Archive notice: This article was originally published on March 18, 2009. Links and embedded videos are preserved as part of the historical record.
SolidWorks 3D CAD software is used to design assembly fixtures, workstations and automated systems. HARTING Applied Technologies has standardised on SolidWorks CAD and SolidWorks Enterprise PDM to establish a unified solution for special-purpose machinery and toolmaking.
HARTING Applied Technologies, a subsidiary of the HARTING Technology Group based in Espelkamp, focuses on high-precision manufacturing technology for applications in the electrical and automotive industries. The company has extensive experience in producing and processing microsystem components and systems. SolidWorks 3D CAD software is used to design assembly fixtures, workstations and automated systems, as well as injection and die-casting moulds and stamping and bending tools. Its service ranges from individual product development to contract series production.
Since implementation of the 3D system in 2005, HARTING has significantly reduced both design errors and the number of prototypes. This is primarily due to integrated design-analysis functions that support collision checks and motion simulations.
“Our previous CAD program became too slow over time, making the design effort too high,” said Dr-Ing. Volker Franke, Managing Director of HARTING Applied Technologies. “Our projects also frequently involve several internal and external designers. SolidWorks software quickly convinced us with its good price/performance ratio, powerful interface functions, and ease of use and learning. SolidWorks Enterprise PDM also gives us significant benefits through specialised functions such as project copying. Our goal is to reduce throughput times by more than 30 percent. Cost pressure from foreign companies is also increasing. With DS SolidWorks solutions, we are well positioned to remain competitive.”
The company also implemented SolidWorks Enterprise PDM several months ago. Because HARTING operates at different locations, it sought an effective product-data-management solution that could be installed quickly, used intuitively and provide extensive functionality. The software has been in use since July 2008 and enables collaboration across departments and locations with decentralised file and CAD servers.
The PDM system provides secure access to design and project data as well as CNC programs. In addition to SolidWorks parts, assemblies and drawings, this includes DXF, PDF and STEP files and Cimatron and Windows data. Employees in widely separated departments can use the PDM system, including project management, design, sales, work preparation, CNC programming, toolmaking, special-machine assembly and management. Authorised access is controlled through permissions for each department.
Since adopting SolidWorks Enterprise PDM, HARTING has maintained a unified and secure data repository. The program also establishes controlled workflows. Its logging function records changes and database access, giving the company a structured overview of all data and making every individual step traceable.
“Order and systematic processes are especially important in projects spanning multiple locations,” said Jeroen Buring, PDM Sales Manager Central Europe at DS SolidWorks. “The benefits are clear: fewer errors, traceable processes and therefore company-wide transparency. SolidWorks Enterprise PDM enables HARTING to achieve this objective and, together with SolidWorks CAD software, design better products.”
HARTING Applied Technologies uses 19 licences of the 3D CAD software and 15 licences of DS SolidWorks’ PDM solution. Certified SolidWorks reseller SolidLine AG is responsible for implementation, training and support.
