Configuration Overview

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1 Configuration Overview

2 Introduction This document outlines: Workbench s capabilities for data management How different types of users should connect to Workbench How to use Workbench in conjunction with or to migrate from other enterprise tools Engineering leads and managers interested in data management should use this guide to learn how to make the best use of GrabCAD Workbench.

3 GrabCAD Workbench GrabCAD Workbench s web interface is the center of the collaborative product development system. It is the default environment for the engineering team to manage, share, and view their version-controlled work.

4 Working with versions and revisions Every time someone uploads a file with the same name as a previous file, Workbench creates a new version. Anyone in the private project can view or restore a previous version. Revision labels can designate released documents.

5 Communicating with locks Locks signal that a team member intends to edit a file. No one can submit a new version on top of a locked file, but users can remove the lock, sending a notification to the lock owner.

6 Revision Labels Revision labels provide a way to identify parts that have achieved key milestones. They can be applied to any file, so you can use a consistent revision system for all of the version-managed data in your organization. Each revision label applies to a specific version of a file on Workbench. When a new revision is declared, Workbench logs the event so the entire team is up-todate. REV A

7 Releasing to Partner Spaces Partner Spaces provide a secondary file sharing and discussion area for anyone who doesn t need access to all of the private engineering data. Files shared in a Partner Space safely link to the released versions of files in the private engineering area, so everyone can track exactly what version or revision they are working from. Engineering Department Private, Versioned Engineering Data Release Partner Space Released Documents

8 Library Management Workbench is a natural place to manage your parts libraries. Libraries in Workbench take advantage of your CAD system s built-in ability to look for library files in specified paths. Users can connect Workbench for PC to each library project and store them wherever convenient, including network shares. The same approach applies to drawing formats, templates, reference documentation, and knowledge bases. Workstation A Workstation B

9 Apps in the Toolbox Workbench is can be integrated with your enterprise tools and in-house applications and services. The power and diversity of these integrations can be seen in Workbench s 3rd party integrations with software vendors like Autodesk and Siemens. Contact us for more information about integrating with Workbench.

10 Working with Workbench

11 Working with Workbench Workbench includes several tools to keep your software and devices in sync. Workbench projects 1. Desktop App 2. CAD Add-in 3. Mobile

12 1. Connecting to the Desktop Engineers who author or edit engineering data should synchronize their CAD and engineering data with Workbench on a daily basis. GrabCAD Workbench for PC connects a Workbench projects to folders on engineers hard drives. Every change an engineer uploads is automatically versioned. Mechanical, electrical, and systems engineers would typically use Workbench for PC for the documents they create. Desktop App

13 2. Connecting to CAD systems GrabCAD is also integrated with an increasing number of CAD systems, so CAD users can receive updated files and submit changes without leaving their native environment. Contact us for the latest information about our CAD integrations. Desktop App CAD system

14 3. Workbench Mobile Mobile Apps for Android, iphone, and ipad let the team stay connected. In addition to viewing and commenting on projects, you can also upload documents from any app, including attachments and photos. Mobile apps connect on-thefly, so you don t have to worry about storage on your mobile device.

15 Common Configurations

16 Synchronizing with Other Systems There are three strategies for connecting Workbench with third party systems, such as ERP and PLM tools, as well as common other file sharing tools such as Dropbox, Box, Google Drive, and others. 1. Replicated Data: two systems are synchronized 2. Complementary Data: two systems are used independently 3. Data Migration: a legacy system is replaced by Workbench Engineering Department Versioned Data PLM ERP File Servers

17 1. Replicated Data In a Replicated Data model, Workbench acts as the master model for the data it versions. To create a bridge to other systems, connect to a folder that is also connected to the second system. Then, update it manually or via Toolbox. Engineering Department PLM Released Data Versioned Data Workstation ERP Network drive

18 2. Complementary Data In the Complementary Data model, the engineering master data is shared between Workbench and other enterprise systems. Each client is configured to work with both, and individuals manage data flow as necessary for their portion of the project. Engineering Department Versioned Data Workstation PLM ERP Workstation File Servers Enterprise Data

19 3. Data Migration Local Computer Step 1: Setup a local Windows computer with copies of the data you want to transfer to Workbench. Step 2: Use Workbench for PC to create and synchronize to a new project for each project or dataset you want to transfer. PDM File Servers Legacy Source Data Engineering Department Versioned Data If you have a unique situation or a large number of files to transfer, please contact us for assistance automating the process.

20 Contact us More information About GrabCAD Workbench About GrabCAD Toolbox GrabCAD Blog Download Workbench for PC