Design Futures

This article focuses on developing a pen-like device that is expected to soon take the place of the computer mouse. John Hirschtick of SolidWorks expects to see touchscreens and other means of communicating with computers—now familiar in ATM machines, iPhones, and Wii game systems—make their way into more computer interfaces, including those for CAD. Engineers might draw on the screen with a pen-based input or might use a haptic device to feel as though they are grabbing the model to manipulate it. The Internet has spawned companies like Quickparts.com and MFG.com, which have changed the way manufacturers can buy parts. Under the model envisioned by Jakiela, independent mechanical engineers would band together to work on a project through an Internet site. Jakiela is also looking at how to best build a prototype when all design-team members are part of an ad hoc team.