Package designers seeking a dynamic way to present their ideas should check out the latest version of Esko-Graphics' flagship computer-aided packaging-design software “? ArtiosCAD 5.0. Users of the software's virtual prototyping module can create graphically enhanced 3-D animations.
According to Susie Stitzel, CAD Product Manager, “This release is really centered around presentation capabilities. First, we added the ability to review high resolution graphics, in common formats such as Illustrator or PDF, from within the CAD program. Then, we provided the capability to apply the graphics to a structure and view the entire package in 3-D. Finally, we incorporated animation tools so that users can electronically add movement to the packages they've designed. For example, they could record the steps for properly folding a box, or for assembling multiple pieces of an in-store display. Then they can replay those steps interactively.”
Animations are recorded in a VRML (Virtual Reality Model Language) file that is compact, email-able, and viewable in any web browser with a free, downloadable plug-in. A subset of the release, AristoCAD 3D Presentation is also available as a standalone package. Esko-Graphics expects the 3-D presentation features to open new markets in the folding carton and corrugated industries.
Version 5.0 also includes interface enhancements and new drafting, die-tooling, and manufacturing tools.
Esko-Graphics is the result of a merger between Purup-Eskofot A/S and Barco Graphics. The head office is in Gent, Belgium; the US office is in Kennesaw, GA. (Esko-Graphics: www.esko-graphics.com)