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 stands for pc Aid Three-Dimensional Interactive Application. it’s rather more than CAD (Computer assisted Design) computer code. It’s an entire computer code that mixes CAD, CAE (Computer-Aided Engineering) and CAM (Computer-Aided Engineering). So, let’s take a glance at every of those areas and therefore the tools Catia provides professionals to market innovation in development. Enables 2nd and 3D style Computer assisted style is widely employed by Developers to help in making, modifying and / or analysing graphic representations of product styles. Its use extends several|to several} industries due to its many noted edges. The development of CAD computer code continues to boost style quality with larger accuracy and cut back style errors. CAD computer code is additionally capable of rising communication because of the centralization of style knowledge and documentation, making one true supply for developers and makers.
An easier question to answer might be, who doesn’t use CATIA? Look around you. Anything and everything you see had to be designed before it could be manufactured. The pen on your desk, your desk, the chair you’re sitting in, your appliances, your automobile, etc. The list is almost endless. Today, nearly all products are designed on computers. Computers are even designed on computers. CATIA plays a major role in the design process. Architects are now using CATIA. The great Guggenheim Museum in Spain, considered an architectural masterpiece, was designed using CATIA.
CATIA is used by the automotive and aerospace industries for automobile and aircraft product and tooling design. There are thousands of companies the world over using CATIA. For every company that uses CATIA for product design, there are hundreds of suppliers to those companies that also use CATIA.
CATIA is found in a variety of industries throughout the world. Some of these industries include; Aerospace, Appliances, Architecture, Automotive, Construction, Consumer Goods, Electronics, Medical, Furniture, Machinery, Mold and Die, and Shipbuilding.
CATIA has played a major role in NASA’s design of the Space Shuttle. The military – working with private industry – – uses CATIA for the design of “jet-fighter” aircraft, aircraft carriers, helicopters, tanks and various other forms of weaponry.
CATIA has a collaborative approach and a Cross-Discipline Development Platform. It makes your work easy and simple due to the amazing 3D user experience, easy-going workflows, and a Social Design Environment. CATIA is based on an Advance Surface Modelling structure, and it also has an Unbreakable Relational Design.
It helps designers model products based on real-life behaviors patterns. It also helps users in designing electronic, electrical, and distributed systems. The graphical user interface is very user-friendly compared to other 3D programs. Each tool and command in the workspace will be easily available and quite clearly defined.
CATIA is a powerful software application; however, it will take some time to master the program. Being an extensive program, it becomes a bit difficult to use; however, it proves to be an efficient and very useful tool for numerous engineering designers and meets various design purposes.
Desired Skills: This is a computer-aided three-dimensional interactive application. A piece of prior knowledge about CAD, CAM, CAE will be useful for you, Also, it is based on PLM software solutions, and basic knowledge about the subject gives a positive result while learning the software.
CATIA is capable of creating parametric and non-parametric 3D models. The program is compatible with Windows, Solaris, IRIX and HP-UX. CATIA is available in English, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Chinese, Korean and Russian. Like most design software, we will need to export the models in STL format in order to bring them to life with our 3D printer. If you have earlier versions of the program, Dassault Systèmes provides tools to convert the files to be compatible with the most recent versions. In addition, the software is available in two types depending on the functionality required: CATIA V5-6R Experience and CATIA 3DExperience.
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 Modelling
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 Modelling
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 Modelling
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 modelling, 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.
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.
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. CATIA 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. CATIA 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. CATIA Is 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.
4. CATIA Comes in 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.
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. CATIA Is 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).
CATIA’s popularity across these highly successful companies allows manufacturers and engineers worldwide to trust in this software’s powerful capacity and performance.
7. CATIA 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. CATIA 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. CATIA 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. CATIA 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. CATIA 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. CATIA 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 the world’s engineering and design leading software for product 3D CAD design excellence.It is used to design, simulate, analyze, and manufacture products in a variety of industries including aerospace, automotive, consumer goods, and industrial machinery, just to name a few.
The CATIA software is used in multiple areas, such as
Design Industry
With ICEM Surfacing technology, CATIA validates complicated shapes, such as validating the industrial design of surfacing Class-A.
Mechanical Engineering
CATIA helps you to create 3D models from sketches and 2D pictures. It can also help with sheet metal, composites, moulded, tooling, and forged sections. It includes functional tolerances and kinematic classification as well as other methods for identifying goods.
Electrical Systems
The CATIA V5 edition allows for the design and production of electrical systems.
System Engineering
Extensible frameworks for simulation, verification, combining multiple modelling, and business support processes are all available from CATIA. It enables customers to request that businesses update or modify their goods.
One of the great features of CATIA V5 is that it has a wide variety of functionalities. Unfortunately, navigating through all of them to find which ones are going to be beneficial to your business can be a bit challenging and individually hand picking which options to use could end up being expensive. This is where CATIA V5 PLM Express comes into play.