What’s New in SOLIDWORKS 2025 Part 4: ECAD and MCAD Collaboration

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What’s New in SOLIDWORKS 2025 Part 4: ECAD and MCAD Collaboration

A woman works on a laptop in a manufacturing environment as a man adjusts machinery on an automated production line.

SOLIDWORKS 2025 introduces groundbreaking advancements in ECAD, revolutionizing how electrical and mechanical design teams collaborate. With seamless integration on the 3DEXPERIENCE platform, teams can unify electrical and mechanical product structures for a single source of truth.

Key enhancements include dynamic 2D drawings from 3D models, automated splice positioning for harness routing, and powerful tools like CircuitWorks for bidirectional ECAD-MCAD collaboration. These updates also offer enhanced copper trace support for PCBs, precise terminal strip configurations, and accelerated imports of electrical content.

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Intro

The relationship between electrical and mechanical design is vital for modern product development. With SOLIDWORKS 2025, Dassault Systèmes introduces powerful new features and enhancements to streamline workflows, improve precision, and enhance collaboration across ECAD and MCAD teams. Whether designing complex PCBs or routing intricate harnesses, these updates provide solutions that simplify even the most challenging tasks.

This blog explores how SOLIDWORKS 2025 streamlines complex tasks, saves time and sets a new standard for electrical design.

Unified Product Structures with 3DEXPERIENCE Integration

Managing electrical and mechanical design data in silos can lead to miscommunication, inefficiencies, and errors. SOLIDWORKS 2025 addresses this issue by enabling seamless integration of product structures on the 3DEXPERIENCE platform, creating a unified source of truth.

What’s New

Save Electrical Data: Electrical symbols and product structure data can now be stored directly within 3DEXPERIENCE, alongside mechanical data.
Combined Documentation: Integrate electrical and mechanical product data into a single, cohesive BOM for streamlined project documentation.

Why It Matters

For teams managing both electrical and mechanical elements of a product, this integration eliminates redundant workflows and ensures consistency. Picture a scenario where an electric vehicle’s wiring harness needs to align precisely with the chassis design. With SOLIDWORKS 2025, ECAD and MCAD teams can collaborate effectively, reducing the risk of mismatched designs and costly rework. The ability to combine data in real time enhances productivity and project transparency.

Enhanced Terminal Strip Functionality

Designing terminal strips for electrical schematics often involves handling complex connections and configurations. SOLIDWORKS 2025 simplifies these workflows with new tools that improve flexibility and accuracy.

What’s New

Distributed Terminals: Split a circuit across multiple schematic symbols for better organization and readability.
Pin-Level Control: Select specific pins when adding terminal strips to fine-tune designs.

Why It Matters

These enhancements are particularly valuable for industries that rely on precise electrical panel designs, such as manufacturing and industrial automation. For example, when creating control panels for an assembly line, distributed terminals allow engineers to organize connections efficiently. This reduces confusion during installation and ensures error-free implementation in production.

Accelerated Electrical Content Import

For projects involving diverse manufacturers or complex cable setups, importing electrical data can be a time-consuming bottleneck. SOLIDWORKS 2025’s enhanced import tool solves this issue.

What’s New

Excel-Based Template: Import cable references and manufacturer part information with a customizable Excel template.
Comprehensive Data Inclusion: Incorporate details like cable cores and terminal connections directly into your library.

Why It Matters

Engineers can now build detailed libraries quickly, ensuring that all necessary components are readily available. Imagine managing a project with multiple vendors supplying different cables and connectors. This tool consolidates all relevant data into one platform, reducing manual entry errors and speeding up project setup.

Harness Routing Simplified

Routing electrical harnesses in 3D requires precision, especially when dealing with splices in complex bundles. SOLIDWORKS 2025 introduces automation to streamline this process.

What’s New

Splice Positioning Automation: Automatically position splices along the bundle centerline, ensuring clean and logical routing.

Why It Matters

This feature is a game-changer for industries like automotive and aerospace, where harness routing can involve hundreds of splices. By automating splice positioning, engineers can focus on optimizing the overall design rather than spending hours manually adjusting individual components. This not only saves time but also improves manufacturability.

Dynamic 2D Drawings from 3D Models

Documentation is essential for turning designs into reality. SOLIDWORKS 2025 improves the connection between 3D models and 2D schematics, enabling faster, more accurate drawings.

