IRONCAD Rhinoceros Design Data Manager

CAD software for design and product development

A CAD program is a designer’s most important tool, and the choice affects everything from design time to how easy it is to modify a finished model. Solidmakarna has been providing CAD solutions to Nordic industry since 1988. Here, we’ll go over what sets the programs apart, what modeling methods are available, and how to choose the right one.

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A yellow drilling rig with a tall vertical arm and a tracked base on a simulated ground surface.

The image depicts a drilling rig designed in IRONCAD Ornunga Maskin & Teknik AB.

Why choose Solidmakarna as your CAD partner?

We’re not just resellers. We’ve designed machines ourselves as consultants for companies such as DeLaval and Atlas Copco, and we know the issues that arise when a CAD system is introduced into a real engineering department.

  • Over 30 years of experience with CAD solutions in Sweden and the Nordic region
  • Personalized support training in Swedish
  • IRONCAD, Rhinoceros , and Design Data Manager all under one roof
  • Short learning curve—you'll be up and running in days, not months
  • We're with you every step of the way, from evaluation to production

Consulting and selection of CAD software

All our trainers and technical advisors have a solid background in CAD and many years of experience in practical design work. We work daily in CAD programs used in industry and can therefore provide advice based on real projects, established methods and current standards.

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Powerful features in our software

IRONCAD, Rhinoceros Design Data Manager provide you with all the tools you need—from concept sketch to finished product.

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Flexible modeling

The method in IRONCAD is the fastest and most productive for most needs. It handles design concepts and unexpected changes well.

3D box in vector format with a red X

Parametric modeling

This method in IRONCAD best IRONCAD for creating models that are to be dimensionally variant-managed in a predetermined manner.

3D box vector with an open lock

Direct editing

The method in IRONCAD to modify imported geometry. Select a surface and drag, rotate, or move it—regardless of the history.

Rhinoceros logo

Free-form design (NURBS)

With Rhinoceros , you Rhinoceros complex organic shapes and surfaces with NURBS precision. The industry standard in industrial design.

MultiPhysics logo

Simulation & Analysis

Test strength, flow, and mechanical performance digitally in IRONCAD building the prototype. Save time and money.

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PLM & Data Management

Design Data Manager provides full control over revisions, workflows, and collaboration. Seamless integration with IRONCAD.

What are CAD programs?

The purpose and function of CAD software

Computer-Aided Design ( CAD ) software is a tool used to create and modify two-dimensional (2D) engineering drawings , as well as to create, modify, analyze, and optimize three-dimensional (3D) designs and models.

CAD use in different industries

CAD is used in a wide range of industries, such as architecture, interior design, mechanical engineering, product development, production equipment for the manufacturing industry, technical sales, layout and many more. (See more in the list below.)

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TURBINE 3D CAD IRONCAD

The transition from 2D CAD to 3D CAD

In the 1990s, it became common to switch from manual drawing work to 2D CAD. A major advantage of 2D CAD compared to manual drawings was that it was easier to reuse existing drawings.

In the 2000s, many companies started using 3D CAD instead, which provided new opportunities to visualize and optimize products. However, many companies still have 2D files from previous projects that need to be managed in existing CAD solutions.

The benefits of 3D CAD models

With 3D CAD programs, such as IRONCADa 3D model provides a more realistic and detailed view of the product.

Among other things, this makes it easier to avoid costly manufacturing errors.
Many people can also more easily understand the design through a 3D model compared to a 2D CAD drawing.

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TURBINE RENDERING 3D CAD IRONCAD
TURBINE DRAWING 2D CAD 3D CAD IRONCAD

Update and save time with 3D CAD

3D CAD models can be mapped onto 2D drawings, where dimensions and tolerances can be added.

All views in a 2D drawing are automatically updated if the 3D model changes, saving a lot of time compared to 2D CAD where changes have to be made manually in all views.

Analysis and strength calculations with 3D CAD
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3D CAD models can also be used for different types of analysis, such as strength analysis. These analyses can be used to calculate the stress and strain in the material at a given load.

This makes it possible for a CAD designer to dimension the structure so that it can withstand the loads that the product is expected to be exposed to.

Turbine FEA IRONCAD 3D CAD MultiPhysics
3D Printed Turbine IRONCAD 3D CAD

The importance of experience when using CAD

Despite all the benefits of 3D CAD, no CAD solution can replace experience and knowledge of how to design, which is often industry-specific.

