CATIA (Computer Aided Three-dimensional Interactive Application) is a multi-platform CAD/CAM/CAE commercial software suite developed by the French company Dassault Systemes and marketed worldwide by IBM. Written in the C++ programming language, CATIA is the cornerstone of the Dassault Systemes product lifecycle management software suite.
The software was created in the late 1970s and early 1980s to develop Dassault’s Mirage fighter jet, then was adopted in the aerospace, automotive, shipbuilding, and other industries.
CATIA competes in the CAD/CAM/CAE market with Siemens NX, Pro/ENGINEER, Autodesk Inventor and SolidEdge.
CATIA started as an in-house development in 1977 by French aircraft manufacturer Avions Marcel Dassault, at that time customer of the CADAM CAD software.
Initially named CATI (Conception Assistée Tridimensionnelle Interactive — French for
Interactive Aided Three-dimensional Design ) — it was renamed CATIA in 1981, when
Dassault created a subsidiary to develop and sell the software, and signed a non-exclusive distribution agreement with IBM.
In 1984, the Boeing Company chose CATIA as its main 3D CAD tool, becoming its largest customer.
In 1988, CATIA version 3 was ported from mainframe computersto UNIX.
In 1990, General Dynamics Electric Boat Corp chose CATIA as its main 3D CAD tool, to design the U.S. Navy’s Virginia class submarine.
In 1992, CADAM was purchased from IBM and the next year CATIA CADAM V4 was published. In 1996, it was ported from one to four Unix operating systems, including IBM AIX, Silicon Graphics IRIX, Sun Microsystems SunOS and Hewlett-Packard HP-UX.
In 1998, an entirely rewritten version of CATIA, CATIA V5 was released, with support for UNIX, Windows NT and Windows XP since 2001.
In 2008, Dassault announced and released CATIA V6. While the server can run on Microsoft Windows, Linux or AIX, client support for any operating system other than Microsoft Windows is dropped.
Commonly referred to as a 3D Product Lifecycle Management software suite, CATIA supports multiple stages of product development (CAx), from conceptualization, design (CAD), manufacturing (CAM), and engineering (CAE).
CATIA can be customized via application programming interfaces (API). V4 can be adapted in the Fortran and C programming languages under an API called CAA. V5 can be adapted via the Visual Basic and C++ programming languages, an API called CAA2 or
CAA V5 that is a component object model (COM)-like interface.
Although later versions of CATIA V4 implemented NURBS, V4 principally used piecewise polynomial surfaces. CATIA V4 uses a non-manifold solid engine.
Catia V5 features a parametric solid/surface-based package which uses NURBS as the core surface representation and has several workbenches that provide KBE support.
V5 can work with other applications, including Enovia, Smarteam, and various CAE Analysis applications.
Supported operating systems and platforms
CATIA V6 runs only on Microsoft Windows.
CATIA V5 runs on Microsoft Windows (both 32-bit and 64-bit), and as of Release 18
Service Pack 4 on Windows Vista 64. IBM AIX, Hewlett Packard HP-UX and Sun
Microsystems Solaris are supported.
CATIA V4 is supported for those Unixe and IBM MVS and VM/CMS mainframe platforms up to release 1.7.
CATIA V3 and earlier run on the mainframe platforms.
CATIA is powerful professional 3D software. Unlike other 3D software programs, CATIA software is not based on a mesh approach but a modeling approach using curves (NURBS). It is the most accurate modeling technique that exists.
This distinction makes CATIA one of the most widely used software programs globally, especially in industry, where 3D files serve as a reference for machine tools. Several thousand aeronautics, automotive, rail transit, and architecture use it.
What is CATIA used for?
For these same reasons, CATIA software is suitable for modeling parts for 3D printing. In fact, to create an object, the 3D printer refers to the 3D file sent to it, so this file must contain clear information. CATIA enables you to create these files and provides tools to correct files with geometric inconsistencies. This makes 3D printing easier with CATIA
To learn more about creating a 3D file for 3D printing, please refer to our page about repairing files for 3D printing, as well as our modeling tutorials for 3D printing. You can also download our eBook “Repairing your file for 3D printing”.
