Case Study: National Optical Astronomy Observatory achieves faster, error‑free 4,916‑part GNIRS design and $300,000 savings with SolidWorks

Exploring the dark, unknown reaches of space with SolidWorks software

The National Optical Astronomy Observatory (NOAO) needed to redesign the Gemini Near Infrared Spectrograph (GNIRS), a highly complex instrument of nearly 5,000 parts with vacuum and cryogenic requirements and multiple rotating mechanisms. Initial 2D work and attempts with Autodesk Mechanical Desktop led to misinterpreted drawings, frequent interferences, and slow progress, so NOAO evaluated and chose SolidWorks 3D CAD software to address these challenges.

Using SolidWorks, NOAO leveraged large-assembly handling, associative models/drawings, drag-and-drop subassemblies, and dynamic interference checking to streamline design and reduce errors. SolidWorks enabled NOAO to shorten the design cycle by 20%, cut drafting time by 50%, complete the remaining mechanisms faster with fewer designers, and save an estimated $300,000, allowing GNIRS to be finished and deployed.

National Optical Astronomy Observatory

Gary Philip Muller

Senior Mechanical Engineer