SDRC Intros Freeform Design Tool.

The new I-deas Freeform suite from SDRC is a reincarnation of the Imageware modeling and product design software that SDRC acquired from Imageware Corp. three years ago. But the package also has new capabilities, a redesigned interface, and increased compatibility with SDRC's I-deas mechanical design automation software. In fact, as of the 8m3 (SDRC-speak for 8.3) release of I-deas, Freeform is being sold as part of the I-deas product suite.

The Freeform applications support different aspects of design, inspection, and manufacturing processes. The major component, Freeform Modeler, allows designers to create shapes using either polygonal, surfacing, or curve-based approaches. Freeform Inspection allows for rapid CAD-to-part or CAD-to-tool comparison. The third component, Freeform Light, is a less-expensive combination of the first two that offers entry-level reverse engineering ...