These 3D models were developed with TraceParts and are freely available to all designers, electronic and mechanical engineers who use CAD in their 3D modeling programs. One example is RS's free DesignSpark Mechanical program, which accelerates design and facilitates rapid prototyping.

Using the 3D model catalog significantly reduces design time, eliminating the inevitable risks associated with manually creating 3D models.

Available to engineers since May 2010, the 3D modeling catalog began with just a few thousand 3D models. Today, over 100 million 3D models are accessible from the TraceParts library, and more than 45,000 models are tagged with the corresponding RS part number.

The models are available in over 20 CAD formats from more than 90 different manufacturers. Access to all 3D models was integrated into version 2.0 of DesignSpark Mechanical, released in December 2014, which led to a significant increase in the number of 3D model downloads through DesignSpark.

Glenn Jarrett, RS Global Director of Product Marketing, explains: “The one millionth download is a significant milestone for RS’s 3D modeling program, achieved through collaboration with TraceParts, the world’s leading 3D content provider, and tremendous support from major global component suppliers such as Phoenix Contact, Schneider, and Molex.”.

Gabriel Guigue, Managing Director of TraceParts, commented: “TraceParts is honored to be the exclusive 3D model provider for RS Components. For over 20 years, TraceParts has provided best-in-class CAD catalog modeling, publishing, and cloud hosting services to hundreds of manufacturers and distributors, but RS is undoubtedly one of the strongest and most service-oriented parts suppliers we know in terms of marketing. In 2010, they showcased their unique and pioneering approach by seamlessly integrating TraceParts’ 3D visualization and CAD format download capabilities into their e-commerce product pages. Over the past five years, we have learned a great deal from RS Components, and we look forward to helping them launch many more 3D marketing services in the future.”.