Costimator With 3DFX

MTI Systems Inc. announced the release of Costimator With 3DFX, an automated feature recognition (AFR) function that recognizes CAD features and their parameters from solid models. 3DFX provides estimators complete control over features they "extract" and import into Costimator for estimating. Costimator With 3DFX increases cost estimating speed and quoting throughput up to 90 percent, while dramatically improving cost estimating accuracy and consistency, from part to part, estimator to estimator.

"Adding automatic feature recognition technology that instantly identifies part dimensions and features is a critical time saver for estimators," said David LaJoie, vice president, sales and marketing, MTI Systems. "A quote that would typically take an estimator hours to develop can now be done accurately in just minutes with 3DFX."

Coined from combining the "3D" (CAD) and "FX" from feature extraction, the Costimator 3DFX 3D CAD viewer supports over thirty file formats from developers such as AutoCAD, STEP, IGES, NX and SolidWorks. Estimators can instantly collect accurate measurements, cut dynamic sections, play animation and more. AFR functionality automatically recognizes 3D CAD features such as holes, slots, pockets, bends, forms, etc. and their parameters from solid models.

3DFX is a fully integrated add-on for Costimator. CAD features and the parameters that are selected and sent to Costimator are automatically estimated via industry-validated cost models. It also offers a unique easy-to-use model editor for user-customizable templates, enabling estimators the ability to develop their own defined parameters. Any unrecognizable features and their associated dimensions can be quickly identified and entered during the process.

"Costimator with 3DFX is user friendly, even for inexperienced estimators," commented LaJoie.