Presentation stills from MSC Apex CAE and FEA model views.
Hexagon MSC Apex is a computer-aided engineering application for preparing CAD geometry, simplifying and meshing models, and evaluating structural-analysis work. Apex Modeler supports direct geometry work and CAE meshing, while Apex Structures adds scenario definition, validation, solver workflows, and results post-processing for structural studies. Its viewport can communicate the engineering logic of a part or assembly before a design review: a cleaned model, a sectioned mesh, a load path, an undeformed and deformed comparison, or a design variant.
Hexagon MSC Apex is a computer-aided engineering application for preparing CAD geometry, simplifying and meshing models, and evaluating structural-analysis work. Apex Modeler supports direct geometry work and CAE meshing, while Apex Structures adds scenario definition, validation, solver workflows, and results post-processing for structural studies. Its viewport can communicate the engineering logic of a part or assembly before a design review: a cleaned model, a sectioned mesh, a load path, an undeformed and deformed comparison, or a design variant.
MSC Apex is for engineers and analysts preparing and evaluating finite-element models, from CAD cleanup and idealization through meshing, analysis setup, validation, and results exploration. A useful presentation source is not every on-screen element, but a deliberate viewport that answers one question: how an assembly is arranged, where a mesh changes, what a boundary condition represents, or how a structural result relates to the physical design. For example, a product team can frame a simplified bracket or enclosure in context, while an analyst can capture a deformation or mode-shape view with the essential result legend retained. RENDERCAD can develop that selected Apex view into a more composed still for design reviews, concept decks, engineering communications, or product storytelling. It can improve the visual clarity around the CAD or simulation view, but it does not calculate structural behavior, validate a mesh, or replace Apex results. Apex remains the source of truth for geometry, materials, loads, constraints, solver settings, validation status, and numerical interpretation.
In MSC Apex Modeler or Structures, first choose a view tied to the message: prepared CAD geometry for a design concept, an idealized assembly for an engineering overview, a mesh close-up for a methods discussion, or a post-processing view for a result conversation. Use an informative camera angle and isolate relevant parts. Remove panels and clutter that distract from the subject, but preserve a legend, load marker, section cut, or annotation when it is necessary to understand the image. Capture the viewport, then use RENDERCAD to create a presentation-focused still with clearer composition, lighting, and material cues. Use the resulting image beside the original Apex result when communicating analysis findings, and return to Apex for any decision that depends on model or result accuracy.
Modeled by CADSharp in Onshape. Rendered with RENDERCAD.
Add | Change | or Remove referenced objects with the stroke of a brush.
RENDERCAD uses a maintained selection of image-generation models for different rendering tasks. Results can vary by model and input, so compare generated output with the source design before relying on geometry, materials, or dimensions.
| Feature | RENDERCAD | Competitor |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | Generative AI | Varies by tool |
| Output | Images + Video | Varies by tool |
| Resolution | HD / 4K | Varies by workflow |
| Image Speed | Image renders complete in 60 seconds. | Varies by scene/tool |
| Video Speed | Videos complete in 2-5 minutes. | Varies by workflow |
| Scene Set Up | No separate local scene | Varies by workflow |
| Input | Screen Snip | Varies by tool |
| Hardware | Cloud GPU | Often local GPU/CPU |
| Install | None | Varies (web or app) |
| Cost | from $9/mo | Varies widely |
Read the numbers. We trust you to know theirs.
Skip a separate local scene build. Pick a condition, material, and background while RENDERCAD handles the image-generation step. Image renders complete in 60 seconds.
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RENDERCAD™
Use the browser workflow directly, capture a selected view with the desktop app, or start from the browser extension.
Get StartedCommon solutions for Apex users
Generating images or videos consumes credits. Your balance refreshes monthly based on your subscription plan.
Describe cinematic depth of field and the intended focus area. Check that important product details remain sharp after generation.
RENDERCAD can place a clear viewport capture into a described lifestyle environment, such as a kitchen or office, and produce options for review.
The screenshot workflow uses image inputs, presets, and plain-language direction. Teams should still review generated output with the appropriate designer or product owner.
Use a condition preset or regional instruction to explore dust, scratches, or age. Generated wear patterns do not predict real product use.
A supported browser can submit a clear 2D input without a local rendering GPU.
The current desktop app or browser extension can capture a selected view and send the screenshot into RENDERCAD without a CAD rendering plugin.
Yes. You can add up to six authorized reference images per render and provide instructions or masks for targeted direction.
Select the glass or transparent components with a mask. Apply glass-specific prompts to the masked area while treating opaque parts differently.
Set up masks for each customizable component. Swap material references for each masked region to quickly visualize different product configurations.
Describe the tint, transparency, thickness, and lighting direction. Generated absorption and reflections are visual approximations and should not be treated as material simulation.
Upload a clear image, choose the Realistic engine, and describe a large soft light source or overcast lighting. Generated shadows are visual approximations, not a physical lighting calculation.