8 Using CAD Properties

Most CAD systems provide the ability to define and set the value of properties (sometimes called parameters) that are stored with the CAD file. These properties can capture valuable information about the component. Many customers are using these properties as part of Model Based Definition (MBD) initiatives, to store additional information relevant to the manufacturing, inspection, and analysis of the component.

aPriori provides the ability to extract these CAD properties and use them to automate cost estimation. For supported CAD systems, all inputs necessary to cost a part can be supplied automatically from the CAD file, reducing errors and enabling faster and more accurate costing. CAD Properties can also be mapped to aPriori User Defined Attributes (UDAs).

This chapter includes the following topics:

• Overview of CAD properties

• Production Input Mappings

• UDA Mappings

• General Rules for Mapping CAD Properties

• Elements of an XML CAD Mapping File

• CAD Properties Mapping Example

• Troubleshooting