The tasks

In order to make processes in the design department even more efficient, those responsible at Schnaithmann were looking for software that could automate recurring routine tasks within the framework of CAD automation. These include, for example, changes to lengths and widths in the 3D models of the conveyor belts. Designers should be able to work in the CAD system, create new belt variants directly (on-the-fly) and enter and change parameters via a configurator. In order to generate efficiency advantages, it was also desired to transfer the modifications made into the plant planning as well as the seamless integration into the existing ERP or PDM software architecture.

The solution

Given the requirement profile, it quickly turned out that the Confit CAD automation system was ideally suited to automate the design process. In addition to the automatic creation of 3D models, the management of configuration logic quickly gained in importance. Programs such as the administration tool, which allows users to load and parameterize 3D master models directly from the CAD system, take this into account. In the meantime, complete conveyor belts, including drive, motor, track and deflection, can be automatically generated on the basis of an intelligent purchase order code. An interactive editing function in the configurator also allows the designer to apply changes to generated variants. After selecting the appropriate module, Confit displays all relevant parameters. If the design engineer applies changes, the software automatically creates a new variant and inserts it into the CAD system.

Highlights of Confit in the area of design and construction

• create, insert, modify and append models
• generate XML parts lists based on 3D models
• find created configurations again
• review model and configuration changes
• interactive design mode
• batch mode for creating complete systems
• seamless integration into existing ERP and PDM systems

Features of Confit in the administration area

• importing 3D models from the CAD system
• design of input masks via form designer
• interpreter-based set of rules
• can be extended as required via individual .NET modules
• debug mode
• automatic parameter evaluation