What’s New

Dynamic Drawing Creation: Automatically generate 2D drawings from 3D models of electrical cabinets or harnesses.
Schematic Linkage: Link 2D drawing components to their corresponding schematic symbols for consistent documentation.

Why It Matters

By automating the creation of 2D drawings, this feature reduces manual effort and ensures that documentation remains aligned with design changes. For example, in the design of an industrial control panel, the ability to link physical layouts to schematics simplifies installation instructions and ensures compatibility across teams.

CircuitWorks and ECAD-MCAD Collaboration

Effective collaboration between ECAD and MCAD teams is vital for designing products that involve both electronic and mechanical components. SOLIDWORKS 2025 enhances this collaboration with expanded CircuitWorks capabilities.

What’s New

ECAD-MCAD Integration: CircuitWorks is now available in all SOLIDWORKS offerings, enabling bidirectional collaboration.
Shared Libraries: Access a common PCB component library on the 3DEXPERIENCE platform for consistent design standards.

Why It Matters

With tools like CircuitWorks, ECAD, and MCAD teams can seamlessly share data, ensuring that PCBs and mechanical designs align perfectly. For instance, in consumer electronics, where space constraints are critical, this collaboration ensures components fit precisely within their enclosures.

Copper Trace Support for Advanced Simulations

Accurate PCB design requires precise simulation data. SOLIDWORKS 2025 introduces copper trace support to improve analyses like thermal and structural simulations.

What’s New

Copper Feature Import: Include vias, traces, and shapes in your PCB simulations for more accurate results.
Expanded Analysis Capabilities: Perform mass, thermal, structural, and electromagnetic simulations with detailed copper data.

Why It Matters

This feature ensures PCBs meet performance requirements without overengineering. For example, thermal simulations of high-power electronics can now account for copper traces, providing engineers with realistic insights into heat dissipation and overall performance.

Improved Harness Board Documentation

Creating clear, precise manufacturing documentation is critical for harness boards. SOLIDWORKS 2025 simplifies this process with advanced auto-placement and updating capabilities.

What’s New

Auto-Placement of Elements: Tables, dimensions, and balloons are automatically organized for cleaner documentation.
Automatic Updates: Ensure harness documentation reflects the latest design changes without manual intervention.

Why It Matters

Manufacturing teams rely on accurate documentation to build harnesses efficiently. These enhancements reduce errors and ensure production-ready documentation, saving time and costs during assembly.

Why Choose SOLIDWORKS 2025 for ECAD?

SOLIDWORKS 2025 revolutionizes ECAD design with tools that prioritize collaboration, accuracy, and usability. Whether you’re optimizing PCB layouts, managing harness designs, or collaborating on electrical and mechanical systems, these updates simplify the most complex tasks.

Key Benefits

Streamlined Collaboration: Enhanced ECAD-MCAD integration ensures seamless workflows between teams.
Time-Saving Features: Automated splice positioning, improved imports, and dynamic drawings reduce manual effort.
Scalable Solutions: With 3DEXPERIENCE integration, designs remain adaptable and future-proof.

Ready to Explore More?

For a comprehensive overview of SOLIDWORKS 2025 ECAD improvements, download the full guide here: What’s New in SOLIDWORKS 2025 ECAD.

Want to see these updates in action? Contact Solidxperts to schedule a demo and learn how these tools can transform your workflows. Together, we’ll shape the future of design.

Any questions? Need help? Ask one of our experts.

Whether you’re ready to get started or just have a few more questions, you can contact us toll-free:

What’s New in SOLIDWORKS 2025 Part 3: Simulation Reimagined

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What’s New in SOLIDWORKS 2025 Part 3: Simulation Reimagined

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Simulation analysis of an excavator arm in SOLIDWORKS, displaying stress and deformation results on a vibrant 3D model in a realistic outdoor environment.

SOLIDWORKS 2025 brings a new era of simulation capabilities, in partnership with the 3DEXPERIENCE platform, redefining how engineers validate designs and optimize workflows. With cutting-edge features like the General Spring Connector, enhanced surface bonding interactions, and performance improvements for large assemblies, this year’s release empowers users to achieve greater accuracy and efficiency in their simulations.

