier, more intuitive and highly accessible. The approach is powered by a new, open architecture "design-to-3D print" workflow application, GrabCAD Print* - residing on the popular GrabCAD SaaS platform and supported by a community of more than 3 million designers, engineers and students.


Unified Platform for Job Preparation, Scheduling and Monitoring

3D printing techniques are typically characterized by significant "model fixing" time which forces businesses to devise costly, manual solutions to construct an acceptable workflow. GrabCAD Print is designed to make 3D printing fast and easy-to-use, while reducing errors by eliminating requirements to translate and repair computer-aided design (CAD) files. Product designers, engineers, and 3D printer operators can now send native CAD files to Stratasys 3D Printer or service bureau directly from their familiar CAD environments. Further bolstered by an extensive new business intelligence environment, the application also accelerates data-driven decision-making.

"When we acquired GrabCAD two years ago, our vision was to provide a digital manufacturing backbone to support adoption of 3D printing technologies," said Josh Claman, Chief Business Officer, Stratasys. "Underscoring the critical nature of software as an essential ingredient for complete and smooth 3D printing workflow, GrabCAD Print is our first new application built on the GrabCAD platform - empowering customers with a single, open, cloud-based environment for job preparation, scheduling and monitoring. Accelerating integration of additive manufacturing on the shop floor, GrabCAD Print also generates real-time business intelligence which can be prepared in actionable reports for Stratasys 3D Printers on the user's GrabCAD Print network."

The GrabCAD Print solution’s easy-to-use and intuitive print preparation environment removes typical complexities from the design-to-3D print process.

An Open Environment for 3D Printing Expansion

GrabCAD Print works with a variety of Stratasys FDM and PolyJet 3D Printers and can natively read several popular CAD formats from PTC Creo, Dassault Systems' SOLIDWORKS, Siemens PLM Software's NX software, CATIA and Autodesk Inventor. The application also facilitates data sharing related to job scheduling, print queue status, material usage and historical usage. All information is readily available via standard Web browsers, mobile applications or locally installed clients while securely managed through the GrabCAD Platform.

New GrabCAD Print simplifies the 3D printing process with an intuitive, streamlined workflow that includes actionable business intelligence.

Committed to architecting an open and partner-friendly solution, Stratasys is making full use of a powerful 3D design ecosystem - creating additional value-added applications based on the GrabCAD Platform. Industry leading CAD solution providers such as PTC, Dassault Systems' SOLIDWORKS, and Siemens PLM Software will be collaborating with Stratasys to further simplify key functions in CAD-to-3D print workflow. Users of these offerings will be able to access Stratasys 3D printing solutions, analyse designs for 3D printability, and prepare and print jobs from their native CAD environment.

"When keeping up with fast paced development, frequently things will change in the last minute. In the past when a build had to be switched to a different 3D printer I'd have to do a clean restart - redo all of that file preparation work. With GrabCAD Print it's easy to switch between 3D printers within a single app. That's a huge step forward in improving the workflow," said Jimmy Callaway, Design Engineer, Joe Gibbs Racing.

*The GrabCAD Print application is planned for public beta in North America this summer with additional releases planned throughout the year alongside new language and regional support.

For more information, visit www.grabcad.com/print

About Stratasys Ltd.

For more than 25 years, Stratasys Ltd. (NASDAQ:SSYS) has been a defining force and dominant player in 3D printing and additive manufacturing - shaping the way things are made. Headquartered in Minneapolis, Minnesota and Rehovot, Israel, the company empowers customers across a broad range of vertical markets by enabling new paradigms for design and manufacturing. The company's solutions provide customers with unmatched design freedom and manufacturing flexibility - reducing time-to-market and lowering development costs, while improving designs and communications. 

Stratasys subsidiaries include MakerBot and SolidScape, and the Stratasys ecosystem includes 3D printers for prototyping and production; a wide range of 3D printing materials; parts on-demand via Stratasys Direct Manufacturing; strategic consulting and professional services; the GrabCAD platform with over 3 million professional users; and the Thingiverse and GrabCAD communities with over 2 million 3D printable files for free designs. With more than 2,700 employees and 800 granted or pending additive manufacturing patents, Stratasys has received more than 30 technology and leadership awards. For more information, visit www.stratasys.com or http://blog.stratasys.com/.

Tuesday, May 17, 2016

PTC Releases ThingWorx v7 Internet of Things Platform

NEEDHAM, MA, USA, May 17, 2016 - PTC (NASDAQ: PTC) announced the availability of ThingWorx 7, the latest version of its Internet of Things (IoT) platform. New features of ThingWorx 7 include an enhanced set of tools for managing connected products, powerful new analytics capabilities, support of public clouds, and simplified platform components that make it easier for developers to use their preferred tools to experiment with, prototype, and develop new IoT solutions.

