CIMdata PLM Industry Summary Online Archive
3 January 2006
Implementation Investments
Leatherman Tool Group Switches to SolidWorks Software for 3D design of Multipurpose Tools and Knives
Leatherman Tool Group has standardized on SolidWorks® 3D mechanical design software to expand its line of knives and multi-tools for campers, anglers, hunters, and other outdoor enthusiasts. The company chose SolidWorks software over competing offerings because of its superior control and accuracy in the design of complex blades, tool heads, handles, and accessories.
The Portland, Ore., company will use SolidWorks software because it met the company's design needs more than any other CAD software it evaluated. "We switched from Autodesk Inventor® software for new designs because SolidWorks software provides more control and accuracy in the design of the many complex, contoured surfaces in our tools and knives," said Melissa Yale, senior product design engineer at Leatherman Tool Group headquarters. "We also sought SolidWorks software's ease of use, supplier compatibility, and outstanding reputation. We expect to decrease our time to market and design costs by becoming more productive and moving all of our design work in-house."
Leatherman offers 18 different multi-tools - each including a combination of knife blades, screwdrivers, openers, saws, pliers, wire cutters, files, awl punches, rulers, clamps - as well as six models of folding knives. Despite the numerous features, each product fits in the palm of the hand with contoured handles and other ergonomic features.
Leatherman will also use SolidWorks' COSMOS® design analysis software to check the integrity of designs without having to build physical models. PDMWorks® product data management software will help Leatherman manage files, versions, and modifications. SolidWorks' eDrawings® collaboration tool will streamline communications with Leatherman executives, product managers, and external suppliers.
"The Leatherman is a marvel of efficient design, packing an astounding amount of utility into a compact, intuitive package," said Rainer Gawlick, SolidWorks vice president of worldwide marketing. "SolidWorks Corporation pursues the same goals, always endeavoring to give customers more, easier-to-use capabilities than they expect, and the tools for any challenge."
Leatherman works with SolidWorks reseller CAE Northwest for ongoing software training, implementation, and support.
About Leatherman
Oregon-based Leatherman Tool Group, Inc. is the inventor and world's leading manufacturer of compact multipurpose tools and knives. Owned and inspired by its founder, Tim Leatherman, the company has sold more than 35 million of its versatile tools and knives since its inception in 1983. For more information, visit http://www.leatherman.com .
About CAE Northwest
In its more than 15 years, CAE Northwest has given more than 5,000 engineers the tools they need to work more quickly and more accurately, and has helped more than 1,000 design and manufacturing companies move their products to market ahead of schedule. CAE Northwest is one of the largest SolidWorks resellers in North America with locations in: Seattle; Portland, Ore.; and Vancouver, B.C., Canada. For more information, visit http://www.caenw.com .
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