IRONCAD TECH
The Five Key Don'ts
The bulletin is intended to highlight five keys things you should not do when evaluating IRONCAD or INOVATE.
01
Don't approach IRONCAD like any other CAD application!
“If you’re evaluating IRONCAD, typically it’s because you’re looking for something better, easier, more innovative, and even cost-effective. So keep in mind, you will need to clear your mind of any preconceived notions you may already have about how the software should work.
Remember, you are looking for better and innovative solutions. For IRONCAD to meet those objectives, it has redefined how 3D design should be performed. Trust me, it’s for your own good.”
02
Don't compare IRONCAD on a feature-to-feature basis to other applications!
“Many users searching for new software often create detailed spreadsheets listing the features and functionalities they desire in their new CAD program. With all due respect, if you’re seriously evaluating IronCAD, I urge you to discard that spreadsheet. I understand the effort you’ve put into it, but it won’t apply to IronCAD.
IronCAD has redefined 3D design methodology. You’ll quickly realize that many features you deemed necessary are either obsolete or irrelevant. IronCAD seamlessly integrates much of this technology into its core architecture, so these won’t appear as standalone features. If you’re focused on checking off feature lists, this approach will likely hinder rather than aid your decision-making process.
03
Don't add constraints!
“I know that if you have prior CAD knowledge, one of the first things you will want to do is add constraints to your sketches, parts, assemblies, etc. Please don’t try this in IRONCAD (at least initially).
You will discover how fluent design is with IRONCAD without the burden of unruly constraints getting in your way. As you become more comfortable with IRONCAD, you will understand when adding them may be beneficial to you.** Adding constraints or mates is available on-demand at any point in your design phase.”
04
Don't look for process-specific environments!
“IRONCAD is the developer of the Unified Design Environment (UDE), where you design all your 3D data in a single file regardless of the component’s nature. Parts, assemblies, sheet metal parts, weldments, and more all reside in the same file. There’s no need to search for separate design environments to create process-specific components.
If your engineering policy or mentality requires keeping all 3D data in separate files, rest assured you can easily do this with IRONCAD as well.”
05
Don't forget to use Catalogs!
“IRONCAD is renowned for its drag-and-drop design methodology, with catalogs being a core element of this approach. The Catalog Browser is crucial to IRONCAD’s success.
“Experienced IRONCAD users rely on catalogs for 80-90% of their design work. They are highly powerful and should not be underestimated, as they eliminate a significant amount of tedious and redundant tasks typically associated with traditional CAD programs. Explore the “Tools” catalog for a preview.”