CATIA also allows you to test the modeled object’s resistance to the physical constraints it will need to support (its weight, the action of another part on the thing, etc.). This, combined with the solidity verification provided by Sculpteo, lets you double-check that your 3D print will not break.
CATIA Features:
Social Design Environment / Global Collaboration / Instinctive 3D Experience / Capture Manufacturing Process Intent / Cross-Discipline Development / Product Modeling / Unbreakable Relational Design / Systems Engineering / Advance Surface Modeling / Engineering / Integrated Multidisciplinary Approach / Product Design and Styling.
CATIA Benefits:
The main benefits of CATIA are its disciplined system, sketching and rendering technology, engineering insights, multi-platform development, market compliance, and active collaboration.
The difference between CATIA and AutoCAD
Drawing in AutoCAD is powerful and easy to create. In CATIA, creating a drawing is difficult since it is an advanced design software with engineering capability, which Mechanical Engineers typically use.
It is impossible to design mechanical components with higher accuracy in AutoCAD, while it is possible in CATIA.
CATIA has Assembly, sheet metal design, and weldment features, while AutoCAD does not have these features.
AutoCAD cannot calculate lifecycle management, while CATIA can.
CATIA has mold design tools, while AutoCAD does not have them.
CATIA can perform simulations on any product. It is not possible in AutoCAD.
AutoCAD shows a plain and clean layout of the model; CATIA designs a model in a 3D view.
AutoCAD is the most preferred and is the optimum choice for 2D drafting. Its 3D modeling is considered primitive compared to CATIA, a reliable and efficient tool for 3D modeling and the most favored one for surface modeling.
CATIA Files
CATIA files can be exported in STEP or IGES formats as well.STL. This is the preferred file format for 3D printing. To view the list of file formats accepted by Sculpteo and learn how to export your CATIA file. STL format, you can refer to our page on Exporting files for 3D printing.
Published and marketed by Dassault Systèmes, CATIA software is not free. There is, however, a version of CATIA available to students at a reduced price.
How Much Does CATIA Cost?
The exact price your company will pay for the CATIA software suite depends on which package or configuration you purchase and your license type.
You can either purchase a standard configuration, which includes a preset list of products and features, or a custom configuration containing a-la-carte style products. Purchasing add-on products for your software package will also contribute to your overall price.
CATIA is available as either node-locked or concurrent licensing at no additional cost to the end customer. Node-locked licensing enables licensing on one machine with a single user, while concurrent licensing allows for multi-device installation and usage.
Finally, your organization will need to pay for a licensing term that allows you to utilize the software for a specified time. Dassault Systèmes offers licenses spanning one quarter, one year, two years, and three years.
12 Reasons Why Customers Prefer CATIA Over Other Software
Numerous Computer-Aided Design and Manufacturing (CAD/ CAM) programs are available today. However, CATIA is undoubtedly one of the most popular software suites on the market. Here are twelve reasons why customers across various industries prefer CATIA over other programs.
1. Streamlines Design, Analysis, and Data Management of New Products
CATIA’s comprehensive suite of 3D design, computer-aided engineering (CAE), computer-aided design (CAD), Computer-Aided Manufacturing (CAM) and Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) solutions allow for a faster, more efficient workflow. Specifically, the software streamlines design, analysis, and data management when conceptualizing and manufacturing new products.
CATIA’s highly technical design capabilities make it a popular program among manufacturing industries and Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs).
2. Can Handle Larger Designs
CATIA has both the physical capacity and broad toolset necessary to handle large-scale designs for larger products and assemblies. The software’s interface is fast and robust, creating optimal performance for the most complex, extensive design projects.
CATIA’s powerful design tools also allow for more efficient large-scale design, enabling your technical and non-technical team members to create high-quality technical illustrations and 3D interactive experiences within their fields.
3. Versatile and Flexible
CATIA’s platform is versatile and flexible, allowing you to customize your package to suit your company’s specific design and manufacturing needs. Dassault Systèmes offers dozens of add-ons and modules that you can use in adjunct with its built-in standard features to increase functionality.
A few popular add-ons and adjunct programs from Dassault Systèmes include:
Dymola / ICEM Surf / CATIA Composer / Electre / Catelectre / SFE Portfolio / Reqtify / Autosar-Builder / CATIA Magic / Controlbuild / STIMULUS
We can help you identify the right CATIA add-ons to optimize your workflow within the CATIA software interface.
