T-FLEX CAD

The main articles are:

• CAD Computer-aided design systems
• Product Lifecycle Management

The T-FLEX CAD/CAM/CAE/CAPP/PDM software package, developed and distributed by Top Systems, provides information support and support for the entire product life cycle from development order to testing and commissioning. The implementation and full-scale use of the T-FLEX complex significantly reduces the development time and cost of a new product, improves the quality of manufacture and the overall efficiency of using technical, commercial and organizational resources of enterprises. Top Systems provides a full range of industrial automation consulting services, from initial process analysis and employee training to comprehensive enterprise-wide implementation.

2023

Demo Linux version of T-FLEX CAD

On October 24, 2023, Top Systems demonstrated the Linux version of T-FLEX CAD T-FLEX PLM.

As reported, the T-FLEX CAD version is assembled directly under OS Linux and does not use any additional libraries (Wine or analogues). It allows you to perform basic functions: opening a document, recalculating a parametric model, visualization drawings and 3D models.

Despite some technical difficulties during the preparation of the Linux version of the T-FLEX CAD system, the developers of Top Systems have mastered the technology of adapting such a complex product to another target platform. And solving the problem of developing a full-fledged version of the CAD system for domestic OS is a matter of time and concentration of effort. noted Sergei Kozlov, Development Director of Top Systems

To implement the test version of T-FLEX CAD under Linux, developers needed to redesign a large amount of code to make it independent of the platform used.

For October 2023, T-FLEX CAD for Windows can also be used for Linux, but this requires the installation of Wine, a specialized additional software, which introduces certain difficulties and limitations.

In the future, T-FLEX CAD will be implemented as a cross-platform system, which will allow it to fully work, both in Windows and Linux, without using any additional tools. The presented result is the basis of such a software product. Its further development consists in the subsequent translation of the program code of the T-FLEX CAD system for cross-platform support, including various elements of the user interface of commands and windows, application functionality.

In 2022, a cross-platform version of T-FLEX DOCs for Linux was demonstrated, which was included in the FSTEC-certified T-FLEX DOCs software product. In 2023, significant improvements to the cross-platform T-FLEX DOCs were demonstrated, which bring its functionality closer to the capabilities of the main version of T-FLEX DOCs for Windows, running on Linux using the Wine library.

The demonstration of all products was carried out on one of the Russian Linux-based OCs.

The demonstrated ability of our engineering software T- FLEX CAD on a domestic Linux-based OS gives us confidence to believe that achieving full technological sovereignty in the field industrial of design software is real. commented Sergey Kuraksin, CEO of Top Systems

Developing a module for integrating CAE Fidesys with the T-Flex CAD/PDM suite

The Borlas Group announced on August 30, 2023 the development of a module for integrating CAE Fidesys with the T-FLEX CAD/PDM suite of programs. The module allows you to expand the functionality of three packages: CAE Fidesys, T-FLEX CAD and the T-FLEX DOCs client . Its main task is to ensure the interconnection in the enterprise infrastructure between the main blocks of the end-to-end product design process and the blocks of joint work of design and calculation units. Read more here.

2022

T-FLEX CAD 17.0.80.0

On November 3, 2022, Top Systems announced the release of the T-FLEX CAD 17.0.80.0 update.

According to the company, in the T-FLEX CAD 17.0.80.0 assembly, system stability and performance were optimized, as well as user comments and suggestions. The most significant changes to the system are described below.

2D Projections - Updating Command

Local Section Updated the Local Section command, separate from the Projection command. There are 2 modes for creating a local section: in the context of the current projection, and the application is a classic creation mode that builds a projection on top of the parent projection. The section you create in the context of the projection falls into the Model Tree. Also, the option to automatically select elements to exclude from the break path has been added to the edit view breaks and drawing views mode. And when you create a Free View projection, the default view point is set to the current position of the active camera in the 3D window.

Drawing

In the Axes command, in Create Two-Line Axis mode, you can now create axes between the arcs of concentric circles.

Teamwork under T-FLEX DOCs

Status management is now available in the Remarks window in the shortcut menus of remarks saved in DOCs. The material assigned to an ESI object in DOCs is used by default when you create bodies in an object file.

3D modeling, 3D assemblies

You have added the ability to resize the cut plane for a planar section.

The Open 2D Window command has been added to the work plane shortcut menu. With it, you can open the page of the selected work plane in a 2D window. And the Suppress option has been added to the work plane settings dialog.

The Save Blend Transformations command has been added to the blended menu. Saving occurs in the same way as when you remove a blend with the Maintain Mating Position option enabled. If the position of an object is determined by an unsaved conjugation transformation, then this is now specified in the object settings dialog on the Conjugation Transformations tab.

The commands of the context menu of bodies and their forming operations related to working with blends are placed in a separate group - Blends.

Composition of the article

SPS and Thickness columns have been added to the Sheet Metal Bend Table product composition type.

Dimensions and Geometry Analysis

When measuring the relationship between a line and a plane, in addition to the previously displayed normal angle, i.e. the angle between the line and the normal to the plane, a projection angle that is 90 degrees different from the normal angle is now displayed. The Ignore Construction Lines flag has been added to the Loop Check command and is selected by default. A tab with a summary of the analysis results has been added to the Deviation Control command.

Export/Import

Added support for importing Creo 9, Inventor 2023, NX 2206 formats.

User interface

The Expand Normal to Selected Feature command has been updated. Buttons have been added to the page bookmarks area to quickly navigate to the first and last page.

The Copy Full File Path command has been added to the shortcut menus of document bookmarks, library items in the Document Menus window, and items in the Assembly Structure window in the Link Grouping mode. Fields have been added to the Dashboard Customization Dialog Ribbon tab to search for commands by name.

In the 3D Model window, you can now display the Layer column.

Parametrization

The function tounit (,) has been added, which allows you to convert the units of the variable.

T-FLEX Gears

• Worm gears. Calculation of deviations as per GOST 3675-81 has been added.
• Cylindrical gears. The speed of model generation has been optimized and the positioning of models in fragments has been changed due to changes in prototypes. When editing programs created in previous versions of the application, you will be prompted to update the program according to the updated prototypes. Updating the transfer can lead to a loss of rework.

T-FLEX Dynamics

The Rotation load type adds the ability to specify angular velocity using the graph.

T-FLEX Electrical

• Cable products. Added a command to create Splices in bundles.
• Work with purchased products. Added the ability to store purchased product data in the Product Editor.
• Working with 2D fragments. The Electrical Components option has been added to the standard T-FLEX CAD Full Recalculation command. Use this option to update electrical components in the current document after you make changes to component documents.
• Terminal blocks. Added the Numbering in Order button to the terminal list, which automatically assigns the software.
• Insert Schema. Added the ability to restore 3D representations of cable products to the target document using the Links command after importing the schema.
• Communication lines. If several pages are open at the same time, then when you hover over a LAN with a break on different pages, it is now highlighted on all pages.
• Communication lines. When you move the cursor over the LAN, the associated symbols are now highlighted and vice versa.
• Communication lines. When you drag an existing text on a LAN along the LAN by the anchor handle outside the content editing mode, the orientation of the text now automatically changes depending on the direction of the line.
• Communication lines. When dragging the existing text on the LAN by the move manipulator in content editing mode, the text anchor handle now moves along the LAN after the text itself.
• Communication lines. The Copy Text to Clipboard command was added to the context menu of the text anchor marker on the LAN, and the Paste Text from Clipboard command was added to the context menu of the LAN.
• Communication lines. For symbols on links, you have added the ability to change the position of text relative to the attachment point using standard AutoChange options.
• Communication lines. The section Designations on communication lines in the Scheme parameters instead of the old general parameters Alignment and Offset now contains separate alignment and offset parameters for software and texts and for the names of the LAN inputs to the GLS.
• Communication lines. An option has been added<Адрес> to the line for the Break Label Numbering Scheme, which allows you to record the addresses of<Адрес> break points in one line, in the LAN/LAN<Адрес> Break Designations section of the Schema Parameters<Адрес>.
• Communication lines. The option Rotate labels on vertical LANs has been added in the Diagram parameters in the section LAN/LAN break designations, which allows to designate breaks on vertical communication lines with horizontal text.
• Changing the visibility of symbols in Schematic Options no longer affects manually set visibility symbols.
• Cable products. The Links command has been added to the ribbon. The functionality of the command called from the tape differs from the functionality of the command called from the context menu of the LAN, in that when called from the tape, all connections available in the current document are available.
• Product in 3D. The command now allows you to select the buses in the diagram.

T-FLEX CAD 17.0.74.0

Top Systems, the developer of the T-FLEX PLM software complex, on June 16, 2022 announced the release of the T-FLEX CAD 17 CAD update and applications. The T-FLEX CAD 17.0.74.0 assembly has improved system stability and performance, as well as user notes and suggestions.

