Design engineers don't have to give up the 2D world to benefit from large-
scale 3D layouts. It's all about getting the best of both worlds.

Cambridge, UK and Pittsford, NY - April 2012: In the CAD and process
engineering world, the 2D versus 3D argument is still going on. But for CAD
Schroer it's the right mix of - and the seamless integration between - 2D
and 3D that counts. Its software is designed to bridge the gap, helping
engineers to people build 3D factories on a rich 2D legacy, for example.

According to a recent Cadalyst survey 73% of companies use a mix of 2D and
3D CAD. About 20% work just in 2D, and only 6% work just in 3D. A mix
between 2D and 3D is the most widespread scenario, with companies looking
for a flexible solution that delivers both disciplines, helping to meet the
diverse challenges faced by manufacturing and engineering organisations.

Getting the most out of existing 2D data
Legacy data are a significant corporate asset. They are often used as the
basis of new projects, ensuring design consistency and accuracy, and saving
considerable time during the concept stage. CAD Schroer's solutions allow
companies to integrate existing 2D CAD drawings and raster data into new
projects, with the ability to subesequently derive new 2D data or create
new 3D models.

2D or not 2D - that is not the question
With 25 years of experience using and developing diverse 2D and 3D CAD,
plant design and factory layout software, CAD Schroer is bemused by the
pundits who treat pure 3D as the ultimate goal. Statistics show no increase
in this area since 2008. "It's not a choice of 2D or 3D," explains CAD
Schroer Account Manager Dr Martin Schwelm. "It's about the right mix for
each situation. New 3D users don't want to throw away existing data, and
need to continue providing 2D drawings to customers or contractors. There
are many benefits to 3D; equally most companies highly value 2D at certain
design stages."

The best of both worlds
Factory layouts are typically done in 2D. But in the world of process plant
or factory design, where there is a need to lay out complex piping systems
or plan process lines on different levels, a 3D approach with clash
detection becomes essential. And in highly competitive sales situations, 3D
visualisation is a great differentiator.

CAD Schroer, experts in hybrid 2D/3D software, helps get the mix right by
allowing designers to build on their 2D investment. Its plant design and
factory layout software is easy to implement, and allows 2D users to jump
on board quickly. The software offers a 2D to 3D approach, using existing 2D
layouts to quickly build a 3D world. Engineering disciplines like piping,
steel and HVAC are provided through parametric 3D component libraries with
auto-routing and auto-modelling tools. 2D drawings are automatically
generated from models, and easily edited with the integrated professional
2D drafting system. Old and new 2D and 3D data thus combined in one project
can be checked for inconsistencies and interferences, and visualised in 3D.

MPDS4 Plant Design and 2D/3D Factory Layout Software:
http://www.cad-schroer.com/Software/MPDS4

"Few companies can afford to throw away their 2D legacy. We say: don't.
We'll help you build on it, either by providing the software that makes a
transition easy, or through our factory modelling services - the quickest
way to get going with large-scale 3D," Dr Schwelm concludes.

CAD Schroer 2D to 3D factory modelling services:
http://www.cad-schroer.com/Services/Factory_Modelling/



Image 1: MPDS4-factory-layout-2D-3D.jpg
MPDS4 can automatically create a 3D world from 2D


Image 2: From-2D-CAD-to-3D-factory.jpg
CAD Schroer offers a 2D to 3D factory modelling service


Video: Video: Factory Layout with MPDS4
http://youtu.be/VXytNWEw2D0



About CAD Schroer

CAD Schroer is a global software development company and engineering
solutions provider, helping to raise the productivity and competitiveness
of customers working in manufacturing and plant design, including the
automotive sector and its supply chain, the energy sector and public
utilities. CAD Schroer has offices and subsidiaries throughout Europe and
in the United States.

CAD Schroer's product portfolio includes 2D/3D CAD, plant design, factory
layout and data management solutions. Customers in 39 countries rely on
MEDUSA4®, MPDS4T and STHENO/PRO® to provide an efficient, flexible and
integrated design environment for all phases of product or plant design -
cutting costs while raising quality. CAD Schroer emphasises close customer
partnerships and supports its clients' objectives through extensive
consultancy, training, development, software support and maintenance
services.