PTC adds early-access AI program to Onshape

Key Takeaways

• PTC introduces Onshape Labs, an early-access program for AI-related capabilities within the Onshape cloud-native CAD and PDM platform
• Onshape Labs provides customers with access to developing functions, including AI Quick Render and Onshape to Isaac Sim workflows
• Future capabilities include AI Agents and Automation, Drawing Checker, and FeatureScript MCP Server
• Onshape Labs aims to support product development workflows with AI-enabled processes

Introduction to Onshape Labs

PTC has launched Onshape Labs, a pioneering program that offers early access to innovative AI-related capabilities within the Onshape cloud-native CAD and PDM platform. This initiative enables participating customers to explore and provide feedback on developing functions, which will eventually be made available to all users. The program is expected to expand later this summer, allowing users to opt-in through the Onshape "Preferences" settings under "Onshape Labs."

AI-Enabled Capabilities in Onshape Labs

Onshape Labs currently features two key capabilities:

• AI Quick Render: a prompt-based generation of renderings, allowing users to quickly create high-quality visualizations
• Onshape to Isaac Sim workflows: a seamless integration with NVIDIA Isaac Sim, an open robotics simulation framework, enabling the import of CAD assets and simulation-ready visualization for robotics teams

Upcoming Capabilities in Onshape Labs

The following capabilities are expected to be released soon:

• AI Agents and Automation: designed to perform tasks, enforce standards, and operate alongside engineers with user visibility and control
• Drawing Checker: an AI-powered validator that checks whether drawings conform to standards
• FeatureScript MCP Server: a framework for Text-to-Code-to-CAD workflows, enabling prompt-based CAD geometry creation and CAD customization

Comparison of Onshape Labs Capabilities

Conclusion

Onshape Labs represents a significant step forward in the integration of AI into product development workflows. By providing early access to innovative capabilities, PTC is empowering customers to shape the future of product design and development. With its cloud-native architecture and AI-enabled processes, Onshape is poised to support manufacturers and product companies in building a product data foundation, extending product data use, and shortening development cycles.

Bottom Line

The introduction of Onshape Labs marks a major milestone in the evolution of product development software. By leveraging AI and machine learning, Onshape is poised to revolutionize the way products are designed, developed, and manufactured. With its focus on innovation and customer feedback, PTC is committed to delivering cutting-edge solutions that support the complex needs of modern product development.