Updated character insertion dialog:

• Add selection from directory
• Added filling interface;
• Add the ability to connect user characters;
• Add library with symbols;
• Symbals can be added to favorites.

Data Base: used T-FLEX CAD databases: Threads, BOM Sections, Welds, Dimension Tolerances,.accdb Dictionary translated to.xml format. If you have previously created user databases in.accdb format, then the first time you run the updated version of T-FLEX CAD, they will be automatically converted to.xml format.

Loop Check - The Loop Check command adds the ability to select the lines to check. After you start the command, the lines are added to the list when you select a border or by selecting. If you have already selected image lines when you run the command, they are automatically added to the list of lines to check. When you run the check without selecting lines, all available paths are checked.

Teamwork under T-FLEX DOCs: When you open a variant in T-FLEX CAD, the appropriate composition type is automatically displayed in the product composition window, and the Execution option is not overwritten for other variants. When you open a variant created in T-FLEX DOCs in T-FLEX, the corresponding configuration and product composition are automatically created in the T-FLEX CAD file. Added the ability to select objects from T-FLEX DOCs when replacing references in the Assembly Structure window.

3D Modeling-Adds the Leave Only Resulting Body flag to the Sheet Metal Convert Solid to Basic Settings command. The flag appears when the Leave Original Body flag is set. When both flags are set, the original body is not displayed on the scan projection.

Export/Import - Adds support for importing JT 10.6, Revit 2022, CATIA V5_6R2022 formats.

When importing CATIA, SolidWorks, Creo-Pro/E, I-DEAS, JT, NX-Unigraphics, PRC, Solid Edge, STEP files, the import process of 3D drafting features - dimensions, roughness, tolerances, symbols, symbols, etc. - is optimized and improved. Added the Recognize Annotation Objects flag and drop-down list to select the font of imported annotations in the Import Options dialog.

For more information about the T-FLEX CAD 17.0.74.0 upgrade capabilities, refer to the Current Changes and Updated System Capabilities document. The main application changes are as follows:

T-FLEX Gears: Added updated gear type - worm gears.

T-FLEX Electrical:

• Connection points. Added limitations of the allowable parameters of the attached CT and consideration of these limitations in the analysis of the scheme.
• Cable products. Updated the CS Assembly Drawing command.
• Cable products. Added the command creating CI shells, accounting for the created shells in the specifications and analysis of CI, as well as examples of shells on the CI Elements tab of the Product Editor.
• Communication lines. Added a line break symbol in the form of a shaded arrow.
• Communication lines. LVs suitable from the side of the opposite TC are no longer superimposed on the article CSU.
• Communication lines. You can now add the available free ends of other LANs to the break.
• Communication lines. The maximum number of breaks has been increased to 10,000.
• Communication lines. Added background cleanup under the text when aligning the symbols along the middle of the LAN.
• Communication lines. Added the ability to automatically assign common software for CSs that are part of the same connection (Schematic Parameters > Link Designations > Common Software of CSs in the same connection).
• Connection points. A command has been added to the context menu of the selected points in the 2D window to enable Assign Prototype from Product Editor.
• Libraries. Examples of the device and contactors have been added to the Electrical Circuit Elements library. The folder with contactors is added to the Contactors library configuration.
• Libraries. A 4-wire terminal has been added to the Electrical Circuit Elements library.
• Libraries. A model of the device with PI connectors has been added to the Electrical Components library.

T-FLEX CAD 17.0.71.0

On April 29, 2022, Top Systems released the T-FLEX CAD 17.0.71.0 update.

According to the company, in the T-FLEX CAD 17.0.71.0 assembly, system stability and performance were optimized, as well as user comments and suggestions.

The most significant updates are described below:

Updated Functionality - Loop Check

Added the ability to check contours for closure, breaks, intersections, self-intersection, etc. The command helps you model contours of varying complexity to identify errors during the primary design phase and then create the correct datum geometry for 3D modeling operations. In addition, the command can be useful when preparing trajectories for CNC machines.

2D projections

• The updated version optimizes the display of threaded connections on 2D projections with sections. You also change the minimum height control of the thread profile in the projection settings.
• The projection destruction dialog has been updated - it has become possible to choose different destruction algorithms.
• The general update of the 2D projection mechanism continues - the work on dimensioning and other drafting elements, centerlines on projections with breaks is optimized, the work with extension views is changed, the ability to measure the overall rectangle of projections is added.

^{2D projections}

Inversion of Visible Objects

• An inversion command has been added to controlling the visibility of objects in a 3D scene, allowing you to hide visible objects and show hidden objects.
• The command is called from the context menu and from the keyboard.

Teamwork under T-FLEX DOCs

• You automatically update the product structure when you save documents from T-FLEX DOCs.
• Document synchronization with T-FLEX DOCs is implemented at full recalculation.
• An Instance of Assembly Product Structure document option has been added.

3D modeling

• The Solid-to-Sheet sheet metal operation adds the ability to control the radius of an edge in the options dialog.
• The Flange operation adds the ability to create a bend in the Tangent, Tangent, and Tangent positions:
• The LCS command (local coordinate system) adds the ability to create connectors based on the sample

Export/Import

• Added support for importing and directly reading CAD formats NX 2007 (2021 Dev.), SolidWorks 2022, Solid Edge 2022.
• GLTF format added to the list of export disassembly scripts - it became possible to view animation scripts in a web browser.

Materials

The assignment and search of materials in the body parameters are now carried out dynamically - the system offers options for materials from the library when you enter a part of the name.

Online Tutorial

In the tutorial, you will learn how to parameterize. Use the lessons in this section to learn how to create parametric 3D models and assemblies, use databases, and customize control dialogs.

The main application changes are as follows:

T-FLEX Analysis

• Thermal contact. Added units Degree Celsius second per calorie (°S·s/kal).
• Linear dynamic problem. The document converter has been modified so that now, after converting old files containing tasks of this type, an up-to-date type of the Calculation Parameters dialog becomes available with the ability to configure Frequency Calculation Properties.
• Distance mass. In the modal parameter dialog for this load type, dynamic tasks are now available
• Moments of inertia previously specified only in the Parameters service window.

T-FLEX Dynamics

The Continue Creation flag with the specified parameters has been added to the Options tab of the Spring command parameters window.

T-FLEX Gears

Added lessons on using Gears - Creating Cylindrical and Tapered Engagements.

T-FLEX Electrical

• Added the command Create Connector, which allows you to quickly create a connector for a connection point by specifying two nodes.
• Apparatuses. The device can now include contactors.
• Apparatuses. Added protection against accidental loss of composition of the created context set when calling another command.
• Connection point. Added automatic increment of Connector Values.
• Schema parameters. Added the ability to customize the Software Assignment Order (right then down, down then right, right then up, up then right).
• Schema parameters. Added Sheet Only option for link break label numbering scheme.
• Reports. An attribute to use a hyphen as a software range separator has been added to the BOM and item list templates. Thus, it is now possible to select whether the hyphen or ellipsis will be used as a separator.
• Reports. The ability to display a short name of cable products in the connection table has been added. To do this, set the attribute Use "Short name for report" for CT in the source properties in the product composition parameters. data
• Cable products. When you edit cable products, the 3D scene now highlights the entire path of the selected conductor in the harness.
• Terminal blocks can now be displayed "in connector style" as a table with a cap and custom columns.
• Terminal blocks. Added the ability to assign a prototype to several terminals at once.
• Some operations are optimized.

T-FLEX Open

The Convert Splines to Polylines option has been added to the Cut Scheme Transfer Options dialog box.

Compatibility of T-FLEX CAD 17 with Astra Linux Common Edtion

On March 5, 2022, it became known that RusBITech-Astra LLC and Top Systems CJSC confirmed the operability and correctness of the joint functioning of the Astra Linux Common Edtion operating system and the commercial version of T-FLEX CAD version 17 software in Wine environment. Read more here.

2021

T-FLEX CAD 17.0.55.0

On October 14, 2021, Top Systems announced the release of the T-FLEX CAD 17.0.55.0 update and applications - 2D projections, surfaces, work with large 3D profiles, stability and performance.

According to the company, the modernization of the 2D projection mechanism continues - the work on dimensioning and other design elements on projections with a break and on cut views has been optimized, the ability to create different types of projections from the ribbon has been added, the work of the Local Section command has been optimized, etc.

Different projection modes - local section, standard views, arbitrary view - are now available directly from the ribbon. You can create a local section view from the contour defined by the spline, so you can do without a pre-created hatch. Calling the cut for the selected projection is also available through the context menu. The dialog for creating a set of standard projections is made more visual. Added the ability to change the parameters of several projections at once.

The Dynamic Preview flag has been added to the command options to control previews based on the complexity of the projected view. In addition, it became possible to set parameters for several projections at the same time.

