---
title: "New KATALYST 3D design assistant converts text to CAD"
url: https://www.voxelmatters.com/new-katalyst-3d-design-assistant-converts-text-to-cad/
date: 2024-07-08
modified: 2024-07-12
lang: en
author: "Tess Boissonneault"
description: "A number of software developers in the additive manufacturing space are looking to lower the entry barrier to 3D modeling and CAD design, making solutions that are more accessible and..."
categories:
  - "3D Modeling"
  - "AM Software"
  - "Parametric Design"
tags:
  - "insights"
image: https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/katalyst-1-640x317.jpg
word_count: 406
---

# New KATALYST 3D design assistant converts text to CAD

A number of [software developers](https://www.voxelmatters.com/category/software/) in the additive manufacturing space are looking to lower the entry barrier to 3D modeling and CAD design, making solutions that are more accessible and user friendly. One of these developers is Katalyst Labs, which has just introduced its text-to-CAD KATALYST 3D design assistant. With the AI-driven software program, users can generate parametric designs based not on design manipulations but on simple text input.

In short the new KATALYST platform—unveiled just last month—can be used either as a standalone design tool or within existing CAD/CAE workflows and is engineered to translate simple text inputs into [3D parametric geometries](https://www.voxelmatters.com/category/software/parametric-design/). For example, users can type in a command like "make a planetary gear" and the software will create a first model. Inputs can also be more specific, like "make a planetary gear with 6 planets, axis and carrier", which will tell the software what to generate. According to Katalyst Labs, users can also easily adjust various parameters, like dimensions and angles, and the software will "automatically and intelligently adapt to these changes."

[![Katalyst Labs Software](https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Generation_Tool_1.jpeg)](https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Generation_Tool_1.jpeg)

These modifier inputs, such as "add a 20 mm hole on the bottom", will be recorded as different iterations and each iteration version can be accessed and revised through KATALYST's full iteration history feature. Other features include the ability to not only create individual 3D models but also more complex assemblies as well as the capability to export finished models as either STL, STEP, 3MF or DXF files for production. The KATALYST software developers also plan to integrate their solution with AM platforms, which will make the design-to-production process even more seamless.

Ultimately, the new AI-powered software tool offers an accessible entry into CAD design that leverages simple text commands to generate complex 3D geometries. Since the software is brand new, we can also expect more updates to its capabilities, including structural simulation and an expanded dataset for even more sophisticated parts.

[![Katalyst Labs](https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Generation_Tool_2.jpeg)](https://www.voxelmatters.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Generation_Tool_2.jpeg)

The Katalyst Labs team says of its text-to-CAD software: "Engineering design is a time-consuming and expensive process requiring expertise in CAD tools, manufacturing methods and assembly techniques.

Automation democratizes this process, enabling anyone to design sophisticated parts adhering to their specific needs. Katalyst Labs is creating a platform to automate engineering design by developing a robust base model tailored for engineering tasks. This model is fine-tuned for specific use cases, generating an agent capable of handling complex tasks in various verticals, like customizable consumer products and mechanical engineering parts."