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Engineers can now streamline complex setups, precisely analyze plastic warpage, and handle fluid dynamics with ease, all while benefiting from improved usability and faster meshing processes. This blog explores the key simulation upgrades in SOLIDWORKS 2025, offering insights into how these tools transform the engineering experience.

Intro

In the world of engineering and design, simulations are the backbone of validation. They ensure products perform as intended, withstand real-world conditions, and remain cost-effective. With the release of SOLIDWORKS 2025, simulation capabilities have reached new levels, offering more precise results, streamlined workflows, and advanced usability improvements that empower engineers to work smarter, not harder.

This blog explores the transformative enhancements in SOLIDWORKS 2025 Simulation, breaking down the key features and their practical applications. Whether you’re tackling large assemblies, complex geometries, or detailed fluid dynamics, these updates provide a powerful suite of tools to support every stage of the design process.

General Spring Connector: Simplified and Accurate Simulations

Simulation setups can be complex, but SOLIDWORKS 2025 introduces the General Spring Connector, which makes it easier to simulate spring interactions with more customization options than ever before.

What’s New

Custom Spring Properties: Define axial-only, isotropic, or orthotropic spring behaviors to suit your design needs.
Enhanced Compliance: Add custom compliance for greater control over how the spring behaves in different scenarios.

Why It Matters

Springs play a critical role in many mechanical systems, from suspension components to load-bearing structures. The General Spring Connector allows for more realistic simulations of spring behavior without requiring physical prototypes. For instance, engineers designing suspension systems can now test how springs react to various loads and stresses while accounting for unique material properties or configurations. By enabling greater precision in spring simulations, this feature saves time during setup and ensures your models reflect real-world performance.

Enhanced Pin Connector: Precision at Every Step

Connections between components are foundational to any assembly simulation. The improved Pin Connector in SOLIDWORKS 2025 refines this process, delivering better accuracy and performance for complex assemblies.

What’s New

Distributed Connection Type Improvements: Experience improved accuracy when using distributed connections.
Better Performance: Enjoy faster and more reliable simulations of pin-based connections, especially in large assemblies.

Why It Matters

Pin connectors are crucial for analyzing components like hinges, joints, or pivots. With the upgraded Pin Connector, engineers can confidently simulate these critical interactions while maintaining speed and accuracy. For example, in aerospace applications, where safety hinges on the integrity of pinned connections, these improvements provide deeper insights into load distribution and stress points.

Improved Handling of Large Models

Large assemblies often involve hundreds or thousands of components, making simulation setups a daunting task. SOLIDWORKS 2025 introduces tools to simplify and streamline these workflows.

What’s New

Exclude Non-Relevant Components: Quickly remove non-essential parts or bodies from simulations to declutter your workspace.
Focus on Selected Bodies: A new user interface option lets you isolate selected components for faster boundary condition setups.

Why It Matters

These enhancements allow you to focus on the components that matter most, reducing setup time and distractions. Imagine working on a complex machine assembly with hundreds of parts—these tools ensure you can isolate the gearbox, for example, without manually hiding or excluding other components. This targeted focus improves efficiency and helps maintain clarity throughout the simulation process.

Advanced Surface Interactions for Better Results

Accurate bonding between surfaces is essential for reliable simulations. SOLIDWORKS 2025 enhances both Node-to-Surface and Surface-to-Surface Bonded Interactions to improve accuracy and usability.

What’s New

Offset Bonded Interactions: Eliminate gaps between surfaces in mid-surface mesh studies for better results.
Improved Bonding for Complex Surfaces: Achieve more precise bonding on cylindrical, spherical, and conical surfaces for linear studies.

Why It Matters

Surface interactions often determine the success of a simulation. By improving bonded interaction accuracy, these upgrades ensure your models perform more like their real-world counterparts. Whether analyzing pressure vessels, complex geometries, or fatigue scenarios, you’ll experience faster, more reliable results with minimal setup adjustments.

SOLIDWORKS Plastics: Analyze Warpage with Precision

Warpage in plastic parts is a common issue that can lead to costly rework or manufacturing delays. SOLIDWORKS 2025 introduces advanced tools to pinpoint and address the causes of warpage.

