Cost estimating software includes 3-D CAD feature recognition

MTI Systems Inc. has released Costimator® with 3DFX, an automated feature recognition (AFR) function that recognizes CAD features and their parameters from solid models. This function provides estimators with control over features they extract and import into the software for estimating.

According to the manufacturer, the software with AFR function increases cost estimating speed and quoting throughput up to 90 percent while improving cost estimating accuracy from part to part and estimator to estimator.

The 3-D CAD viewer supports more than 30 file formats from developers such as AutoCAD®, STEP®, IGES®, NX®, and SolidWorks®. Estimators can instantly collect accurate measurements, cut dynamic sections, and play animation. AFR functionality automatically recognizes 3-D CAD features such as holes, slots, pockets, bends, and forms and their parameters from solid models.