"What do you need from us?" is the first question on almost every project. The answer decides how fast we can start and how much modelling you pay for, so it is worth getting right.
The short answer: send the native CAD or a STEP file of the full assembly, a drawing with the key dimensions, and two or three photos of the real product. That covers most projects. The rest of this guide covers the details for each type of work.
CAD files, from best to worst
- Native SolidWorks files, where assemblies, part names and features come through intact. From other CAD systems, a STEP export works well.
- STEP (.step or .stp). The best neutral format. It keeps solid geometry and the assembly structure, and usually the part names.
- IGES or Parasolid (.igs, .x_t). Fine for geometry, but the assembly structure is sometimes lost.
- STL or OBJ. Mesh only. Usable for visuals of simple parts, but poor for simulation or for changing the design.
- No CAD at all. Drawings, photos or a physical sample also work. We model the product first, which adds time.
Send the full assembly rather than a folder of separate parts, because we need to know how the parts sit together. If the model contains confidential internals, remove them or send a simplified version. For visuals we only need what can be seen, and for simulation only what carries load.
For renders and animations
- The assembly CAD.
- Colours and finishes for each part, such as anodised, mill finish or black powder coat.
- Your brand colours and logo files.
- The installation manual, or the steps in the order an installer works on site.
- Two or three examples of images or videos you like.
- Where the result will be used: web, print or a trade-show screen. This sets the resolution.
For engineering simulation
- CAD of the parts and how they connect, including bolts and clamps.
- Materials and grades, such as the aluminium alloy and temper, or the steel grade.
- The loads: forces, pressures, wind and snow requirements, and the standards that apply in your markets.
- How the product is supported or fixed.
- What counts as a pass: an allowable stress, a deflection limit or a safety factor.
- Any test results you already have. They let us check the model against reality.
If you are not sure about the load cases, tell us where the product will be used and we will propose them for you to confirm.
For a configurator or web app
- The product list with part numbers.
- The option rules: what fits with what, and the minimum and maximum sizes.
- The calculation rules, such as spacing tables or how quantities are worked out.
- A price list, if prices will be shown.
- CAD of each component. Simplified models are fine.
- The website platform it will sit on, and who should receive quote requests.
How to send your files
Attach up to five files to the contact form: PDF drawings, photos, or a zip of your CAD files (STEP and native CAD files need to go inside the zip). You can also email them to hello@sheriscape.com. For very large assemblies, share a WeTransfer, Google Drive or Dropbox link, and zip the assembly folder so nothing goes missing. We sign NDAs on request: if you need one, tell us before you send anything.
Not sure what you have?
Send whatever you have and a few lines about the goal. We'll tell you within one business day what is missing, if anything.