3DViewStation bridges the gap between engineers and suppliers by shifting from traditional file exchange to a secure, online collaboration platform. This approach allows for real-time review and discussion of 3D CAD models without the need for suppliers to download files or have native CAD software.
The table below contrasts the traditional method with the 3DViewStation approach:
| Feature | Traditional File Exchange | 3DViewStation Online Collaboration |
|---|---|---|
| Data Control | Data is downloaded and control is lost | Full control; data remains on secure server |
| Software & Installation | Requires viewer/CAD system installation | No client installation; pure browser-based |
| Access Speed | Slow downloads for large files | View massive models in seconds |
| Security | Files can be forwarded uncontrolled | No geometry transfer to end device; IP protected |
| Process & Tracking | Cumbersome feedback loops | Trackable access; markups saved on server |
| Data Format Compatibility | Dependent on recipient’s software | Supports 70+ 2D/3D formats in a single viewer |
🛠️ How It Works in Practice-:
The platform provides tailored tools for different collaboration scenarios, primarily through its WebViewer and VisShare solutions.
For Quick, One-off Reviews: Instead of emailing a large file, you can generate a temporary link using the 3DViewStation WebViewer and send it to your supplier. They open it in their browser, view the model, and can even add annotations that are saved directly to your server .
For Managed Project Teams: For longer-term projects involving multiple internal and external team members, Kisters VisShare acts as a secure web portal. You can create a project, assign people, and drag-and-drop CAD data. This gives all pertinent people centralized access to the correct data without local downloads.
Integrated Workflow Tools: The platform includes digital mockup (DMU) functions like sectioning and exploded views,
measurement tools,
and PMI (Product Manufacturing Information) review to facilitate detailed analysis and clear communication during design reviews .
🛡️ Ensuring Data Security and Control-:
A paramount concern in supplier collaboration is protecting intellectual property. 3DViewStation addresses this with a server-side rendering architecture.
No Local Geometries: The 3D model data is processed and rendered on the server. Only encrypted visualization pixels are sent to the user’s device, meaning the actual CAD geometry never leaves the server, preventing unauthorized copying or reverse engineering.
Additional IP Protection Tools: For highly sensitive designs, the software provides tools to remove specific components or deliberately distort geometries before sharing, allowing for a secure review of general concepts without revealing critical design details.
🏭 Industry Applications-:
This method of collaboration is particularly valuable in industries with complex supply chains and high-security requirements, such as automotive, aerospace, and defense. For instance, a mold and tool maker uses VisShare to collaborate online with automotive OEMs, keeping the data on their own server while allowing the OEM full review capabilities.
I hope this gives you a clear picture of how 3DViewStation facilitates collaboration. Would you like to explore how its analysis tools, like wall thickness or collision checks, could benefit your specific review processes?
