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.
There are various methods for manipulating sketches in SolidWorks. This tutorial will cover the use of the “Move Entities” and “Modify” tools. Use the move entities command for selected or all entities. The modify command will move the whole sketch, as a result the origin symbol will be out of place. Follow the instructions using …
There are various methods for manipulating sketches in SolidWorks. This tutorial will cover the use of the “Rotate Entities” and “Modify” tools. Use the rotate entities command for selected or all entities. The modify command will rotate the whole sketch, and redefine which direction is horizontal. Follow the instructions using the example from the end …
Fully defined sketches are fundamental when working with 3D CAD programs. They ensure that geometry does not change, avoids errors when creating features, and allow for easy editing. To fully define a sketch use dimensions and sketch relations to restrict movement of sketch entities. There are many ways to fully define a sketch. Where possible, …
Sketches can be reused between parts in SolidWorks. Sometimes these sketches may be saved as library feature parts for easy insertion, otherwise sketches can be copied from one part to another. There are two fairly similar methods for copying sketches. Copy Sketch from Design Tree Browse the design tree and locate the sketch to be …
The method used for dimensioning threads, cut into a part, depends if they are commonly used or bespoke. This tutorial will cover dimensioning custom threads and standard threads. Custom Thread In the case of a bespoke thread, the machine shop will require all of the necessary dimensions to fabricate the thread. The precision of the …
There are many mate options to choose from in SolidWorks, one that is quite useful is the “Screw” option from the mechanical mates section. This mate can be used to mate two parts whose threads are modeled. The steps to constrain two M10x1.0 fasteners are as follows: Fully constrain one of the two items, in …
Cosmetic threads are a quick and lightweight method of indicating threaded components in a design. The screw mate option cannot be used as these threads to not contain any geometry. Internal Threads – Hole Wizard Hole wizard is the easiest method to add an internal cosmetic thread, there are a variety of hole options to …
This tutorial will outline how to show and dimension cosmetic threads in a SolidWorks drawing. Showing Cosmetic Threads A hole or shaft has a different appearance in a SolidWorks drawing, if a cosmetic thread has been added. To represent the thread, a thin lined partially complete circle will appear. If this circle does not appear …
Following the previous tutorial on creating external (Male) threads in SolidWorks, this tutorial will outline the procedure for creating internal (female) threads. Wherever possible use cosmetic threads over modeling each thread. Cosmetic threads require less computer resources and can be applied easily. Only model threads if they are critical to the design. There are various …
Cosmetic threads are generally preferred over physically modeling each thread as they save time and are lightweight. However, as the name suggests they are purely cosmetic. If modeling of the thread is critical to the design (e.g. design of a screw jack or turnbuckle) or the thread is to be machined, follow the instructions for …