The Break and Trim Boundary group has been added to the context menu of active projection elements (lines, dimensions, and so on) and the drafting view, which contains options to control the trim and visibility of the element and exclude it from calculating the break line dimensions.

The option Exit the context of the projection view by Escape has been added to the Management tab of the System Settings dialog. This option is disabled by default.

The Extend Projection Extents option has been added to Document Settings to control the distance between projection lines and their extents.

Since version 17.0.55.0, compatible projection mode is supported - projections are created and allow you to work in the same way as previous versions of the system. When you create a Section projection based on a 3D section, the list of projected elements is now automatically taken from the 3D section settings.

The Inscription command has added a stitched joint sign to the set of available characters on the arrow.

For 3D modeling, AutoFind Contours has been added to the Loft AutoCheck to automate selection of a set of features for a given section. The Continue by Law operation adds the ability to specify the height and angle of the surface to be created by the graph, depending on the length of the guide curve). The Offset Curve to 3D Planar Path command adds the ability to trim the result to two points. Optimized performance - speed of creation, recalculation, etc. - when creating large 3D Profiles, reduced the size of the document file containing such 3D Profiles. The types of work planes created Based on the coordinate system are added: YX, ZX, ZY.

The Product Composition adds the product composition type - Pipeline Table, as well as support for units of measurement in composite columns.

In Materials, the Default Settings command dialog has added an Expressions field to specify the default material using variables. When you specify a material through variables, you have added the ability to specify the library in which the material is located. To do this, add the library name in angle brackets: "material" to the value of the variable before the material name.

For Teamwork running T-FLEX DOCs, you have added the ability to display the T-FLEX DOCs Configuration window in CAD. If you do not have an active document in the T-FLEX DOCs Product Structure window, the Electronic Product Structure reference is now displayed, allowing you to download documents from the reference without opening the Electronic Product Structure window. You can now choose which file to open when you drag an Electronic Product Structure Reference object that has more than one linked file into the scene. When you select system files\prototypes from T-FLEX DOCs, the syntax of the visible link to the DOCs file store has changed, now T-FLEX DOCs is written at the beginning of the link.

For the Export to Polygon Grid Settings dialog, you are converted to non-modal so that you can now navigate the model when you specify export settings. Added support for importing Compass 20, ACIS 2021.10 and Inventor 2022 formats, as well as importing/exporting Parasolid 34.0 format.

In the user interface, the Create Work Surfaces, 3D Subassemblies, 3D Paths, and 3D Profiles modes are placed as separate commands on the ribbon's Reference Geometry tab.

For T-FLEX Gears, you have added the ability to configure dynamic panels. Strength calculation according to ISO 10300 has been added to Conical transmissions.

In T-FLEX Electrical:

• The possibility of using any types of product symbols in devices has been added.
• You have added a custom insert mode for schema objects, with automatic matching of components associated with the selected by parent schema connections.
• Partitioning of long connection tables etc. into parts has been added, with the option of duplicating the table header.
• Added LAN break label delete handler: Removes this label from the break or entire break.
• Added control of LV tap bevels from the GLS, automatic in unambiguous situations and interactive in the presence of equal options.
• Additional options for displaying LAN ramifications have been added.
• Added automatic concealment of part of the circuit of the device or FG under the UGO of the connectors.
• Updated system parameters have been added to the RI: climatic version, placement category and color code (the latter only for CT, for output to reports).
• Report generator. Connection table. The possibility of excluding terminal software output is added.
• Report generator. Connection table. Added the ability to sort by "From/To" columns.
• Report generator. Connection table. Added the ability to display the color and color code of the wire and cable.
• Report generator. Connection table. Added the ability to exclude contacts without attachments.
• Report generator. List of elements. The possibility of CI output is added.
• Construction BOM. The possibility of displaying the products software in the "Notes" column has been added.
• The possibility of automatic generation of cable products software without prefixes has been added.
• A marker has been added to detach the LAN from the GLS.
• The option of saving/blocking the formatting settings of the element when it is inserted into the diagram has been added.
• Added migration of assigned CIs when the schema is inserted into another document.
• Added automatic creation of 3D CI on structural elements.

T-FLEX CAD 17.0.45.0

On July 19, 2021, Top Systems announced the release of the next update of the T-FLEX CAD system - T-FLEX CAD 17.0.45.0.

According to the company, in the T-FLEX CAD 17.0.45.0 assembly, system stability and performance were optimized, as well as user comments and suggestions.

The 2D projection mechanism continues to be upgraded - you have optimized dimensioning and other drafting elements on broken projections and clipped views, added the ability to control the visibility of dimensions in clipped views, and optimized detail views.

The surface modeling operation Filling the area has undergone serious modernization.

You can specify multiple 3D paths (closed), multiple 3D profiles (closed), or a set of edges (closed) as a loop. It is possible to simultaneously select 3D paths/3D profiles/edges as one contour.

Improvements were made to the sheet metal module related to the optimization of identification during the construction and recalculation of operations; Updated the Neutral Layer Offset Factor control in sheet metal operations. In the operation Flange, the option Touch outside has been added to the options for calculating the length of the flange. You have added the ability to select the Neutral Layer Offset Factor (SLV) to the Slash operation.

The 3D Model Tree user interface optimizes the display of threaded hole and thread parameters. The Measure command provides the ability to measure between the centers of circles/arcs of circles. The Loft operation adds the ability to trim sections along the edge guides and, at the same time, sections and guides. The Hide All Coordinate Systems command has been added to the View panel for 2D view: Updated Material Management for Solids; independent setting of color, base material and coating material is implemented.

The export/import module has added support for additional CAD formats: Creo V8.0, NX 1980.

When exporting to STL and other grid formats, a preview of the triangle grid is available, which dynamically changes depending on the density of the grid.

In the Document Settings window, the Dimensions tab (for each page) adds the ability to display linear dimensions in a space-between-digit format (123 456.78).

When you create a projection, you can now set the Linetype individually for each body. In the Projection Settings window, on the Advanced tab, the Hide Build Items flag has been added. By default, this flag is cleared, meaning that the drawing elements are now displayed for all views, not just the active view.

If the Undo Builds (Constraints, Relationships, CVs, Hyperlinks) option is enabled in the View pane, any command to create the build features displays a window that prompts you to disable this option.

In addition, the changes affected work with variant tables, variable editor, sheet metal, export/import, sketch and constraints, dimensions, texts, commands and operations of 3D modeling, etc.

Along with the updated T-FLEX CAD 17 assembly, application installations have been updated.

T-FLEX Gears:

• Calculation of conical transmission as per GOST 19624-74 and GOST 19326-73 has been added.
• Conical transmission calculation as per DIN 3971 has been added.
• Added the ability to create references for tapered transmissions.

T-FLEX Electrical:

• Apparatuses. Devices can now include any type of product. This allows you to create visual images that fully reflect their composition and functional purpose.
• Connectors. An available exploded representation of a pair of connectors within the EMC.
• Full pos. designation. A mechanism for accounting for structural designation (KO) according to the requirements of GOST 2.710 has been introduced. The user can set QoS for each product and separately determine the output of full software to the diagram and reports.
• Product Editor. A mechanism has been added to automatically populate parameter values from references to other parameter names, which optimizes operation.
• Product Editor. The group addition of contacts to the prototype is implemented on the Links tab.
• Cable products. The command for assigning and editing cable products has been modified. Now you can add the desired number of wires or cables of the selected tag to the harness at once, you can replace the material at once with a group of conductors with a simultaneous proximate analysis of changing conductor sections, you can change the sequence of conductors in the harness and automatically renumber them, etc.
• Cable products. The harness retract geometry is automatically smoothed at the route approach points.
• Cable products. An algorithm has been implemented to automatically determine the preparation point of a harness or its removal near an array of connection points without the need to manually create auxiliary objects such as connectors.
• Cable products. The system processes the inheritance of CT values when a group connection is split into two connections.
• Reports. Report templates have been created that are populated only with data presented in the 3D scene. This allows you to save time on manually excluding auxiliary schema objects from these reports.
• Reports. It is possible to output installation items to the elements (PE) lists. For example, you can specify the housing, contacts, couplings and fasteners included in the connector and automatically remove all components to the PE.
• External schemas. When you insert a schema from an external source into a document, a preview of the schema appears.

NC T-FLEX:

• Zone 3D milling. In Pencil, the Cropping Paths tab has an option (flag) With groin transitions. trim bodies.
• Zone 3D milling. In Pocket processing, the With Grop Transitions option has been added to the Cropping Paths tab. trim bodies.
• Zone 5D milling. In Double Curvature Surface mode, without circular interpolation, the With Grop Transitions option is added to the Path Trim tab. trim bodies.
• Zone 5D milling. Indentation along passes in Double Curvature Surface mode now works for all modes with a choice of 2-3 paths or face (previously this indentation was valid only for the Pocket option).
• Zone 3D and 5D milling. In the Trim Paths mode, with the C option, go-through. trimming bodies added the ability to use a trimming body consisting of several unrelated areas

T-FLEX CAD 17.0.37.0

On June 2, 2021, Top Systems announced the release of the next T-FLEX CAD system update - 17.0.37.0.