“ThingWorx 7, rich with new features, allows developers to more easily capitalize on the promise of the Internet of Things by rapidly prototyping and building impactful IoT applications,” said Rob Gremley, president, Technology Platform Group, PTC. “As an open, flexible platform, ThingWorx also gives developers the freedom to build with their preferred tools and create solutions that work with their existing device cloud infrastructure. Smart, connected products and systems are the future, and ThingWorx 7 enables companies to accelerate IoT application development and to fully realize the value of their investment in IoT initiatives.”

Robust, scalable, and easy to use, ThingWorx is an enterprise-ready technology platform that enables innovators to rapidly develop and deploy smart, connected solutions for the Internet of Things. The platform contains one of the most complete sets of integrated IoT-specific development tools and capabilities, making feature-rich solution development simple while accelerating time-to-market.

ThingWorx 7 improves on PTC’s market leadership and technological prowess with new tools and features to help companies get the most value out of their connected strategies.

ThingWorx Utilities

ThingWorx Utilities, formerly ThingWorx Converge, now offers several pre-built tools to help companies manage, monitor, and extract data from their products, including:
  • Connected Device Management Capabilities – Companies can efficiently define and provision the unique attributes of new intelligent devices as they are created and build custom dashboards to visualize the status and performance of their connected products.
  • Alert Management – A customizable interface offering visibility to alerts for all connected products, making it easier for companies to identify when a product isn’t functioning as expected.
  • Remote Access and Control – Users can remotely monitor and manage connected devices, and perform actions such as troubleshooting problems, providing operator assistance, performing training, and supporting other IoT product use cases.
  • Software Content Management – Enables simple, secure and reliable mass distribution of digital content to connected devices such as operating system updates, application upgrades, and software patches.
Choose the Device Cloud Provider That Best Suits Your IoT Solutions

PTC recently announced that ThingWorx will integrate with leading public device clouds to provide an open IoT platform for all customers, partners, and vendors to utilize to meet their IoT goals, beginning with Amazon Web Services (AWS) IoT. Companies can use AWS’s device cloud to connect devices, send data to and from a device, and auto-provision the device directly from ThingWorx. As ThingWorx integrates with additional device clouds, enterprises will be able to select their preferred combination of optimal components from these cloud providers and ThingWorx.

More Meaningful Data with ThingWorx Analytics

The real value of IoT is found in the data that is generated and analyzed from connected devices, and the speed at which it can be turned into actionable intelligence for end users. With the release of ThingWorx 7, ThingWorx Analytics now plugs directly into the Thing Model, making it easier and faster to build advanced analytics, predictions, and recommendations within ThingWorx-powered solutions. 

Spotlight on Developers

ThingWorx 7 has been upgraded with modern platform components to make it even easier for developers to build applications for connected products. With ThingWorx 7, developers can use their preferred development tools, such as Eclipse, or source code management tools, such as Git, in an environment that makes it possible for them to quickly prototype and experiment with IoT solutions.

“With these enhancements to the ThingWorx platform, PTC continues to make impressive progress in delivering an IoT platform to the market,” said Carrie MacGillivray, VP, IoT, IDC. “By offering a comprehensive technology portfolio and strong cloud offering – that will appeal to enterprise customers and developers alike – ThingWorx stands to strengthen its position in this competitive market.”

About PTC 

PTC (NASDAQ: PTC) is a global provider of technology platforms and solutions that transform how companies create, operate, and service the “things” in the Internet of Things (IoT). The company’s next-generation ThingWorx technology platform gives developers the tools they need to capture, analyze, and capitalize on the vast amounts of data being generated by smart, connected products and systems. The company’s field-proven solutions are deployed in more than 26,000 businesses worldwide to generate a product or service advantage. PTC’s award-winning CEO, considered an industry thought leader, co-authored the definitive guides to the impact of the IoT on business in the Harvard Business Review. For more information, visit http://www.ptc.com.

ESS Selects Dassault 3DEXPERIENCE to Develop Neutron Research Center

VELIZY-VILLACOUBLAY, France, May 17, 2016 - Dassault Systems (Euronext Paris: #13065, DSY.PA), the 3DEXPERIENCE Company, world leader in 3D design software, 3D Digital Mock Up and Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) solutions, announced that European Spallation Source ERIC (ESS), a research infrastructure project funded and operated by a partnership of European countries, is using the 3DEXPERIENCE platform to construct the world’s leading neutron research facility in Lund, Sweden. The “Integrated Plant Engineering” industry solution experience delivers powerful digital design and collaboration applications for compliance and project management in a unified environment connecting thousands of engineers, designers and manufacturers across Europe.

