But before I begin blathering, let’s take a look at what’s new in this release.
Though it’s vague, Siemens has stated that the new version of REALIZE SHAPE gives designers even better control over geometry, tighter integration with PLM software (like Active Workspace) and an optional touchscreen interface.
That’s it.
But really, Realize Shape’s abilities really have to be experienced to be appreciated.
For those lucky enough to use NX on a regular basis, you know that Realize Shape (which debuted in NX 9) is one of the CAD package’s most powerful tools. Using subdivision modeling, Realize Shape allows users the ability to create surfaces via an intuitive freeform method.
Like other freeform modeling environments, the Realize Shape workflow begins with the selection of a stock object like, say, a sphere. Once placed in the modeling environment, the object can be pushed, pulled, stretched and rotated to begin making a rough version of the final shape. What’s even cooler is that overarching commands like symmetry can be added to a model so that both sides of a component can be modeled concurrently.
To further refine a shape, any piece of geometry can be sub-divided almost infinitely to give a shape more flexibility.
But what’s to happen if a model can’t be defined, or is difficult to define, using a single stock solid?
In that case, Realize Shape gives users the ability to add other stock shapes to a model scene where they can be manipulated and eventually knitted together with any other geometry.
Given the power of these tools and their apparent ease of use, to be a very shallow learning curve, even a novice CAD user could step into Realize Shape and begin modeling complex forms very quickly. Truth be told, during the demo, an obviously experienced Realize Shape and NX user took a sphere and two planes and transformed them into a reciprocating saw housing in less than 10 minutes. Granted, he did use a few guides.
And that brings me to the other thing I liked about Realize Shape’s new iteration.
Why Should You Care About Realize Shape?
Why is Realize Shape such a big deal? What if you’re pressed with a hard deadline on what could be a lucrative contract? With little time to spare, you’ve got to come up with a concept model that can impress your future client. Realize Shape’s freeform tools give you the ability to move through concepts quickly and arrive at the best solution.
With NX, you can go further. With all of the time saved in the conceptual modeling phase, you have an opportunity to develop hard solutions for internal mechanisms, slick renders and maybe even a fully flushed-out cost analysis explaining why you can deliver the best design for an even better price.
Realize Shape (and freeform modeling in general) is an easy way to create complex geometry. Whether you’re using NX, Fusion 360 or other CAD products, it’s becoming more apparent that sub-d, freeform modeling is a go-to tool for everything from concept design to ergonomic sculpting. What’s more, freeform modeling makes it easier for people who aren’t CAD techs to work with very sophisticated design software.
So, what’s the catch with Realize Shape? It’s expensive. Like NX, the high price per seat means that only those working in the biggest companies can afford it. That’s a bummer.
Let’s just hope Siemens decides to port this feature over to Solid Edge one day!