4. 50+ Different Packages
CATIA is a broad-reaching program offering design and innovation across a range of industries. Because most companies limit their CATIA usage to specialized purposes, such as architectural design or mechanical engineering, Dassault Systèmes offers 50+ specialized packages, or configurations, that each home in on industry-specific features.
A few of these CATIA packages include:
Aero Surface Modeler / Architectural Detail Designer / Class A Expert / Composites Designer / Electrical and Fluids Engineering / Mechanical Engineer / Styling Design / Systems Engineering
You can choose the CATIA configuration that provides the most benefits for your specific organization.
5. CATIA 3DEXPERIENCE Is Available as a Cloud-Based Program and On-premise installed Program
In 2014, Dassault Systèmes released 3DEXPERIENCE, a cloud-based platform that incorporates product data management (PDM) along with product lifecycle management (PLM).
As the company’s first cloud-capable program, 3DEXPERIENCE enables professionals across an organization to collaborate on design and manufacturing without needing to install CATIA on their individual computers. The cloud-based nature of the program also allows for seamless collaboration in real-time.
6. Popular Among Large OEMs
CATIA’s innovation and technicalities are evidenced in its widespread use among some of the world’s largest, most well-known Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs). The following OEM and automotive companies use CATIA daily throughout their design and manufacturing processes:
Audi / Bentley Motors Limited / BMW / Boeing / Chrysler / Fiat / Ford / Hyundai / Porsche / Toyota / Volkswagen / Volvo And more. CATIA’s popularity across these highly successful companies allows manufacturers and engineers worldwide to trust in this software’s powerful capacity and performance.
7. Provides a Comprehensive Solution, From Industrial Design to Class A Surfacing.
CATIA’s versatility across a range of industries and job fields is unmatched among PLM software. The program provides the best solutions for complete shape designing, styling, and surfacing workflows in sectors ranging from industrial design to Class A surfacing.
The suite acts as an all-in-one solution, preventing your team from needing to learn several interfaces and programs to complete the product development lifecycle. Instead, focusing time, energy, and training on the CATIA software alone improves efficiency and mastery within the CATIA interface.
8. Accelerates the Engineering Process by 30% To 50%
CATIA’s innovative solutions, smooth interface, extensive toolset, and numerous functionalities allow the program to accelerate engineering processes by anywhere from 30% to 50%. The software takes much of the burden out of the project lifecycle, removing mundane, remote design tasks and streamlining sketching and 3D rendering.
Speeding up design, modeling, manufacturing, and development processes allows your company to begin delegating more time to your most essential tasks, improving performance, speed, and overall profits as a result.
9. Gives a Complete Definition of Modeling, Simulation, Verification, and Business Process Management
CATIA allows for effective, comprehensive business process management within a range of industries. The program provides detailed insight into modeling, simulation, and verification within the greater process management discipline, allowing your higher-ups to analyze design processes and improve efficiency.
10. Enables Object Simulation Through a 3D Digital Mock-Up
If your organization does not currently utilize object simulation within your manufacturing processes, you may be wasting time and money that you could be delegating to other functions.
CATIA allows for enhanced object simulation through 3D digital mock-ups of products and objects. For example, you can import 2D sketches into the software and render them as three-dimensional images without having to re-sketch them in the 3D platform.
Being able to create 3D mock-ups enables your team to share complex design ideas across departments before transitioning them to production and development. Keeping everyone within your organization on the same page about designs produces a more seamless workflow and greater success throughout your PLM process.
11. Allows for Offline Design Modifications
CATIA’s new “design anytime and design anywhere” feature lets users capture and send design modifications offline to other team members. Your design team can utilize this feature to create quick designs on the go, while traveling, out in the field, or anywhere that they may not have access to their desktop or internet connection.
CATIA’s offline capabilities allow design modifications to remain secure within the CATIA database without needing internet access, ensuring that any changes do not disappear while offline.
12. Provides a Cohesive, Productive 3D Design Environment
Finally, CATIA offers a productive design environment that facilitates collaboration and efficiency between departments and professionals. Your designers can work with stakeholders to share designs, discuss product modeling, modify existing mock-ups, and communicate ideas.
