CAD software helps monitor firefighters

SolidWorks' intuitive interface enables domo engineers to spend more time on innovation because they can quickly present a few design options in 3D format.

domo has used SolidWorks 3D CAD software to create a thermal imaging camera that helps protect firefighters.

The small thermal imaging camera mounted on a firefighter's helmet lets commanders immediately see that a burning support beam has fallen on him.

They can then dispatch a nearby team to help out, realising that every second counts.

domo has developed technology that lets emergency responders, security officers, anti-drug enforcement agencies, hospitals and the military see action in real-time so commanders can make life-saving decisions fast.

domo's products transmit broadcast-quality videos across nonline of sight digital wireless networks more affordably and efficiently than similar video products.

The company standardised on SolidWorks software to improve design accuracy, enhance innovation and reduce rework.

It also uses SolidWorks' CircuitWorks tool, which bridges the gap between electronic CAD and mechanical CAD software, helping engineers ensure printed circuit boards (PCBs) fit correctly in receivers, transmitters and other domo devices.

"It takes less time to draw up PCBs in SolidWorks than 2D AutoCAD and the SolidWorks geometry is more likely to be correct the first time it is created", said domo Senior Design Engineer Tom Maughan.

"The CircuitWorks functionality in SolidWorks Office Premium lets us see all of the angles in 3D, including where components could foul or where off-board connectors are".

"Part failure because of issues like these is not an option".

SolidWorks' intuitive interface enables domo engineers to spend more time on innovation because they can quickly present a few design options in 3D format, complete with cutaway drawings and exploded views.

Maughan and his team share those concepts with other designers, managers, sales teams and workshop technicians to build their feedback into the process before spending any significant time on the project.

"Keeping track of all of the details in 2D was mind-numbing", said Maughan.

"SolidWorks automated the process and with CircuitWorks virtually eliminated the need for prototyping".

Working in 3D has also enabled domo to reduce average new product design time from over a month to less than two weeks.

"Emergency crews and other public safety teams need as much information in real-time as they can get", said SolidWorks Country Manager for the UK and Ireland Chris McManus.

"domo's products give these organisations highly advanced video communications even in congested urban areas".

"Using SolidWorks and CircuitWorks lets its engineers continue to set the bar for better communication products".

domo relies on authorised SolidWorks reseller Cadtek for ongoing software training, implementation and support.

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