The T-FLEX CAD 17.0.37.0 assembly has improved system stability and performance, as well as user notes and suggestions.

As the company said, the mechanism for creating 2D projections continues to improve - in particular, the work on applying dimensions and other design elements to projections with a break has been improved - it has become possible to on/off. scenery of breaks; Enhanced detail views, added scale display over projections.

Changes and innovations in release 17.0.37.0:

• The 3D Path Formula command is added, which allows you to create a 3D path using a formula in a given coordinate system.
• There are 3 types of coordinate systems available - Cartesian, Cylindrical, Spherical. Each coordinate system has its own set of parameters. So, for example, for a Cartesian coordinate system, it is proposed to set formulas for X, Y, Z, for a cylindrical one - for ρ, φ, Z, and for a spherical one - for ρ, θ, φ.
• For all coordinate system types, you can select, create, and delete a formula type.
• The Measure command provides the ability to measure between the centers of circles/arcs of circles.
• The Loft operation adds the ability to trim sections along the edge guides and, at the same time, sections and guides.
• The Hide All Coordinate Systems command has been added to the View panel for a 2D view.
• Added Catia V5_6R2021 format support to the export/import module.
• Updated T-FLEX CAD Help.
• In addition, the changes affected work with variant tables, variable editor, sheet metal, export/import, sketch and constraints, dimensions, texts, commands and operations of 3D modeling, etc.
• Along with the updated T-FLEX CAD 17 assembly, application installations have been updated and the T-FLEX Gearing application has been released.

T-FLEX CAD 17.0.32.0

On April 14, 2021, Top Systems announced the release of the T-FLEX CAD 17.0.32.0 system update.

The T-FLEX CAD 17.0.32.0 assembly has improved system stability and performance, as well as user notes and suggestions.

The Thin-Walled Feature group has been added to the loft operation to control the thickness of the body being created, and the operation also adds the ability to synchronize the contours by minimum torsion.

The Open command is added to the Product Composition window in T-FLEX DOCs collaboration mode.

Support for importing Rhino V7 and JT V10.5 formats has been implemented.

Updated T-FLEX CAD Help. In addition, the changes affected work with the 3D scene, IGES export/import, STEP, Parasolid, SolidWorks, sketch and constraints, sheet metal, projections, dimensions, texts, variable editor, 3D modeling operations (Spiral, Arrays, Bulev, etc.), assemblies, system windows, API, etc.

T-FLEX CAD 17.0.30.0

On April 5, 2021, the Russian company Top Systems announced the release of the second major update to the T-FLEX CAD 17 CAD and applications.

According to the company, the system and applications have optimized stability and performance, as well as added various features and updated existing functionality.

Key changes to T-FLEX CAD include:

• 2D projections
  • Work continued to update the interface of the parameter dialog to optimize the comfort of operation. All projection types are previewed when they are created and their boundaries rendered, allowing you to immediately evaluate the accuracy of the selected projection view and the overall dimensions after creation.
  • It is possible to project the trajectories of disassembly scenarios (if there are scenarios in the model). You can customize the path line style in the projection settings.
  • The mechanism for creating breaks has been updated - manipulators have been added, dynamic change of parameters is implemented through the variable editor.

• • Optimized mechanism for referencing drafting elements to projection - When you create non-parametric drawings, drafting elements automatically snap to projection when you select its features. You can also activate projection to create a feature in projection space. As a result, the projection moves with all the features, even those that are not explicitly attached to it.
  • Added functionality to create a clipped view that allows you to trim an already created projection along the selected path. In addition, the function of deferred recalculation of projection views is implemented.
  • You have added commands to one of the two available parameterization mechanisms, the Sketch Editor, to create a parallelogram and slots in different ways. You can use groove commands to automate routine actions when designing typical cuts and holes.

• 3D modeling. In the 3D modeling tools, the Loft operation is updated:
  • The operation has updated the interface of the parameter dialogue, which allows you to more flexibly and conveniently manage the parameters and selected elements.
  • Dynamic view of the operation is implemented, and manipulators are added.
  • It is possible to select non-planar sections.

• You can select a path between sections so that you can create a single path instead of multiple guides. In this case, the system automatically calculates the geometry of surfaces between sections with different geometries.
  • If the path or guides extend beyond the section, you can use the Trim Path and Guides feature. This approach allows you to use more flexibly previously created datum geometry as a reference to form lofted solids or surfaces.
  • In addition, the set of boundary conditions for the selected sections has been updated.
  • The Trim operation adds the ability to control the direction of the section using a variable.
  • The Solid Split operation adds the ability to select bodies to leave when splitting. Other bodies are removed from the scene and Model Tree.
  • The Work Plane command adds the ability to create a work plane parallel to the screen.

• • In the 3D Detail command, you can create a 3D detail at the geometric center of the face.

• Working with Assemblies
  • Optimized work when working in the context of large assemblies through the Assembly Structure window.
  • In top-down design, the feature Drawing on the face of the source callout and Show in the context of the source callout are added to the Face context menu of the element.
  • Added the ability to move a group of objects with the specified source and target points through the transformation mechanism, as well as the ability to use the blend command to position objects without creating the blend itself.

• Teamwork under T-FLEX DOCs
  • Added dashboards to the 3D Model Viewer in T-FLEX DOCs.
  • Available Measurements, Remarks, Disassembly Control, View.

• • Added the ability to access the T-FLEX DOCs reference book when generating a CT through Appearance, as well as a dialog box for selecting options for opening documents when dragging files from T-FLEX DOCs to the T-FLEX CAD window similar to the dialog box for local files. For files available for editing, the dialog will appear instead of the previous window with the question "Take a file for editing?."

• Materials
  • In the window for working with material libraries, the ability to compare document materials with the materials of the selected library has been added; Additional parameters have been added for orthotropic materials.

• Export/Import. The following data read and write formats are supported in the update:
  • Import and read SolidWorks 2021 CAD files directly
  • Import format for additive 3MF manufacturing - as 3D image
  • Import/export of NX Unigraphics 1953 format

• Navigation, settings, interface
  • The View panel adds the ability to increase/decrease the font in the 3D scene, and to change the orientation of the sheet in 2D design, use the radio button instead of the drop-down list.
  • Added the ability to adjust transparency when dynamically highlighting faces of bodies in a 3D scene in system settings.

• Added displays the number of faces, edges, and vertices in the Operations Information window.
  • The Draw button on the work plane has been added to the page resize command to quickly switch to drawing after determining the size and position of the WS.
  • To optimize the switching of pages with a large number of pages, a button with a drop-down menu has been added to the page bookmarks area.
  • Tooltips describing the operation of the selected operation option have been added to the dialog boxes of operations By Section, By Path, Smooth Edges:

• Tutorial
  • Updated lessons in the delivery tutorial. Updated capabilities were also implemented in application systems.

Key changes to the T-FLEX Electrical application include the following:

• Updated connector creation command. In the updated T-FLEX Electrical application, connectors have several customized graphics for diagrams. One simplified CSU is designed for the use of connectors in general circuits, as well as connection schemes saturated with switching elements. Another CGU is presented in the form of a table with a configurable set of columns, where each contact has its own cell. Now both of these types of graphics are stored in the same file and by default are generated automatically by the system at the time the user works on the connector composition.

• A contact-by-contact image of the connector is also available, in which each contact is depicted as its own CSU.
• Switching between graphics views is available at all stages of the product, both when creating a connector and when inserting a finished product into a schematic.
• The column External address is added in the table view in the connector CSU to indicate the addresses of connections located outside the current product. It is filled manually in connector editing mode.
• Automatic rounding of CT lengths in reports. Automatic rounding of bundle and CT segment lengths in reports and drawings is implemented. To do this, the Cable Products parameter group has been added to the Document Settings command in the 3D Settings block. Rounding is carried out with user-selectable accuracy, rounding to stock ("up only") is possible, rounding of lengths in documents of all types is strictly consistent.
• Designing a harness in the context of an assembly. A harness that is part of an assembly unit can now be designed to reference features in the primary assembly because the Product in 3D command has access to the assembly unit diagram. Access appears when an assembly unit is open in the context of an assembly. To perform the task, open a harness fragment in the context of the assembly, run the Product in 3D command, select a feature in the harness diagram, and then select 3D connectors from the top-level assembly. The connectors will enter the assembly unit as reference elements. The further method of operation is similar to the design of non-electrical products using the top-down method.

