SEE CFD
Capability: EnSight CFD is used to analyze, visualize, and communicate computational fluid dynamics results for scientific and engineering problems. With it, users can explore CFD data interactively by using their mouse buttons and right-click menus. These features allow users to post-process and visualize a model using only the mouse. A calculator enables users to calculate frequently used formulas like mass flow average, mass flow rates, and minimum and maximum values.
Hardware: PC running the Windows operating system.
Developer: Computational Engineering International (CEI); 2166 N. Salem St., Ste. 101, Apex, NC 27523; (919) 363-0883; fax (919) 363-0833; www.ensight.com.
Cost: $3,200 for an annual floating license.
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DESIGN AND MANUFACTURE
Capability: The application Discus Design allows engineers to assess a design for its capability to be manufactured. The software identifies design constraints and helps mechanical engineers weigh design features against manufacturing cost. Design engineers and manufacturing engineers can use it to collaborate on the details of a 3-D CAD model during the design stage. The application is compatible with CAD formats such as Catia, NX, and Pro/Engineer.
Hardware: PC running the Windows operating system.
Developer: Discus Software Co., 829 Bethel Road, Ste. 105, Columbus, OH 43214; (614) 360-2424; fax (866) 831-3808; www.discussoftware.com.
Cost: $3,000 to start.
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SYSTEM DIAGRAM
 Capability: MapleSim combines a symbolic computing engine and traditional numeric solvers with the simulation and modeling process. With MapleSim, users can create a system diagram on the screen in the same way they would draw it on paper. The model equations are then generated automatically. MapleSim contains tools for model design and analysis, including dynamic analysis, control design, and optimization. It also allows users to easily create custom components and live design documentation. In addition, MapleSim applies symbolic preprocessing techniques to models created in the Lorenz Attractor. The Lorenz Attractor was created with MapleSim’s Signal Blocks and is used to simulate chaotic systems such as climate and weather.
Hardware: PC running Windows, Linux, or Macintosh OS X.
Developer: Maplesoft, 615 Kumpf Drive, Waterloo, Ontario, N2V 1K8 Canada; (519) 747-2373; fax (519) 747-5284; www.maplesoft.com.
Cost: $2,995 for a single-user professional license.
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DRAFT OR MODEL
Capability: TurboCAD Professional, version 16, is a 2-D drafting and 3-D modeling and rendering product. Users can create associative 2-D sections based on standard views or on sectional planes of 3-D models, including those imported from programs such as Google SketchUp. A format painter feature gives users the ability to automatically extract and save selected formats—even from imported files—as preset property values for any object property type. The mechanical edition of this application offers functions of specific use to mechanical engineers.
Hardware: PC running Windows 2000, XP, or NC.
Developer: International Microcomputers Software Inc., 75 Rowland Way, Ste. 340, Novato, CA 94945; (415) 878-4000; fax (415) 897-2544; www.turbocad.com.
Cost: $1,295; $1,395 for the mechanical edition.
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DESIGN VIA BROWSER
Capability: Project Draw 0.7.9, which creates designs using only a browser, is an application preview from the developer. Users create diagrams by dragging and dropping a variety of resizable shapes. The application is offered via the software as a service model, meaning the application exists on and is accessed via the developer’s servers. The Firefox browser supports the application.
Hardware: PC with Internet access.
Developer: Autodesk Labs, 111 McInnis Pkwy, San Rafael, CA 94903; (800) 964-6432; http://labs.autodesk.com.
Cost: Free.
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