Drafting software now in 10 languages

UGS is now offering its no-cost Solid Edge 2D Drafting software in 10 languages.

In addition to the English version already available, downloads are now available in French, German, Italian, Spanish, Russian, Simplified Chinese, Traditional Chinese, Japanese and Korean.

The move is part of a continuing effort by UGS to help users around the globe 'Evolve to 3D' CAD software by providing them with access to free 2D design and drafting to begin the transition. There is no cost to download or license the software. Optional support and automatic upgrades are available for a nominal fee.

As of 1 January 2007, the popular English version has established substantial market penetration with more than 33,000 downloads. Approximately 25 per cent of those who downloaded the program indicate that they are considering 3D.

Gil Tellier, principal of Tellier Engineering and Consulting, downloaded the free Solid Edge 2D drafting product. Then Tellier bought full Solid Edge 3D in late 2006 to meet his goals for a new rocket engine project. He says: “I had no thoughts of buying 3D until I tried the free Solid Edge 2D Drafting product. There is nothing like free 2D and it works great, but I saw much more in the 3D, particularly from the examples of 3D modelling and conversion to 2D and back to 3D on the web site. I could see bigger opportunity in Solid Edge to design our complex rocket engine valves easier and faster with the full Solid Edge 3D package.”

Shortly after the announcement of the no-cost 2D programme, UGS launched a series of 'Dare to Compare' seminars around the globe that will continue in 2007. These focus on competitive differentiation over Solidworks software and Autodesk Inventor software. Seminar attendees test drive Solid Edge to see how it enables real business advantages through a streamlined process of innovation.

Bruce Boes, vice president of UGS Velocity series marketing, comments: “The market has really responded these programs. 2D is a pure commodity on the market today, which we believe no one should have to pay for. Still, 2D has a substantial lasting role in design and documentation. Our Solid Edge hybrid 2D/3D design software gives users the ability to optimise the use of both in a single system on their terms. We dare anyone to compare us to the competition.”

Solid Edge 2D Drafting