To be able to design the fastest Formula Student car there is, we need the best software available. In particular CAD software is vital to the design phase of an engineering project, but there is more to a successful project than just a successful design. We are using the 3DEXPERIENCE platform by Dassault Systèmes to fulfill all those needs. As a team we have been using software by Dassault Systèmes since 2004, and the 3DEXPERIENCE platform since 2016. This makes Dassault Systèmes one of our most trusted long-time sponsors.

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For our engineers it is very useful to already get to know the 3DEXPERIENCE software before they start their career. Since the software is widely being used in industry, having experience using it always makes our team members more attractive on the job market.

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The 3DEXPERIENCE platform is unique in the versatility it provides; it incorporates tools for everything you can think of. We are mainly making use of the CAD, FEM and project management tools. But don’t forget the apps provided to prepare for and manage manufacturing, or for example the electrical systems design tool. This last app allows us the make detailed drawings of our wire looms and full electrical system, which are exported automatically from our design file. This saves a lot of time and the drawings are used every day during the production and assembly of our wiring system.

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All of the 3DEXPERIENCE tools are available online, which makes collaborating a straightforward process. Especially during COVID-19 times, where our team works from home extensively, this online platform has facilitated a smooth transition. All team members can contribute to the project and add parts from their own computer, and the integration of the design is entirely hosted online. The platform provides room for customization, which enables us to tailor the software especially to the needs of our team. We have made a dashboard in the app where we place our most used apps, allowing quick access. Next to that a nice background saver of one of our Formula Student racecars of course couldn’t be missing.

We would like to thank Dassault Systèmes for their continued support, and are looking forward to the coming years with more innovation and designs emerging from the 3DEXPERIENCE platform.