SolidWorks - File size:
- N/A
- Date added:
- Sep 21, 2022 | Last update check: 1 minute ago
- Licence:
- Trial
- Runs on:
- Windows 10 64-bit / 11
SolidWorks is a parametric 3D CAD software used to create 2D or 3D solid models; also it supports the CAE (computer-aided engineering) function. SolidWorks is the right choice when it comes for complex 3D designs. It allows you to create any shape you can imagine. As you can clearly understand from its name, SolidWorks is primarily a solid modeler. When you create your designs it’s the best way is to use both surfaces and solids. Although it is mainly known for its 3D features you can use this software to create 2D drawings from your 3D models. SolidWorks is focused on the design, engineering and manufacturing of goods with more in-depth simulations and analysis features. Because of its advanced 3D modeling capabilities, SolidWorks is ideal choice for complex geometries (e.g. in aerospace, automobile or ship building industry); because of its capability to draw advanced electrical circuits, SolidWorks is ideal choice for electrical projects; and it’s also suitable for sheet metal design.
Parts and assemblies. SolidWorks is an assembly-driven software where assemblies reference multiple individual part files allowing for larger assemblies. Parts are the basic building blocks, while assemblies contain parts or other assemblies (subassemblies). SolidWorks generates three types of files that are related to each other: part, assembly and drawing. Any change you make to a part is reflected in all associated drawings or assemblies.
3D models. SolidWorks models are defined by 3D design and are based on components. Models consists of 3D geometry that defines its edges, faces, and surfaces. You can easily create complex geometry, like car design in its assembly based on hundreds of critical components. As you design a part, you create a 3D model, and from this model you can create 2D drawings or mate components. You can create 2D drawings of 3D assemblies; photorealistic renderings of your 3D models using the PhotoView 360 add-in; and animations using the Animation Assistant. You can also use standalone SolidWorks Visualize to create photorealistic images and animations.
Integrations. SolidWorks supports DWG and DXF, the most used file formats in the industry. It provides tools for 3D printing that can be accessed through Print3D command. After you analyze and visualize your design, you can export part and assembly files to 3D print files (STL, 3MF and AMF file formats). For cloud-based collaboration there is 3DEXPERIENCE platform that integrates with SolidWorks desktop. 3DEXPERIENCE platform includes several design roles, such as 3D Creator and 3D Sculptor, that allow users to design in the cloud on any device with Internet connection.
SolidWorks was created in 1993 by Jon Hirschtick from MIT (Massachusetts Institute of Technology) and acquired in 1997 by the Dassault Systèmes.
SolidWorks solutions
SolidWorks consists of several solutions that you can buy individually or together. They include:
- SolidWorks 3D CAD,
- SolidWorks Simulation,
- SolidWorks Flow Simulation,
- SolidWorks Plastics,
- SolidWorks PDM,
- SolidWorks Manage,
- SolidWorks CAM,
- SolidWorks Electrical 3D,
- SolidWorks Electrical Schematic,
- SolidWorks Composer,
- SolidWorks Visualize,
- SolidWorks MBD,
- SolidWorks Inspection,
- 3DEXPERIENCE SolidWorks (“SolidWorks in the cloud”).
SolidWorks provides three license types: Standard, Professional and Premium.
Note: Developer provides trial version of SolidWorks 3D CAD Premium.
What’s new in version 2023:
- User experience. Enhanced comments to improve usability. Easily restore the default settings: new “Reset to Defaults” button (in the Customize window). Improved performance: new “Enhanced graphics performance” checkbox (in System Options window).
- Parts. Move/Copy bodies: dimensions are added automatically. Move the body by changing the dimension using Instant3D or enter the dimension.
- Sheet metal. New “Symmetric” option to have the material symmetric.
- Assemblies. Assembly loading: new option (in System Options window) to automaticallly optimize resolved mode and balance hardware and model performance.
- Drawings. Bills of Materials: display and restore items that are overriden manually; apply filters with familiar spreadsheet style controls. New detailing option to see through transparent components or bodies. Auto balloons can show quantities outside the balloon.
Similar software
- Inventor – Professional CAD software for 3D mechanical design, simulation, visualization, and documentation. Turn your concept into reality.
- Fusion 360 – Autodesk’s cloud-based parametric 3D CAD, CAM and CAE manufacturing tool for collaborative product development.
- FreeCAD – Parametric 3D modeling software that is open-source and can be used for commercial use. 3D and 2D objects are driven by parameters.
About Dassault Systèmes
Dassault Systèmes provides business and people with virtual universes to imagine sustainable innovations. It provides project lifecycle management solutions that enable businesses to create and share experiences in 3D. The company’s solutions include SolidWorks, CATIA, SIMULIA, DELMIA, ENOVIA, 3DVIA, and Exalead.
Dassault Systemes is founded in 1981 and is based in Vélizy-Villacoublay, Ile-de-France.
Gallery
SolidWorks 2022 3D model. ©Dassault Systemes
SolidWorks 2022 sheet. ©Dassault Systemes
SolidWorks Visualize, a standalone solution for renderings and animations. ©Dassault Systemes
SolidWorks PDM add-in: open a drawing of a SolidWorks part or assembly file. ©Dassault Systemes
Save As: supported file formats. ©Dassault Systemes
Open: supported file formats. ©Dassault Systemes
3DEXPERIENCE, a browser-based platform. ©Dassault Systemes
3DEXPERIENCE, a browser-based platform. ©Dassault Systemes