If you’re looking for ways to prototype and design faster, there are several options that are available online.
Fortunately, there are plenty of mechanical engineering tools that can help accelerate the design process.
In this article, we’ll discuss five engineering software and tools that every mechanical engineer should have in their toolbox.
5 Mechanical Engineering Tools and Software
Here are five essential tools that help mechanical engineers find the parts they need faster, speed up the design process, and meet tight project deadlines.
1. Frames: An Aluminum Extrusion Design Software
FRAMES is software that simplifies the aluminum extrusion design process. It helps engineers turn their ideas into full 3D models quickly. It also makes ordering aluminum extrusions and the necessary accessories simple, easy, and fast.
The software has many features, such as the ability to automatically add brackets and joints. This improves design accuracy and saves time and resources.
As you design, the system automatically compiles a BOM, and you can easily export it to order parts.
2. Automation Component Calculators
MISUMI’s automation component calculators help you find the exact product you need based on application requirements.
There are eleven product calculators in total, ranging from linear guides to conveyors. Simply input your specifications, and product recommendations will appear.
For example, let’s look at the linear guide fit calculator:
Step 1: Choose Your Mounting Orientation
Step 2: Specify Dimensions for Span and Center of Mass
Step 3: Calculate Basic Dynamic Loading Rating
Step 4: Filter By Features (Block Type, Rail Type, Size, Material, etc.)
Get a list of series results!
Other calculators include linear bushing, LX actuator, timing belt calculator, and more.
View all calculation software tools.
3. Fictiv: On-Demand Custom Mechanical Parts Software
Fictiv is a powerful on-demand custom mechanical parts software. To use, upload your 3D model and get an instant quote within seconds for custom parts. Capabilities include sheet metal, CNC turning, and CNC milling.
You can save time by uploading your 3D model without the need for a 2D drawing. And you can make adjustments, like tolerances, dimensions, or hole types as you go.
You can also use Fictiv to test your designs in a cost-effective way. This helps save time early on in the design-build process.
4. Ball Bearing Finder Tool
The Ball Bearing Finder tool makes finding the right bearing a little bit more “bearable.” It’s a robust tool that makes it easy to find the exact ball bearing you need.
Whether you need ball bearings for a drive shaft, or to fit your gearhead motors, the bearing finder tool allows you to input dimensions or a specific part number. From there, you can find, compare, and purchase on one easy tool.
For additional help finding the right ball bearing, check out MISUMI’s Ball Bearings Selector.
5. inCAD Library
You don’t always have to start from scratch. MISUMI’s large collection of over 300 CAD models is a great place to get ideas for your new design application.
The inCAD Library showcases hundreds of design ideas that can be applied across different industries. It provides application examples using MISUMI components and the ability to search by mechanism or process.
You can easily explore and find what you’re looking for when you search by function, workpiece shape, or other features. Each CAD model download is free and can help you get a head start on any design build.
MISUMI: From Prototype to Production
Not only does MISUMI offer a wide range of engineering tools and software, MISUMI is also known for its proprietary part configuration solution. Once you find the parts you need, you can further modify the part using the configurable tool.
It’s one of the many ways MISUMI empowers engineers from prototype to production. Click here to explore MISUMI.