What are the different methods in 3D CAD?

Flexible 3D CAD IRONCAD Solid Modeling

Flexible solid modeling with history

A history tree where the different elements of the model (called features) are presented in the order they were created. For example, radii and holes. These are created and modified quickly without locks(parameters and constraints)

Direct Editing Solid Modeling Direct Face Modeling IRONCAD 3D CAD DFM

Solid modeling with Direct Editing without history

Frequently modify imported geometry without features. This method is also flexible, but with less intelligent models.

Parametric Solid Modeling IRONCAD 3D CAD

Parametric solid modeling with history

A history tree here too, where the different elements(features) of the model are presented in the order they were created. These are created and can be modified in certain ways with locks(parameters and constraints)

Facet Modeling 3D CAD IRONCAD

Facet modeling

Consists of simpler form of 3D model with fewer features.

Surface Modeling IRONCAD 3D CAD

Surface modeling

It creates models with surfaces, often carefully defined and controlled using 3D curves. It is used, for example, in the design of cars or consumer products where precise shaping is important.

A common program that focuses specifically on surfaces is Rhinoceros (Rhino) which is known for its advanced NURBS modeling tools, making it ideal for the creation of complex shapes and organic surfaces. Rhino is widely used in industrial design, architecture and art.

Methods in 3D CAD IRONCAD

Mixing methods in the same file

All the methods described above are included in IRONCAD and can be mixed in the same file. It is unique and you can solve different needs with one and the same program.

How do I choose the right CAD program?

In order to choose a suitable 3D CAD program, it is important to identify what your company will use the software for and what your specific needs are. Your needs may differ from what certain systems are designed for, and you may also have several needs that can be met with the same program. Below are some examples of areas of use where different technologies are used and the associated requirements for the CAD program:

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Our 3D CAD software & PLM solutions

We offer market-leading software for engineering, design
, and data management—tailored to the needs of Swedish companies.

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Design Data Manager

Design Data Manager (DDM) is a scalable PLM solution that provides full control over design data, revisions, and collaboration. Integrate seamlessly with IRONCAD for comprehensive and efficient product development throughout the entire supply chain.

  • Revision and Version Control
  • Integration with IRONCAD and other CAD software
  • Workflow automation
  • Secure document management

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IRONCAD

IRONCAD is the most flexible 3D software on the market. By combining flexible, parametric, and direct modeling with smart drag-and-drop functionality, it enables faster design for engineers who require high performance in their daily work.

  • Flexible modeling
  • Parametric modeling
  • Direct editing
  • Associative 2D drawings
  • Permanent license
Rhinoceros logo

Rhinoceros

Rhino is the industry standard for free-form design and NURBS modeling. It is the ultimate tool for industrial designers and architects who create complex surfaces, organic forms, and advanced curves with absolute geometric precision.

  • NURBS-based surface modeling
  • Grasshopper Parametric Design
  • Rendering with V-Ray and KeyShot
  • Open plugin ecosystem

Design of specialized machinery and production equipment

This includes specialized machinery, fixtures, production equipment, industrial maintenance and automation solutions, often consisting of short runs or single solutions. Flexibility and speed are required here, as there is no time to deal with unnecessary steps such as parameters or lockouts.

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Splice Welding Machine Innopend 3D CAD IRONCAD
3D CAD Pendax IRONCAD

Customization of machinery and equipment

When customizing machines and equipment for specific customer needs, flexibility is crucial, as you cannot predict what the next customer will want or what the market will demand tomorrow. IRONCAD hybrid modeling with optional constraints and parameters. Unlike SolidWorks, which is based on strict parametric modeling, and Fusion 360, which primarily uses parametric modeling, we help you leverage IRONCAD's unique flexibility for faster results.

Technical sales

‍Standard productswith variations - for example, products that vary in dimensions and have to follow specific rules (such as balcony railings). This is where investing time in creating parametric models is appropriate.

‍Assemblieswith different versions and designs - flexibility is needed here, as the design may vary between customers.

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Import and modification of external 3D models

When working with models from other 3D systems, it is a great advantage if the CAD program can handle and modify imported designs without requiring history. With modern CAD technology, you can edit and customize models directly, even when history and parameters are not carried over from the original program. This saves time, reduces complications, and makes working with external models more efficient and flexible.