Key changes to the T-FLEX Analysis application include the following:

• A choice of solutions has been added, taking into account the theory of thick and thin shells.
• You have improved the dialog for selecting bodies or activities to display results with stock factors.
• You are now ready to unify the document materials with the T-FLEX Analysis task materials. Any material applied to the task is now a document material.
• To solve the tasks of FE analysis, the functionality for material comparison is also implemented.
• The lessons in the delivery tutorial have been updated.

Key changes to the Dynamics T-FLEX application include the following:

• Added the ability to use graphs to set the "Move" load in Dynamics tasks.
• Calculation of kinetic energy. For Body sensors, the ability to calculate kinetic energy is added, followed by creating a result in the form of a graph.
• Added the ability to record contacts for bodies with blends.

Key changes to the NC T-FLEX application include:

• 5D processing. In the 5D positional "pocket" with the part body as a 3D fragment, the ability to change the VI from layer to layer has been added.
• 3D zoning. For the 3D zone cylindrical "surface of revolution" with the part body as a 3D fragment, the VI control is implemented both within the layer and from layer to layer.
• 5D processing. The algorithm for the 5D mode described above has been added.
• 3D callout as part. When you use a 3D slice as a part, you can precisely specify the first (top) layer.
• 5D processing. The use of the "5-coordinate" mode with the "pocket" option has been implemented.
• Trimming with bodies. Added trimming with bodies in the pocket with the option "2.5D plane."
• 2.5D processing. In EDM and laser machining, the Continuous Cutting option has been added.
• 2.5D processing. In electro-erosion and laser processing with image selection, the ability to select the part with which processing begins has been added.
• 2.5D processing. In electro-erosion and laser processing with image selection, the ability to set individual sections of closed contours in any order has been added.
• Pencil processing. It is possible to use a tool piece with an upper cutting edge for pencil processing.
• Exit/call type. "Auto" position has been added to arc in/out in arc. The cut check is now performed only when the Auto switch is set so that the arc direction can be set manually if necessary.
• 5D pocket, 5D zoning, 3D spiral, stripping with fixed scallop height. You can use the top round tool.
• Gouge control. It is possible to take into account the non-cutting part of the tool.
• Gouge control. You can use a parametric 3D fragment as a tool.
• 5D zone processing. Possibility of machining chamfers with upper or lower cutting edge of tool is realized.
• 5D zone processing. Added "local allowance" direction switch.
• 5D zone processing. For the 5D zone with the Spiral pass type, you can specify 3D paths with sharp fractures.
• 5D zone processing. For the 5D zone with the Spiral passage type, it is possible to tilt the cutter by a given angle.
• 3D Cut-in, 5D Cut-In, Lead-In, and Run-Out with Multiple Path Selection. Now only the changed parameters are copied from the 1st trajectory to the rest.
• 3D zone "pocket" and "surface of revolution." Added the ability to select 2 open 3D paths, as well as the ability to effectively extend the setting 3D paths along the tangent.
• 5D zone processing. It is possible to simultaneously use the transverse indentation "in value" and "in passages."
• Auto-determines the optimal tool vector. Added the ability to autodetect the optimal instrument vector for each precision vector.

2020

Official release of T-FLEX CAD 17

The Russian company Top Systems, a domestic developer of complex solutions for automation of design, preparation and production management, on July 27, 2020 announced the release of the 17th version of the T-FLEX CAD computer-aided design system and applications.

According to the company, the main goals of the development of the 17th version of the system are dictated by the strategic task set for Top Systems to increase the competitiveness of the system for using T FLEX CAD in companies developing and producing complex science-intensive products. Moreover, the system should be used to design "basic," that is, the most complex products.

Key features made available in the 17th version of T-FLEX CAD include:

• Working with Large Assemblies
  • Traditionally, the priority here is: optimizing performance, file size, resource utilization; Load geometry as needed.

• Complex Geometry Generation Functions
  • The main improvements made in this direction affect: the possibilities of the main forming operations; Surface modeling operations operations for working with wire geometry; generation of "aerodynamic" surfaces and curves.

• Model Quality Tools and Geometry Analysis
  • The "Quality Control" mechanism is implemented in principle; Expanded the list of available geometry analysis methods Improved geometry measurement and analysis commands added a large number of graphic elements to help users perform these functions (labels, graphs, graphs, etc.).

• MultiCAD Class Functions
  • Due to the fact that as of July 2020, T-FLEX CAD is increasingly used in the environment of other CAD systems, much has been done to ensure their sharing: the functionality of importing models in the "native" formats of these systems has been improved; Improved the ability to use files from systems such as NX, Catia, Creo, SolidWorks, and so on as part of CAD T-FLEX assemblies without any conversion, preserving associative associations, and updating capabilities.

• 3D Document Development Tools with PMI
  • Expanded the list of types supported by PMI; improved ability to transfer 3D PMI to projections/views.

• Parameterization mechanisms
  • The mechanism of parametric arrays of fragments is implemented, providing regular placement of fragments, each instance of which may differ from the original in values ​ ​ of external (control) variables. As a result, a parameterization mechanism appeared in the system.

• Means of teamwork
  • The Dynamic Assembly Engine provides provisioning capabilities for products managed by T-FLEX DOCs, thus providing collective product development functions. A completely redesigned annotation engine allows you to annotate CAD models directly in T-FLEX DOCs. That is, some CAD system objects are fully controlled by the information system.

• Improved ergonomics of the system

Updated features have also been added to the full suite of T-FLEX CAD embedded applications that offer a suite of specialized engineering solutions: T-FLEX Analysis, T-FLEX Dynamics, T-FLEX NC, T-FLEX Electrical, T-FLEX VR, T-FLEX Libraries, and T-FLEX Viewer. T-FLEX CAD 17 and embedded applications are part of a single T-FLEX PLM suite and provide easy collaboration with the updated version of T-FLEX DOCs 17 in the development of products of varying complexity.

T-FLEX CAD 16.0.70.0

The T-FLEX CAD 16.0.70.0 update has been released. This was announced on July 2, 2020 by Top Systems.

The T-FLEX CAD 16.0.70.0 assembly improves system stability and performance, and implements user notes and suggestions.

• updated import/export and direct reading of third-party CAD files and neutral formats - updated CATIA V5 R2020, Inventor 2021, ACIS 2020, JT 10.3 formats are supported;
• light source control (on/off) is implemented during disassembly animation;
• the library of standard elements has been updated - user wishes and comments have been implemented.

The changes also affected work with importing STEP and DXF formats, sheet metal, working with arrays, 3D and 2D Fragments, hatches, dimensions, sketch, etc.

T-FLEX CAD 16.0.65.0

On April 15, 2020, Top Systems introduced an updated version of T-FLEX CAD 16.0.65.0, in which an adaptive bolted connection with the ability to perform calculations was added to the library of standard products:

As noted in the "Top Systems," the following standards are supported in the presented version of the solution:

• Bolts: GOST 7795-70, GOST 7796-70, GOST 7798-70, GOST 7805-70, GOST 7808-70, GOST 7811-70, GOST 15589-70, GOST 15589-70, GOST 15590-70, GOST 15591-70.
• Washers: GOST 6402-70, GOST 6958-78, GOST 9065-75, GOST 9649-78, GOST 10450-78, GOST 11371-78.
• Nuts: GOST 5915-70, GOST 5916-70, GOST 5918-73, GOST 5919-73, GOST 5929-70, GOST 5931-70, GOST 5933-73, GOST 5935-73, GOST 5927-70, GOST 15521-70, GOST 15526-70, GOST 15523-70, GOST 15523-70, GOST 15524-70, GOST 15525-64, GOST 15526-70, GOST 2524-70, GOST 2570-70, GOST 2580-70, GOST 2580-70-70

Three types of loading are implemented:

• Axial with nut tightening
• Transverse with clearance
• Transverse without clearance

Axial loading with nut tightening (bolt tightened, external load opens joint of parts). For example, bolts for securing tank covers loaded with liquid or gas pressure. Tightening of bolts shall ensure tightness of the joint or non-opening of the joint under load. After the external load is applied to the tightened joint, the bolt is further stretched by a certain amount, and the compression deformation of the parts is reduced by the same amount.

Transverse loading with clearance. The external load F is balanced by friction forces at the joint formed by tightening the bolt. In a connection in which the bolt is delivered with a gap, the external load is not transferred to the bolt. Therefore, the bolt is calculated only for the static strength by the tightening force even under variable load (the influence of variable load is taken into account by increasing the safety factors).

Transverse loading without clearance. Friction forces in the joint are not taken into account when calculating, because tightening of the bolt is not required. Bolt rod is calculated by shear and collapse stresses.

In general, the user can specify the effective force on the bolt, the number of bolts, select the material (you can select the material from the list or manually enter the yield strength of the material). Then the system automatically, according to the selected standard for the bolt, will select the required diameter, which can be further manually clarified.

The bolted joint composition can be optionally controlled by:

To work with adaptive bolting with calculations, you need to download the latest version of standard part libraries.

