Solid Edge: Siemen’s CAD software for AM
When it comes to 3D modeling parts and then printing them, choosing the right software is essential. Of all the 3D modeling software on the market, today we want to introduce you to Solid Edge. This solution is currently owned by Siemens, but the idea was first presented in 1996 by Intergraph. Today, it is known as one of the most widely used software by experts in the additive manufacturing industry.
Solid Edge is a very powerful technical CAD software designed primarily for professionals to meet business needs. The full portfolio includes user-friendly software tools for the entire product development process. This includes 3D design, which includes synchronous technology, generative modeling, additive manufacturing and reverse engineering. Scalable simulation software is also included in the portfolio, which supports the design process, shortens the time to production maturity and reduces pre-production costs.
Solid Edge has a steeper learning curve than other CAD solutions
Solid Edge also has solutions that support traditional and new manufacturing processes, such as 3D printing. In addition, the software’s scalable data management meets the requirements of all manufacturers. It offers flexible design functions that allow you to edit the various elements without breaking up the entire assembly. Solid Edge 2024 is the latest version of the CAD software, with free versions of the software also available.
The Main Features of Solid Edge
With Solid Edge, you can design in two different ways. The first is traditional direct modeling and the second is Synchronous Technology. The latter enables parametric design. Other tools include component and assembly design, sheet metal design, drawing derivation, simulation (FEM calculation), wire harness design, KeyShot application for renderings, piping, surface modeling and mechanical engineering library.
The latest version, Solid Edge 2024, includes a variety of functions and innovations, particularly in the automation and acceleration of design – always with a view to user-friendliness and the performance of large assemblies. It enables faster visualization and faster work with large assemblies, as large components can now be visualized, zoomed, panned and rotated up to nine times faster. The latest version also offers faster design with new Core CAD functions.
In addition, the implementation of AI is another important innovation in the current version of the software. It enables design results to be achieved more quickly and AI assembly relationships are even able to predict alternatives when replacing parts in an assembly. The user interface is also supported by AI, so that commands for the next step are suggested.
Synchronous Technology is also equipped with intelligent functions that capture the design intent in real time and retain it in models of other systems. The latest version also features Design Configurator Connect, which allows users to share product configurations online so that enterprise customers can configure products to their own specifications. In addition, Solid Edge now has new Model Based Definition functions that make it easier to transfer design intentions to subsequent manufacturing processes.
Solid Edge’s generative design accelerates the creation of lighter components
Available Versions and Price
The price of Solid Edge CAD software varies depending on the individual requirements of the user, with four different packages available. These consist of the Solid Edge Design and Drafting, which is the basic 3D CAD package and is available from $86 per month. Secondly, Siemens offers the complete 3D CAD package called Solid Edge Foundation, which is available from $210 per month. The third in the series is the more advanced 3D CAD package Solid Edge Classic for a minimum of $263 per month. Last but not least, there is Solid Edge Premium, which is the ultimate 3D CAD package with all functions and can be purchased for a price of $378 per month.
In addition to purchasing the full Premium version, companies also have the option of testing the Solid Edge CAD software free of charge and without obligation for 30 days – including all 2D/3D functions of the full version. However, this offer is not aimed at students, schools or private individuals, for whom other free versions are available. You can find out more on the official website HERE.
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