Once completed, ESS will provide a more efficient approach to existing neutron scattering research and enable opportunities for sustainable innovations in, for example, clean energy, structural engineering, food technologies, pharmaceuticals, medical devices, IT and transportation. Its design includes the world's most powerful linear proton accelerator, 22 state-of-the-art instruments, a suite of laboratories and a supercomputing data management and software development centre that will be used for decades by thousands of researchers. 

ESS has had a close partnership with Dassault Systems since 2012, developing the necessary functionalities. The “Integrated Plant Engineering” industry solution experience provides ESS with a collaborative environment for design control and design data consolidation throughout the duration of the project. Its applications integrate civil and mechanical engineering for a full and up-to-date overview of design, allowing ESS to ensure compliance with requirements. Users can optimize the facility’s technical design, streamline construction processes and ensure that critical decisions are made, based on constantly updated and accessible information.

“With the 3DEXPERIENCE platform and guidance from Dassault Systems’ local team and its partner TechniaTranscat, everyone involved in the ESS project can create, update and reuse information related to designing and building the neutron research facility in a controlled and traceable manner,” said Peter Rådahl, Head of Engineering & Integration Support Division, ESS. “ESS is a long-term initiative for society’s future and we need the best tools available to make it a reality.”

“ESS is one of today’s largest science and technology infrastructure projects and open pathways to important discoveries,” said Monica Menghini, Executive Vice President, Chief Strategy Officer, Dassault Systems. “The 3DEXPERIENCE platform helps to securely link and simplify stakeholder relationships in this international collaboration. Users like ESS benefit from capabilities to deliver technically challenging plants on time, meet budgets and specifications, minimize waste and maximize process efficiencies.”

For more information on Dassault Systems’ industry solution experiences for the Energy, Process and Utilities Industry, click here.

About Dassault Systems

Dassault Systems, the 3DEXPERIENCE Company, provides business and people with virtual universes to imagine sustainable innovations. Its world-leading solutions transform the way products are designed, produced, and supported. Dassault Systems’ collaborative solutions foster social innovation, expanding possibilities for the virtual world to improve the real world. The group brings value to over 210, 000 customers of all sizes, in all industries, in more than 140 countries. For more information, visit www.3ds.com.

CD-adapco to Host Oil, Gas & Chemical CFD Conference on May 19-20 in Houston

NEW YORK, USA and LONDON, UK, May 17, 2016 - CD-adapco, a global provider of multidisciplinary engineering simulation and design exploration software, is hosting the Oil, Gas and Chemical CFD Conference on May 19-20 in Houston.


This premier biennial event brings together leading professionals from the Oil, Gas and Chemical industries and gives them a platform to share their experiences in the application of CFD to improve designs and reduce costs without compromising safety. Participating speakers include, but are not limited to, General Motors, Shell, OneSubsea and Technip. 

“Whether driven by the lower-for-longer Oil & Gas market, or the need for innovative new products, CFD is invaluable in helping engineers understand design performance, explore alternatives, and provide solutions at lower cost without compromising safety,” said Alex Read, CD-adapco’s Director for Business Development in the Oil & Gas industry. “As companies involved in these sectors seek to remain profitable, they are increasingly turning to engineering simulation to improve product longevity and reduce operating costs.” 

The conference aims to share experiences and best practices from across the engineering world. This year’s event will feature a presentation from General Motors, a pioneer in successfully applying CFD in solving complex engineering problems to reduce time and cost. Attendees will have the opportunity to learn about the methods and modes to achieve such success. 

Featured speakers at the event are Dr. Ray Cocco, President at Particulate Solids Research, Inc., and Dr. Kevin Farrell, Principal Engineer for Fluid Flow & Process Heat Transfer at Heat Transfer Research, Inc. The event will include the following sessions: Heat Exchangers, Separation, Process Safety, Fire and Smoke, Fluidization, Design of Offshore Floating Vessels, Flow-Induced Vibration, Flow Assurance and Combustion.

“The demand for materials with novel functionalities drives the chemical industry to be innovative and make their processing steps more efficient,” said Dr. Ravindra Aglave, CD-adapco’s Director for Business Development in the Chemical & Process Industry. “CFD simulation is essential during development of those processes such as mixing, separation and reactions. The ability to couple particle flows using DEM and fluid flow using CFD has opened a way to solve a whole new area of problems in fluidization and particle attrition. It continues to build on our message of ‘Discover Better Designs, Faster.’”

