From SOLIDWORKS AI to Smart Manufacturing: engineering highlights from SWID27 Penang, featuring AI-assisted design, additive manufacturing, professional workstations and digital manufacturing applications.
On Tuesday, 27 October 2026, CADVision Systems welcomed engineers, designers, manufacturers, customers and technology partners to SOLIDWORKS Innovation Day 2027 (SWID27) Penang at Lin Xiang Xiong Art Gallery. Held from 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM, the event brought the engineering community together to explore the SOLIDWORKS SUPERCHARGED theme and the technologies shaping product development and manufacturing.
Across the programme, speakers connected AI-assisted design and documentation with professional 3D printing, engineering workstations, 3D CAD navigation and AI-powered digital manufacturing. The day also included a sustainability-focused partnership announcement, SOLIDWORKS certification recognition, interactive booth challenges and opportunities to connect with the people behind the technologies.
Engineering AI: From Design Assistance to Engineering Outcomes
In his welcome remarks, Adrian Khor, CEO of CADVision Systems, placed AI within the wider evolution of engineering technology - from 2D drafting and 3D design to product lifecycle management, cloud platforms and digital twins. His message focused on the role of AI in modelling, product knowledge and virtual exploration, while reinforcing that reliable information, engineering fundamentals and human judgement remain essential to good engineering decisions.
William Lee, AP South CRE Sales Director at Dassault Systèmes, continued the discussion with the SOLIDWORKS SUPERCHARGED keynote. He traced the evolution of SOLIDWORKS AI from design assistance and predicting a user's next action towards completing more complex engineering tasks. The presentation introduced purpose-built Virtual Companions - Marie for scientific knowledge, Leo for engineering problem-solving and Aura for broader enterprise and web knowledge - while emphasising that engineers remain responsible for requirements, constraints, manufacturability and validation.
The central idea was not to replace engineering judgement, but to give engineers more time for higher-value work: define the intent, set guardrails, evaluate trade-offs and take ownership of the final outcome. The keynote also highlighted trust, security and data handling as foundations for useful AI in engineering workflows.
3D Printing for Faster Jigs, Fixtures and Manufacturing Tooling
Chevy Kok, Vice President of UltiMaker APAC, brought additive manufacturing into a practical production context through Designed Smart, Made Fast - Smarter & Faster Jigs, Fixtures, Tooling with UltiMaker & SOLIDWORKS. The session showed how manufacturers can design custom tooling in SOLIDWORKS and produce suitable jigs, fixtures and production aids in-house with professional 3D printing, reducing the distance between a manufacturing need and a usable tool.
The case studies included welding jigs, automotive assembly fixtures, wheel-protection jigs and conveyor-line tools. In one welding-jig example, the comparison presented showed the welding cycle reduced from 30 minutes to 5 minutes, while the listed lead time changed from two weeks to 8 hours. These were application-specific results, but they illustrated the potential of producing selected tools on demand. Material choice, fit, loads and safety still need to be validated for each use.
AI Development and Engineering Workstations with Lenovo
Benjamin Lim, Regional Business Development Senior Manager at Lenovo, explored the workstation requirements behind demanding technical workloads. The session covered why workstations are designed for applications such as 3D mechanical design, engineering simulation, computational fluid dynamics, visualisation, animation and rendering, before introducing Lenovo's ThinkStation P Series and ThinkPad P Series portfolios.
A key highlight was the ThinkStation PGX, presented as an accessible entry point for AI development that can scale alongside a customer's needs. Lenovo also covered workstation software solutions, including Lenovo Performance Tuner, which helps allocate system resources and manage application profiles for workloads such as CAD, rendering and simulation. The session reinforced the value of matching workstation capability and software configuration to the work engineers actually perform.
A More Natural 3D CAD Workflow with 3Dconnexion
Sajeesh Daniel Baby, Sales and Marketing Director, APJC at 3Dconnexion, introduced the company's professional input devices and the two-handed work approach. By using a SpaceMouse for 3D navigation alongside a conventional 2D mouse for selection and commands, designers can move around models more naturally while keeping both hands engaged in the workflow.
The presentation referenced a Fraunhofer ergonomic evaluation reporting up to 28% faster work when using a SpaceMouse alongside a 2D mouse, as well as a 28.6% reduction in hand movements. It also discussed posture and the distribution of workload across both hands, positioning 3D navigation as a way to improve interaction with 3D models and the day-to-day working experience of CAD professionals. These figures were cited as findings from the referenced evaluation, not guaranteed outcomes for every user or workflow.
What's New in SOLIDWORKS 2027 and SOLIDWORKS AI in Action
Suba Cheancyaraa and Jennie Tan from CADVision Systems brought the latest software developments into the design workflow with What's New in SOLIDWORKS 2027 & SOLIDWORKS AI in Action. Their session covered collaboration updates, AI-assisted design tasks, part and drawing enhancements, assembly performance and simulation improvements - showing how new capabilities can support work across different stages of product development.