CATIA’s tools and processes range from simple to complex, but working within the newer 3DEXPERIENCE platform allows your organization to collaborate seamlessly with professionals who may not use CATIA every day. Similarly, departments and stakeholders who simply need to view designs without making modifications can easily access the platform through the cloud.
Altogether, CATIA makes it easier and more effective to share designs and ideas across various teams.
CATIA is a parametric design software, which allows a design by drawing parts in a 3D environment, as well as creating relationships between parts and measures to automate changes.
With a high level of parameterization, once the design has been made, it is possible to make changes from outside the program, for example, by changing values from Excel.
This is where the concept of parametric design makes sense, and it is possible to take advantage of the potential of the tool, improving the quality of the design and reducing its time.
CATIA is high-end 3DComputer-aided Design (CAD) from Dassault Systèmes.
CATIA is the World’s Leading Solution for Product Design and Experience which supports Product Design, Development, Validation, and Analysis.
CATIA provides advanced modeling capability not only for complex surface and wireframe parts, but also a single part from an assembly consisting of many parts. This is why CATIA has been used in Automotive industry and Aerospace industry for many decades.
CATIA is a parametric design software, which allows a design by drawing parts in a 3D environment, as well as creating relationships between parts and measures to automate changes.
With a high level of parameterization, once the design has been made, it is possible to make changes from outside the program, for example, by changing values from Excel.
This is where the concept of parametric design makes sense, and it is possible to take advantage of the potential of the tool, improving the quality of the design and reducing its time.
Before we get to the literal meaning of CATIA, you need to understand three more terms –
CAD (Computer-Aided Design)
CAM (Computer-Aided Manufacturing)
CAE (Computer-Aided Engineering)
The former term, CAD, refers to the use of a computer software for product or object designing. Whereas, CAM uses the computer hardware and software to plan, organize, and control the functionalities or operations of a manufacturing unit.
CAE can be defined as the use of a computer software to crack engineering problems and review the products that are created using CAD.
CATIA is nothing but an acronym of the term – Computer-Aided Three-Dimensional Interactive Application.
From aerospace to automobiles to manufacturing plants, every leading industry is making use of this leading 3D software. This encompassing 3D software suite was developed by Dassault Systèmes.
It is a multi-platform that is a culmination of all the three above-stated technologies – CAD, CAM, and CAE. CATIA unites 2D tools and 3D parametric features to address every step of the design-to-manufacturing process. The model creates assemblies, solid models, and also generates several 2D drawing views such as – auxiliary, section, orthographic, isometric, or detailed.
The reason behind the increased adoption of CATIA is its bi-directional associative property. This property ensures that whatever modifications a designer makes in the model, they’ll be shown in the drawing views as well.
CATIA was first released by its maker Dassault in 1977 and has been in the market for almost 30 years.
A convincing argument to enrol in a CATIA course is the fact that the software is still relevant in the IT world even after 30 years of its launch.
The most popular version of this software was introduced in 1998 as the CATIA V5. The latest development in the product under the name CATIA V6 will be launched soon by the developers.
One thing that is important to note here is that every version of CATIA comes with added functionality.
An excellent example of this is the CATIA V4 which was launched in 1992 and offered significant Assembly Modeling Product enhancements such as a graphical-tree based management system. The V5 and V6 versions of the software followed suit with enhancements in the data handling arena.
CATIA was first released by its maker Dassault in 1977 and has been in the market for almost 30 years. the fact that the software is still relevant in the IT world even after 30 years of its launch.
The most popular version of this software was introduced in 1998 as the CATIA V5. The latest development in the product under the name CATIA V6 will be launched soon by the developers.
One thing that is important to note here is that every version of CATIA comes with added functionality.
An excellent example of this is the CATIA V4 which was launched in 1992 and offered significant Assembly Modeling Product enhancements such as a graphical-tree based management system. The V5 and V6 versions of the software followed suit with enhancements in the data handling arena.
A great thing about Dassault is that they keep introducing significant changes when it comes to upgrading their CATIA versions. The software is written in the C++ language. Therefore, if you have prior knowledge of the C++ programming language, then it will be easier for you to master a CATIA online course.