Registration for the Oil, Gas and Chemical CFD Conference is available at www.cfdhouston2016.com.

About CD-adapco

CD-adapco is a global engineering simulation company with a unique vision for Multidisciplinary Design eXploration (MDX). Engineering simulation provides the most reliable flow of information into the design process, which drives innovation and lowers product development costs. CD-adapco simulation tools, led by the flagship product STAR-CCM+, allow customers to discover better designs, faster. The company’s solutions cover a wide range of engineering disciplines including Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD), Computational Solid Mechanics (CSM), heat transfer, particle dynamics, reacting flow, electrochemistry, acoustics and rheology. On average, CD-adapco increased its revenue at constant currencies by more than 12 percent annually over the past three fiscal years. CD-adapco employs over 900 talented individuals, working at 40 strategic locations across the globe. For more information, visit http://www.cd-adapco.com.

Dassault, Russia's NIAEP Extend Partnership for Nuclear Power Plant Construction

VELIZY-VILLACOUBLAY, France, May 17, 2016 - Dassault Systems (Euronext Paris: #13065, DSY.PA), the 3DEXPERIENCE Company, world leader in 3D design software, 3D Digital Mock Up and Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) solutions, announced that it has extended its strategic partnership with NIAEP, the state company of Rosatom, a leading Russian nuclear power plant engineering procurement and construction company in Russia and abroad. NIAEP is deploying Dassault Systems’ “Optimized Plant Construction” and “Efficient Plant Operation” industry solution experiences for the construction and operations of its nuclear power plants.

Both industry solution experiences leverage Multi-D technology, jointly developed by the two companies to simulate business processes and carry out detailed modelling of construction and installation processes based on 3D data, as well as NIAEP’s nuclear power plant construction management know-how. 

With this agreement, NIAEP becomes the first company to extend its use of Dassault Systems’ 3DEXPERIENCE platform to the nuclear power plant construction site. This marks the second phase of the partnership and will begin by integrating product management and construction site execution at its Belarusian plant. In phase one, announced in 2012, NIAEP used the 3DEXPERIENCE platform to develop the first 3D digital nuclear plant management model. 

The “Optimized Plant Construction” industry solution experience provides NIAEP with digital continuity that enhances collaboration between its engineering and construction teams on site. In this virtual environment, plant design models, construction processes and resources are integrated and interconnected through a single source of data that is accessible and updated in real time. Less time is needed for reviews and approvals of documentation and issues can be proactively addressed, increasing the quality of construction execution.

The “Efficient Plant Operation” industry solution experience introduces powerful digital simulation applications to virtually experience NIAEP’s nuclear power plant sites that will provide accountable, reliable and predictable performance of plant operations. NIAEP can simulate workflows, maintenance and tasks to ensure that commissioning, production operations and maintenance of plants occur safely, efficiently and sustainably. 

“This step is an achievement for NIAEP because our company is striving to cover the nuclear operational lifecycle stage with Multi-D technology developed with Dassault Systems,” said Vyacheslav Alenkov, Head of systems engineering and IT division, NIAEP. “We have implemented Multi-D within all of our own projects. Now, we are going to expand that usage to every capital construction, production operations and maintenance project in Russia and abroad, based on a project management consultancy model.”

“The first deployment of the 3DEXPERIENCE platform at a nuclear plant operational site is a major industry milestone for operations of complex infrastructures, including thermal and hydro,” said Monica Menghini, Executive Vice President, Chief Strategy Officer, Dassault Systems. “The virtual world can help NIAEP optimize its activities at every stage of the business cycle and adapt to insufficient planning, changing requirements and poor visibility of schedules and resources that lead to costly and delayed plant operations. With this renewed partnership, NIAEP and Dassault Systems demonstrate the possibilities for greater sustainability in nuclear.”

For more information on Dassault Systems’ industry solution experiences for the Energy, Process and Utilities Industry, click here

About Dassault Systems

Dassault Systems, the 3DEXPERIENCE Company, provides business and people with virtual universes to imagine sustainable innovations. Its world-leading solutions transform the way products are designed, produced, and supported. Dassault Systems’ collaborative solutions foster social innovation, expanding possibilities for the virtual world to improve the real world. The group brings value to over 210, 000 customers of all sizes, in all industries, in more than 140 countries. For more information, visit www.3ds.com.

