Enterprise-wide use of design related information is essential for manufacturing efficiency. That is the view of Errol Ashwell, managing director of Autodesk Africa. "With the introduction of computer-aided design (CAD) 20 years ago, focus was on automation of drawing and drafting tasks.

"In the '90s, the vision extended to include the integration of CNC machine programming and engineering applications, such as finite element analysis, with CAD. Although there were productivity spin-offs for the shop floor, focus remained firmly on maximising design office output."

Ashwell believes the new decade heralds a trend towards more efficient use of design related information by multiple functions within an organisation. "With the model-based technology of Autodesk Inventor all design data resides in a single 3D model. This facilitates efficient sharing and application of relevant design data across entire organisations, maximising business efficiency.

"Attractive 3D images can, for example, be provided to marketing for the creation of brochures, launch invitations, and advertisements, while automatically generated bills of material can accelerate procurement systems. Simple digital video clips, which can be viewed on a PC, can be used to inform the shop floor how to assemble items, helping to reduce production errors. Similar video clips can educate users about effective maintenance procedures."

Furthermore, Autodesk recently launched Autodesk Inventor 6. The new surface modelling technology in Autodesk Inventor 6 allows designers to switch between solids and surface modelling at any time, while maintaining all parametric history for fast and easy design changes. Designers can mix solids and surfaces in a single model, to create stylised, complex and sculpted parts.

For more information contact Autodesk Africa, 012 664 8115, geo-south-africa@autodesk.com