How does CATIA Help in Product Designing?
CATIA helps software designers bring their vision to life by introducing the ability to visualise their designs in 3D. When it was first launched back in 1997, this ability of CATIA was thought to be quite unique. Currently, it is the only tool in the market that can help at every stage of product development.
The scalable architecture of this tool allows enterprises to expand their business across various domains. From mechanical designing to system engineering to machine analyzing and stimulation, CATIA can do it all. When you enroll in a CATIA online course, you’ll be exposed to every step of product designing in detail.
Here’s how CATIA is shaping the product design and development area in several industries worldwide:
Part Designing: This module of CATIA focuses on designing 3D mechanical parts of a product through an intuitive user interface. All you’ll need to do is sketch a context to generate a detailed design.
Shape Designing: With the help of the surface and wireframe features of CATIA, you can create different kinds of shapes and figures. It offers a comprehensive set of tools that make it possible to create and edit any type of shapes.
Assembly: Here every part that you have designed earlier is assembled together to form an entire component or a machine.
Kinematic Stimulation: In this section, the different machine components are connected to each other using joints which are called a mechanism. These joints determine how the mechanical assembly shall perform motion. It is a kinematic stimulation of how the designed machinery would perform in the outside world.
Some of the other features of CATIA include – Equipment and System, Machining, Ergonomic Design analysis and much more. Every workbench of CATIA works in a unique manner and is important in itself.
CATIA stands for Computer Aided Three-Dimensional Interactive Application. It’s much more than a CAD (Computer Aided Design) software package. It’s a full software suite which incorporates CAD, CAE (Computer-Aided Engineering) and CAM (Computer-Aided Manufacture).
So, let’s take a look at each of these areas and the tools that CATIA offers professionals to enhance innovation in product development.
Enabling 2D and 3D design
Computer-Aided Design is most employed by Engineers to help create, modify and/or analyze graphical representations of product designs. Its applications stretch across a multitude of industries due to its many popular benefits.
CAD software innovation continues to improve the quality of design through greater accuracy and the reduction of design errors. CAD software is also capable of improving communication due the centralization of design data and documentation, creating a single source of truth for engineers and manufacturers.
Enabling verification through analysis of 3D models
Computer-aided engineering most used by Engineers for the simulation and analysis of product designs. These analyses commonly include Finite Element Analysis (FEA), Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD), and Multibody Dynamics (MBD). Similar to prototyping, these processes help to prepare a product design for real world stresses. This testing enables Engineers to make better product design decisions and revisions – this ultimately leads to better product performance and customer experiences.
Enabling manufacturing processes to be designed for 3D model manufacture
Computer-aided manufacturing is commonly used by Manufacturers – rather than Design Engineers – to plan, manage, control and automate manufacturing operations. CAM software uses CAD designs to infer machining instructions while optimizing part production efficiency and material usage.
CAD CAM CAE and more on the 3DEXPERIENCE Platform
CATIA 3DEXPERIENCE is essentially the next iteration of CATIA V6. It incorporates Product Data Management (PDM) and Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) through ENOVIA with the additional integration of Dassault Systèmes’ other brands such as SIMULIA, DELMIA, and more.
The first release of CATIA was back in 1977 by Dassault Systèmes, who still maintain and develop the software. It was initially developed for use in designing the Dassault Mirage fighter jet.
Nowadays, the most widely used version is CATIA V5, with CATIA V4 still being used in some industries, mostly in conjunction with V5. Between versions, CATIA has varied significantly in terms of usage and appearance. Each Version brings significant additional functionality. Between V4 and V5, the fundamentals to the design process were developed and between V5 and V6 the handling of data changed. Within each version, Dassault Systèmes also offer updates in the form of releases. New releases are typically released annually and also bring additional functionality within the Version as well as bug fixes.
For large organisations, it can be difficult to handle large amounts of data and allow users to share this data. This can be controlled using PLM (Product Lifecycle Management) products. CATIA V5 can be used file based or alongside another software package which incorporates PLM, such as ENOVIA or SMARTEAM. CATIA V6 however already has ENOVIA V6 integrated. The main benefits for using a PLM product are the prevention of data loss and security context control.
