Sonnax Designs Aftermarket Transmissions Using SolidWorks

By DE Editors

Aftermarket auto transmission components manufacturer Sonnax (Concord, MA) has standardized on SolidWorks 3D CAD software to re-engineer worn-out parts so they are as good or better than the original, Dassault Systèmes’ SolidWorks Corp. (DS SolidWorks) announced. Using SolidWorks, Sonnax engineers have become more productive and more creative in their design approaches than with 2D software.

Sonnax engineers need to study every design aspect of a city bus drive shaft, for example, to make sure that the replacement part will last. Because the bus travels hundreds of miles every week, durability is critical. Sonnax engineers have to collaborate closely with part suppliers since many aftermarket parts are custom designed to a specific vehicle.

Aside from sharp 3D models that give both Sonnax engineers and suppliers a comprehensive view of part designs, Sonnax also uses SolidWorks eDrawings e-mail-enabled design communication tool to share 3D models and 2D drawings of its components with suppliers and customers. The company uses PhotoWorks photorealistic rendering tool to create life-like images of its parts for the technical documentation that accompanies the parts — a process that previously was delayed up to three weeks while engineers had to wait for the prototype to photograph it. Now the documentation is ready before the part arrives.

Sonnax is deploying SolidWorks Simulation and SolidWorks Flow Simulation to analyze component durability and fluid flow during everyday use to ensure optimal performance. Sonnax engineers will soon have even more visibility into potential failure points while analyzing how parts will perform in normal and high-performance operating conditions.

For more information, visit Sonnax or Dassault Systèmes’ SolidWorks Corp.

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