Designing hardware products can be a bit of a catch-22. You need funding to build, test and launch products. But, investors want to see proof of concept or real-world results before investing. Often, these tests require lengthy and expensive prototyping and testing. So you are back to square one.
This is where SOLIDWORKS Cloud-Based Simulation comes in.
SOLIDWORKS is a great tool for startups to help them design products quickly and efficiently. SOLIDWORKS Cloud-Based Simulation is an analysis tool for virtual product testing. SOLIDWORKS Simulation helps create simulation tests based on real-world physics. Select the test you want to run and view results in easy-to-understand reports. These tests can help startups fix the most glaring problems (and some hidden ones) before the physical prototype production starts.
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What is Digital Simulation for Product Testing?
Simulation for product testing helps to test product performance digitally under real-world conditions. Engineers can use computer-based models to test stress, heat, fluid flow, and movement. These tests help to identify potential design flaws and optimise performance. Engineers can usually make adjustments to the digital model as they test. This is free to do with digital simulation, whereas changes to a physical prototype can cost thousands of pounds. Digital simulation reduces the need for multiple physical prototypes and saves both time and costs in the development process.
Why Simulation Matters for Startups
Startups often face limited budgets, time constraints, and a lack of access to advanced testing equipment. These factors can hinder product development and increase the risk of launching an unproven product.
Simulation offers an efficient solution by allowing startups to experiment with their designs. Simulation software allows you to conduct multiple tests from the comfort of your office or workshop.
Simulation can enable early detection of potential design flaws. By testing designs in a virtual environment, startups can quickly identify weaknesses, evaluate performance, and make data-driven improvements. So once you move to physical prototyping, all the obvious errors have been cleared. This means you can focus on clearing industry and legal standards without worrying about paying for endless prototypes.
What Is SOLIDWORKS Cloud-Based Simulation?
SOLIDWORKS Cloud-Based Simulation is a tool designed to help run simulation tests. It integrates with SOLIDWORKS through the 3DEXPERIENCE software, so data can be kept in one place. Engineers analyse their 3D models for structural integrity, thermal performance, fluid dynamics, and motion – all without needing high-performance local hardware.
Traditional simulation software often requires powerful and costly computers. SOLIDWORKS is different. SOLIDWORKS simulation software operates entirely in the cloud. This means you can access simulations from any device with an internet connection. This is an excellent option for startups with remote teams or limited IT infrastructure. It also means you can take your tests straight to investor pitches. This approach offers flexibility, with quick access to simulation tools that scale with your project’s needs.
The software offers a wide range of analysis options, from basic static stress tests to more complex scenarios like thermal analysis and fluid flow simulations. This makes it suitable for startups across different industries, whether you’re designing consumer products, medical devices, or mechanical components.
Critical Benefits of SOLIDWORKS Cloud-Based Simulation for Startups
1. Cost-Effectiveness
SOLIDWORKS Cloud-Based Simulation provides a cost-efficient way to test and validate designs. Startups avoid the expense of purchasing and maintaining high-end simulation hardware. Instead, the cloud model offers scalable computing power, allowing you to pay only for what you use. This reduces the financial barrier to accessing advanced simulation tools, making it perfect for startups with small investment funds or limited cash flow.
2. Accessibility and Collaboration
With cloud-based access, your team can work on simulations from any location using any device with an internet connection. The cloud platform allows easy sharing of simulation results, promoting real-time feedback and faster decision-making.
3. Enhanced Productivity and Flexibility
Cloud resources provide faster processing times compared to most local computers. You can run multiple simulations simultaneously, test different scenarios, and iterate on designs as you go. This capability speeds up development, allowing startups to refine their products and reduce the time to market. Additionally, since the software is always up to date, you’ll have access to the latest features and improvements without manual updates or IT support.
4. Automatic Software Updates and Maintenance
SOLIDWORKS handles all software updates and maintenance in the cloud, so you’re always using the most current version. This eliminates the need for manual installations or worrying about compatibility issues. It’s a practical benefit that lets your team focus on design and simulation rather than IT tasks.
Conclusion
SOLIDWORKS Cloud-Based Simulation offers startups a practical way to tackle the challenges of hardware development. It enables efficient, accurate testing in a virtual environment. while minimising the need for costly physical prototypes. Overall, this can speedup design iterations, and lower costs. By leveraging cloud resources, you gain access to advanced simulation tools without needing expensive hardware or IT maintenance, making it a cost-effective option for growing businesses.
Ready to get started? Buy SOLIDWORKS
If your hardware startup is under five years old, you might be eligible for free one-year SOLIDWORKS licences. Contact our team to find out more.