On 15th December 2016, Boston-based software company PTC (NASDAQ: PTC) will release the newest iteration of their CAD program as Creo 4.0. At its base level, Creo software comes as a rage of applications of Creo Parametric, 3D CAD, 2D CAD, Simulation, Visualization meaning that users only use what is relevant to them. All applications are directly relatable to each other, and compatible with the entire range of CAD files.
As an update, Creo 4.0 focuses on the growing use of additive manufacturing for end-product design and the integration of Internet of Things technology. The software also offers augmented reality visualization, and the ability to use both parametric and direct design in order to get a polished product, with detailed part properties, and an ability to easily make changes to a model.
PTC have been involved with 3D printing almost since day one as Leonid Raiz, who developed the .stl file format, was Director & Manager of Development at PTC from 1986 – 1997. Raiz has since founded Rize Inc. that seeks to ‘bring 3D printing out of the basement’ enhance usability and cut down on post-processing. 3DPI’s editor Michael Petch interviewed Rize CEO Frank Marangell in September of this year, and discovered how the company are covering all bases when it comes to design – from the software to materials used in the printer.
A ‘one-size-fits-all’ approach is something many companies are attempting to do at the moment. Creo 4.0 certainly attempting this inclusivity by integrating design components for Internet of Things technology and making a play for model to object 3D printing compatibility.
Gif from an introduction to Creo software. Via: PTC
It appears that the company’s partnerships are coming full-circle as of this year’s IMTS in Chicago, PTC are also partnered with 3D Systems (NYSE:DDD) – ‘the world’s first 3D printing company’, founded by Chuck Hull in 1986. At IMTS, PTC CEO Jim Heppleman joined 3D Systems’ Vyomesh Joshi on stage and announced how the collaboration seeks to ‘reset on what is a product’ i.e. how 3D printing and Industry 4.0 unite into the idea of Smart Factories of the future.
Featured image shows logo of Creo 4.0 coming December 15 2016 Image via: PTC
