From streamlined project management tools to a vibrant community platform, DesignSpark from RS South Africa empowers engineers of all skill levels to innovate, collaborate, and succeed. The comprehensive suite of resources and solutions is tailored to meet the diverse needs of professionals across industries.
It comprises a global community for students, pro-creators, and professional design engineers founded in 2010. With 1.4 million members across 193 countries, it provides various design resources. These include DesignSpark Mechanical, PCB and Circuit Simulator professional design CAD software, and SolidWorks Electrical through an affiliate partner.
A wealth of skills and learning materials are available, including tips, video tutorials, user guides, and grassroots education. It features extensive 2-D and 3-D CAD part libraries and a Product Design Centre, offering parts intelligence on a billion MPN part information, including compliance export, lifecycle, and alternatives.
“DesignSpark promotes responsible engineering and societal change through its Mission Responsible and Activist Engineering programmes,” explained Wesley Hood, education and social impact specialist at RS South Africa. It calls on engineers to engage in projects like the Environmental Sensor Development Kit, an open-source project developed by DesignSpark.
DesignSpark supports small SMEs and OEM companies with larger design teams across all industries, including healthcare, utilities, energy, communications, pharmaceutical, education, aerospace, defence, infrastructure, maintenance, and F&B.
Tools like DesignSpark PCB allow engineers to create schematics and layouts for electronic circuits with extensive libraries and a high degree of customisation. DesignSpark Mechanical is a 3-D CAD software that enables engineers to design mechanical components and assemblies, making it easy to use for quick prototyping and detailed design work.
The tools integrate well with other industry-standard software and services, making DesignSpark a valuable platform for engineers at all stages of their careers.
“OEMs are using DesignSpark as a supporting tool chain for proof-of-concept designs, rapid prototyping, and R&D tools. Start-ups and SMEs use DesignSpark as a primary tool chain for proof of concept and end design, and as a knowledge-sharing platform,” said Hood.
Universities and students also leverage the platform for resources, design activities, and reputation building. Engineers can access comprehensive tutorials, webinars, FAQs, and technical news, helping to escalate the design process and boost productivity.
DesignSpark boasts one of the largest global communities in this sector. “It offers members the opportunity to share ideas, projects, and solutions. They can ask questions of their peers through forums to gain expert help and project inspiration from application-based projects and content.”
Members also have access to premium content from leading suppliers and experts, such as the ‘Ask the Expert’ video series, providing the latest tech trends and product innovations from leading suppliers.
“DesignSpark continues to revolutionise engineering by providing cutting-edge tools, a supportive community, and educational resources, ensuring engineers can innovate and succeed across various industries,” concluded Hood.