- Collaboration: real-time content co-editing and live notifications to help teams stay aware of concurrent design changes.
- AI-assisted design: natural-language sheet-metal nesting and editable exploded-view generation.
- Design and assembly productivity: updates to sheet-metal features, background drawing updates, family tables, assembly variability tables, hardware pattern assistance and fastener simplification.
- Simulation: enhancements to structural and flow simulation, including gradual bolt preloads, spring connector support, automatic sealing for internal flow and component temperature exploration.
Together, these updates showed how CAD tools continue to evolve beyond geometry creation, supporting collaboration, documentation, design exploration and engineering analysis within connected product-development workflows.
From CAM Excellence to AI-Powered Digital Manufacturing
Albert Loh, Senior Territory Technical Manager at SolidCAM, presented From CAM Excellence to AI-Powered Digital Manufacturing. The session positioned CAM as part of a wider manufacturing ecosystem, connecting SOLIDWORKS-integrated CNC programming with shop-floor data, monitoring and AI-assisted decision support.
The presentation outlined three stages: SolidCAM ChatBot for searchable, multilingual knowledge support; WizChat, using SolidShop data to analyse machine monitoring and ERP/MES plan-versus-actual information; and SolidCAM Copilot, an embedded assistant that can suggest machining strategies, operations, tools and process templates. The principle was clear: AI can recommend and assist, while the programmer remains in control and approves the final machining process.
By connecting CAM data, shop-floor monitoring and manufacturing intelligence, the SolidCAM vision presented a closed loop from programming to machine execution and operational insight - helping teams identify bottlenecks, understand utilisation and make better-informed production decisions.
MoU Signing Ceremony: Connecting Engineering Innovation with Sustainability
SWID27 Penang also marked a collaboration between CADVision Systems and Global Hemisphere Group through a Memorandum of Understanding under the theme Advancing Sustainability Through Engineering Innovation. The partnership brings together engineering technology and sustainability expertise to support customers across the product lifecycle.
The collaboration reflects the growing importance of considering sustainability earlier in product development. By connecting engineering decisions with lifecycle and ESG perspectives, the partnership aims to help businesses explore ways to embed sustainability into product development and their wider transformation journeys.
CSWPA-Sheet Metal Certificate:
Recognising SOLIDWORKS Skills and Engineering Achievement
The event also recognised users who achieved the CSWPA - Sheet Metal certification, celebrating the practical SOLIDWORKS skills and knowledge demonstrated by professionals from Cytron Technologies, ViTrox Agritech, Ametek Engineered Materials and Boontech Engineering. The recognition highlighted the value of continued learning and specialist design capability within Malaysia's engineering community.
Technology Beyond the Presentations: Booth Exploration &
SUPERCHARGE THE POWER Challenges
Beyond the keynote sessions, attendees were invited to explore partner solutions, speak with specialists and take part in the SUPERCHARGE THE POWER Challenge. Participants visited activity stations, completed missions and collected progress as they explored the event. CADVision Systems' experience points included Supercharge Your Growth, Simulate. Print. Prove. and the SOLIDWORKS AI Challenge Booth.
Our exhibition area gave attendees time to speak directly with specialists and explore technologies beyond the presentation stage.
- UltiMaker for professional 3D printing and manufacturing tooling.
- SolidCAM for integrated CAM, CNC programming and iMachining.
- 3Dconnexion for professional 3D navigation and CAD input devices.
- CADVision Systems for SOLIDWORKS design, PDM, simulation, manufacturing, training and support.
The challenge created a more hands-on way to engage with engineering technologies, while the booth area gave visitors time to ask questions about software, manufacturing applications, training and implementation. Winners were recognised across the SUPERCHARGE THE POWER, Simulate. Print. Prove. and SOLIDWORKS AI challenges.
Lucky Draw, Customer Merchandise and an Experience Beyond the Conference
The programme also included a lucky draw supported by event partners, bringing a lighter moment to the technical programme. Attendees had opportunities to win partner-supported gifts, while a separate Malaysia-wide UltiMaker draw offered eligible attendees a chance to win a Sketch Sprint 3D Printer, with the winner scheduled to be announced at SWID27 Johor Bahru on 18 November 2026.
CADVision Systems also prepared exclusive customer merchandise for Gold and Platinum customers, alongside a complimentary gallery entry ticket for attendees. Hosted at Lin Xiang Xiong Art Gallery, the event connected engineering and technology with art and creativity, inviting guests to enjoy the gallery on the day or return within 90 days.
Thank You to Our Sponsors and Partners
SWID27 Penang was made possible with the support of our sponsors and partners. CADVision Systems extends its appreciation to:
- Dassault Systèmes - Co-organiser and Platinum Sponsor.
