Exploring new frontiers for 3D models: Businesses repackage CAD data for downstream consumption

摘要

The online product configurator found on Newark, Ohio-based Holophane's Web site-www.holophane.com-could turn you into a lighting-fixtures junkie. From a series of drop-down menus, you pick the desired design, post height, and finish type. Based on those choices, the site generates a 3D view of the assembly. If you don't like the result, you can go back and try another setup. Similarly, interactive product manuals developed by Logicom might bring out the handyman in you. In the repair manual for a boiler, the program guides you through the intricate wirework and mechanical layouts of the device in animated steps, visually directing you to the critical springs and control panels. These are but two examples of how forward-thinking companies have been exploring downstream application of 3D data derived from original CAD models.