A sneak peek at the latest release of SolidWorks 2008 from SolidWorks Corp., Concord, Mass, (solidworks.com) shows several ways engineering teams can store and reuse tried-and-true designs to cut time off projects. The software now includes a search function that lets users find design data based on file names, attributes, and whether the part is in 2D or 3D form. It searches their PC, network, or the Internet. A Design Library provides a single repository for a company's reusable content such as 2D blocks, part features, whole parts, assemblies, and standard hardware.

The software developer says users need only drag and drop items into new designs. A DWGeditor makes it easy for users to edit existing DWG data through an interface similar to AutoCAD's but maintain designs in their native DWG format. FeatureWorks makes it easy to alter 3D data from other CAD systems. The software comes with over 20 data translators.

Data management in PDMWorks facilitates reuse by securing design data and providing a way to find and reuse previous design projects.

Smart Components make it easier to reuse parts and assemblies by automating the creation of any mounting features and hardware necessary to add these components to a new design, say developers.

DriveWorksXpress lets teams store and run design rules for products that quickly generate new parts, assemblies, and drawings for specific customer needs. For example, a company that makes pumps might store design and selection rules so that others could simply type in a flow rate and pressure to generate a suitable new design.

Lastly, the company's Website (3dcontentcentral.com) lets users upload 3D models of just about anything that others can download into their work. The site is said to be easier to navigate when searching, configuring parts, and downloading components.