Good article and very insightful comments by Jim T.
I just wanted to let you know that Simplified Solutions Inc. (www.simplifiedsolutionsinc.com) has a new product "IDF-to-3D" that can be used to create 3D PCB Assemblies in 1-2 hours. The tool is compatible with all ECAD tools that export IDF files in IDF 2.0 and 3.0 format.
The tool imports the user's IDF files into a viewer, allows the user to search/browse a 3D component library for replacement 3D models for each PCB component, and generates a 3D PDF file of the 3D PCB Assembly for free. When satisfied with the 3D PCB, a STEP file of the 3D PCB Assembly can be purchased.
So what does this mean in real life? We have been using the IDF 3.0 standard for Mcad to Ecad / Ecad to Mcad interface for almost 10 years now. We have been patiently waiting for the IDF 4 standard to be adapted. What is Cadence offering to enhance the experience? Its good to see that they are interested in the design tools but what do they have to show for the interest?
@JimT: You are absolutely right that you can't take the people aspect out of the collaboration equation. Tools can facilitate data sharing, but they can't do it on their own without cooperation and without the one-on-one exchanges that are so important to team building. These are merely bridges and by no means total solutions.
While commercial software routines for ECAD import are designed to bridge the data between the ME’s physical layout and the EE’s circuitry, enhancing the SW with new variables and making these routines more complex & sophisticated to the designer may further complicate an already cumbersome process. Enhancing the SW’s capability with design options may be good, but there is definitely a point of diminishing returns. The best guarantee of a successful product build is the experience between the ME and EE teams. Team communication, checking & rechecking of the design overlays are the best way to guarantee optimal circuit functionality without repetitive redesign.Nothing out-performs a team who has been together for a few programs.
That is an insightful way to look at it, Rob. No doubt, the combination of dispersed teams, outsourcing partners, and the need for tighter integration between disparate, previously siloed functional engineering groups is upping the ante for better collaboration tools. There really is no other way to pull all this stuff together in a timely fashion without them and the virtual world. We'll be seeing much more on this front, I hope!
Interesting article, Beth. It's funny. Software has helped companies disperse their operations -- some design in California, some design elsewhere, manufacturing design in some far-flung country. Now software is bringing the team back together virtually.
By refining topologies and using new fluid technology, Moog's new peak sine drive controller increases available power without increasing controller volume.
Lantronix Inc. has expanded its line of controllers for sensor networks with the release of a rugged controller that improves management of automation systems used in a number of industries, including manufacturing, oil and gas, and chemicals.
Inspired by the hooks a parasitic worm uses to penetrate its host's intestines, the Karp Lab has invented a flexible adhesive patch covered with microneedles that adheres well to wet, soft tissues, but doesn't cause damage when removed.
From Dell / Intel® New Paradigms in Design Work Scott Hamilton, vertical market strategist for Dell Precision workstations, 5/2/2013 3
Early in my career, I worked as a draftsman and remember the days of drawing on vellum with numbered pencils and Mylar with plastic lead. This was a fun experience in the sense that I ...
I've been using workstations for more than 10 years and love finding ways to get more performance from my system. With demanding professional applications that require more power each ...
A lasting memory from my first job as an engineer in an auto assembly plant is standing on hard concrete at six in the morning, vending-machine coffee clutched in hand, listening to ...
A quick look into the merger of two powerhouse 3D printing OEMs and the new leader in rapid prototyping solutions, Stratasys. The industrial revolution is now led by 3D printing and engineers are given the opportunity to fully maximize their design capabilities, reduce their time-to-market and functionally test prototypes cheaper, faster and easier. Bruce Bradshaw, Director of Marketing in North America, will explore the large product offering and variety of materials that will help CAD designers articulate their product design with actual, physical prototypes. This broadcast will dive deep into technical information including application specific stories from real world customers and their experiences with 3D printing. 3D Printing is
To save this item to your list of favorite Design News content so you can find it later in your Profile page, click the "Save It" button next to the item.
If you found this interesting or useful, please use the links to the services below to share it with other readers. You will need a free account with each service to share an item via that service.
Tweet This
7 