Overview of the capabilities of the upcoming T-FLEX CAD 17 release

On March 30, 2020, Top Systems presented a detailed overview of the capabilities of the upcoming T-FLEX CAD 17 CAD release. The presentation of the updated T-FLEX CAD will take place on May 26, 2020 in Moscow.

According to the company, the development of the updated system was carried out in several main areas: tools for working with large assemblies; Teamwork with T-FLEX DOCs updated 3D modeling functionality, including the development of tools for creating surfaces and 3D wireframes, updated 3D modeling operations; updated mechanisms for creating comments and quality control; updated measurement tools and much more.

The following measures were taken to improve the work with assemblies:

• Speed up file opening up to 10 times or more. Especially improvements are manifested when working with large assemblies;

The model contains an assembly structure, a product structure, surface modeling operations were used in the design of complex parts, standard products (rivets, fasteners) from a library of standard products were widely used in the model, the functionality of creating pipelines and wiring was used, assembly units were made with a high degree of detail. In addition, the model is loaded into the PDM system - for teamwork with it.

• Reduced memory consumption when loading assemblies;
• Large assembly mode works in transparent mode for the user;
• There are commands for managing assemblies that allow you to choose which geometry to load:

• Added a mechanism to interrupt the file download process:

• Parallel loading of grids is supported (support for multithreading);
• Faster import of files from other CAD systems.

One of the main vectors for the development of the system is the development of tools for collective work on projects. These are updated modes of teamwork with T-FLEX DOCs, and an updated mechanism for creating comments, as well as optimization of work with assemblies, refinement of assembly management windows. In general, T-FLEX CAD 17 has become the most integrated in T-FLEX DOCs - T-FLEX CAD 17 is fully embedded in the T-FLEX DOCs interface, which allows you to use the CAD capabilities to create notes, measurements and other functions within the PDM system without going to another window and opening other programs.

The annotation mechanism, known in T-FLEX CAD, has undergone significant changes. In fact, a tool called Remarks was created about.

• The remark mechanism now works in both 3D and 2D;
• A red pencil feature has been added that allows the user to draw notes on both 3D models and 2D drawings. Supports finger and pen input on touch monitors and graphics tablets;
• Added an auxiliary "Notes" window, which allows you to work with redline objects in transparent mode and control their creation;
• You can create markups both in T-FLEX CAD and directly in T-FLEX DOCs in collaboration mode.

• Added tools and improved existing surface modeling (displacement surface, transition surface, legal continuation, cross-linking, etc.);
• Added solid operations and improved existing operations and commands (offset body, shell, rotation, Boolean operation, path, clipping);
• Added tools for working with 3D curves and improved existing ones (connecting curve, curve on two projections, isoparametric curve, conical curve, 3D profile, 3D node, etc.) - which allows you to work with wire geometry at the next level;
• You can modify wire geometry (round, extend, trim) and display it in the 3D Model Tree.

First of all, the tool is intended for regulatory controls and designers, as well as enterprise security services. Includes:

• Automatic check of the standard controller and designer: check of fonts, line thicknesses, availability of dimensions, technical requirements, absence of "fitted dimensions" (when the rating is corrected manually), absence of body intersection, absence of model and variable recalculation errors, etc.;
• Automatically check files to hide classified information, which is necessary for the security service;
• Support for the possibility of expanding the composition of checks using open mechanisms (Open API).

The user-requested 3D Model Tree view In Order To Create Features is implemented, making T-FLEX CAD a more versatile tool:

The measurement tool is brought to the following level of functionality:

• The command dialog is completely redesigned, a choice of units is available;
• Added the ability to create labels and decorations for measured objects, which increases the visibility, convenience and speed of obtaining the result of measurements of 2D and 3D objects;
• Added measurement functions (including measurements of 3D curves, volume of intersection of bodies, creation of 3D nodes within the command, etc.);
• Added the ability to save measurement results in the form of objects displayed as part of the model and updated when it changes.

Selection in drawings and in a 3D scene has become more convenient and efficient, updated tools have appeared:

• Added ways to select objects: enclosing rectangle, cutting rectangle, closed curve, cutting curve;
• Added smooth sequence selection mode;
• Added the option to control the selection of invisible elements (for example, faces completely obscured by other faces;
• Updated selection modes work transparently across all system commands.

The direction to improve the parametric capabilities of the system continues to develop.

Variable Editor expressions now support units.

3D model quick coloring features have been added when, for example, you need to visually separate different materials on a 3D model. The assignment of colors and transparency is carried out in a special rendering mode; works without recalculating the model.

The free T-FLEX Viewer has received updated file capabilities and model management:

• Availability of measurement module and calculation of mass-inertia characteristics;
• Professional use of remark handling (peer review) mechanisms, including red pencil function;
• Manage visual properties and search for objects in the 3D scene and 3D Model Tree;
• The ability to use 3D sections, trim planes;
• The updated start page makes working with the latest running files more convenient^[1].

2019: T-FLEX CAD 16.0.35.0

On February 15, 2019, Top Systems introduced an updated version of T-FLEX CAD 16.0.35.0, which introduced additional features, improved system stability and performance, and implemented user comments and suggestions.

The opportunities that have appeared, noted by the developer:

• The option to change the height of the rectangle in the Fit Text paragraph.

If the text paragraph does not fit in height into the rectangle, this option can reduce the size of the text - this changes the default text size.

The option is intended primarily so that the product name/designation fits in the drawing formats, the developer emphasized.

• Support for opening third-party CAD files through the T-FLEX CAD API, as well as viewing third-party CAD files in T-FLEX DOCs without third-party programs (if you have a T-FLEX CAD license).

• Refine the interference analysis of bodiesConsider Self Intersections option. The system allows you to exclude self-intersection intersections from the analysis - for example, when a 3D fragment has more than one body intersecting with each other. By default, the option is enabled.
• Copy the record from the report/BOM template in the assembly when the report/BOM is created.

When you create a report/specification, if the template has a product structure, you can copy records from it to the current document. In this case, you can use variables in the template document - when copying, they will be replaced with assembly variables.

As a result, it becomes possible to create a Documentation section with an indication of the documents included in the assembly, for example, a list of purchased products. To work with the described function, you need to make changes to the basic report/BOM templates.

• Updating Standard Product Library. Springs

Compression and tension springs have been added to the standard product library. The springs are inserted into the assembly as 3D fragments, similar to the rest of the library elements.

Two types of springs are available in library updates: compression springs:

� and tension springs:

You can pre-calculate the spring by entering the original parameters.

In general, according to the developer, the methodology for working with the spring library is reduced to taking several simple steps:

• Selection of spring class
• Input of initial: data
• Selection of a turn with suitable parameters, wire material, direction of winding, strength group, parameters of extreme turns, etc.
• Performance of check for collision of turns
• Enter drawing and 3D model settings.

Spring calculation results are displayed in a special dialog.

As noted in the "Top Systems," in the next updates, the spring library will be supplemented with other types.

2018

T-FLEX CAD 2D+

In December 2018, Top Systems introduced the updated T-FLEX CAD 2D + parametric design system in the T-FLEX PLM complex, which is fully compatible with the fully functional version of T-FLEX CAD and has all the parameterization tools and the ability to read formats of third-party CAD systems.

The Top Systems company concluded that the drawings, as a result of the design process, did not lose their relevance (although they became electronic). At the same time, they ceased to be the basis of project data. In other words, design starts less and less with the creation of a drawing - more often it is a 3D model that turns into a drawing as needed and, as a rule, in the final stages of the process. In addition, any changes to the design are also made and agreed upon precisely at the level of the original 3D model, and the drawing task - to display these changes as correctly as possible, without requiring additional work from the user.

Analysis of this situation led the developers of the Top Systems company to fairly obvious conclusions. First, 2D design tools are actually an auxiliary solution that is inextricably linked to 3D models. The second is that the exception to the previous rule is only cases when the 2D modeling tool can not only be used as a simple "drawing," but also has the qualities of a full-fledged design system, offering the user advanced automation tools. A natural reaction to these time calls was the release of an updated version of the T-FLEX CAD 2D + parametric design system.

According to the developer's statement, the T-FLEX CAD 2D + system meets the requirements of a fairly large number of users involved in design and technological preparation of production. However, this product is still an affordable solution. It combined the functions previously available in the T-FLEX CAD 2D and T-FLEX CAD SE systems that were offered by Top Systems as part of the previous versions of the T-FLEX PLM complex.

At the same time, the functionality of the updated product includes all the features that provide the drawing and parametric design capabilities presented in T-FLEX CAD 16.

The Top Systems noted the compatibility of the updated product with the fully functional version of T-FLEX CAD. You can open a file made by a colleague in a fully functional version of T-FLEX CAD, make the necessary modifications (for example, create and design projections of a 3D model), and save this file to the T-FLEX DOCs engineering data management system. After that, a colleague will be able to continue working. At the same time, model data is not lost, T-FLEX CAD 2D + reads and saves data without loss.