3D Systems Releases GibbsCAM 2016 for CNC Machine Programming

ROCK HILL, SC, USA, May 17, 2016 - 3D Systems (NYSE:DDD) announced the release of GibbsCAM 2016 software for production machining. Building on the revolutionary Universal Kinematic Machine (UKM) technology of the previous edition, GibbsCAM 2016 delivers a variety of improvements to increase efficiency, accelerate programming speed, and enhance visualization and accuracy for CNC machine programming. The GibbsCAM platform provides a powerful complement to additive manufacturing processes, further empowering 3D Systems’ users to transform digital concepts into physical realities.

For videos showcasing the features and capabilities of GibbsCAM 2016, click here.

The enhanced kinematic framework of GibbsCAM 2016 makes it a powerful and versatile CAM platform that is effective in nearly every manufacturing environment. Enabling solutions for complex programming challenges, such as oriented turning scenarios, GibbsCAM is compatible with a wide range of programming and machining operations, including solid modeling, high speed machining, 2- to 5-axis milling, wire-EDM, multi-task machining and more. Recognized for its ease of use, GibbsCAM is designed to help users eliminate scrap and reduce cycle times.

New features and functions of GibbsCAM 2016 include:
  • Enhanced thread milling, including support for multi-point tools, tapered threads for both single- and multi-point tools, and improved simulation.
  • The latest VoluMill technology, providing new toolpath strategies to optimize high speed roughing of large pockets and slots, open face milling strategies that can decrease cutting time by up to 60%, and Technology Expert integration for ready access to optimal speeds and feeds.
  • New oriented turning capabilities, giving users added control in how tools interact with parts. From using a single tool at multiple B orientations to reorienting tool groups for use on a different spindle to full support of Flash Tooling for multiple-orientation turning tools, GibbsCAM 2016 delivers increased flexibility and control to CNC programmers.
  • Added toolpath strategies for 5-axis milling, enabling users to define toolpath direction using the natural flow of a surface with the new Flowline option. Toolpaths can also now be extended in width as well as length. Additional enhancements include improved 5-axis drilling, multi-stepped pocket roughing and new gouge checking strategies.

“The GibbsCAM platform is a key component in today’s advanced manufacturing workflows, allowing our customers to optimize their machine processes and unlock greater productivity,” said Calvin Hur, Vice President, Co-Chief Operating Officer and Chief Revenue Officer, Software Products, 3D Systems. “By working closely with users over the past year, we’ve enhanced our understanding of the evolving needs of the factory floor, and are pleased to offer these improvements to help our customers maximize efficiency, safety and profitability.”

For more information on GibbsCAM 2016, click here.

About 3D Systems

3D Systems provides comprehensive 3D products and services, including 3D printers, print materials, on demand manufacturing services and digital design tools. Its ecosystem supports advanced applications from the product design shop to the factory floor to the operating room. 3D Systems’ precision healthcare capabilities include simulation, Virtual Surgical Planning, and printing of medical and dental devices as well as patient-specific surgical instruments. As the originator of 3D printing and a shaper of future 3D solutions, 3D Systems has spent its 30 year history enabling professionals and companies to optimize their designs, transform their workflows, bring innovative products to market and drive new business models. For more information, visit www.3dsystems.com.

Gstarsoft Releases DWG FastView v2.0 for Windows

SUZHOU, China, May 17, 2016 - Gstarsoft officially released DWG FastView for Windows (V2.0), a completely re-written new version with more user-friendly and intuitive interface.

DWG FastView is a fast and easy CAD Viewer compatible with the latest DWG/DXF formats, it’s ease of use even if you do not have relevant technical skills. By dragging and dropping over the main interface, multiple drawings can be faster opened simultaneously. You can view 3D models and 2D vector objects, meshes, surfaces, object information and attached drawing references. With C++ API you are also able to program and run your own application tools on DWG FastView.


Features
  • Compatible with DWG versions from R14 to 2013, and DXF from R12 to 2013
  • More faster to open and view DWG files, especially for large files
  • Faster user interaction and better stability
  • Export to image format such as BMP, JPG, and PNG
  • Send DWG drawings directly by email
  • Layer control like turn on/off, freezing, locking or unlocking
  • Provide traditional zooming and panning tools as well as innovative magnifier tool to quickly zoom into specified parts and view the details
  • Provide C++ API to the plug-ins developed and customized based on DWG FastView
Download
Operating Environment
  • Software: DWG FastView for Windows
  • Version: 2.0
  • System Requirement: Windows XP/Vista/Win7/Win8/Win10
About Gstarsoft

Gstarsoft is the recognized leading provider of 2D/3D CAD software and solutions for the industries involving AEC, mechanical, manufacturing, electrical, GIS, survey and mapping, civil, etc. GstarCAD have focused on developing highly .dwg-compatible CAD platform for over 20 years. Versions in 14 different languages sell in over 100 countries worldwide. For more information, visit http://www.gstarcad.net/.

