What's New in ZW3D2012

---- An interactive, easy to use interface with faster design

and easier machining

ZW3D Technical Support Team

2012.1.12

Content

1. A completely new design experience .............................................................................................................................. 1

1.1 New ribbon interface ................................................................................................................................................. 1

1.1.1 User interface customization ............................................................................................................... 1

1.1.2 Right-click for a context sensitive mini toolbar ........................................................................... 2

1.2 Improved workflow ................................................................................................................................................... 3

1.2.1 New selections list with highlight enhancement ........................................................................ 3

1.2.2 Windows or industry compatible function keys ............................................................................... 4

1.2.3 Mouse operation optimization ............................................................................................................ 5

1.2.4 More friendly command panel ............................................................................................................ 5

1.2.5 Visual and dynamic installation process ........................................................................................ 5

1.3 Improved graphics...................................................................................................................................................... 6

1.3.1 Graphics are 2-3 times faster............................................................................................................... 6

1.3.2 New display modes .................................................................................................................................. 6

1.3.3 Improved quality graphics.................................................................................................................... 6

1.3.4 New types of light sources in modeling environment .............................................................. 7

2. Faster design with extend capabilities ........................................................................................................................... 7

2.1 Highly enhanced data exchange for closer collaboration .......................................................................... 7

2.1.1 Native STEP import/export.................................................................................................................. 7

2.1.2 Support for native SAT export ............................................................................................................ 8

2.1.3 Support for PDF export .......................................................................................................................... 8

2.14 Support for high resolution raster image export ...................................................................... 10

2.2 Upgraded Direct Edit .............................................................................................................................................. 10

2.2.1 Direct Edit reliability enhanced ....................................................................................................... 10

2.2.2 New workflow ......................................................................................................................................... 10

2.2.3 Support for extruding an edge or curve ....................................................................................... 11

2.3 Frequently used modeling functions improved .......................................................................................... 12

2.3.1 Enhanced Extrude and Revolve ....................................................................................................... 12

2.3.2 More smart Rib and Rib Network commands ........................................................................... 12

2.3.3 Improved Curve Mesh.......................................................................................................................... 13

2.3.4 Enhanced Extend open shape and Trim Shape commands ................................................. 14

2.3.5 Enhanced offset command................................................................................................................. 14

2.4 Easy use and efficient sketch............................................................................................................................... 15

2.4.1 New constraint types ........................................................................................................................... 15

2.4.2 Improved constraint mark, snap, and highlight ....................................................................... 15

2.4.3 More efficient interactive operations............................................................................................ 16

2.4.4 Other improvements ............................................................................................................................ 16

2.5 Improved 2D Drafting ............................................................................................................................................ 17

2.5.1 View linkage ............................................................................................................................................. 17

2.5.2 Directly drag objects to be moved .................................................................................................. 18

2.5.3 Solid TTF text........................................................................................................................................... 18

2.5.4 New dimension attribute -- Inspection dimension ................................................................. 18

2.5.5 Enhanced update function ................................................................................................................. 19

2.5.6 New workflow of standard view creation ................................................................................... 19

2.5.7 Enhanced Hole table ............................................................................................................................. 19

2.5.8 Other improvements ............................................................................................................................ 20

3. Wider Industry Application ............................................................................................................................................. 21

3.1 Enhanced Sheet Metal ............................................................................................................................................ 21

3.1.1 Lofted flange ............................................................................................................................................ 21

3.1.2 Flange along a bend-line ..................................................................................................................... 22

3.1.3 Non-90 degree flange support for a "closed corner" .............................................................. 22

3.1.4 New type of dimple feature ............................................................................................................... 23

3.1.5 Optimized options ................................................................................................................................. 24

3.2 New Mold & Die Solution ...................................................................................................................................... 24

4. Easier machining .................................................................................................................................................................. 24

4.1 New 2X turning ......................................................................................................................................................... 24

