Editor's Pick: Faster production drawings from the 3D model

IronCAD LLC introduces IronCAD 2021 with a focus on improving the process of generating 2D production drawings from the 3D model. 

The company says every year it polls its users about what enhancements they would like to see to the software. For 2021 the clear response was to improve productivity when generating production (shop) drawings from an IronCAD 3D model. To that end IronCAD 2021 offers several new features and improvements specific to the production drawing process. 

IntelliShape Handles have been given new behaviors to symmetrically size shapes with a right-click drag; there is quick access to work with values attached to the cursor; and there are new snap options to get precise locations from a point or center point, which IronCAD says allows users to design faster with IronCAD shapes. 

The company says there are various general user interface improvements, including easier access to catalogs. Image courtesy of IronCAD.

There are two new 2D catalogs, 2D Annotation Catalog and 2D Template Catalog, to store frequently used annotations and templates. There are also new tools for revision clouds and ISO Tolerance Codes for dimensions; and improved bulk view creation options to automatically generate drawing layouts.

Sheet metal design improvements allow for improved ability to select stocks, enable ability to apply automatic bend alignment on angled sheet metal stock, and offer capability to more easily access common commands for sheet metal bends. 

The company says there are various general user interface improvements, including easier access to catalogs; direct feedback on face and edge length/area data; direct selection access to assemblies, parts, features and faces; and TriBall shortcuts to reduce steps in repeating copy/link commands. 

IronCAD 2021 offers several new features and improvements specific to the production drawing process. Image courtesy of IronCAD.

The free Share 3D utility has been given a user interface update. It also now supports measures and textures, and can work with larger data sets. 

Sources: Press materials received from the company and additional information gleaned from the company’s website.