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SolidWorks
Desktop software for 3D modeling From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
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SolidWorks (stylized as SOLIDWORKS) is a brand of software used for solid modeling computer-aided design (CAD) and computer-aided engineering (CAE).[2] It was one of the first 3D CAD applications designed to run on a desktop PC.[3]
The brand is owned by French software company Dassault Systèmes.
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History
SolidWorks Corporation was established in December 1993 by MIT graduate Jon Hirschtick, who used funds from his time with the MIT Blackjack Team to start the company.[4][5] Hirschtick's aim was to develop a user-friendly, cost-effective 3D CAD software for the Windows desktop. Originally based in Concord, Massachusetts, the company later moved to Waltham, Massachusetts.[6][7] Its first product, SolidWorks 95, was released in November 1995.[8] In 1997, Dassault Systèmes, known for its CATIA CAD software, acquired SolidWorks for $310 million in stock.[9]
In 1999, SolidWorks started introducing software for 3D modeling, and in 2006 introduced SolidWorks Design-to-Manufacturing solutions, an integrated system enabling design and manufacturing teams to work together concurrently. [citation needed]
As of 2024, SolidWorks had an estimated 7.5 million users.[10]
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Modeling technology
SolidWorks is a solid modeler, and utilizes a parametric feature-based approach which was initially developed by PTC (Creo/Pro-Engineer) to create 3D CAD models and assemblies. The software uses the Parasolid modeling kernel.[11]
SolidWorks software includes tools for analyses and simulations, such as Finite Element Analysis, which supports modeling, design, and collaborative work.[12]
SolidWorks offers multiple work tools to be used when building system assemblies such as the interference detection tool. This enables the detection of potential interfering part which could cause issue in the assembly system. [13]
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SolidWorks tools
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Sheet metal tool
SolidWorks enables the user to design sheet metal parts using bending and cutting integrated tools. These factors like the bend radius, K-factor, and wall thickness can all be adjusted depending on the industry requirements. They permit to make all details required in sheet metal such as make flanges, hems, and bends, which can then be created into solid parts. Another feature of the sheet metal tool is to create flat patterns of the geometry created in 3D for the purpose of CNC machining for example.[14]
Structural member tool
SolidWorks also has integrated tools for structural member, under the weldments feature. This permits the user to create standard structure shapes approved by the industry like square tubing and pipes. It is possible to apply these structural members along the part sketch lines, and it will automatically fit in the input geometry. The software also has various industry standard in its setting to choose from, depending on the location requirements. For example, they have ANSI, ISO and DIN as part of their system. Other supporting structural tools are: Trim/Extend, End Caps, and Gussets which help reach the required structure faster as the software integrates them automatically to the design under a given input of parameters. Finally, it has the possibility to sketch in 2D onto pre-located planes or in #D space to accommodate various structural angles.[14]
Design tables and configurations
The design table tool in SolidWorks allows to make variations of a single component by changing its dimensions, adding features in some and removing on others. This enables to save multiple iteration of the same part to be tested and then to establish the optimal one by displaying the possibilities. These different design configurations are displayed within the software but can also be linked to an Excel table where the content is organized to the user’s needs. When choosing a specific configuration, the 3D model will automatically update to the selected one and can be modified along the way without disrupting the other configurations. This tool allows for quick modification of dimensions and details, which is an important and critical function for good design production.[14]
Sustainability module
The sustainability SolidWorks module can determine environmental impacts depending on the parts material, manufacturing process and will establish the product lifespan based on the input technical data. The feature can predict multiple environmental effects based on the parts parameters like the carbon footprint, energy usage and more. This helps the user understand the impact of the manufactured part and take in account the effects it will have on the environment. The sustainability module uses life cycle assessments charts and reports to display the product’s impacts to the user in clear manner.[15]
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See also
- Comparison of computer-aided design software
- List of 3D printing software
- Power Surfacing – allows users to create and edit complex freeform surfaces in SolidWorks
References
External links
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