PTC announced that it has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire CoCreate Software GmbH, a provider of PLM and CAD modeling solutions for approximately $250 million. CoCreate, based in Sindelfingen, Germany, is privately held, has 280 employees and more than 5,000 customers globally including Agilent, Canon, Fisher Controls, Fujitsu, HP, Liebherr, Matsushita Electric, NEC, Olympus, Phoenix Contact and Seiko Epson.

With the acquisition of CoCreate, PTC will broaden its portfolio and offer support for the most comprehensive range of modeling techniques in the MCAD industry. PTC plans to integrate the CoCreate modeling solutions with the PTC Product Development System (PDS) in order to offer CoCreate customers additional product development capabilities including engineering calculations, dynamic publishing, visualization, high-speed machining, and enterprise content and process management, and ultimately, the option of using their modeling solutions also as part of the PTC PDS.

With revenue of approximately $80 million and substantial non-GAAP operating margins in the last twelve months, PTC expects the acquisition will be accretive to non-GAAP earnings and operating margins in the second quarter of fiscal 2008. Due to the lower level of deferred maintenance revenue that PTC will be permitted to record under purchase accounting as compared to the level of deferred maintenance revenue recorded by CoCreate, PTC expects that the acquisition will be dilutive to GAAP EPS in 2008, but accretive to GAAP EPS in 2009 and beyond. The acquisition is expected to close in December 2007, subject to customary conditions including regulatory approval.

"PTC is dedicated to providing product development organizations with the solutions that they need to be successful in an incredibly competitive global marketplace," said C. Richard Harrison, president and CEO of PTC. "As experts in product development, we are constantly evaluating technologies that address the business challenges of our customers. This acquisition is compelling as it enhances PTC's product portfolio while also contributing in a meaningful way to earnings and operating margin. The satisfaction of CoCreate's customers will be a major focus for PTC. We are committed to protecting and enhancing the investment that these customers have made in CoCreate solutions and we plan to also offer additional complementary PTC solutions in order to bring them even more value."

With this acquisition, PTC embraces all the accepted approaches to modeling - parametric, explicit, derived and 2D. Any of these modeling techniques combined with the PTC PDS offers customers a competitive advantage unmatched by any other vendor in the industry.

"The combination of PTC and CoCreate products will enable PTC to offer the manufacturing industry the flexibility to select the most appropriate modeling software for their business requirements from a financially secure, trusted worldwide product development technology leader," said Jim Heppelmann, executive vice president and chief product officer of PTC. "Each modeling approach has its own advantages, and only PTC will have an objective view that allows us to map the appropriate modeling approach to a given customer situation, yet encase that modeling approach in a full product development system. In line with industry trends, we expect the majority of our modeling business will continue to come from our flagship parametric solution, Pro/ENGINEER. CoCreate customers who prefer explicit modeling will now have a complete product development system as a viable option."

"Offering high quality products that deliver significant customer value has always been a key tenet of CoCreate's business strategy," said William M. Gascoigne, CEO, CoCreate. "PTC's plan to support and further develop CoCreate solutions as well as provide an integration to PTC's product development system will provide our customers with additional technology choices, and even greater opportunities for product development success."

PTC plans to finance the acquisition and related expenses with a combination of $50 million of cash and $210 million of debt from its existing credit facility. Wachovia Securities acted as exclusive financial adviser to PTC in the transaction. CoCreate is a portfolio company affiliated with HBK Capital Management.


Commentary By Jeffrey Rowe, Editor

With this announcement the consolidation of the MCAD industry marches on. Is it a good or bad thing? It depends on how you look at it, and it’s not necessarily one or the other, and will likely prove to be a bit of both.

I find it somewhat ironic that PTC, with its strong legacy in parametrics, would acquire a company whose design philosophy in some respects goes counter to PTC’s, although it does espouse a major trend occurring in the MCAD industry – a non-history-based methodology and direct editing, something that CoCreate calls Dynamic Modeling.

With the acquisition, PTC actually acquired the CoCreate OneSpace suite consisting of the following three modules:
• CoCreate One Space Modeling – the core 3D modeling application
• CoCreate One Space Model Manager – for product data management
• CoCreate One Space.net – a Web-based collaborative project workspace

CoCreate also has a number of add-on modules, such as Advanced Design, Cabling, Mold Base, mySAP PLM integration, and eDrawings; as well as add-on products from its partners.

