KeyCreator is a commercial software application for 2D and 3D computer-aided design (CAD) and drafting available since 2004.

History

KeyCreator is a non-parametric, non-history based, "direct" 2D/3D solid modeling CAD program. Originally known as CADKEY,^[1] it was first released in 1984, running on DOS, UNIX and Microsoft Windows operating systems. It was among the first CAD programs^[2] with 3D capabilities for personal computers. Besides solid modeling, KeyCreator is also capable of wire-frame and surface modeling, as well as simple 2D drafting.

Design

File formats and versions

KeyCreator’s native file format is .ckd.

Languages

KeyCreator is available for English, German, French, Italian, Spanish, Japanese, and Brazilian Portuguese.^[3][4]

Extensions

KeyCreator is capable of translating and editing the following file formats from other CAD software:^[5]

• AutoCAD’s .dwg, .dxf
• Autodesk Inventor’s .ipt, .iam
• CADKEY’s .prt, .ptn, .cdl, .ckd, .prt
• Catia’s .mod, .model, .CATproduct, .CATpart
• SolidWorks’ .SLDprt, .SLDASM
• Pro/Engineer’s .prt, .asm
• Creo Elements’ .prt
• Siemens NX’s .prt, .x t, .x b
• Unigraphics’ .prt
• Neutral formats such as STEP .stp, IGES .igs, Parasolid .x_t, and ACIS .sat
• Stereolithography (for 3D printing) .stl

Add-On Software

KeyCreator has several additional software options for varying functions.

• KeyCreator Machinist is a 2 and 3 axis CAM solution for Mold, die & tooling, wood working, rapid prototyping and general machining.^[6]
• KeyCreator Analysis aids in the initial design phase to test products against different possible stresses.^[7]
• KeyCreator Artisan allows 3D models to be turned into photorealistic renderings.^[8]
• KeyMarkUp is a standalone viewer that allows most CAD files to be viewed and printed for brochures and other marketing purposes.^[9]
• ECO Manager is CAD comparison software that documents changes between revisions.^[10]
• Validation Tool provides a mathematical comparison between two similar or different CAD models to ensure data integrity is maintained during a translation or data migration process.^[11] Validation Tool also has a version specifically to meet Boeing’s D6-51991 Requirements for Boeing’s suppliers.^[12][13]
• Spectrum is a CAD viewer for reviewing 3D models and drawings.^[14]

Designed with KeyCreator

Aero Tec Laboratories used KeyCreator to design crash resistant, nonexploding fuel-bladder tanks for aircraft, race cars, and performance boats. They have made custom bladder tanks for NASCAR, Ferrari, Boeing, Lockheed, NASA and the U.S. Military.^[15]

See also

• CADKEY