WDS’ 3D CAD service reduces product time-to-market by supplying personalised
library disks that display products in the file types specifically required
by the individual designer.

The range of standard parts and machine accessories available as 3D diagrams has also been tripled to include items from toggle clamps to stainless steel fixtures and fittings.

“The new 3D CAD drawing library disks are the latest development since our Cadalog which, up until now, contained only 2Ddxf files – users had to visit our website to access 3D files,” explains Peter Heselton, Marketing Manager at WDS. “There are now so many differing file variations that we found users were spending far too much time trying to source a supplier who could offer the exact file format required or searching CD catalogues that had far too many available options.”

He continues: “We understand that design and production engineers are under< ever increasing pressure to control production costs and reduce time-to-market, so here at our central Leeds branch, we have set up the facility to instantly produce customised 3D CAD library disks that have file types matched to the platforms our customers are currently using. When designs are transferred between client and supplier, it is common for files not to carry the viewing annotation and amendment features both parties are used to, let alone the ability to integrate the item into an existing design without additional work. It was therefore essential that WDS could supply all drawings that were compatible with the customer’s software, whatever system they were using.”

File types available include; IGES, VRML, Pro/ENGINEER, STEP, STL (ASCII or binary format), DWG/DXF, Catia SAT(ACIS), Parasolid, Solidworks as well as eDrawings Compatibility is therefore ensured with software packages such as Catia Versions 4 & 5, AutoCAD v6, Mechanical Desktop V5, Pro Engineer, Solidworks 3D and Unigraphics v12.

WDS has also increased the number of standard parts and machine accessory 3D files available in the CD format from 2000 to 6000 items, which now covers a broad range of toggle clamps and stainless steel parts, making the library more useful to manufactures in the food, medical and processing industries.

The new 3D CAD Library Disks are an addition to the current online 3D CAD parts download service and series of five industry specific printed catalogues available from WDS, which contain details of over 10 000 standard parts and items of production equipment, from machined profiles and hydraulic workholding components to threaded fittings, clamps, hinges and fasteners.

WDS is based in Pudsey, Leeds, UK. www.wdsltd.co.uk