Underlying everything else, however, is CoCreate’s non-history-based modeling approach. History, of course has its place, but a history-based approach to 3D modeling is not for everybody, and CoCreate’s loyal customer base is testimony to this. However, a non-history-based approach is not exactly exclusive to CoCreate OneSpace Modeling – Kubotek’s KeyCreator, UGS’ NX5, and IronCAD also are also proponents. A history-based approach is what most parametric modelers (such as SolidWorks, Autodesk Inventor, and Pro/ENGINEER) employ, but it’s not always the best way to go. History-based systems use a history tree to track and replay 2D profiles and modeling steps for generating and modifying 3D geometry. The main drawback is that each step in the history is dependent upon the profile and modeling step that came before it.

A non-history based approach can be suited for manufacturers that change a lot of designs late in the design process, so they are not bound by the constraints and complications that a history tree can impose. Also, a non-history-based system can make data import easier, since you don’t have to worry about the overhead and burden of dealing with a history tree from a different system. Neutral file formats, such as IGES and STEP, are for all intents and purposes, native data to CoCreate OneSpace Modeling. This eliminates the cost penalty for legacy data originating from another system.

So, while the non-history-based approach may not be for everybody, it definitely does have its place. However, the opposite is also true.

CoCreate is the latest in a long series of acquisitions that PTC has made over the years that have included Computervision, Mechanica,Arbortext, Mathcad, among many others. This is not what most observers would say is an organic way to grow, and the results of the various acquisitions have varied all over the place – some have been successful and some have been disasters. Among the biggest problems associated with some of the acquisitions is that they were not very well integrated into the PTC product family, so often bore little resemblance to other PTC products with regard to UI look, feel, and behavior.

Another issue to note in all of the acquisition hubbub is the fact that PTC has recently made some considerable staff cuts, including positions in R&D, marketing and tech support, and will probably continue to so until costs come more into line with its revenue goals.

How will CoCreate fare after the acquisition? That’s very difficult to predict at this point. It’s interesting to note that while PTC has a lot of cash in the bank, it chose to put out only $50 million of the $250 million up front for CoCreate and finance the rest. With sales in the neighborhood of $80 million, did PTC make a wise decision? Again, that’s hard to determine. Only time will tell if CoCreate can fit in to the PTC mix and whether the two distinctly different product lines and corporate cultures can coexist. Will the relative incompatibility of the product lines come back to haunt PTC as it has with some of its past acquisitions? It will be interesting to see which, if either, one ultimately wins – CoCreate’s dynamic, non-history-based modeling; PTC’s explicit (the term that PTC is using for dynamic modeling since the acquisition announcement), parametric technique; or an optional choice between the two. Hey, other companies do it, so why not PTC? As with everything else in the increasingly competitive MCAD marketplace, the market will dictate the direction with what it accepts and purchases. The acquisition will give customers of both product lines options they did not have before, so early on, the deal looks good for both of the parties concerned.


The Week’s Top 5

At MCADCafé we track many things, including the stories that have attracted the most interest from our subscribers. Below are the five news items that were the most viewed during last week.

Cray Introduces Next-Generation Supercomputers
Cray Inc. launched the Cray XT5 family of supercomputers, marking a step toward Cray's vision of adaptive supercomputing. Incorporating all the capabilities of the Cray XT line, the Cray XT5 massively parallel processor (MPP) system includes a new compute blade that quadruples local memory capacity, doubles processor density, and improves energy efficiency. For continuing scalability, the Cray XT5 family also includes an integrated hybrid supercomputer, the Cray XT5h system. With new programming paradigms and processor technologies, the Cray XT5h system optimizes application efficiency and helps customers tackle problems that cannot currently be solved on a single architecture system. Cray XT5 Supercomputer. The company claims that the Cray XT5 system is the world's most scalable Linux-based supercomputer. It combines sustained application performance with manageability, lower cost of ownership and broad application and tools support to large supercomputer class machines. With the Cray XT5 system as its foundation, the Cray XT5h supercomputer integrates multiple processor architectures with a complete software development environment into a single system supporting diverse workflows. The Cray XT5h system couples scalar processing capability with high memory-bandwidth vector processing and reconfigurable co-processing using field programmable gate array (FPGA) technology, establishing a new paradigm in high performance computing (HPC).

SolidProfessor Releases Advanced Surfacing For SolidWorks 2008
SolidProfessor has released its self-paced multimedia course on Advanced Surfacing for SolidWorks 2008. Advanced Surfacing 2008 teaches users how to apply surfacing tools, as well as solid modeling and sketching techniques to achieve complex, free-form shapes. The course steps through the creation of four distinct complex models in detail. Each exercise introduces the user to different techniques aimed at producing complex faces, smooth blends, and aesthetic geometry. Features covered include Splines, Boundary Surfaces, Ruled Surfaces, Fill Surfaces, Intersection Curves, The Freeform Feature, Sweeps, and Lofts. Matt Lombard, known for writing the SolidWorks Bible, was the primary author of Advanced Surfacing 2008. SolidWorks Advanced Surfacing 2008 is available directly from SolidProfessor and through some SolidWorks resellers. The single user retail price is $399 with volume discounts for multi-user implementations.

