Free maxon motor 2D and 3D CAD-file downloads are now available at tracepartsonline.net. The library includes information and technical drawings regarding maxon's dc brush and brushless motors, sensors, gearheads, brakes, and control electronics.
The site offers CAD files compatible with SolidWorks, Catia, Pro/Engineer, Inventor, Solid Edge, TopSolid, thinkdesign, Unigraphics, Alibre Design, Acis, STEP, IGES, DWG, and DXF … in more than 100 million models. Since the merger of content from TraceParts and web2CAD, the portal is also open to engineers worldwide for free.
Also visit maxon's e-Shop at shop.maxonmotor.com; the site details the company's motion products and allows users to order up to 49 items. Technical documents and drawings are available for free in PDF, DXF, and STEP formats.
Photovoltaics network + contest
Specialists in photovoltaics can now leverage the Festo Engineering Network at fen.festo.com. The site allows exchange of ideas within the community about trends and developments in the wafer-based solar industry.
The network simplifies contacts between manufacturers and scientists; a database provides applications, reports, and studies, downloadable for free.
The site is also home to a contest with prizes. Participants are invited to submit ideas about interfaces, standards for cell production, safety and energy efficiency, and assembly systems until February 20.