These two new premium modules build on top of the latest version of free-to-download DesignSpark Mechanical. In this environment, drawings support annotations, including geometric dimensioning and tolerances, notes and leaders, to JIS, ISO, and ANSI standards. The drawing environment also provides a familiar workspace for those accustomed to working in 2D. It enables the creation of detailed dimensioned drawings allowing designers to move beyond concept development and the 3D printing of prototypes and on to final manufacturing. The second premium module – DesignSpark Mechanical Drawing – adds SpaceClaim's Associative Drawing environment, which allows the changing of designs, as well as the ability to create and modify geometry from within drawing views. It means that companies can pass designs to their mechanical department or outside contractors for final design creation and manufacturing and do not have to invest in highly expensive 3D CAD licences or training. The module can enable engineers to integrate DesignSpark Mechanical into a product development toolchain that works across various software platforms, moving beyond concept creation to a seamless workflow for producing final designs.

The first premium module available is DesignSpark Mechanical Exchange, which adds advanced import/export capabilities and enables the import, modification and export of industry-standard STEP and IGES file formats, allowing full exchange of design data with CAD tools such as SolidWorks, Catia, ProEngineer and AutoCAD. For example, the software’s STL-output format enables the direct export of designs to 3D printers.

Notwithstanding the availability of these optional premium paid-for modules, which can now be purchased from RS, very importantly the fundamental software that is available today will remain free to all users with continued support, new versions and updates from RS into the foreseeable future.ĭesignSpark Mechanical is a key element of the initiative by RS to provide tools for engineers that enable them to rapidly develop prototypes in the product concept design stage. Developed in conjunction with SpaceClaim, the leading provider of flexible and affordable 3D modelling software for engineers, DesignSpark Mechanical is an advanced 3D direct modelling tool that can be downloaded free of charge.

Designspark mechanical exchange