4.2 New Operations in CAM ........................................................................................................................................ 25

4.2.1. New face operation for Mill2X......................................................................................................... 25

4.2.2 Undercut operation added to Quick Mill ..................................................................................... 25

4.2.3 New 3x Mill operation for multiple planar surfaces ............................................................... 26

4.2.4 New 5X Helical cut................................................................................................................................. 26

4.3 Optimized Options in CAM ................................................................................................................................... 27

4.3.1. Assign speeds/feeds automatically when a tool is assigned to an operation ............. 27

4.3.2. CAM manager support for operation folder .................................................................................. 28

4.3.4. Get faster results by multi-threaded calculation in Quick Mill.......................................... 29

5. Third Part Applications...................................................................................................................................................... 30

5.1 Part Solution............................................................................................................................................................... 30

5.2 TransMagic 9.0 .......................................................................................................................................................... 30

5.3 Support 3D connection and LightWorks ........................................................................................................ 31

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What's New in ZW3D2012

1. A completely new design experience

1.1 New ribbon interface

ZW3D2012 offers a greatly improved user experience. Intuitive access to common commands through the

new ribbon interface speeds up and simplifies the design process. Hovering the mouse over an icon gives

a pop up, context sensitive, help box to make operation even easier.

1.1.1 User interface customization

Users can easily customize the new ribbon interface to suit their own way of working. Skin, menu

tabs, panels and toolbars can all be changed from quick access menu commands located on the right hand

toolbar.

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Menu, tabs, toolbars and manager can all be hidden to maximize the working area.

1.1.2 Right-click for a context sensitive mini toolbar

Get to your commands quicker with the mini toolbar. The mouse can be hovered over any icon for 2

seconds to automatically get context sensitive help. New users of ZW3D can use this to help them achieve

competency faster.

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1.2 Improved workflow

Workflow and interactive operations have been improved in ZW3D2012, offering engineers a user friendly

feel and high efficiency workflow.

1.2.1 New selections list with highlight enhancement

The new selection set provides users with the flexibility to interactively add entities to, or remove

them from a selection list. Selected entities are dynamically highlighted on the model for ease of

operation.

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Furthermore, the mouse can be hovered on a feature history or over an assembly tree to

automatically highlight and identify the selected items. Objects can be easily distinguished by highlighting

in up to two different colors.

1.2.2 Windows or industry compatible function keys

Standard and commonly used Microsoft Windows or industry function keys are supported by ZW3D.

These include:-

Esc Cancel the opening of a dialog box

Delete Erasing the selected objects

F1 Context-sensitive help

Arrow keys View rotate operation

Ctrl+Home Automatically switch to the closest view direction (24 types = 6 Standard

views * 4 orientations)

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1.2.3 Mouse operation optimization

Left- Mouse Entity selection

Left Mouse Button + CTRL Append/Un-append an object to current selection

Roll Middle-Mouse Zoom

Hold Middle Mouse Button & Move Pan

Right Mouse Button Rotate

1.2.4 More friendly command panel

The command icon and name are visually displayed on command panel when you complete

command operation. It is the very friendly user experience.

1.2.5 Visual and dynamic installation process

Good user experiences start with simple and easy software installation. ZW3D2012 is dynamic and

visual offering users useful information in a simplified and clear process.

(It will be added in later version)

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1.3 Improved graphics

1.3.1 Graphics are 2-3 times faster

By using the OpenGL VBO technique the ZW3D graphics run 2-3 times quicker. As well as the increase

in the display speed for large assembly files and individual parts and drawings, the speed of face analysis

display modes and print quality rendered scenes will be enhanced dramatically. In addition, the fast

graphics has allowed the faceting of surfaces using an absolute model tolerance instead of a

view-extent-dependent pixel tolerance, improving the quality of NURBS display.

1.3.2 New display modes

Shaded views without edges are now available in ZW3D2012. Users can easily apply the additional

display modes through the intuitive interface. A new function allows users to turn on/off drop shadow

display.