SheetMetal (bent sheets)

When creating curved sheets, it is important to be able to unfold them into a flat version, where the outline of the flat version is used in DXF 2D format for laser cutting.

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Layout 3D CAD Modeling IRONCAD

Layout and planning of premises and workshops

Layout involves planning the contents of premises and workshops to create detailed and optimized spaces using computer-aided design. Flexibility without restrictions and parameters is important here, especially when it comes to managing a large number of parts and machines. Too many conditions and restrictions can make planning unclear.

3D RENDERING KITCHEN IRONCAD 3D CAD

Construction of interior and kitchen carpentry

In carpentry, predictable dimensional changes and variations are common. Here, a parametric model can be useful for controlling the dimensions and number of drawers in, for example, a cabinet. Using 3D models and computer-aided drafting/design (CAD), the entire design can be visualized digitally, checked, and adjusted before manufacturing. From these models (e.g., a complete kitchen), everything can be exported to a CAM program that instructs a CNC milling machine, replacing the need for traditional 2D drawings and streamlining production.

3D CAD RENDERING BRODDSON IRONCAD

Marketing and promotion

CAD programs can be used to create selling, realistic images (renderings) and explanatory language-independent animations, which facilitate the communication of the product to the customer.

Compatibility and integration

FEM IRONCAD 3D CAD MultiPhysics

Simulation and analysis

Test strength, flows and mechanical function digitally in IRONCAD before the prototype is built. Save time and money. 3D models can often be analyzed to assess stress and deformation at a certain load. For this, there are specific analysis programs that use FEM (Finite Element Method). FEM divides the volume into a three-dimensional mesh and handles stresses via nodes (meeting points) during the calculation. This helps designers understand how the material will behave under different loads and optimize the design accordingly.

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Integration with PLM (Product Lifecycle Management) systems

Integration with a PLM system can be beneficial for managing CAD files, documentation, and version control. One example is DDM , a PLM solution that streamlines project data management and facilitates collaboration between teams. DDM enables the structuring of project data and is an excellent tool for industries that need to manage different versions of a design, release, expired design and so on. Design Data Manager provides full control over revisions, workflows and collaboration. Seamless integration with IRONCAD .

WoodLAB 3D CAD CAM IRONCAD

Export of 3D models to Computer Aided Manufacturing (CAM) programs

Most 3D CAD programs today have the ability to export 3D models to CAM programs, where manufacturing programs are created for, for example, controlled milling machines. An example is WoodLAB, a CAM program that can drastically reduce the time from design to finished CNC milling program, making the production process more efficient.

Benefits of our CAD solutions

Find out why hundreds of Swedish companies have chosen IRONCAD, Rhinoceros Design Data Manager for their product development.

Faster design

IRONCAD's drag-and-drop design and flexible modeling reduce design time by up to 50%.

Short learning curve

Start producing from day one. IRONCAD intuitive and requires minimal training compared to other CAD systems.

Maximum flexibility

Switch freely between parametric, direct, and free-form modeling within the same model—without having to restart.

Seamless integration

Integrate IRONCAD Design Data Manager, CAM software, and simulation tools for a complete workflow.

Increased productivity

Rhinoceros complex surface modeling and DDM data management—the right tool for every task.

support in Swedish and English

Fast and personalized technical support Swedish and English. We’re here to provide you with training and advice.

Choose the right modeling methodology and CAD software for your needs

Flexible, parametric or direct editing

Flexibility and efficiency with intelligent features

For most design needs, flexible modeling with intelligent features is the most efficient and profitable choice. This provides support to manage concept development, unforeseen late changes and allows greater freedom to test different design options.

Parametric technology if needed

Thanks to the intelligent structure of IRONCAD models, there is also the possibility to use parametric techniques when appropriate. This makes it possible to work with fixed dimensions and constraints where precision and control are particularly important.

Direct editing of imported 3D files

IRONCAD also offers direct editing, which means that imported 3D files can be modified without the need for a history. This is particularly useful when working with files from other systems and need to make quick adjustments.

Everything in one file

Med IRONCAD all these modeling methods - flexible modeling, parametric techniques and direct editing - can be combined in a single file. This makes IRONCAD a reliable choice for those looking for a competent system for fast and efficient product development.

Frequently asked questions about CAD software

Free of charge trial version

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