Transform Your Product Development with TriStar’s Complete Product Modeling Software Suite
What Is Computer Aided Design & Why It Matters
Computer-aided design (CAD) refers to the use of specialized software to create, modify, and optimize digital product designs. Instead of relying solely on manual drawings or physical prototypes, engineers and product developers work with accurate digital files that capture every measurement, material, and design detail through an intuitive user interface.
Computer-aided design addresses many common business pain points:
- Data fragmentation — managing multiple versions across teams.
- Slow design cycles — delays caused by outdated tools or inefficient workflows.
- Costly errors & rework — mistakes identified too late in production.
- Redundant designs — wasting resources recreating similar products.
- Scaling challenges — difficulty adapting existing designs for new uses.
The best computer-aided design software combines user-friendly interfaces, real-time collaboration, and advanced features to solve these issues and create a competitive edge.
TriStar’s CAD Offerings
TriStar Solutions partners with PTC to deliver PTC Creo, widely recognized as one of the most versatile CAD software options available. PTC Creo’s diverse toolset allows businesses to handle everything from simple 2D drawings to advanced simulations and parametric modeling through its comprehensive user interface.
PTC Creo Highlights:
- Powerful parametric modeling for design accuracy as a versatile tool
- Integrated simulation tools for stress, thermal, and motion analysis
- Additive manufacturing support for 3D printing
- Augmented reality (AR) visualization for real-time presentations
Supporting Software Options:
- Mathcad: Trusted engineering calculations and documentation
- KeyShot: High-quality rendering and visualization to bring designs to life
- Windchill PLM/PDM integration: Version control and traceability across product lifecycles
Custom Extensions & Automation:
- Rule-based automation (Rulesoft, engineer-to-order customization)
- Geometry-based search for reusing parts, cutting down on redundancy
Together, these software options give both new users and experienced engineers a versatile toolset for tackling product design challenges. TriStar transforms software implementation into strategic advantage—helping you optimize workflows, navigate technical challenges, and build a foundation for project excellence.
Key Features & Capabilities
TriStar-supported computer-aided design software delivers advanced tools that drive efficiency and accuracy:
Why Use CAD?
Computer-aided design software isn’t just about advanced tools—it’s about business outcomes. With TriStar’s CAD software options, companies achieve:
- Faster time-to-market by reducing manual steps and rework in product design
- Lower compliance risks with automated version control
- Improved collaboration between mechanical engineering, software, and manufacturing teams
- Higher ROI across product lifecycles thanks to fewer errors and more efficient processes
How it Works
TriStar integrates computer-aided design software into a seamless workflow:
Design with PTC Creo — Create 2D/3D models, run simulations, and apply parametric design through an intuitive user interface
Manage Data in PLM/PDM — Use Windchill to store, track, and control every file format and version
Integrate Across Domains — Align mechanical, electrical, and software design with unified CAD software options
Visualize with PTC Creo Illustrate — Generate digital manuals, exploded views, and service documents
Coordinate with ALM — Keep software requirements in sync with hardware design
Extend & Automate — Use custom CAD packages, extensions, and geometry searches as a versatile tool
Review & Release — Approve final designs, update documentation, and release digital files to production
Train & Support — Equip teams with training, consulting, and ongoing support for maximum productivity
TriStar combines proven methodology with software options built for your specific needs, creating a partnership that eliminates bottlenecks, prevents costly errors, and transforms your product development into a competitive advantage.
Implementation with TriStar
Your computer-aided design journey with TriStar includes:
- Consulting & Assessment — Evaluating current CAD design software and workflows
- Configuration & Integration — Tailoring software options to your business needs
- Migration & Onboarding — Moving from previous versions to modern platforms with improved user interfaces
- Training & Support — Reducing the learning curve with hands-on guidance for these advanced tools
- Managed Services — Continuous optimization and upgrades