1.3.3 Improved quality graphics

An enhanced Anti-Alias option improves the display quality of parts. However, for some large

assemblies of parts, this feature could adversely affect graphics speed.

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1.3.4 New types of light sources in modeling environment

Three different light sources can be chosen, including eye light source, 2 direction light sources and 3

direction light sources. More real display of parts is available.

2. Faster design with extend capabilities

2.1 Highly enhanced data exchange for closer collaboration

ZW3D2012 supports more file types and offers better quality translation through enhanced data exchange

functionality, allowing users to work collaboratively with other 3D CAD/CAM systems.

2.1.1 Native STEP import/export

A native STEP translator, instead of third party integrated solution, produces better quality model

data and is at least twice as fast as the old system. For example, a 28Mb STEP file will take about 30

minutes to import into ZW3D2011. It will take just 2 minutes to import into ZW3D2012. Additionally, the

size of Z3 file is smaller in ZW3D2012, while the quality is maintained at the same high level. Extra

functionality for export allows the selection of target objects to be included in the export process.

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Size of Step File：28M

ZW3D Version ZW3D2012 (Native solution) ZW3D2011(Third part solution)

Import Time 2 minutes About 30minutes

Size of Z3 File 179M 209M

Result

2.1.2 Support for native SAT export

Geometry can be exported to a SAT file without a Transmagic license in ZW3D2012. Selection of

objects to be exported further simplifies data exchange.

2.1.3 Support for PDF export

Three different PDF formats are available in ZW3D2012. These include 3D PDF, 2D bitmap PDF and

2D vector PDF. The Paper setting, PDF information, and passwords can all be customized by users. Color

PDF is also available, while the 3D PDF file offers zoom, rotate and various other basic operations.

PDF Format Work Environment

3D PDF Part, Assembly

2D Bitmap PDF Sketch, Part, Assembly, CAM

2D Vector PDF 2D Draft

Acrobat 7.0, PDF Reader7.0 or a higher version is required to read these PDF files.

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2.14 Support for high resolution raster image export

It is easy to export a high-quality image in different formats (Bmp, Tiff, Jpeg, Gif and Png), colors,

backgrounds and papers in ZW3D2012. What you see is what you get!

2.2 Upgraded Direct Edit

2.2.1 Direct Edit reliability enhanced

Enhanced Direct Edit reliability allows it to work robustly with more cases, particularly face offsetting

and filleting.

2.2.2 New workflow

By directly selecting the target edge or surface, and dragging the arrow handle on the target ’s objects

in the view, user can easily create or modify their relative features. The number of mouse clicks is reduced

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in the new version, speeding up the design process.

The context sensitive mini-toolbar for Direct Edit functions, further adds to ease of use. After an

object has been selected a context sensitive mini-toolbar automatically pops up to allow users to select

the appropriate function. If the mini toolbar is not used it automatically disappears if the mouse is moved

away to allow the user to continue selecting other commands without interruption. The operation is

similar to the context sensitive toolbars found in Microsoft Word or SolidWorks.

2.2.3 Support for extruding an edge or curve

ZW3D2012 allows easier creation a surface by directly dragging an edge or curve in a specified

direction. The axis of rotation can also be dragged to define the angle value of the surface.

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2.3 Frequently used modeling functions improved

2.3.1 Enhanced Extrude and Revolve

New functionality has changed complex geometric operations into a series of simple steps to make

these popular and commonly used commands easier and faster.

Improvements are as follows:

1) Support single surface as profile

2) Smart region recognition to define a profile from a complex sketch

3) Addition of a new a control method --- symmetrical extrude/ revolve

4) Specification of target shapes for Boolean operations

5) New option for easily changing the direction of a face

6) Improved "Boundary Face" option

2.3.2 More smart Rib and Rib Network commands

The new Rib and Rib network commands are more powerful than before, with highly flexible control

methods for rib direction and thickness. Additionally, rib boundaries can now be created by intelligent

feature recognition increasing efficiency when combined with manual method.

