SolidWorks is a powerful 3D CAD (Computer-Aided Design) software tool used by engineers and designers to create complex models and assemblies. SolidWorks is known for its user-friendly interface and its ability to handle large and complex designs. In this category, we’ll explore the different features and capabilities of SolidWorks, including creating sketches, designing parts and assemblies, and creating drawings. We’ll also cover advanced features of SolidWorks, such as simulation and analysis, rendering, and automation. Additionally, we’ll provide tips and tutorials for using SolidWorks effectively, including best practices for designing parts and assemblies, creating drawings, and collaborating with other designers. Whether you’re new to SolidWorks or an experienced user, this category is your go-to resource for all things SolidWorks.
Text can be rotated in SolidWorks. There are various options available, this will depend if you are editing a part/assembly or a drawing. This tutorial will cover rotation of text using various methods. Part or Assembly Use “Text” to add text to sketches, this is available from the sketch tab of the CommandManager. When adding …
SolidWorks has a feature that will create either a helix or a spiral, there is no need to create a 3D sketch and constrain a series of curves. The only requirement to insert a helix or spiral, is a sketch of a circle representing the diameter. Begin by creating the sketch, when complete use the …
What is it The sheet format contains everything related to the sheet/border. This can include the sheet size, drawing border, title block and anchor points for tables. Use the same title block for all sheet sizes, do not scale the title block. The sheet format is saved as a .slddrt format, which is different than …
The entirety of the “Document Properties” settings applies to the drawing template. A drawing template contains a sheet format. This tutorial will cover the main modification that can be made to a drawing template. Saving the Template Save the file as a .drwdot in the templates folder. Document Properties Begin by selecting the standard to …
Default Templates Default locations for part, assembly and drawing templates can be specified from “System Options” – “Default Templates”. There is the option to always use the default templates or prompt the user to select the document template, set these as required. Use the reset button to clear and reselect the path of the default …
The SolidWorks Hole Wizard is a fantastic tool, there are a variety of hole types to choose from. Holes can be placed without the need to sketch the cross section and use a revolved cut. This tutorial will examine the hole options in detail. Type The first three options for hole type are for clearance …
Need to simplify a large assembly or send an assembly to a third party? Consider saving the assembly as a part. Protect intellectual property by removing internal geometry and send the file to a third party. Alternatively, simplify an assembly to external faces to reduce computer resources. This tutorial will explore the “Save As” and …
This tutorial uses the part created in “How to do a bend in sheet metal in SolidWorks?”. If the flat pattern does not appear with bend lines or there are too many lines, there a few things to troubleshoot. Bend Lines not Visible Check that the drawing view properties are correct. When placing a view …
SolidWorks Sheet Metal has a lot of useful and time saving features. One benefit is the ability to create a flat pattern of a complex sheet metal shape. This tutorial will cover setting up the sheet metal properties, as well as using “Edge Flange” and “Sketched Bend” features. Turn on the “Sheet Metal” tab if …
The feature to be used will depend on the direction required. An extrude can only ever be applied if the direction is normal to the sketch plane. The only option, where extrude is desired, is to apply a taper to the faces of the extrude. Alternatively, “Swept Boss/Base can be used to create an “extrude” …