Recently, Theorem Solutions exhibited at Advanced Engineering by Easyfairs, which was a fantastic opportunity to speak to industry professionals and learn more about the issues they are facing today around CAD data sharing.
During the event, we showcased all three of our solutions: CAD translation, 3D PDF, and Extended Reality (XR) – demonstrating how each can enhance the visualization, accessibility, and sharing of 3D design data in unique ways.
Among these solutions, 3D PDF generated significant interest, with attendees exploring a variety of real-world applications and discovering how it can simplify and enhance CAD data sharing across teams and stakeholders.
Video: Sample 3D PDF templates available via CADPublish
Design departments are often the first to come to mind when talking about viewing CAD models, but many other teams can benefit from accessing 3D data. Being able to visualize the 3D designs can provide context for purchasing, sales, marketing, and more. Many of our stand visitors were looking for a more effective way to share this important design information.
We had a lot of interest in our 3D PDF solutions for this reason. 3D PDFs offer a simple way of sharing CAD data in an understandable document that can be accessed by anyone. This enables non-technical teams that don’t require CAD software to view and interact with models in an intuitive format.
Many people who came to our stand also needed a way to share design data with clients. They were interested in 3D PDF as a way of making CAD models accessible, but also because the interactive nature of these documents can make designs more engaging, providing stakeholders with a clearer understanding.
Another conversation we had on the topic of sharing data focused on how 3D PDFs can be a more cost-effective option compared to other methods. Some attendees told us that their current processes require CAD licenses for multiple team members who only use them for viewing purposes, which becomes very expensive.
When you only need to view a CAD model, as opposed to editing and designing, 3D PDFs can be an excellent cost saving solution. Since the documents can be shared with anyone once created, businesses can cut down on the number of CAD licenses required.
We also spoke to attendees looking for an alternative to traditional 2D drawings as they move towards a 100% digital process, allowing them to benefit from model-based definition (MBD) practices, delivering numerous advantages. By ensuring all the required information for manufacturing is included alongside the CAD model, there is less chance of misinterpretation, resulting in fewer mistakes and delays.
3D PDFs can be an excellent tool to support model-based definition. Product Manufacturing Information (PMI) and critical details like geometry, dimensions and tolerances can be included alongside the interactive CAD model, and additional documents with further information can be attached to build a technical data package. Plus, by creating templates for your 3D PDF documents, you can tailor the information included to your unique requirements.
Others we spoke to were currently using screenshots of designs to share edits and needed a more effective way to present design changes. 3D PDF appealed to them as a more engaging and user-friendly option, enabling CAD models to be examined in detail. This would provide a clearer understanding of the design and allow CAD models to be showcased more effectively to highlight design changes.
Without the ability to interact with a model, teams are often reliant on the angles and close-ups provided. Leveraging the interactive capabilities of 3D PDFs can help avoid misinterpretations that can arise when working with 2D drawings or static images.
Exhibiting at the Advanced Engineering show taught us a lot about the engineering and manufacturing industry and some of the issues organizations are looking to overcome. We had many great conversations about our 3D PDF solutions with industry professionals that had a wide range of use cases.
Based off the conversations we had, it’s clear that one of the main appeals of 3D PDF technology is its ability to simplify CAD data sharing. Since PDF files can be opened by anyone, 3D PDFs make CAD data more accessible, enabling design data to be shared with wider audiences.
Want to experience the capabilities of 3D PDFs for yourself? Download one from our 3D PDF samples page to explore them first-hand. Alternatively, request a free evaluation license of our CADPublish solution today.