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2.3.3 Improved Curve Mesh

The new easier to use and enhanced command creates smoother surfaces. Curves can be picked at

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random as their orientation can be determined from the intersection with the cross curves. A new option,

'Extend to intersection point' allows a mesh of curves to terminate smoothly at a pole on the surface.

2.3.4 Enhanced Extend open shape and Trim Shape commands

Extend open shape command with the new option ‘Create new faces’ allows users to create new

faces while maintaining tangency.

Trim Shape now supports shape being trimmed by its own face. These improvements further

increase modeling flexibility.

2.3.5 Enhanced offset command

Offset command enhances the design freedom that allows the user to define variable values to offset

the surface. Easy to create more amazing shapes.

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2.4 Easy use and efficient sketch

Good work starts with an efficient sketch. Easier to use and faster sketch in ZW3D2012 reduces

preparation times by 30%.

2.4.1 New constraint types

Lines coincident and points coincident constraints are available in ZW3D2012. They are very

convenient for users to create well defined sketch.

( Lines coincident Not added into yet )

2.4.2 Improved constraint mark, snap, and highlight

Constraint, snap, and highlight, have had some significant improvements in the new software. These

include:

1) Optimization of constraint mark layout to increase clarity.

2) Highlighting of related geometry when the cursor is hovered over the constraint mark.

3) Improved clarity and efficiency for Snap.

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2.4.3 More efficient interactive operations

Intuitive reduction in the steps required for design processes by efficient interactive operations.

1) Repeat command without OK

Removal of redundant mouse operations between two consecutive and repeating sketching

commands

2) Directly drag objects to edit

Keep all constraints when geometry is being dragged.

2.4.4 Other improvements

Further improvements for powerful and fast sketching include:

1) Support for the X/Y axis as the reference axis in mirror commands for intuitive operation.

2) The virtual origin point cannot be deleted by user. It also can be snapped, and used as reference

geometry.

3) Keep the sketch always visible and editable in sketching context.

The sketch is still visible and editable even if it’s underneath a 3D shape, as long as the user is

working in sketching context.

4) Add a new type of sketch background

Easy to change dotted grid lines or solid lines in the sketch background to suit the user’s preferences.

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2.5 Improved 2D Drafting

2.5.1 View linkage

This new feature allows users to change the position of views while still maintaining their original

geometric relationship. Dynamic previewing of each view change makes it easier to optimize the drawing

layout.

Basic View Types of View Linkage All views

Linked View Types Projection view, Auxiliary view , Section view

Unlinked View Types Detail View, Broken View

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2.5.2 Directly drag objects to be moved

Directly drag a view or dimension to move it. This replaces a right hand menu operation simplifying

the process and making it more intuitive.

2.5.3 Solid TTF text

Better quality of 2D draft is supported with the Solid Windows true type font support in ZW3D2012.

See above image.

2.5.4 New dimension attribute -- Inspection dimension

New easy to define inspection dimension with an enhanced dimension attribute. This improved

function increases the range of sheet standards supported.

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2.5.5 Enhanced update function

It is now unnecessary to regenerate the view to update the part attribute information. All

information on the 2D sheet is automatically updated.

2.5.6 New workflow of standard view creation

ZW3D2012 offer a successive workflow to create standard view and projection views. Designers can

quickly layout views with one step. This optimization highly raise work efficiency and give a good user

experience.

2.5.7 Enhanced Hole table

New options allow hole table command support backfacing holes and hidden holes display. The user

with more freedom to define hole tables.

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2.5.8 Other improvements

1) Optimization of default view attributes to reduce the additional operations required to modify

views, including options for turning off dimensions, and ignoring hidden lines and tangent hidden lines.

2) Support for the direct insertion of a variable from variable browser in the dimension editor.

