AAC Engineered Systems
SUCCESS METRICS
- Accelerated productivity two-to-three times compared to our former 2D CAD system
- Saved time and reduced scrap by using sheet-metal design capabilities
- Significantly reduced design time
- Improved communications with customers
The Challenge
AAC Engineered Systems designs and builds automated metal finishing equipment with a focus on heavy-duty applications and advanced material handling. AAC was using a 2D design package and decided to move to a 3D CAD system to gain greater flexibility in designing equipment to meet customer requirements.
The Solution
We went to the Chicago Machine Design Show and looked at every system. SolidWorks was clearly the best choice. It was completely focused on mechanical design. SolidWorks CAD software has revolutionized our engineering department. Configuration Management enables us to reuse existing designs in creating custom-made equipment. We try out different “what if” configurations, checking for interferences and fit on-screen, not on the production floor. Smart Part Technology knows which fasteners go into which holes and puts them there. We can design sheet-metal parts accurately without first machining them, saving time and reducing scrap. Our designers create the models, and SolidWorks makes the drawings, allowing us to conserve technical resources. And eDrawings helps us market to and communicate with customers.