The model can also contain data from other products, such as T-FLEX NC, T-FLEX Analysis, or T-FLEX Electrical. If present, such data will also be stored without any loss. This property of the system, according to the developer, is a big plus in organizing the process of teamwork on complex products. Such capabilities exist due to the fact that T-FLEX CAD 2D +, such as T-FLEX CAD and other products of the T-FLEX line, are built on the basis of a single engineering core, which is part of the T-FLEX PLM engineering software platform.

The next important feature of the system, also based on the platform approach, is the support of all third-party file formats that T-FLEX CAD can read in the presented version. The figure shows a list of formats that the system can open without the need computer for any licenses for other systems in which files were created. In addition, the format of the system "" will be added to this list, COMPASS-Graph however, only if this system is installed on the computer, noted in the "Top Systems."

According to the developer, the solution is optimally adapted for factories and any production enterprises cooperating with various design organizations and design bureaus. In the format of whatever CAD system the source data is received, T-FLEX CAD 2D + allows you to open, process, and transfer it further along the production chain. The developer also noted the development of T-FLEX CAD 2D + in the field of drawing functionality as such. All T-FLEX CAD 16 refinements without any abbreviations apply to T-FLEX CAD 2D +. Some of them are:

• An updated sketch editor that uses an upgraded object snap mechanism.
• a completely redesigned spline editor that uses accurate mathematical algorithms and allows you to work with conjugations and other characteristics of curves;
• Updated cropping and curve extension functionality
• commands that generate offset curves, including using user-defined offset laws.
• Drawing commands according to standards. Many modifications have been made to the system in order to improve the functionality of drawing documents.

An important tool in the T-FLEX CAD 2D + system, according to the developer, is the means of designing projections according to the 3D model. These tools have been significantly improved, their speed and accuracy have been improved.

The Top Systems also emphasized that all parameterization tools are available as part of T-FLEX CAD 2D +, which are traditionally the strongest point of T-FLEX CAD. In version 16, they were also significantly improved, in particular:

• added a variational parameterization mechanism that allows you to define relationships between drawing elements using constraint objects. This mechanism, like other parameterization tools, in addition to creating parametric outlines for 3D operations (for the full version of T-FLEX CAD), is also available for use on regular drawing pages. In combination with the system's "traditional" geometric parameterization tools, it provides "hybrid" parameterization capabilities;
• in addition to the mechanism of variational parameterization, the means of self-parameterization have been completely redesigned. They are converted to automatic creation of constraints and control dimensions;
• The traditional T-FLEX CAD parameterization tools have been improved. In particular, the visibility of the control of parametric relations has been improved;
• commands for creating parametric arrays of elements are implemented, which allow obtaining copies of elements with parametric change;
• improved the variable editor. In particular, expression syntax highlighting is implemented; provides execution of functions available in expressions; more convenient means of constructing expressions have become more convenient; provides context-sensitive function help call.

The parametric tools available with T-FLEX CAD 2D + enable you to use the system as a state-of-the-art, high-performance automation tool. Users have the ability to develop corporate libraries of parametric elements, as well as create their own calculation modules that are included in the system in the form of both separate parametric models and software modules developed in a macro language or based on the system software interface (Open API) available to any user of the system, the developer emphasized.

In addition to these features, the T-FLEX CAD 2D + system allows you to control parametric 3D models through control dialogs, use the resulting animation to compile product assembly instructions, and generate photorealistic images of created and imported 3D models using built-in tools based on CPU and GPU, noted in the "Top Systems."

Any software product of the T-FLEX line not only solves its inherent problems, but also provides a "seamless" merger with all other functional systems of the software complex. The result of this organization of a single information space of the enterprise is the high efficiency of the entire process of design and preparation of production, as well as a significant reduction in the number of problems that traditionally arise at the joints of various systems that participate in the PLM chain, the developer claims.

Updated Appius PLM component for integration with T-FLEX CAD

On December 11, 2018, Appius introduced an updated version of the PLM component for integration with the parametric solid modeling system T-FLEX CAD. The PLM component is designed to store design data in a single Appius-PLM information space and is an integral tool in creating a digital product twin. Due to automation and two-way integration, the process of product development and accumulation of engineering data is much faster, while the number of errors at the design stage of production preparation is reduced, the developer says. Read more here.

T-FLEX CAD 16

On July 18, 2018, Top Systems announced the release of 16 versions of the T-FLEX CAD system.

According to the developer's statement, T-FLEX CAD 16 has advanced parametric design tools and sketching tools based on dimensional parameterization. T-FLEX CAD 16 provides high flexibility and performance in design and manufacturing.

The Top Systems noted that the T-FLEX CAD 16 system has developed 3D modeling tools. Existing commands have been significantly redesigned, and commands have been added to solve the problems of the most demanding users. 2D modeling and drafting tools have been improved with a redesigned set of sketching commands, variable parametric design tools, and updated drawing and drafting commands. T-FLEX CAD 16 provides a high level of compatibility with other systems, supporting various formats, including formats of the latest versions of leading design systems, as well as a number of independent file formats.

In T-FLEX CAD 16, the functionality for working with sheet metal has been strengthened. The improvements affected the interface and general comfort when working with sheet metal commands, improving performance and speeding up the calculation of operations used in modeling sheet metal products. Additional operations have also been developed to ensure the development of this functionality.

In T-FLEX CAD 16, many assembly teams have developed significantly. Therefore, the process of modeling complex products requires less time and effort from the developer. The improvements affected the overall performance of assembly operations, the convenience of tools for creating and editing parts in the context of an assembly, expanding the ability to borrow the geometry of some assembly components when designing others, increasing the efficiency of accessing any objects to the full depth of the product structure hierarchy, noted in the "Top Systems."

According to the information provided by the developer, T-FLEX Electrical engineering has appeared, a completely built-in T-FLEX CAD system that provides a wide range of tools for developing electrical systems: from building schematic diagrams to full-fledged 3D design of electrical products. The system provides placement of 3D models of electrical components in the context of the mechanical component of the product, creation and routing of wires, cables and bundles, automated generation of output documents, such as connection diagram, connection diagram, list of elements, etc.

Additional features were added to T-FLEX Analysis, T-FLEX Dynamics, T-FLEX Coloring and T-FLEX CAM systems, T-FLEX PLM complex systems closely related to T-FLEX CAD functionality, which offer a wide range of specialized engineering solutions, specified in the "Top Systems."

The T-FLEX VR application has appeared, which uses modern innovative technologies, allows you to see projects in a virtual reality environment, lead the design process, including animation and analysis of the resulting structures.

T-FLEX CAD 16 is completely built on the single T-FLEX PLM software platform and provides end-to-end management of the design product structure and automatic generation of specifications, lists and other design deliverables.

2017

Version 15.1 supports the file formats of the main foreign CAD systems

In August 2017, the Russian company Top Systems announced the release of the next update to the T-FLEX CAD design system.

The key feature of version 15.1 is the ability to directly read format files of all major foreign systems of this class:

• Siemens NX
• CATIA V4 и V5
• Creo (Pro/E)
• SolidWorks
• Autodesk Inventor
• Solid Edge
• Rhino

Support for the latest versions of these systems has been implemented. In addition, the developers of "Top Systems" plan to provide support for all newly released versions no later than three to four months from the official release of the corresponding CAD system.

In addition to design system formats, the updated T-FLEX CAD provides the ability to read the main exchange formats, in particular:

• STEP AP 203/214/242
• IGES
• JT
• 3D XML
• ACIS
• IFC
• and a whole host of others.

As a result, T-FLEX CAD users can use the normal open file command to load a model of any of the specified formats and work with it as if it were created in the T-FLEX CAD system. In this case, the following types of data are read: solid, sheet and wire bodies, faceted objects (grids), PMI objects (dimensions and other symbols), materials with their properties (both physical and visual).

For more detailed control of data reading parameters, a special command is provided that allows you to configure reading parameters separately for each of the formats. In this case, reading data does not require the presence of appropriate systems on the computer and/or on the network, as well as licenses for this software. T-FLEX CAD enables you to convert data using your own tools.

T-FLEX CAD VR is integrated into CAD

On May 19, 2017, the company "Top Systems" announced the creation of an integrated module for using technology (virtual reality VR) when working CAD with T-FLEX. CAD

The developers of Top Systems have created an additional T-FLEX CAD VR module. It helps to work with 3D images in virtual space through the HTC Vive virtual reality helmet. The model in virtual space changes instantly with any changes to the model - adding, removing movement of scene objects, playing assembly/disassembly animation scripts, etc. Navigation inside the virtual space is implemented by standard VR helmet control tools. With a special manipulator, the user can select the desired scene object for editing.

