National Centre for Product Design and Development Research (PDR) has standardisd on SolidWorks 3D CAD software to reduce new product development time by 30% for global customers like BAE Systems, Johnson Controls, and Rolls Royce. A combination research facility and private design consultancy, PDR has developed everything from office products to ultrasonic cleaning machines used in hospitals and key components for Formula 1 race cars.
Affiliated with the University of Wales Institute in Cardiff, PDR has earned industry accolades for their approaches to designs for such products as fire alarm systems and reusable, disposable medical waste bins. PDR partners with customers, offering research and analysis of product ideas and complete design, development, and manufacturing services. The company standardised on SolidWorks software to streamline design time, reduce costs, and continue fuelling innovation.
"From an intuitive, ease-of-use perspective, SolidWorks runs like Apple," said Jarred Evans, commercial director at PDR. "That translates to fewer mouse clicks and modelling operations to complete design tasks, which has yielded 30% faster product completion. In manufacturing, faster time to market is critical to success."
Evans also cited improved collaboration internally, and with customers using SolidWorks eDrawings e-mail-enabled design communication tool. eDrawings accelerates customer buy-in to product designs, because it allows everyone in product development - including non-engineers - to clearly understand how the product will be manufactured, and how it will look. Customers can now provide more precise feedback to PDR, so engineers have a better understanding of customer needs.
"Another important benefit is that SolidWorks is fun to use," said Evans. "The team likes to play with it and discover new design ideas that save time and give them a better outcome. We've probably only just scratched the surface, but the enthusiasm in working with the software shows up in the quality of the finished product."
PDR uses COSMOSXpress design analysis software to conduct upfront load testing on components, ensuring they will stand up to the stresses of manufacturing and daily use.
"PDR is one of the UK Centres of Excellence, so it has met strict standards for efficiency and service as a corporate citizen," said SolidWorks marketing manager Europe, Simon Booker. "SolidWorks helps the company maintain that accreditation as it continues to blaze new trails in creative product design."
PDR relies on authorised SolidWorks reseller Solid Solutions Management for ongoing software training, implementation, and support.