Pictures by PC CAD/CAM to Include Sheet Metal Design

By DE Editors

Schott Systeme GmbH (Munich, Germany) will be including sheet metal design tools as part of the latest release of its Pictures by PC 3.4 CAD/CAM software.

Although generally used as a fully integrated CAD/CAM solution for mold tool design and machining, this latest version of Schott Systeme's Pictures by PC software offers enhancements in the direction of pure mechanical design.

The first is aimed directly at those customers requiring the quick creation of typical sheet metal components. Based on the software's nonparametric approach to modeling, this provides the user with the ability to freely add and alter typical sheet metal features, without requiring the constraints associated with a history based modeler. Immediate advantages are the ability to easily alter parts imported from other CAD solutions, in addition to providing a more simplified means of converting existing 2D drawings into sheet metal components.

Not being marketed as an actual sheet metal module, as Schott Systeme has refrained from including more complex freeform unfolding, the current tools will enable customers to dynamically unfold typical flange work directly on the 3D part. The end result provides an accurate developed flat pattern, but enables visual testing of the actual bend sequence before manufacture.

For more information, view the demo video at Schott Systeme GmbH.

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