Monday, May 16, 2016

ANSYS 17.1 Expands System Simulation, Immersive Multiphysics

PITTSBURGH, USA, May 16, 2016 - Engineers can optimize system performance for next-generation products quicker and easier with the newly released ANSYS 17.1. Building upon the 10x improvements in performance and productivity delivered in ANSYS 17.0, engineers can tap into new system-wide simulation capabilities to optimize system performance early on in the design process thanks to enhancements made across ANSYS’ core solutions. Using simulation early in the product design cycle enables organizations to reduce product time-to-market by 9x, minimize cost by 4x and maximize quality by correcting any design flaws early in the design phase. 17.1 takes another big step forward towards ANSYS vision of full virtual prototype.

Model, Simulate and Analyze Virtual System Prototypes with System Simulation

As products become more complex, the ability to simulate entire systems - including mechanical, electronics, and software - provides a significant advantage. This enables engineers to optimize for the individual components as well as for the combined behaviour in the full system. With ANSYS 17.1 engineers can quickly create physics-based component models and embedded software designs for complete virtual prototypes of multi-domain systems. ANSYS 17.1 provides detailed physics models in combination with embedded software and complex behavioural models of components to perform complete product evaluation early in the design process – enabling organizations to accurately predict how a product will perform in real world conditions. By identifying potential issues early in the development process before design choices are solidified, costly late-state changes can be avoided.

ANSYS AIM Redefines Ease of Use and Intuitive Simulation with New and Extended Physics

More engineers than ever before can now reap the benefits of the markets best and most trusted simulation technology using the latest version of ANSYS AIM. Built for design engineers, AIM is an integrated, easy-to-use simulation environment based on proven ANSYS solver technology. In addition to newly extended structural and fluid flow simulation capabilities, ANSYS AIM now provides product designers with magneto-statics and coupled magnetic-thermal-structural analysis to rapidly design innovative electromechanical products. New polymer extrusion simulation enables designers to identify manufacturing issues early on and reduce tooling lead time. ANSYS 17.1 boosts the customization and automation capabilities of AIM by introducing multi-step custom templates that allow accurate and repeatable simulation methods to be codified and deployed during early stages of product design – reducing product development time and cost.

Enhancements Across All Engineering Disciplines

In addition to the advancements in system simulation and multiphysics, engineers can take advantage of several new enhancements ANSYS 17.1 delivers across the entire portfolio and ANSYS Workbench platform. ANSYS’ electronic technology for antenna and wireless modelling empowers engineers with extended models and design flow automation – enabling organizations to meet the growing demands of the Internet of Things and wireless device markets.

Designing and routing cable structures to meet electromagnetic compatibility standards and packaging requirements in large automotive or aeronautical systems has become increasingly complex and make traditional design rules obsolete. The ANSYS 17.1 electronics suite is equipped with new innovations to efficiently analyze signal integrity through complex cable paths.

In the fluids suite, engineers can prepare large and complex models – from aerospace to under-hood simulations easier thanks to the new fully integrated toolset to navigate, display and manage large computer-aided design datasets. Also new to the fluids suite is cyclic and polar plots that display the results of a transient row analysis, making it easier for users to understand and communicate transient periodic behavior, commonly found in turbomachinery simulations due to blade row interaction.

Building upon the solutions for simulating large fabricated structures, the ANSYS mechanical suite offers new beam-to-solid and shell-to-solid sub-modelling. Now structural engineers can easily convert lower dimensional models used in early design stages to high fidelity 3-D models for a detailed investigation of critical areas. In addition to the performance enhancements across its product lines, ANSYS 17.1 delivers performance improvements for motion analysis. Systems with large number of contacting and sliding parts, such as chain drives and gear assemblies, solve 10 to 20 times faster using new innovations in time stepping schemes and the implementation of mesh based contact detection.

ANSYS semiconductor process technologies have kept in-step with new advancements to enable customers to innovate mobile, computing, networking and IoT applications. Overall simulation runtime performance has been improved by up to 30 percent with a 2x reduction in memory footprint by harnessing distributed machine processing technology for transistor-level analog and mixed signal designs including memory. ANSYS also now supports thermally aware electromigration analysis, enabling users to design with FinFET transistor technology. To further improve low-power chip design, ANSYS 17.1 delivers faster power analysis, better accuracy and greater reduction of power, enabling customers to deliver smaller, higher-power density devices to market faster.

For more details about the release, please visit click here. Current customers can now download ANSYS 17.1 from the Download Center on the ANSYS customer portal.

