Generative Design is the next gotta have it for CAD programs and it’s usefulness is being demonstrated across all segments of design and engineering. 

PTC acquires Frustrum, Inc of Boulder, Colorado to fill out its Creo portfolio.

Generative Design is becoming an important, if perhaps experimental, capability for design tools. That said, there is no doubt that leveraging the ability of AI to expand the range of design ideas and optimize designs for efficient use of materials is real and it’s here now.
In AEC, it can be as simple as rearranging floor plants to fit an odd plot size, or ideas for curtain walls, and facades. In MCAD, the technology is really catching on as the industry experiments with new manufacturing methods, materials, lightweighting, etc.
Generative Design has been around for a long time, but the arrival of Climate Change Reality, ending the era of endless Climate Change Denial, has driven the technology out of the labs and into mainstream 3D CAD.
PTC CEO Jim Heppelmann said at acquisition: “Creo is core to PTC’s overall strategy, and the embedded capabilities from Ansys and, later, Frustum will elevate Creo to a leading position in the world of design and simulation. With breakthrough new technologies such as AR/VR, high-performance computing, IoT, AI, and additive manufacturing entering the picture, the CAD industry is going through a renaissance period, and PTC is committed to leading the way.”

What do we think?

PTC is a smart acquisitor and also a smart implementor. They’re firm believers in the advantages of buying over building. Generative Design technology dovetails with analysis and PTC has been able to leverage Ansys’ for Creo, without compromise. Now they’re able to quickly get up to speed in Generative Design.
More detail is available at PTC. The press release is here.