| “It sounds really straightforward, but just being able to communicate accurately what something is going to look like is vital for our business,” says Tim Lucas, founding partner of Price & Myers 3D Engineering. “We often sit down with an artist or architect and we’ll model something there and then in SolidWorks, so they can see their concept taking shape. It’s a very collaborative process, like using SolidWorks as an instrument for design.”
This ability to communicate ideas extends to every area of the business, as Lucas explains: “Once you have the visualisation of an idea in SolidWorks, you can create screenshots, send e-drawings, export the model as an STL or IGES file, even create rapid prototypes – which is fantastic for situations like design competitions. As soon as you can accurately communicate a concept, every part of the design-to-build process can run smoothly.”
The retention of design intent is also important for Lucas and his team. “Sometimes, while transferring an architect’s concept into SolidWorks, we will find a way of simplifying a design so that it’s easier and more cost effective to build, without losing the design intent,” says Lucas. “Once again, the ability to collaborate and communicate with both architects and contractors using accurate visuals is an invaluable part of this process.” |
