Zuken Launches Board Modeler 4.0

By DE Editors

Zuken’s Board Modeler is a new collaborative software tool that strengthens the link between the electronics and mechanical design worlds by enabling parallel MCAD/ECAD design.

Board Modeler docks in Zuken’s electronic systems and PCB design suite CR-5000, allowing layout and mechanical engineers to work more closely together in synchronization from early in the process. Board Modeler gives engineers the power to rise to the challenge of integrating PCBs into more mechanically complex products, while saving time through parallel working and the elimination of design re-work.

The new Board Modeler enables the layout engineer to easily work in a 3D environment modeler. The true component shape is now visible,  rather than just showing items approximated as a cuboid or cylinder (2.5D). This is achieved by performing 3D conversions of footprint data, importing parts made by MCAD, or by using Zuken’s online component database, which contains more than 4.5 million accurately detailed 3D components. This enables the engineer to carry out floor planning and perform collision checks between the PCB housing, components or other PCBs.

Board Modeler also eliminates duplication of effort between electronic and mechanical design by permitting the layout engineer to import board outlines, pre-placed parts and obstacles directly from mechanical CAD tools. It also automatically back-annotates any board and placement changes, as board outline and restriction areas, into the PCB design, whether new or imported. Industry standard neutral file formats, including STEP, ACIS , STL and IDF, are used to bridge the gap to many mechanical CAD systems.

For more information visit Zuken.

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