“AI is currently one of the main focuses for TopSolid, and we are approaching it in several ways. One of them is what we call ‘Predict’, which enables TopSolid to assist users in how to best use the product, helping them work faster and more efficiently. We also plan to introduce automisation of machining sequences within TopSolid, allowing users to generate better machining strategies and save time.” says Patrice Tiberi, Deputy CEO, Product Strategy & Development, TOPSOLID SAS, in conversation with Mr. Nishant Kashyap.
How do you see the overall manufacturing scenario changing globally, and what kind of technology adoption is taking place?
Everything in manufacturing today is evolving with new technologies such as Intelligent Automation (IA) entering production environments. At the same time, there is an increasing need to integrate sustainability into manufacturing processes. At TopSolid, we are actively working in this direction by developing technologies that combine CAD, CAM, PDM, and shop floor management solutions. Our focus is on embedding AI and sustainability features within these tools to support smarter, greener, and more efficient manufacturing operations. To give a better example, we are well represented in India through TopSolid India- Design Cell CAD CAM Solutions Private Limited. India is the only country in Asia where we have established an Experience Center, providing a live, interactive showcase of TopSolid’s virtual reality solutions. The center also demonstrates various TopSolid technologies and modules for design, CAM, and shop floor operations in real time. This supports our long term vision and dedication for the Indian market.
TopSolid has been a leader in CAD, PDM, and shop floor management solutions. Considering the rapid changes in the manufacturing sector, what kind of developments do you foresee in these technologies over the next five years?
In the coming years, engineers will need greater automation to simplify and speed up manufacturing processes. The goal is to save time and make operations more efficient. To achieve this, we must integrate automation and Intelligent Automation (IA) into our products, ensuring that all systems are well connected to deliver a manufacturing process that is more flexible and smoother than ever. At TopSolid, we have long focused on integration, our CAD is connected to CAM, CAM data is managed within the PDM, and the PDM is linked to the shop floor. This strong architecture allows us to continue integrating the entire process chain seamlessly.
You mentioned AI shaping developments in the manufacturing industry. With technologies like AI, digital twin, and simulation becoming increasingly relevant, what kind of technological shifts do you expect to see in design and manufacturing software in the coming years?
We are actively working on all these areas. AI is currently one of the main focuses for TopSolid, and we are approaching it in several ways. One of them is what we call ‘Predict’, which enables TopSolid to assist users in how to best use the product, helping them work faster and more efficiently. We also plan to introduce automisation of machining sequences within TopSolid, allowing users to generate better machining strategies and save time. In addition, we are working on digital twin technology wherein TopSolid already integrates a digital twin system. When working with high-value parts, it is essential to check, verify, and simulate the ISO code, and that’s exactly what our solution provides.
As you implement AI, digital twin, and simulation technologies in your products, what kind of response are you seeing from customers? Are companies in developed economies like Europe, Japan, and the USA adopting AI technologies as you envision, and are markets like India ready for this shift?
I am not sure if everyone is fully ready for these changes yet, but due to increasing competition and the disruptive nature of these technologies, there is a clear need to move forward. Ultimately, it depends on how AI or IA is introduced into the product to genuinely help users. The objective is not AI or IA for the sake of AI or IA, but AI and IA that assists users in their work. As soon as it provides concrete help, I believe users will adopt it.
As integrated software solutions become more relevant bringing CAD, CAM, simulation, and related technologies together, how do you see the response to such technologies? What role will cloud-based technologies play in this integration?
Speaking for TopSolid, our solution is not currently cloud-based, but we are actively working in that direction. The goal is to make data available on the cloud, rather than the entire application, enabling companies with different locations to share the same data easily. Cloud technology simplifies information sharing between systems, and we believe it will be important in the future. However, we don’t want to force users to adopt the cloud; they can choose between client-server or cloud-based options for sharing their data. What matters is not being tied to a single cloud provider, but having the flexibility to offer solutions compatible with various cloud platforms, we remain cloud neutral.
As these technologies continue to grow and cloud-based solutions become more common, security becomes extremely important. How are you ensuring that the data your customers save is secure and stored properly?
It is essential to use proper security protocols. Today, cloud providers increasingly embed security measures within their platforms, and we make use of these layers of protection. Additionally, within TopSolid, we regularly conduct tests, including intrusion tests, on our client systems to ensure there are no security issues. This is an ongoing responsibility and something we work on every day.
Beyond CAD, CAM, and PDM, what is next for TopSolid? What future technologies are you looking at, and what might be coming up?
Today, CAD adoption is widespread, but shop floor management has become particularly important. Managing all devices on the shop floor through a single database, shared by CAD and CAM systems, is crucial. We are working on solutions for this, and while the technology exists, we are waiting for greater customer adoption. We demonstrate and show the benefits of utilising a connected shop floor. Additionally, within CAM systems, there are many machining strategies, and continual improvement in these areas remains a focus.
