Capability: Anybody CAD allows users to configure and position three-dimensional human models for simple ergonomic analysis within a computer-aided design environment, rather than in a separate application. This ability streamlines ergonomic analysis in the development and manufacturing processes, says the developer. Human models can be saved, along with size and position information. Data can be exported for viewing outside the AutoCAD environment.

Hardware: PC running Windows 2000, NT, or XP and AutoCAD 2004, 2005, or 2006 or Architectural Desktop 2004, 2005, or 2006.

Developer: Storm Lake Corp., 14820 Redmond Way, Suite 217, Redmond, WA 98052; (425) 214-6770; piet@stormlakesoftware.com; www.stormlakesoftware.com.

Cost: $895.

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CAD and CAM Combined

Capability: KeyCreator—formerly called Cadkey— combines CAD and CAM functions for design, drafting, and NC programming. The combined capabilities support rapid manufacturing. The package can translate to and from most CAD/CAM programs. It combines surface, solid, and wireframe modeling, which helps engineers modify and edit their models.

Hardware: PC running Windows 2000 or XP.

Developer: Kubotek USA Inc., 100 Locke Dr., Marlborough, MA 01752; (508) 229-2020; www.kubotekusa.com.

Cost: $3,495 to start.

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Capability: FLO/EMC is 3-D simulation software for analyzing electromagnetic fields in and around electronics enclosures. The application helps improve the design of electronic equipment for electromagnetic compatibility prior to the build-and-test phase. It integrates a time-domain solver in a CAD-like model creation environment.

Hardware: PC running Windows 2000, XP Professional, XP Server 2003, NT or Solaris, or HP.

Developers: Flomerics Inc., 257 Turnpike Rd., Suite 100, Southborough, MA 01772; (508) 357-2012; fax (508) 357-2013; www.flomerics.com.

Cost: $15,360 to start, for annual license.

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Freeform Machining

Capability: The milling software SmartCAM FreeForm Machining, version 12, lets you machine directly from either surface or solid computer-aided design software or from a wireframe program. This application includes nonuniform rational B-spline surfacing tools, useful when a model needs additional surface editing. It also features multiple-surfacing capabilities for a range of parts, from two-axis to three-axis molds, dies, and prototypes. It supports four- and five-axis positioning from both wireframe and solids-based data. You can also automatically project your toolpath on or off any group of surfaces to machine mold cores or detail work.

Hardware: PC running Windows 2000, NT, or XP.

Developer: SmartCAMcnc, 1144 Gateway Loop, Suite 220, Springfield, OR 97477-7750; (541) 344-4563; www.smartcamcnc.com.

Cost: $9,995.

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Design on Latest Mac

Capability: The design and drafting program VersaCAD 2006 for Macintosh has been updated for use with the new double-core, Intel-based Macintosh computers. The upgrade runs on an iMac or a MacBook Pro and provides a large viewing area that minimizes the need for zooming. Users can plot to any scale on any size sheet. The program can be run on every computer within an organization, even those used at home by company employees. Subscribers purchase an unlimited corporate license based on the number of employees. The license provides all versions of the software to the licensee, including versions for older Macs, PowerMacs, the new Intel-based Mac, or Windows versions, if requested.

Hardware: PC running Macintosh OS X or later.

Developer: Archway Systems Inc., 2134 Main St., Suite 160, Huntington Beach, CA 92648-6447; (714) 374-0440; fax (714) 374-0441; www. versacad.com.

Cost: $795, single copy; software updates, new releases, and tech support available for another $595 per year. Site licenses are $1,000 per year for companies with up to 10 employees, $1,500 for those with up to 20 employees, and $2,000 for those with up to 50 employees. Site license fees include the updates, new releases, and tech support. Academic pricing is $195 per copy; academic campus licenses are $995.

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