New target for CAD: Shop-floor manuals

Oct. 21, 2004
Software that turns 3D CAD models into 2D images let a consumer electronics company streamline production of user manuals and assembly instructions.

The Casio camera appears in different stages of assembly. The company uses Lattice3D software to assist with shop-floor manuals and instructions for those assembling products.

The software turns 3D models into images for the user manuals of consumer electronics, such as digital cameras

Casio Inc. estimates it has cut time spent on manuals by at least 50% thanks to Lattice3D XVL applications from Lattice3D, Los Altos, Calif., (lattice3d.com).

Graphics get created in a size and format that can go directly to other countries for use in local customer manuals. "This use of 3D data ensures that accurate representations of electronic products are standardized throughout the organization," says M. R. Kashiwakuma, Casio's manager of R&D.

Prior to using the image-processing software, the company generated customer and shop-floor catalogs in a sequential and more labor-intensive process. For example, a 3D design had to release to production before handmade drawings could be created for shop-floor manuals. Packaging and logistics groups would sit idle until data they needed came in.

The software quickly converts and compresses 3D images into an XVL file which can be used in operations such . as sales, customer service, technical publications and illustrations, and training. XVL files are just 2% of the original size or less. The software also lets users produce documentation, parts lists, assembly instructions and more in almost any format including spreadsheets, PDFs, and Internet formats.

Sponsored Recommendations

Altech's Liquid Tight Strain Relifs Catalog

March 13, 2024
With experienced Product Engineers and Customer Service personnel, Altech provides solutions to your most pressing application challenges. All with one thought in mind - to ensure...

Industrial Straight-Through Cable Gland

March 13, 2024
Learn more about Altech's cable glands and all they have to offer for your needs!

Smooth Sorting with SEW-EURODRIVE!

Feb. 22, 2024
Sorting systems are essential when it comes to warehouse automation, material handling, and distribution. SEW-EURODRIVE’s automated sorting solutions increase capacity, reliability...

Setting the Agricultural Industry in Motion

Feb. 22, 2024
Agricultural products go through specialized processes of harvesting, storing, conveying, cleaning, drying, sorting, and handling to ensure that seasonal products reach the processing...

Voice your opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of Machine Design, create an account today!