The Case for More Use of 3D in Manufacturing

Introduction

Manufacturing industries such as automotive, aerospace, and machinery are undergoing rapid digital transformation (DX). Despite significant advances in 3D design tools, many companies still rely on 2D drawings for manufacturing processes, creating inefficiencies and missed opportunities. This post explores the negative impacts of the continued use of 2D and highlights the transformative potential of integrating 3D into manufacturing workflows.

The Problem: Disconnect Between 3D Design and 2D Manufacturing

Most complex products are designed using advanced 3D CAD systems (like SOLIDWORKS, CATIA, NX, Inventor and others), yet the final manufacturing processes rely on 2D drawings. This mismatch results in:

• Loss of critical information during translation from 3D to 2D
• Increased risk of errors in manufacturing
• Difficulties in visualizing and communicating complex assembly processes

This reliance on 2D creates bottlenecks that hinder agility, especially as globalization, workforce changes, and technology advances demand more efficient operations.

The Opportunity: Unlocking 3D for Manufacturing

3D models offer unparalleled precision and accessibility. Solutions like XVL enable the seamless distribution of lightweight 3D data, making it possible to:

• Streamline workflows by using a single source of truth
• Enable collaboration across global teams using universally accessible formats
• Reduce training times for new employees by presenting intuitive, graphical work instructions
• Provide real-time updates to accommodate design changes and product variations

Transformative Technologies Driving 3D Adoption

Three key technological trends are reshaping how manufacturers leverage 3D:

1. Enhanced Network Infrastructure: With 5G and soon 6G, real-time sharing of 3D models is feasible even in remote locations.
2. Accessible Devices: Affordable smartphones and tablets empower workers to access 3D data on the shop floor.
3. Advanced Software Platforms: Technologies like XVL Web3D integrate rich metadata, enabling precise engineering applications and global scalability.

From Visualization to Digital Twins

The concept of the digital twin revolutionizes manufacturing by embedding all relevant information—geometry, materials, and metadata—into a single, lightweight 3D model. These models can be leveraged for:

• Virtual reality training simulations
• Augmented reality-guided assembly processes
• Dynamic updates for design changes

Why Now?

Manufacturers must move beyond the “digital cottage industry,” where isolated digitization efforts fail to scale. Instead, a data pipeline linking CAD, BOM, and manufacturing systems ensures scalability and adaptability. Manufacturers can overcome traditional barriers by adopting solutions like XVL and align with DX initiatives.

Conclusion

The transition from 2D to 3D in manufacturing is no longer optional; it is essential for competitiveness. Embracing 3D technologies drives efficiency, reduces errors, and positions manufacturers to meet the challenges of a rapidly evolving industry. Companies that act now will lead the way in operational excellence and innovation.

Next Steps

Manufacturing executives must champion the integration of 3D technologies across their organizations. Investing in scalable, lightweight 3D solutions like XVL is not just a technical upgrade—it is a strategic imperative for long-term success.

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