CATIA is a powerful software suite that encompasses CAD, CAE, and CAM functionalities, making it a comprehensive tool for professionals involved in product development.
For large organizations dealing with substantial amounts of data, CATIA offers integration with PLM products like ENOVIA, ensuring data security and preventing loss. Additionally, CATIA 3DEXPERIENCE, the latest iteration, incorporates PDM and PLM functionalities through ENOVIA, as well as integration with other Dassault Systèmes brands, providing a web-based platform that connects various areas of an organization beyond engineering.
CATIA supports multiple domains and functionalities, and licenses can be tailored to meet specific user requirements. Workbenches within CATIA, such as Part Design, Assembly Design, Generative Surface Design, Generative Structural Analysis, Generative Sheetmetal Design, Real-Time Rendering, and Generative Drafting, enable users to perform various tasks, from precise part and assembly modeling to analysis, rendering, and drawing creation.
In summary, CATIA is a versatile and comprehensive software suite that empowers professionals to innovate in product development across industries. Its integration of CAD, CAE, and CAM functionalities, along with its continuous updates and enhancements, makes CATIA a valuable tool for engineers, designers, and manufacturers seeking to optimize their processes and improve product quality.
CATIA has capabilities in multiple domains.
The majority of users do not require all functionalities available in CATIA, which has significant cost impacts on the user or organisation. Licenses are therefore broken down to include required functionality and are pre-defined. Depending on the licence, additional workbenches become available and/or additional tools within workbenches become available. Workbenches in CATIA work a bit like different software held within CATIA. They allow the user to perform different tasks, from:
Part Modeling
Part Design workbench
The Part Design workbench enables users to design precise 3D mechanical parts. From assembly sketching to detailed design, the Part Design application accommodates the vast majority of design requirements.
Assembly Modeling
Assembly Design workbench
The Assembly Design workbench enables users to design cooperate with Part Design and Generative Drafting apps on scalable design projects. Various visual tools allow for 3D navigation through large assemblies.
Surface Modeling
Generative Surface Design workbench
the Generative Surface Design workbench enables users to create wireframe construction elements and enrich existing mechanical part design with wireframe and surface features.
Finite Element Analysis
Generative Structural Analysis
The Generative Structural Analysis enables users to perform first order mechanical analysis for 3D systems.
This workbench includes:
Generative Part Structural Analysis (GPS) for obtaining mechanical behavior information
ELFINI Structural Analysis (EST) for mechanical analysis developments
Generative Assembly Structural Analysis (GAS) for analysis of the mechanical behavior of a whole assembly
Generative Dynamic Analysis (GDY) for working in a dynamic response context
Sheetmetal Part Design
Generative Sheetmetal Design
Generative Sheetmetal Design enables users to perform associative feature-based modeling, making it possible to design sheet metal parts in concurrent engineering between the unfolded or folded part representation.
Rendering
Real Time Rendering workbench
The Real Time Rendering workbench enables users to define material specifications that will be shared across the whole product development process, while mapping materials onto parts and products to produce realistic renderings.
Engineering Drawing creation
Generative Drafting workbench
The Generative Drafting workbench enables users to generate drawings from 3D parts and assembly definitions.
When computer was not existed on that time all designing engineer was use a paper sheet for draw a design in various view such as 2D, 3D and Isometric view. They was draw a design with pencil on a A3 size paper sheet with drafter. Drafter is a engineering student’s tool, which used to draw a large size design and Geometric Shapes etc.
But this method is time consuming method. That’s why after inventing computer and it’s language, some software was come out in market to easy this method. Software like Sketchpad, Autocad etc.
For your Kind Information Sketchpad is a 1st CAD Software.
After see all problem in all CAD software, Dassault Company developed catia software. According to Shikshanbaba CATIA V5 belong to 5th generation of CAD Software. And new generation is CATIA V6 .
In CATIA V5 there are many version exist as per year such as CATIA V5 R19, R20, R21 Etc. Means R19 version launched in 2019 and R20 Version launched in 2020.
Always latest version is best, such as V5 and V6.
CATIA V5 Version is only available for non touch screen laptop or computer and CATIA V6 version is available for both touchscreen and non touchscreen laptop and computer.
Then let’s know about requirement of CATIA V5 software to install and run.