How can you optimize your product design with Pro/ENGINEER?

1 Parametric modeling

Parametric modeling is the core of Pro/ENGINEER. It allows you to define the geometry and dimensions of your design using parameters, constraints, and equations. This way, you can easily modify your design by changing the values of the parameters, and Pro/ENGINEER will automatically update the geometry accordingly. Parametric modeling also enables you to create parametric families of parts or assemblies, which are variations of the same design with different parameter values. This can save you time and avoid duplication of work.

2 Feature-based design

Feature-based design is another essential aspect of Pro/ENGINEER. It means that you can create your design by adding, editing, or deleting features, such as sketches, extrusions, cuts, holes, rounds, chamfers, patterns, and so on. Each feature has its own history and dependencies, which are recorded in the model tree. You can use the model tree to view, reorder, suppress, or resume features, as well as to access their properties and options. Feature-based design gives you more flexibility and control over your design, as well as the ability to reuse features in other models.

3 Assembly modeling

Assembly modeling is the process of creating a product design that consists of multiple parts or subassemblies. Pro/ENGINEER allows you to create assemblies using various methods, such as bottom-up, top-down, or middle-out. You can also use different types of constraints, such as mate, align, insert, tangent, or offset, to define the relationships and positions of the components. Pro/ENGINEER also provides tools for checking the interference, clearance, motion, and mass properties of your assembly, as well as for creating exploded views and bills of materials.

4 Surface modeling

Surface modeling is the technique of creating smooth and complex shapes using curves and surfaces, rather than solid features. Pro/ENGINEER offers a range of tools for creating and manipulating surfaces, such as splines, blends, sweeps, lofts, boundaries, trims, merges, and so on. You can also use surfaces to create solid models by thickening, offsetting, or solidifying them. Surface modeling can help you create more realistic and organic designs, such as consumer products, automotive parts, or medical devices.

5 Simulation and analysis

Simulation and analysis are the processes of testing and evaluating your design performance, functionality, and quality before manufacturing. Pro/ENGINEER integrates with various simulation and analysis software, such as Pro/MECHANICA, Pro/NC, or Pro/TOOLKIT, that can help you perform tasks such as stress analysis, thermal analysis, fluid dynamics, machining, optimization, or customization. By using simulation and analysis tools, you can identify and correct any potential problems or errors in your design, as well as improve its efficiency, reliability, and cost-effectiveness.

6 Collaboration and documentation

Collaboration and documentation are the final steps of your product design process, where you share and communicate your design with others, such as clients, colleagues, or manufacturers. Pro/ENGINEER supports various formats and standards for exporting and importing your design data, such as STEP, IGES, DXF, DWG, PDF, or XML. You can also use Pro/ENGINEER to create and manage drawings, annotations, dimensions, symbols, notes, tables, and other documentation elements. Pro/ENGINEER also enables you to collaborate with other users online, using tools such as Pro/INTRALINK, Pro/ENGINEER CoCreate, or Windchill.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?