This open source project is quite practical and something that most companies will find useful. It's a server-side File Converter Framework that’s been put together by T-Systems International, the global systems integration firm.
T-Systems has provided "a fully integrated framework to easily setup, administer, manage and monitor batch file conversions” within the Aras Innovator PLM platform.
The way it works is that when a file is saved to Aras / check-in is done (either new or modified files) the T-Systems File Converter Framework automatically performs one or more conversions and attaches the new files to the defined Item Type. For example, converting a Microsoft Word doc to PDF and attaching it to the File tab on the Document item in Aras. The conversion process can also be applied to multiple different CAD file types as well including CATIA and Siemens NX.
With the framework you're able to:
- Convert / check files in Aras and automatically attach the converted (or checked) files to the designated Item Type.
- Perform custom file handling (e.g. docx => pdf, pptx => pdf, CATPart => 3dxml)
- Setup new batch conversions like file conversions, data checking routines, etc.
- Attach your own events to handle files. (e.g. OnAfterPromote Document)
- Monitor created files and logfiles within Aras
There are also additional capabilities for more complex implementations and different CAD file types such as CATIA and Siemens NX available from T-Systems
This project is another example of how an open architecture promotes rapid introduction of advanced functionality and the expansion of available applications on the Aras PLM platform. It’s how global corporate participation can deliver real benefits for everyone. Nice work T-Systems.