- MONTIGO - Platinum Sponsor and Official Merchandise Partner.
- UltiMaker - Platinum Sponsor.
- SolidCAM and SolidProfessor - Silver Sponsors.
- Lenovo - Supporting Hardware Partner and Official Hardware Partner.
- 3Dconnexion - Supporting Partner.
We also thank Global Hemisphere Group for joining CADVision Systems in the sustainability-focused MOU signing, and every speaker, customer, exhibitor and attendee who contributed to the event.
Frequently Asked Questions: SOLIDWORKS AI, Engineering and Manufacturing
What is SOLIDWORKS Innovation Day 2027 (SWID27)?
SOLIDWORKS Innovation Day 2027 (SWID27) is CADVision Systems' annual engineering and manufacturing technology event, bringing together engineers, manufacturers, technology partners and industry experts. Under the SOLIDWORKS SUPERCHARGED theme, SWID27 explores how collaboration, artificial intelligence and engineering expertise can improve product development and manufacturing workflows. The Penang edition, held on 27 October 2026 at Lin Xiang Xiong Art Gallery, featured SOLIDWORKS 2027, engineering AI, professional 3D printing, AI development workstations, 3D CAD navigation, CAM automation, sustainability and engineering skills development.
What is SOLIDWORKS AI and what are its main capabilities?
SOLIDWORKS AI is Dassault Systèmes' Industrial AI technology integrated into engineering and design workflows. It became globally available in July 2026 and is included with SOLIDWORKS Design 2027. Its introduction in Malaysia was announced by Dassault Systèmes on 8 October 2026. Rather than serving only as a general-purpose chatbot, SOLIDWORKS AI is designed to understand engineering context and assist with practical design tasks.
Its highlighted capabilities include natural-language engineering assistance, finding product knowledge, generating and modifying models, AI-assisted drawing creation, assembly instruction generation, design change analysis, macro generation and converting imported B-Rep geometry into editable parametric models. The wider 3DEXPERIENCE Virtual Companion ecosystem introduces three specialised AI companions: AURA for enterprise and business knowledge, LEO for engineering and design problem-solving, and MARIE for scientific knowledge. Engineers remain responsible for defining requirements, checking constraints and validating design outcomes.
How can AI improve manufacturing and CNC machining?
AI can support manufacturing through technical knowledge retrieval, machining strategy recommendations, CNC programming assistance and production data analysis. In digital manufacturing, AI-assisted CAM can help programmers generate machining operations, select suitable tools and review process parameters, while manufacturing intelligence can help identify production bottlenecks and monitor machine performance.
At SWID27 Penang, SolidCAM introduced three AI-related capabilities: SolidCAM ChatBot for searchable manufacturing knowledge, WizChat for analysing SolidShop machine-monitoring information and ERP/MES plan-versus-actual data, and SolidCAM Copilot for assisting with machining strategies, operations, tools and process templates. These capabilities support the connection between CAM programming and shop-floor operations, while CNC programmers retain control over simulation, verification and final production approval.
How can professional 3D printing reduce manufacturing costs and lead times?
Professional 3D printing, also known as additive manufacturing, allows manufacturers to produce customised jigs, fixtures, assembly aids and production tooling directly from 3D CAD models. Instead of relying entirely on conventionally manufactured or outsourced tools, suitable production aids can be designed and printed closer to the shop floor, supporting faster iterations and on-demand tooling.
At SWID27 Penang, UltiMaker demonstrated practical applications including welding jigs, automotive assembly fixtures, wheel-protection jigs and conveyor-line tools. One welding-jig case study showed a reduction in welding time from 30 minutes to 5 minutes per product, while the reported tooling lead time decreased from two weeks to eight hours. Results depend on the application, material selection, design requirements and production environment.
What is the difference between CAD and CAM in manufacturing?
Computer-Aided Design (CAD) is used to create and develop digital product models, including parts, assemblies and engineering drawings. Computer-Aided Manufacturing (CAM) uses design geometry and manufacturing information to prepare machining strategies, toolpaths and CNC programmes for production.
Solutions such as SOLIDWORKS and SolidCAM connect product design with CNC machining workflows, allowing engineering teams to move from 3D modelling to machining preparation within an integrated environment. This connection helps maintain design intent, reduce manual data transfer and support more coordinated manufacturing processes.
Thank You for Being Part of SWID27 Penang
CADVision Systems would like to thank our speakers, sponsors, partners, customers and every attendee who joined us at Lin Xiang Xiong Art Gallery. Your questions, participation and conversations helped make SWID27 Penang a valuable opportunity to exchange ideas and explore the future of engineering and manufacturing.
From AI-assisted design and 3D printing to digital manufacturing and sustainability, the sessions showed how technology and engineering expertise can work together to address real challenges. We look forward to continuing these conversations and supporting the engineering community across Malaysia.
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