Advantages of 3DSpace for CAD Data Management

Managing CAD data efficiently is a critical aspect of any product development process. Traditional data management on local storage and in Windows File Explorer often falls short in handling CAD files, leading to issues like broken references, version conflicts, and accessibility challenges.

The 3DSpace app, part of the 3DEXPERIENCE platform, is specifically designed to address these challenges. With 3DSpace CAD data management, teams gain a more robust, secure, and collaborative approach to handling SOLIDWORKS files.

Understanding 3DSpace and Collaborative Spaces

In 3DEXPERIENCE, CAD files are stored in Collaborative Spaces, which function as secure file vaults. The 3DSpace app serves as the vault manager, allowing users to organize, access, and control files efficiently.

• Collaborative Spaces are the vaults where CAD files are stored.
• 3DSpace is the manager that organizes and secures these vaults.

Why You Should Use 3DSpace for CAD Data Management

Moving CAD data management to the cloud has more benefits than just easy searching and filtering. Using 3DSpace as your central repository can enable your business to take the next step and ensure future success.

Purpose-Built for CAD Files

While Windows File Explorer works well for standalone files such as images and documents, it struggles with CAD file structures. Whether dealing with parts, assemblies, or drawings, 3DSpace keeps all CAD references intact, eliminating the risk of broken links caused by manual data management.

All CAD data resides within a centralized space; there’s no need to worry about file location and organization. This approach is optimized for CAD workflows! However, with so many files stored in one place, how do you find the right one in a sea of other files?

Enter 3DSpace’s powerful search capabilities that provide an efficient way to find files without sifting through endless directories.

Finding your CAD Files in 3DSpace

Searching for files in a traditional directory-based system can be time-consuming, especially in complex design environments. 3DSpace simplifies this process with powerful search and filtering capabilities.

Instead of manually navigating through folders, users can apply tags to filter files based on key attributes such as:

• Author
• Last modified date
• Collaborative Space
• File type
• Custom attributes

Example of Finding Files with 3DSpace

A designer is asked by their manager to review all unreleased files for a project. With 3DSpace, they can simply filter by project and maturity state, instantly generating a to-do list of parts needing review.

Accessing 3DSpace inside the SOLIDWORKS Open window

In addition, a major convenience is that files stored in 3DSpace can be accessed and searched directly within the SOLIDWORKS interface, eliminating the need to switch between applications.

Cloud-Based Backup and Security

A major limitation of traditional file storage is the risk of data loss due to hardware failures or accidental deletions. By leveraging cloud infrastructure, 3DSpace provides a more secure and reliable environment for critical design data.

Since 3DSpace operates in the cloud, it ensures:

• Automated backups for redundancy and disaster recovery.
• Enterprise-level cybersecurity (encrypted file storage and controlled access).
• Reduced IT overhead (no local servers required).

Remote Accessibility and Easy File Sharing

Since 3DSpace is cloud-based, files can be accessed from any device, anywhere. This flexibility makes remote work, supplier collaboration, and global teamwork more efficient.

This provides several benefits:

• No need for VPNs or local network connections to retrieve files.
• Easy file sharing (replace large email attachments).
• Mobile device compatibility (review and manage files on the go).

CAD data management from any device

Additionally, the files in 3DSpace can be accessed from any internet-connected device. This means that from a mobile device, you can easily find a part, verify the correct revision, and interact with maturity workflows.

Controlled Access in 3DSpace

Traditional file storage can lead to version conflicts, unauthorized changes, and duplicate files. With structured access control, 3DSpace enhances team productivity and data integrity.

3DSpace simplifies access management, ensuring:

• Role-based control allows only authorized users to modify or approve files.
• Project-specific workspaces mean teams stay focused on their projects without unintended interference.
• Seamless collaboration enables work on shared files without the risk of overwriting or duplication.

Integrated Version Control and Lifecycle Management

Unlike a traditional file system, 3DSpace integrates directly with the 3DExperience platform’s lifecycle management tools. By embedding version control within file storage, 3DSpace reduces errors and enhances traceability.

Integrated lifecycle management for all files

With 3DSpace, you are provided with:

• Version tracking prevents overwriting of critical designs.
• Revision history allows teams to revert to previous iterations if needed.
• Approval workflows ensure that only validated designs are used in production.

3DSpace, 3DEXPERIENCE, and Beyond

From maintaining references and simplifying searches to remote access and controlled collaboration, 3DSpace streamlines design data management in ways traditional file systems can’t. By leveraging 3DSpace, teams can work smarter, reduce errors, and improve efficiency.

Moving CAD data management to the cloud has more benefits than just easy searching and filtering. Using 3DSpace as your central repository can enable your business to take the next step and ensure future success.

To learn more about using 3DEXPERIENCE for CAD data management, click here.