Shape Data Limited is a computer software company in Cambridge, England that specialises in developing programs for engineering and manufacturing professionals.
The company revolutionised the computer aided design (CAD) industry in the 1970s and 1980s, by creating and commercialising the solid modelling software market in 1978.
[1][2][5] The use of solid modelling techniques allows for the automation of several difficult engineering calculations that are carried out as a part of Shape Data's software programs, including simulation, planning, and verification of design processes of three dimensional objects.
[5] The Parasolid program remains an industry standard for engineering departments and companies, in the design of manufacturing products from small scale tools and equipment to automobiles and aeroplanes.
[2][7] Veenman became the sole employee of the company at the time of its founding, while Lang, Braid, and Grayer initially continued work at the University of Cambridge Computer Laboratory.
[8] In 1978, after three years of development, Shape Data released Romulus, the world's first commercialised solid geometric modeller software program.
[8] In 1979, Shape Data reached an agreement with Evans and Sutherland of Salt Lake City, Utah to distribute Romulus in the United States.
[8] In 1980, Evans & Sutherland Computer Corporation entered into a contract with Shape Data to market the Romulus geometric modelling program.
After acquisition, Evans & Sutherland injected a large amount of capital into Shape Data, allowing for rapid expansion of staff and procurement of computing equipment.
[12][13] Ron Belcher, a senior software project manager at McDonnell Douglas, was appointed head of Shape Data at the time of the acquisition.