Overview of
FlashModeler
FlashModeler
is a service provided to the mechanical design community by Parametric
Technology Corporation (PTC). FlashModeler allows suppliers
and their customers and distributors to access the most current 3D solid
models from PTC's model server at no cost simply by logging onto the
Internet. FlashModeler allows customers or distributors to access
the supplier's web site, enter a part number, specify a CAD format, and
receive a 2D or 3D model of the part. Through FlashModeler,
suppliers can offer models 24 hours a day, year-round to customers
world-wide.
Frequently Asked
Questions
CAD
Models
Logging
in - User ID and Password
Registration
and First Time Use
License
Agreement
Downloading
Your Model
Delivery
- 24 Hour Models
About
InPart and PTC
Frequently Asked
Questions
CAD Models
Which CAD file formats
are supported?
Currently
supported CAD file formats are the following: 3D IGES, 3D STEP and 2D
DXF. The output of the 3D IGES files can be customized for the receiving
CAD system.
How do I know that the
model information is accurate?
Suppliers
are contractually obligated to provide PTC with updates of any part
changes--be it changes in part numbers, dimensions, or other part
attributes. PTC updates its database immediately so that users have the
current and up-to-date information.
How much detail is in
the CAD models?
FlashModeler
models contain all the mounting features, exterior dimensions that
describe the outer envelope of the part, and enough features to appear
cosmetically correct. We do not include any detailed internal data (e.g.
detailed inner windings of a motor or the balls in a ball bearing) that
would be found in manufacturer "production level" drawings.
This is done to reduce regeneration times. We provide what are commonly
referred to as "customer" or "installation" level
drawings.
What should I do if
the CAD model contains an error?
If a CAD
model contains an error, such as an incorrect dimension or incorrect
position of a feature, please contact PTC at support@inpart.com.
PTC will correct the model and make it available within 24 hours.
Logging in - User ID
and Password
What if I receive an
error message that my user ID is invalid, is invalid for this
manufacturer, has expired, or does not match my password?
Please
contact the person or organization that issued your user ID.
What if I forget my
password?
Please send
a request to support@inpart.com
to have your password reset. You will receive a return email
with your new password.
What if my
registration fails?
You should
confirm that you entered information in all the fields. Most of
the fields are required, and if left blank will cause the registration
to fail.
License Agreement
What if I receive the
message, "FlashModeler is unavailable unless you agree to the
FlashModeler License Agreement."
Both PTC and
the supplier are providing valuable intellectual property for which
certain rights need to be protected through the license agreement. If
you or your corporation has an issue with the license, you should
contact your company's contact for that supplier.
Downloading Your Model
What should I do if I
am running out of model downloads?
In your
download page, the number of downloads remaining is recorded. When this
number reaches zero, you will no longer be able to download models. To
obtain more downloads, contact the person or organization that issued
your user ID.
How long does it take
to download a model?
The average
model file is less than 250KB (compressed). If you have a direct
connection to the Internet, it should take only a few seconds to
download the compressed file. Using a dial-up/modem connection, it may
take up to a minute.
How do I uncompress
the file?
For better
performance, the CAD model file is compressed into a standard zip file.
To unzip this file after it has been stored on your hard drive, you need
only to execute any standard zip utility.
Delivery - 24-hour
Models
What should I do if my
screen says that the model will be ready in 24 hours?
A part
tagged as "ready in 24 hours" means that it is in the queue to
be built. When requested, the part is moved to the front of the queue
and is built usually within 24 hours. You should re-log on in 24
hours and request the part for download again. This time, it
should download immediately.
About InPart and PTC
InPart,
formerly known as DesignSuite, is the world’s largest Internet-based
component information center, providing access to libraries of standard
mechanical components created and maintained in partnership with leading
manufacturers. InPart contains component selection tools, VRML models for
visualization, 2D and 3D geometry, technical specifications and the
capability to alert users to manufacturer changes in their components,
specification or availability. For more information about InPart,
please visit our website at www.inpart.com.
Parametric
Technology Corporation (PTC), founded in 1985 and headquartered in
Waltham,Mass., develops, markets and supports integrated product
development and lifecycle management solutions that help companies spur
innovation and achieve sustained competitive advantage. PTC's software
solutions are complemented by the strength and experience of its
Professional Services Organization, which provides training, consulting
and support to customers around the globe. In its fiscal year ended
September 30,1998, the company achieved more than $1 billion in revenue.
PTC can be reached at 781-398-5000, or via the web at www.ptc.com.
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