UGS Launches NX 5

By Anthony J. Lockwood

UGS Corp. (Plano, TX) today announced Version 5 of NX its digital product development software. NX 5 introduces Active Mockup, a new user interface, and dozens of other enhancements intend to improve productivity, increase efficiency, and streamline workflows. DE received advanced access to NX 5 and has released its product review. Click here to read DE‘s review called “The Next NX.”

UGS says NX’s Active Mockup technology is an industry first. In essence, what Active Mockup does is rapidly modify model data regardless of where the data originate. Thus, this technology enables engineers to use a single product for immediate review of design changes in the full context of their total product rather than requiring a completely separate application for the review.

   

NX 5

NX’s new user interface includes enhanced role-specific interfaces, which enable companies to present NX commands appropriate to user function and expertise. In general, the interface overhaul offers redesigned menus and dialogs that adhere to the latest standards. The interface appears to have been implemented consistently throughout the software. A minor change, but one welcome by this reporter’s aging eyes, the font has been changed to one that is clearer and crisper to read.

NX 5 also introduces what UGS calls “Design Freedom” features. When UGS speaks of Design Freedom, it means the elimination of the constraints imposed by history-based or parametric systems. Designers can alter design geometry where it occurs without having to undo the design tree, which can be particularly useful for last-minute design changes or where multiple MCAD systems are supported.
 
Workflow productivity is improved in all areas of NX, according to USG, adding that customer tests indicate an overall 20 percent productivity improvement with the new user interface. NX 5 also seamlessly integrates CAD, CAM and CAE into a unified, open environment for increased product and process information efficiency.

NX 5 features new assembly constraints capabilities, and the include JT lightweight 3D data format for product visualization and collaboration has been embedded.

NX 5 is immediately available. For complex details, click here.

Sources: Press materials received from the company and additional information gleaned from the company’s website.