About ANSYS, Inc.

ANSYS is the global leader in engineering simulation. We bring clarity and insight to our customer's most complex design challenges through the broadest portfolio of fast, accurate and reliable simulation tools. Our technology enables organizations in all industries to imagine high-quality, innovative product designs that are sustainable and have an accelerated time to market. Founded in 1970, ANSYS employs almost 3000 professionals, more than 700 of them with PhDs in engineering fields such as finite element analysis, computational fluid dynamics, electronics and electromagnetics, embedded software, system simulation and design optimization. Headquartered south of Pittsburgh, PA,  U.S.A., ANSYS has more than 75 strategic sales and development locations throughout the world with a network of channel partners in 40+ countries. For more information, visit www.ansys.com.

ANSYS also has a strong presence on the major social channels. To join the simulation conversation, visit: www.ansys.com/Social@ANSYS.

GRAITEC to Reduce PowerPack for Revit Annual Subscription to Below $150

BIEVRES, France, May 16, 2016 - GRAITEC, international BIM and CAD software developer, announced that following the rapid success of the PowerPack for Revit, which has seen more than 3000 licences delivered worldwide in just over one year, GRAITEC has opted to reduce the annual subscription price of the PowerPack for Revit to below $150 per user. This move comes as an effort to make the PowerPack for Revit more accessible to a wider Revit user-base and to further accelerate uptake of its Revit add-on worldwide.

Carl Spalding, GRAITEC Product Strategy Director comments: "The PowerPack for Revit has proven more successful than we could have predicted. Our initial objective was to offer the PowerPack for Revit as a loyalty benefit exclusively for our Revit subscription customers. This remains the case today and continues to differentiate GRAITEC from other Autodesk resellers. However the demand from users outside the territories in which we operate - and those from where we do operate but are perhaps locked into contracts preventing them from switching their subscription - quickly identified that we were missing an opportunity to address the needs of a much wider user-base."

The current version of the PowerPack for Revit offers over 60 practical tools covering a broad spectrum of basic and advanced everyday user-needs. With tools for browsing and loading families graphically, converting libraries of 3D CAD files to Revit Families, quickly placing and displaying rebar in concrete elements, even password protecting your personal Revit Families and so much more. Now every Revit user across the board can easily identify one or more PowerPack tools that will address a laborious process.

Customers who have already purchased the PowerPack for Revit will also benefit from the change as they will see their subscription fee reduced to the new price on the anniversary of their contract renewal.

GRAITEC Product Strategy Director continues: "Revit users from all disciplines are constantly looking for tools to help them become more productive. After trawling the web and narrowing the possible options to a handful, the final decision often comes down to price. We are confident that no other tool-kit for Revit, or any combination of individual tools for the matter, comes close to the value offered by our PowerPack, not only in terms of its deliberately low price but more importantly, because of the variety and practicality of the quality tools offered."

Carl concludes: "GRAITEC is well known for its ambitious growth strategy and the PowerPack for Revit is another example of how disrupting traditional practices and adding more emphasis on the value of customers is helping us move closer to our goal. Our aim is to deliver unrivalled solutions to real-world challenges, and in a way that we believe is almost impossible to replicate. The decision to revise the price of the PowerPack for Revit will enable us to address the needs of more Revit users and increase recognition of the GRAITEC brand worldwide. The new annual subscription fee of the PowerPack makes it a no-brainer for any Revit user, regardless of the size, type or location of their company."

As an approved Autodesk developer partner, GRAITEC has created a wide range of add-ons for Autodesk products for over 25 years. For more information, visit http://www.graitec.com/En.

Tuesday, May 10, 2016

COMSOL News 2016 Multiphysics Simulation Online Magazine Available

BURLINGTON, MA, USA, May 10, 2016 - COMSOL, Inc. has published the latest edition of COMSOL News, the company’s annual multiphysics journal reporting on its customers innovative applications. The 2016 edition focuses on simulation specialists bringing multiphysics to everyone so companies can easily develop, clearly communicate and readily distribute designs across teams and client bases.

COMSOL News 2016 reports on how custom applications built using the COMSOL Multiphysics software allow cross-team collaboration; and how the COMSOL Server product enables the distribution of these applications for colleagues and customers to use. Industry experts explain how they harness COMSOL software to create detailed physics-based models and deliver on innovative product development and research projects; from designers and engineers at NASA investigating combustion instability in rocket engines, to a research group at the University at Buffalo designing simulation apps for use across a wide variety of industries such as, 3D printing and traffic control.

