Shapeways, the online marketplace that offers affordable access to the latest 3D printing technologies, launches a special Shapeways add-in that enables users of SolidWorks 3D mechanical CAD (MCAD) software to bring their designs to life as 3D objects. Using the Shapeways tool, SolidWorks users can upload a design directly to www.Shapeways.com with a click of a button and then opt to 3D print it in a number of materials currently offered by Shapeways, including stainless steel, glass, full color sandstone, and a variety of durable plastics. SolidWorks users can download the Shapeways add-in for free from the Design Solutions Web site at www.designsolutions.nl/shapeways.
Like other add-ins, the Shapeways add-in is easy to install and only needs to be downloaded once (2MB). After download, Shapeways is added as a tool and SolidWorks users have the option to add it to their title bar. The Shapeways add-in launches in Beta. Another version will be introduced in approximately 30 days.
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