It is a highly risky operation to transport up to 42,000 pounds of cargo from a plane using a parachute to the ground. To ensure that the payload lands intact and in perfect condition, companies like Wamore, Inc. play a critical role. Based in Arizona, USA, Wamore provides essential equipment for the U.S. military, including air navigation units (AGUs), inertia reels, parachute release control systems, and soft-landing airbags. These products are vital in combat zones where precision and reliability are key.
According to CAD expert Mark Gerhart, years of experience with SolidWorks design, simulation, and product data management have been beneficial for Wamore. However, creating assembly instructions for robotic-controlled autonomous airdrop systems remains a challenge. “Before we started using more advanced tools, making assembly instructions was like fighting a tough battle,†Gerhart recalls. “We had to take photos of each step during the assembly process, then insert them into files along with written explanations.â€
While this method worked, it was inefficient, time-consuming, and often led to inconsistencies. Gerhart explains, “If there were any design changes, we had to redo the entire set of instructions, which meant taking new photos and waiting for a specific production stage. This caused delays, and the final images weren’t always clear or detailed enough. Our production staff sometimes struggled to follow the instructions, which created problems for everyone involved.â€
To address these issues, Wamore sought a solution that could link assembly documentation directly to the actual product models. “After a long search, I came across SolidWorks Composer,†Gerhart says. “I realized it was exactly what we needed to streamline our assembly documentation process.†The company purchased SolidWorks Composer, a technical file editing software, to improve its workflow.
“Designing in the virtual world is one thing, but when it comes to manufacturing, you can’t escape the real world,†Gerhart adds. “With SolidWorks Composer, I feel much more confident because any changes made in SolidWorks automatically update all related documents.â€
One of Wamore’s first projects using SolidWorks Composer was the 2000-pound AGU. “Previously, it took about two weeks to create the assembly instructions. Now, it only takes a day and a half,†Gerhart says. “The process is much smoother, and I have more flexibility since I don’t have to wait for a specific production phase. I can create what I need whenever I want.â€
Thanks to their use of SolidWorks EnterprisePDM, Wamore also handles design changes and updates quickly. “What I love about SolidWorks Composer is how easily I can import data and keep everything up to date,†Gerhart notes. “I just go into SolidWorks EnterprisePDM, update the links, and everything is done seamlessly.â€
In addition to saving time, the software has significantly improved the quality of their documentation, reducing errors on the production floor. “With SolidWorks Composer, written descriptions are almost unnecessary because the images contain so much detail,†Gerhart explains. “Our team can see part numbers, torque values, and tool information directly in the visuals—no need to read lengthy instructions. This minimizes confusion and prevents situations where workers have to ask me to open the model just to understand the steps.â€
Wamore also uses the software to better communicate with customers. By creating videos, animations, and technical documents, they help users access up-to-date information from anywhere in the world. “We used SolidWorks Composer to make short video tutorials on how to use the Talon parachute release system,†Gerhart says. “We showed them during a web conference and saw the huge potential. It not only improves communication but also allows users to view content on smartphones and tablets from anywhere.â€
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