UGS Launches Solid Edge 17

By DE Editors

UGS (Plano, TX)has launched Solid Edge Version 17. Major enhancements include a newDirect Editing capability and massive assembly support functionality.

Solid Edge 17, according to UGS, is the sole major MCAD application tooffer direct editing of models without the need to edit the historytree. Direct Editing allows the editing of native complexparametric models "after the fact" without the need to retrace steps inthe history tree. Direct Editing also allows the editing ofimported 3D geometry from any source, without the need to importfeatures and parameters. With Direct Editing, Solid Edge offersgreater interoperability with the company's NX software, and it helpsusers to either co-exist with, or migrate from, competitive systemssuch as Pro/Engineer, Autodesk Inventor, or SolidWorks.

Solid Edge's new massive assembly support capability allows engineersto work on large volumes of data, which, in turn, enables them tocreate complete digital mock-ups of their largest assemblies.Solid Edge 17 adds a new simplified assembly capability that uses aproprietary algorithm to automatically determine which external facesneed to be displayed to give an accurate representation of an assembly.Additionally, a new complementary "structure only" navigationcapability lets every engineer use the top-level assembly file as theirmain point of entry and specifically choose when they want to selectthe detail of a part or entire subassembly.

Solid Edge 17 continues to deliver on the company's Design with Insightvision and to help users evolve to 3D. For example, it delivers newcapabilities to optimize the design of complex products in a hybrid2D/3D environment; all under the control of the built-in insight fordesign management. Solid Edge's four-step "Evolve to 3D" approach helpsusers migrate 3D in a smooth, efficient, nondisruptive manner; allowingthem to get their job done now while learning 3D as they go, mixing andmatching techniques in a highly productive hybrid 2D/3D environment.

Version 16 improved Solid Edge's capability for hybrid 2D/3D design byintroducing the "Zero D" capability that allows the definition ofproduct structure before you commit any geometry to paper. Version 17enhances this capability to include new workflows that allow users toconvert existing 3D parts into 2D profiles for efficient 2D designlayout, thus allowing streamlined incorporation of existing parts intothe hybrid 2D/3D workflow.

Solid Edge 17 introduces a new CATIA V4 Translator, a new batchInventor migration tool, and a third-party ME10 translator from VoyagerPartner PROCIM. It already provides translation tools for Pro/Engineer,Mechanical Desktop, and AutoCAD, as well as neutral files like IGES,STEP, and DXF.

In addition to these new features, Solid Edge also delivers UGSXpresReview software, a new e-mail-driven solution for design review tocomplement the existing fully managed collaboration workflow capabilityof Insight and Insight Connect.

UGS expects Solid Edge 17 to begin shipping in April. For complete details, click here.