BOSTON, MA, Feb 27, 2026 – PTC has integrated cloud-native Model-Based Definition (MBD) capability into its Onshape platform, embedding manufacturing data within the 3D model. The capability allows engineering teams to define tolerances, annotations, and product requirements earlier in the design cycle. By capturing MBD data at the source, teams can align design, documentation, manufacturing, and quality processes from the start. The release strengthens Onshape’s role in model-centric product development.
Manufacturing data in file-based CAD and PDM systems often spans drawings, exports, and disconnected files, making product definition harder to manage. As revisions increase, keeping information current and accessible becomes more complex. The Onshape cloud-native platform, built on Amazon Web Services (AWS), centralizes product definition so teams work from a shared data set. A single, up-to-date model supports alignment across design‑to‑production workflows.
“When you build aircraft under strict regulatory oversight, ambiguity is expensive,” said Marc Germain, chief digital officer at Aura Aero. “As an early user of MBD in Onshape, being able to carry certification and manufacturing requirements inside the model instead of across drawings and files is already cutting rework and review cycles and helping our teams work faster with fewer handoffs.”
“Onshape Model-Based definition is a great example of how AWS and PTC are working together to modernize engineering,” said Michael Choe, AWS general manager, US Automotive and Manufacturing. “By re-architecting core engineering tools on AWS’ cloud-native platforms, we’re unlocking new possibilities – making them easier to deploy globally, more powerful through AI-driven capabilities, and dramatically better at enabling friction-free, real-time collaboration across distributed teams. This strategic collaboration represents a major leap forward in how teams design, build, and bring products to market.”
Key MBD capabilities include:
- Integrated 3D Annotations: Engineers can embed GD&T, weld symbols, and datums into the 3D model, communicating design intent without relying on 2D drawings.
- Smart Inspection Panel: All product manufacturing information (PMI) is automatically organized into a structured, filterable list, with instant cross-highlighting to the related geometry in the model.
- Shareable MBD Views: Teams can share PMI-rich models through URLs that preserve views and annotations, enabling browser-based access with no exports, plugins, or add-ons required.
- Feature Tree Awareness: MBD annotations remain linked to the feature tree, keeping specifications connected to the correct geometry as designs evolve.
- Downstream-Ready Data: Models can be prepared for inspection and compliance workflows with support for STEP AP242 export and integration with tools like PC-DMIS and AS9102.
“Cloud-native MBD is a critical step for our customers to build an intelligent, fully digital product lifecycle,” said David Katzman, EVP and general manager of Onshape and Arena at PTC. “By moving product definition into the cloud, companies can finally break down barriers between design, manufacturing, and the rest of the enterprise. This shift is made possible by AWS’ scalable infrastructure and AI capabilities, which enable Onshape to deliver a faster and more resilient cloud-native platform.”
PTC is aligning Onshape and its portfolio around its Intelligent Product Lifecycle strategy. The approach centers on creating a unified product data foundation and applying that data across the enterprise. Expanded use of product data supports AI-driven initiatives and product development processes, including complexity management and regulatory and compliance requirements.
Source: PTC
About PTC
PTC was founded in 1985 and headquartered in Boston, MA, develops software for engineering and product development teams worldwide. Its portfolio includes CAD, PLM, IIoT, application lifecycle management, and augmented reality tools. The software supports product design, manufacturing, data management, and service operations. PTC serves manufacturers in aerospace, automotive, electronics, industrial equipment and energy sectors. The company reports more than 30,000 customers globally, including 95% of Fortune 500 manufacturers. PTC employs about 7,500 people worldwide. It operates primarily on a subscription-based business model focused on digital product development and connected operations.