NEW KUBOTEK SOFTWARE VALIDATES AND COMPARES 3D CAD MODELS
Kubotek USA introduced the Kubotek Validation Tool which assures manufactures that two revisions of the same CAD model, which visually appear the same, truly are geometrically identical. This product performs a critical test for manufacturers who rely on 3D models as product specifications. Adding this step to the process of sharing 3D CAD data can prevent costly errors resulting from unintentional edits or translation errors when a model is passed between engineering groups. The report generation capabilities of the software include simple pass-fail indicators, a tamper-proof validation certificate, and a detailed listing of any differences found. The first set of tests using Kubotek Validation Tool engages Kubotek’s Face Logic technology to analyze the actual geometric data types found in solid models based on a specified tolerance. Additional tests compare mass properties results and count geometry and topology.

Samsung Electronics Standardizes on PTC Windchill
PTC announced that Samsung Electronics Co. (SEC), a manufacturer of mobile phones, televisions and semiconductors, has selected PTC Windchill as its digital product development data repository to manage an integrated BOM of mechanical, electrical, and software data across its globally distributed product development environment. Windchill is the standard enterprise PLM solution at SEC because of its Web-based support of key product development processes on a single technology architecture and execution environment. SEC first adopted 4,500 seats of Windchill PDMLink in 2002 for the collaborative development of molds and printed circuit boards. Windchill PDMLink, a core component of the PTC Product Development System (PDS), provides SEC with an engineering information exchange environment for product specifications, drawings and change management with its extended supply chain. The company also has expanded its Windchill implementation to its LCD division.

SpaceClaim Professional 2007+ Extends CAD Interoperability
SpaceClaim Corp. announced the newest release of its flagship product, SpaceClaim Professional 2007+. The software provides advanced file open and modification capabilities for concept design, engineering analysis and manufacturing. SpaceClaim Professional 2007+ major enhancements include the ability to open, modify and create sheet metal parts, work with lightweight assemblies, drive 3D modifications via 2D sections, add and modify driving dimensions, and supports integration with CAD-neutral partner applications. ECAD Integration supports data exchange with ECAD systems for printed circuit board design. IDF and Mentor PADS file formats can be imported, automatically generating 3D board and component models. Components can be visually checked for interference and 3D models are available for stress or thermal analysis. The 2007+ release includes support for Adobe Acrobat 3D Version 8 file format. The latest release supports integration with ANSYS Gambit and ANSYS Workbench products. Both applications can be launched from within SpaceClaim, and the model automatically exported to the application for pre-processing and analysis. SpaceClaim Professional 2007+ supports open, modify, and save of the Rhinocerous file format (.3dm). A Development API is provided with SpaceClaim Professional 2007+ for clients to integrate their internal applications. SpaceClaim Professional 2007+ was scheduled to be released on 15 November 2007. The SpaceClaim product line includes: SpaceClaim Professional 2007+ with complimentary Home Edition, 3D Data Exchange products (includes Rhino import/export), Sheet metal Module, ECAD Integration Module, JT Open Data Exchange, CATIA V5 data exchange, and the SpaceClaim standard parts library.

Jeffrey Rowe is the editor of MCADCafé and MCAD Weekly Review. He can be reached at Email Contact or 408.850.9230.