The module is based on the OpenGL graphics library platform. This library is based on the graphical interface of the T-FLEX CAD system.

T-FLEX CAD VR technology can be used to solve various problems:

• virtual learning,
• creation of presentations of finished products and video guides,
• improving the ergonomics of future products,
• quality control
• Add audio and text annotations to the project.

2016: T-FLEX CAD 15

On July 21, 2016, Top Systems announced the release of a version of the T-FLEX CAD 15 computer aided design system.

The T-FLEX CAD 15 system provides a number of improvements due to both the needs of users and the strategy for developing the product and promoting it on the market. Improvements affected all areas of development of the system. One of the main achievements is the modernization of 3D modeling functions. T-FLEX CAD 15 has additional modeling commands and algorithms, tools for using 3D primitives to quickly build a model, and much more.

T-FLEX CAD 15 has changed the layout of the main window and the interface of individual commands. Changes have been made to improve the efficiency of software use:

• modern interface,
• convenient model tree,
• support for monitors with 4K resolution
• other improvements that provide comfort in the system.

The software runs on the latest version of the Parasolid kernel and uses high-performance computing algorithms, making working with large assemblies, 3D models and projections more efficient.

T-FLEX CAD 15 has built-in tools for preparing photorealistic images, the ability to create video guides, expanded the functionality of 3D cameras, and added support for additive technologies (3D printing).

The "Structural Elements" technology has been added to the product. The developers announced the availability of innovative tools for creating specialized systems for computer-aided design of pipelines, metal structures, electrical circuits, building and other structures.

T-FLEX CAD 15 is designed to be used by design professionals, contains the necessary tools for calculating, designing and preparing the production of structures of all levels of complexity, and advanced capabilities help speed up the process of working in the system.

2015: T-FLEX CAD passed VDI 3D testing on VMware platform

On July 1, 2015,  Top Systems announced joint testing of the T-FLEX CAD computer-aided design system in a VDI environment on the VMware Horizon and vSphere platform with the use of NVIDIA GRIDT technology. ^[2] technology ^[2].

In addition to the main task, during testing, work was carried out to determine the optimal vGPU profile, sufficient for the comfortable work of the user of 3D graphics in this workplace configuration.

As a result of testing, it was revealed:

• K260 profile. In the configuration being tested, this profile is the most powerful. In it, the user is "given" the ½ of the graphics card chip. The greatest comfort, the speed of processing 3D graphics, as expected, was achieved precisely at these settings.

• K240 profile. In it, the graphical processor GPU is already divided into 4 parts and the user receives ¼ from the GPU. The comfort of work and the speed of processing 3D graphics are more than acceptable. All this made it possible to determine this particular profile optimal in terms of price/quality. Using the K240 profile allows you to place 8 users on one GRID K2 map. As a rule, most servers allow you to install two such cards, i.e. the number of users increases to 16.

• K220 profile. Here the GPU is already divided into 8 parts. Accordingly, each user counts on 1/8 of the graphics power. 16 users can be connected to one NVIDIA GRID K2 card. When using these settings, minor shortcomings occurred, but the visual impressions of the work and the speed of processing 3D graphics were at a completely acceptable level.

According to the qualitative assessment of the initiators of the test, the vGPU from VMware is definitely a "working" solution. The technology fully supports all T-FLEX CAD functions, and users can effectively perform all actions when working with drawings and models of varying degrees

2013: T-FLEX CAD 14

Top Systems announced in May 2013 the creation of its own interactive generation module for photorealistic images in the upcoming 14th version of the flagship T-FLEX CAD product. The unique Russian development is based on the NVIDIA OptiX software engine, which provides interactive ray tracing on NVIDIA GPUs.

The ability to create photorealistic models is becoming more and more in demand in industrial design. Working with digital models can reduce the cost of prototyping, improve the quality of projects and speed up the launch of finished products on the market. Meanwhile, most Russian and foreign design applications do not have such a function. In preparation for the release of the new version of the parametric computer-aided design and drawing system T-FLEX CAD, the company's developers paid special attention to the 3D model visualization subsystem and developed their own module for generating photorealistic images.

The new module is based on NVIDIA OptiX technology, which uses the computing resources of GPUs with support for NVIDIA CUDA architecture. It is designed to generate high-quality photorealistic images taking into account material properties such as transparency, refractive index, surface properties, etc. Ultrafast ray tracing on NVIDIA processors makes the imaging process truly interactive.

When working with the system, the generated photorealistic image is displayed in a special window of the system, into which the picture is displayed in real time, without any delays. When you change the model, you can update the picture by clicking one button to see the changes with the same scene settings. In this window, all elements of the T-FLEX CAD user interface are available - the main menu, button panels, and the main panel. The model in the window can be rotated with the mouse, as is done in a regular 3D window. While, gradually improving, an image is generated, in another window the model can be modified or edited.

To solve the problems of generating photorealistic images, as well as to generally improve the convenience of work, a number of improvements were made in the system related to the management of the material library. It has become more convenient to work with libraries, the properties necessary for generating photorealistic images have been added to the material parameters, the means of applying materials to model objects have been improved - a dragging mechanism has been used, the materials used have become available for editing through the model structure window, etc.

T-FLEX CAD 12

The full-featured T-FLEX CAD 12 system is a development built on advanced 3D modeling and 2D graphics technologies, providing unique and proven tools to meet product design challenges with the highest quality standards.

The new version of the system is distinguished by a significant increase in performance, improved visualization, improvements in many functions and mechanisms of the system that contribute to the rapid and high-quality execution of the most difficult projects.

T-FLEX CAD 12 enhances 3D modeling and 2D graphics to speed up the design process. The optimized technology of working with parametric parts will improve the convenience of project modifications, as well as the operation of complex and large objects. The system also has advanced collaboration tools.

The innovative architectural solutions on which T-FLEX CAD 12 is based provide significant improvements in the stability, quality and performance of the software product. Depending on the hardware used and the structure of the model, the increase in graphics performance can be from 2 to 10 times or more compared to the previous version of T-FLEX CAD.

T-FLEX CAD 12 uses a more advanced graphics subsystem that maximizes the capabilities of modern video cards. Optimization of work with video data made it possible to significantly reduce the amount of RAM required, providing work with large models on the same hardware.

The new object-oriented 3D manipulator mechanism helps you control the elements of the models, ensuring the speed of changes to projects.

The 3D modeling command set in T-FLEX CAD 12 is even wider, with many system commands and mechanisms improved. Thanks to the use of the latest version of the well-known Parasolid kernel, modeling operations such as "smoothing," "pushing," "along a trajectory," "deformation" and many others have gained additional capabilities and options.

The Piping Path command has been fully updated to make it easier for engineers involved in the development of piping and cabling systems.

Another novelty of the T-FLEX CAD 12 system is the Smart Fragment mechanism, which allows you to create your own convenient scenarios for inserting product fragments in various application areas.

The new version implements hundreds of improvements and new features to make the system more comfortable.

Sergey Kuraksin, CEO of Top Systems, says: "T-FLEX CAD 12 will help our users bring the modeling process to a new level of performance and efficiency, which, in turn, will have a positive impact on the work of their enterprises as a whole."

2011: T-FLEX CAD 3D

The Russian Corporation for Rocket and Space Instrumentation and Information Systems, chaired by Deputy Prime Minister of the Russian Federation Sergei Borisovich Ivanov, held a meeting of the Council of General and Chief Designers, leading scientists and specialists in the field of high-tech sectors of the economy under the Government of the Russian Federation in July 2011.

On the agenda was the issue of effective use of domestic information technologies created on the basis of "cloud computing," including electronic support at all stages of the life cycle of innovative competitive products produced by enterprises of various industries and small businesses.

Within the framework of this event, the work of the T-FLEX CAD 3D software product in the Cloud of Russian Space Systems OJSC was successfully demonstrated. The demonstration was carried out on the example of the product of JSC "Russian Space Systems," created by employees of the enterprise with the participation of specialists of the company "Top Systems."

It is worth noting that the cloud of JSC "Russian Space Systems" complies with the international standard NIST Cloud Computing v15 and is unique for Russia, as it allows you to deploy any operating systems, instantly scale the IT infrastructure and make complex calculations, providing innovative startups with minimal investments at the time of launch and in the process of development. The cloud software core is an original Russian development.

Top Systems cooperates with a large number of Russian aerospace enterprises to increase the innovation component in the implementation of the product lifecycle support strategy. Currently, the Top Systems company offers a number of software products that allow you to fully form the software basis for the implementation of any engineering tasks facing the enterprise. The PLM suite of T-FLEX CAD/CAM/CAE/CAPP/PDM/CRM programs allows you not only to organize work at all stages of the product life cycle, but also to expand the standard boundaries of PLM to manage all related processes. The set of programs supplied by the Top Systems company allows you to organize a single environment of design and technological document management, design and preparation of production.

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