PTC’s Onshape Unveils Cloud-Native MBD Capabilities

PTC has released a fully cloud-native Model-Based Definition (MBD) capability, built directly into its Onshape computer-aided design (CAD) and product data management (PDM) platform. The new capability allows engineering teams to add manufacturing information directly into the 3D model early in the design process.

The Onshape cloud-native platform, built on Amazon Web Services (AWS), allows teams to work from the same, continually updated product definition.

Key MBD capabilities include:

• Integrated 3D Annotations: Engineers can embed geometric dimensioning and tolerancing, weld symbols, and datums directly into the 3D model.
• Smart Inspection Panel: All product manufacturing information (PMI) is automatically organized into a structured, filterable list, with instant cross-highlighting to the related geometry in the model.
• Shareable MBD Views: Teams can share PMI-rich models through URLs that preserve views and annotations, enabling browser-based access with no exports, plugins, or add-ons required.
• Feature Tree Awareness: MBD annotations remain intelligently linked to the feature tree, keeping specifications connected to the correct geometry as designs evolve.
• Downstream-Ready Data: Models can be prepared for inspection and compliance workflows with support for STEP AP242 export and integration with tools such as PC-DMIS and AS9102.

“Cloud-native MBD is a critical step for our customers to build an intelligent, fully digital product lifecycle,” says David Katzman, executive vice president and general manager of Onshape and Arena at PTC. “By moving product definition into the cloud, companies can finally break down barriers between design, manufacturing, and the rest of the enterprise. This shift is made possible by AWS’ scalable infrastructure and AI capabilities, which enable Onshape to deliver a faster and more resilient cloud-native platform.”

For more information on cloud-native MBD in Onshape, visit Model-Based Definition (MBD) in 3D CAD.

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