This Week

Lead Story

PTC to Acquire CoCreate

Product and Company News

HighRes Expands Operations to Benefit Customers
3D Systems Bundles Alibre Design with its V-Flash Desktop Modeler
Dassault Systemes' ENOVIA SmarTeam Announces 5000th Customer
Invention Machine Launches Goldfire 4.5
CATI and Seemage Announce Strategic Alliance
IRONCAD V10 Released
Storm-Safe, Designed in SolidWorks, Reduces Damage and Risk
Toyota and Maplesoft Enter Multi-Year Partnership
Bouldin & Lawson Cultivates a Green Approach with SolidWorks
Lattice Technology Releases XVL Plug-in for Adobe Acrobat 3D
CoCreate Software Announces 2008 Design Competition
ANSYS Reports Continued Growth Momentum That Results in Strongest Third Quarter in Company's History, Driven By Organic Revenue Growth
EMA Bridges Mechanical and Electrical Design for a Complete Product Development System
CAD-ERP Data Integration System for Microsoft Dynamics Now Supports SolidWorks 2008
Spatial Delivers R18 of Its 3D Software Component Portfolio
CD-adapco Releases STAR-CCM+ V2.10
Daimler Beats Economic and Environmental Constraints with PLM Solutions from IBM and Dassault Systemes
FISHER/UNITECH and Seemage Form Strategic Partnership
Noran Engineering Selected by Empirical Systems Aerospace as Nastran Solution Provider
SMBs Execute Global Product Development Initiatives with Windchill
Delta Galil Selects PTC To Cut Lead Time
Chikuma Seiki Adopts the CoCreate OneSpace Suite
PTC Launches Its "Redefining Innovation" Design Contest
MSC.Software Corporation Wins IBM Information Management Award for Information Management Solution Excellence
Stratasys Reports Record Third Quarter Financial Results
MSC.Software Reports Financial Results for Q3
3D Systems Reports Record Revenue and Improved Operating Results for Third Quarter and First Nine Months 2007
Arena Solutions Reports Q3 Successful Bookings
Delcam software helps speed development of motorcycle accessories
Moldflow Reports First Quarter Fiscal 2008 Results
ITI TranscenData Announces Web Site Re-Launch
Delcam adds CAM Manager to knowledge-based dental machining system
TopSolid’Wood - A real CAD/CAM solution for the wood industry
Mastercam’s Multimedia Section on Web
ARXAN ANNOUNCES GuardIT FOR MICROSOFT .NET FRAMEWORK
Jeweler Reports Success with Delcam's ArtCAM Pro
New Book from Oaklea Press Details Breakthrough in Lean Manufacturing
Arena Chooses Lectra to Achieve Higher Performance
Materialise Launches Lawsuit for Patent Infringement

Related MCAD News

HP Delivers High-performance Computing Technologies to Speed Customers' Research and Design Efforts
IBM Helps Clients Modernize Applications on the Mainframe
IHS and SAP Launch New Master Data Management Solution
HP Drives Growing Worldwide Adoption of Workstation Technology, Unveils Two Quad-core Models
Visteon Announces Third Quarter 2007 Results
POPULAR MECHANICS Names Winners of 2008 Automotive Excellence Awards
HP Places Two Systems in Top Five of TOP500 Supercomputer List
EDS Reports 2007 Third Quarter Results
Invention Machine Debuts Podcast Series on Sustainable Innovation
Adept Technology Extends Robotics Distribution Into Brazil
Adept Technology Selected as Exclusive Robotics Partner for Innovative Electronics Assembly Machine
Adept Technology Reports Q1 2008 Results

Industry Events

SAMTECH Conference On Predicting Wind Turbine Dynamic Loads
3D SCANNING 2008 CONFERENCE CALL FOR SPEAKERS
Siemens PLM Software Announces 2007 Digital Manufacturing Symposium
Seminars on Streamlining the path from CAD Assembly Data to CAE Simulations
ESPRIT 2008 and ESPRIT Mold v9, by DP Technology, on display at Mori Seiki’s Die and Mold Solutions Fair, Paris, France, Nov. 13-16
PTC To Host High-Speed Machining Seminar
SURFCAM Velocity Powered by TrueMill Showing at Pacific Coast Machine Expo 2007, in Santa Clara, CA
Special Report: Blown Away in San Francisco - Cool Stuff at the HP/Intel Worldwide Quad-core Event
PTC to Speak at Upcoming Investor Conferences
ESPRIT 2008, by DP Technology, to be exhibited at Educatec, Paris, France, Nov. 21-23
Mentor Graphics Announces Speaker Lineup of the 6th Integrated Electrical Solutions Forum for the Automotive Industry
ESPRIT 2008 and Mold v9, by DP Technology, on display at Soluzioni di Meccanica, Piacenza, Italy, Nov. 15-17
Sescoi’s WorkNC G3 complements Mori Seiki ‘Pure Technology’ in Paris
Gibbs Software Demonstrated at MAG Fadal Open House
NAFEMS UK Conference 2008 - Call for Papers
Cimatron Brings Mold Making Solutions to Euromold
GibbsCAM demonstrated at Haas Demo Days
Avatech Solutions to Report First Quarter 2008 Results and Hold Conference Call on November 14
KETIV Technologies Hosts User Group
ASCON to present KOMPAS-3D V9 at EuroMold 2007
Integrated NEiNastran/FEMAP Linear Analysis Training Class - December 3rd - 7th
Autodesk Extends Invitation to Join its Third Quarter Fiscal 2008 Financial Results Conference Call on Thursday, November 15th at 2:00 p.m. Pacific Time
3D Systems to Present at the AeA Classic Financial Conference

Corporate Newsletters

Autodesk Manufacturing Community Update - October 30, 2007
New Dimensions - Focus on Pro/ENGINEER Users - Issue # 6
Aras Community Newsletter - October 2007
CEI Newsletter - October 2007
Tacton News - October 2007 - Automate Custom CAD Models and More
EGS India Launches Product Design Newsletter