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3. Wider Industry Application

With greatly enhanced usability and intuitive operation ZW3D2012 offers improved sheet metal design

and mold design tools which will benefit and improve productivity in a wide range of industries.

3.1 Enhanced Sheet Metal

Many new features have been added to the sheet metal module. Highly complex shapes can be

successfully manipulated in ZW3D2012 adding to its flexibility and capability.

3.1.1 Lofted flange

New powerful lofted flange functions, can be widely used in duct work, ventilation exhaust hoods,

and an extensive range of container shapes. This feature defines shapes by using two profile sketches,

consisting of lines or curves. The sketch geometry can represent the inside or outside face of the sheet

metal material.

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3.1.2 Flange along a bend-line

The new tools make it easy to create a bent flange along a line, further increasing modeling flexibility.

3.1.3 Non-90 degree flange support for a "closed corner"

New functionality makes it possible to create a closed corner for non-90 degree flanges, increasing

the sheet metal capabilities available to the user.

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3.1.4 New type of dimple feature

Extra sheet metal features now supported in ZW3D2012 include two types of dimple feature, Plain

Dimple and Flared Hole.

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3.1.5 Optimized options

1) Support for Zero bend radius" flanges/ "mitered" flange option

2) Addition of a new control way for the creation of a flange

3.2 New Mold & Die Solution

It will be integrated in Beta2 version.

4. Easier machining

4.1 New 2X turning

The new turning function supports OD and ID roughing, finishing, threading, and grooving operations.

Hole making operations are also included. The standard functionalities of tool library, operation

management, verification and simulation are also supported. The CL output is augmented to include the

necessary commands needed for Phase I Turning as provided in the ISO 4343 specification.

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4.2 New Operations in CAM

4.2.1. New face operation for Mill2X

The Facing Operation creates tool paths which efficiently machine large planar regions with arbitrary

boundaries or more complex planar regions with many holes and voids.

4.2.2 Undercut operation added to Quick Mill

This Operation provides the capability for creating 3x tool paths which remove material beneath

overhanging shapes. This Operation will allow the use of Wheel and T-Slot milling tools.

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4.2.3 New 3x Mill operation for multiple planar surfaces

This is a new special operation of 3X milling that lets users specify the milling of surfaces in the same

plane or surfaces in different levels of a plane in one operation.

4.2.4 New 5X Helical cut

This will be a significant improvement when added to Hole Making and other Tactics.

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4.3 Optimized Options in CAM

4.3.1. Assign speeds/feeds automatically when a tool is assigned to an

operation

ZW3D provides the ability to associate speed and feed tables with materials, tools and even

operation types. The user will be able to set a mode causing ZW3D to automatically assign the speeds and

feeds which are the best match for the user’s settings when the tool is assigned to each operation.

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4.3.2. CAM manager support for operation folder

The file folder can be created and deleted under the Operation section. A right-click popup menu on

this folder has similar options when right-click is on Operation and specific operation including a new

output option. Operations can be inserted or deleted in this file folder and dragged into or out of the

folder.

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4.3.4. Get faster results by multi-threaded calculation in Quick Mill

Multi-threaded calculation can maximize pc capability and raise work efficiency.

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5. Third Part Applications

5.1 Part Solution

A major improvement for the standard parts and components feature is the automatic recognition of

imported geometry, making the modification of imported geometries easier.

Interface commands have also been simplified to simplify operation.

5.2 TransMagic 9.0

TransMagic has been upgrade from 8.53 to version 9.0. However, TM9.0 can only run on Zw3D2012

and higher versions.

More file formats of higher versions are supported in TM9.0, including CATIA V5 R21, Inventor 2012,

ACIS R22 and Parasolid V24.0. For detailed information see the table below.

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5.3 Support 3D connection and LightWorks

More information will be shared in later version.

Notes: This PDF File is the modified first version. Some information will be

updated in later ZW3D venison.