CAD – Simple. More efficient. Plan with Schüco CAD tools

CAD means Computer Aided Design – i.e. programs which can be used to create technical drawings and 2D or 3D models on the computer. It is important in metal fabrication because modern projects are very complex and require high precision. CAD can be used to digitally plan, visualise and check constructions before they are sent for fabrication. Specifiers can identify errors at an early stage, compare options and communicate more efficiently with customers and fabrication teams. Overall, CAD speeds up planning, improves quality of results and ensures a continuous flow of data from the design through to installation.

Schüco offers three CAD solutions: SchüCad basic, SchüCad next and ATHENA Complete |SE.

All three tools are seamlessly integrated into the Schüco software environment and cover different needs for beginners through to professionals.

SchüCad basic is the solid basis for precise 2D drawings and standard constructions, with an intuitive AutoCAD®-based interface and direct connection to SchüCal.

SchüCad next extends the available options to include 3D designs and additional professional functions – for example, it offers enhanced design commands, an extensive components library and even takes on complex 3D constructions from SchüCal (User-defined design).

ATHENA Complete |SE is a premium solution: a stand-along CAD program with the widest range of functions, including industry-specific tools (such as those for sheet metal processing, standard parts and building physics calculations) and fully integrated SchüCal interface.

SchüCal is the calculation and order system software from Schüco for window, door and façade units. It enables metal fabricators to plan and calculate Schüco systems quickly and precisely – including materials lists, structural analyses, glass dimensions and fabrication data. SchüCal is also directly linked to the Schüco CAD tools and forms the digital heart of the planning process.

The combination of SchüCal with a CAD tool from Schüco will significantly improve your planning processes. You will receive more precise and meaningful drawings that will help you to identify planning and fabrication errors at an early stage. In addition, you can visualise projects, which provides clear advantages in customer acquisition and coordination. You can make use of and build on existing CAD skills within your team. Overall, you will save time and create a continuous digital workflow – from the initial plans and fabrication through to installation.

Schüco CAD tools are specially tailored to metal fabrication and the Schüco range of systems, which is what makes it stand out from general CAD software. They offer direct interfaces with SchüCal and an integrated Schüco article library, which allows profiles and components to be transferred to the design without having to use a different medium. Unlike many standard solutions, with Schüco not only do you get software, but also extensive support, training and regular updates – all from a single source. What's more, the user interface is uniform across all Schüco CAD programs, which makes it easier to switch between tools and collaborate in a team.

SchüCad basic is perfect for metal fabrication companies looking for a simple, cost-effective introduction to CAD planning. The program is particularly attractive for smaller companies or CAD novices, as it offers intuitive, AutoCAD®-based operation and does not require additional knowledge of CAD. SchüCad basic can take care of all basic 2D design tasks and, thanks to the direct interface to SchüCal and the access to the Schüco article library, always has the latest system data.

It's worth upgrading SchüCad basic to SchüCad next as soon as your design tasks regularly require more than the standard functions. SchüCad next enables both 2D and 3D designs and is perfect if you need to design more complex geometries or create more detailed workshop plans. The direct connection to SchüCal (including the “User-defined design” 3D function) and enhanced commands will save you a great deal of time with demanding projects. If you have multiple CAD workstations or want to integrate additional tools such as AutoCAD® plug-ins and your own LISP programs, SchüCad next offers the flexibility you need.

No. SchüCad basic is a stand-alone, all-in-one CAD solution and does not require a separate AutoCAD® licence. SchüCad next can either be purchased as a complete package including AutoCAD® licence or integrated as an add-on in an existing AutoCAD® installation. In both cases, no additional purchase is necessary. ATHENA Complete |SE runs fully independently – with no need for an AutoCAD® or SchüCad licence.

ATHENA Complete |SE is aimed at metal fabrication and façade construction professionals with exacting standards in terms of precision and productivity. This premium CAD solution is specially designed for complex projects and offers an enormous range of functions – from enhanced design commands and a special standard parts library through to integrated tools for sheet metal processing, 3D designs and building physics calculations.

It's worth upgrading SchüCad next to ATHENA Complete |SE whenever you need more functions and automation than what SchüCad next can offer. ATHENA has significantly enhanced design options – such as a special 3D sheet metal processing tool, which can be used to create precise 3D edges and output them as a circumference, section detail or 3D model. In addition, ATHENA offers a very extensive standard parts and components library (profiles, screws, anchors, etc. with stored materials and standards), so that all standard parts are available without additional downloads.

Yes, the Schüco CAD tools are suitable for both CAD novices and experienced users. All programs have a uniform, user-friendly interface and offer aids such as snap lines and prepared layer structures that help you get started. In addition, Schüco offers a wide range of support services. From free training and e-learning courses through to expert support, so that new users quickly gain confidence in using the software. Users with existing CAD knowledge will immediately feel at home too thanks to the familiar AutoCAD® environment of SchüCad basic and SchüCad next .