The latest COMSOL News issue features more than a dozen articles in this year’s 40-page edition, which cover a diverse range of projects. These include pieces on ABB engineers using the COMSOL Multiphysics software to predict and minimize the noise levels in their transformers; students and consultants collaborating to save historic structures and artifacts with the use of simulation apps; and simulation specialists creating virtual testing apps for furniture manufacturers.

Guest editorial is provided by Dr. Carl Meinhart, a professor of Mechanical Engineering at the University of California, Santa Barbara and founder and CEO of Numerical Design, Inc. Dr. Meinhart gives insight into how the COMSOL Multiphysics software is used in both academia and industry to solve complex multidisciplinary problems. “The reason is simple: What would previously require a custom numerical algorithm, from advanced multiphysics applications to optimization analysis, can be easily solved by COMSOL software,” he said. “With COMSOL, we are able to quickly simulate and analyse many design concepts, and optimize the designs, before committing to actual hardware fabrication.”

COMSOL News 2016 highlights the innovative work done by COMSOL software users including a computational app for testing new oil spill cleanup techniques using hydrophobic meshes and research into man made stars at the MIT Plasma Science and Fusion Center using numerical simulations to evaluate and optimize the proposed design of a compact nuclear fusion machine.

Availability

COMSOL News 2016 is available as an online magazine and can be viewed digitally or downloaded in PDF format at, www.comsol.com/offers/comsol-news-2016.

About COMSOL

COMSOL is a global provider of simulation software for product design and research to technical enterprises, research labs, and universities. Its COMSOL Multiphysics product is an integrated software environment for creating physics-based models and simulation apps. A particular strength is its ability to account for coupled or multiphysics phenomena. Add-on products expand the simulation platform for electrical, mechanical, fluid flow, and chemical applications. Interfacing tools enable the integration of COMSOL Multiphysics simulations with all major technical computing and CAD tools on the CAE market. Simulation experts rely on the COMSOL Server product to deploy apps to their design teams, manufacturing departments, test laboratories, and customers throughout the world. Founded in 1986, COMSOL employs more than 400 people in 22 offices worldwide and extends its reach with a network of distributors. For more information, visit https://www.comsol.com.

Wednesday, May 4, 2016

ZWSOFT Releases CADbro 2016 3D CAD Viewer

GUANGZHOU, China, May 4, 2016 - ZWSOFT, an innovative supplier of CAD solutions for the AEC and MCAD industries, announces the release of a full-featured and budget-friendly 3D CAD viewer, CADbro, for anyone to access, annotate & analyse engineering data, delivering highly efficient internal & external cooperation with greatly shortened time-to-market and largely saved project investment.


"ZWSOFT has leveraged its years of MCAD experience to develop this powerful yet simple-to-learn 3D CAD viewer, CADbro,” said Colin Lin, Director of ZW3D Overseas Business. “It will deliver superior experience and value to those who want to view and communicate CAD data.”

Directly reading virtually all major CAD formats with streamlined & easy-to-use UI

With over 20 major 3D CAD & neutral formats, like CATIA, NX, Creo/ProE, SolidWorks, Parasolid, STEP, DWG/DXF and STL etc., supported in CADbro, users can easily access & interact with 3D CAD data without expensive CAD licenses. Moreover, CADbro has also incorporated smart commands to detect open edges and perform quick healing, if required.


The seamless connectivity with engineering data makes CADbro a perfect solution to be deployed throughout any organization.

Vividly adding 3D annotations to share complex 3D product data and highlight specific areas

CADbro ships with topnotch 3D annotating functionalities, allowing even periodic users, like program managers, estimators, sales or marketers, to add dimensions, tolerance, symbols, or texts directly to the 3D models, saving the great complexity and expenditure of maintaining dozens of CAD platforms.


In a word, CADbro will help users focus and highlight certain areas of CAD files that are most vital to their particular projects.

Easily analysing & verifying engineering data for better interaction and more accurate quotation

CADbro is packed with diversified query & analysis tools, so salespersons can take measurements to estimate and quote accurately without disturbing CAD engineers; project managers can verify the manufacturability of product structure and assembly without cumbersome and costly CAD platforms.


Premium features provided for simple but smart editing

Apart from the above handy features, CADbro has also incorporated flexible editing technologies, like Direct Edit, Curve Creating and Shape/Part Transfer, making it possible for users to make some tweaks on 3D CAD models.

For more information about CADbro, visit click here.

About ZWSOFT

ZWCAD Software Co., Ltd. is an international CAD software provider through its network of over 300 partners in 80+ countries and regions. Its product ZWCAD is used by CAD designers across the AEC and MCAD industries. For more information, visit http://www.zwsoft.com/.