What’s New

Break Down Warpage Causes: Analyze warpage by its sources, including unbalanced cooling, material orientation, and non-uniform shrinkage.

Why It Matters

This feature gives engineers greater control over the injection molding process, enabling faster corrections and better part quality. For example, if unbalanced cooling is the primary cause of warpage in a plastic enclosure, engineers can focus their efforts on redesigning the cooling channels, rather than adjusting other unrelated parameters.

SOLIDWORKS Flow Simulation: Speed and Accuracy Combined

Simulating fluid dynamics just became faster and more efficient. SOLIDWORKS 2025 includes performance and accuracy improvements for handling complex geometries and fluid flow challenges.

What’s New

Meshing for Faceted Geometries: Accelerate meshing for imported STL files and tessellated models.
Sink Mark Solver Upgrade: A new solver delivers higher accuracy for predicting sink marks in plastic parts.

Why It Matters

Flow simulations are vital for evaluating designs with fluid flow, such as cooling systems, HVAC components, or aerodynamics. These updates make it easier to handle complex shapes, reducing meshing time while maintaining accuracy. Engineers designing heat exchangers, for instance, can now spend more time optimizing performance rather than troubleshooting simulation issues.

Mesh Performance Upgrades

Meshing is a critical step in any simulation, and SOLIDWORKS 2025 improves performance for assemblies with repeated parts, such as bolts or gears.

What’s New

Faster Meshing for Repeated Parts: Improved handling of curved surfaces in large assemblies with many identical components.

Why It Matters

Large assemblies often include numerous repeating elements that can slow down meshing. This enhancement drastically cuts meshing time, allowing engineers to focus on analysis rather than setup. For example, an automotive engineer simulating an engine block with hundreds of bolts will see significant time savings during the meshing process.

Why Choose SOLIDWORKS 2025 for Simulation?

SOLIDWORKS 2025 Simulation offers a robust suite of upgrades that cater to engineers working on diverse projects.

Key Features

Time-Saving Features: From faster meshing to improved handling of large models, every feature is designed to streamline workflows.
Enhanced Accuracy: Precise bonding interactions, upgraded solvers, and advanced connectors ensure simulations reflect real-world conditions.
Improved Usability: A cleaner interface and targeted tools reduce complexity, allowing users to focus on engineering, not troubleshooting.

The Solidxperts Advantage

At Solidxperts, we’re committed to helping you unlock the full potential of SOLIDWORKS 2025 Simulation. Our expert team is ready to support you with training, implementation, and ongoing assistance, ensuring your workflows are optimized for success.

Ready to Dive Deeper?

Want to explore the list of simulation upgrades? Download the guide to What’s New in SOLIDWORKS 2025 Simulation for detailed insights.

Ready to take your designs to the next level? Contact Solidxperts today to schedule a demo and see how these tools can transform your engineering projects. Together, we’ll shape the future of design.

Any questions? Need help? Ask one of our experts.

Whether you’re ready to get started or just have a few more questions, you can contact us toll-free:

What’s New in SOLIDWORKS 2025 Part 2: Browser-Based Roles

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What’s New in SOLIDWORKS 2025 Part 2: Browser-Based Roles

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3DEXPERIENCE SOLIDWORKS showing a rollercoaster model with advanced geometry editing tools and subdivision alignment, showcasing browser-based design capabilities.

The latest updates to SOLIDWORKS browser-based roles for 2025 introduce transformative tools and workflows that redefine accessibility, efficiency, and collaboration in design. From bridging the gap between 2D and 3D design workflows to enabling proactive manufacturability checks, these updates empower designers and engineers to work smarter, not harder.

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Highlights include the innovative Picture to Sketch tool, which converts images into editable parametric sketches, and enhanced geometry alignment features for precision modeling. With advanced command search capabilities, streamlined sheet metal design tools, and built-in flexibility, SOLIDWORKS 2025 browser-based roles offer more powerful, accessible solutions for modern design challenges.

Intro

SOLIDWORKS continues to evolve, redefining how teams collaborate, create, and innovate. With the latest updates to SOLIDWORKS browser-based roles, designers and engineers gain new tools to unlock their creativity, streamline workflows, and bring their ideas to life—all from the flexibility of a browser.

This blog continues our SOLIDWORKS 2025 What’ New series, delving into these updates, showcasing the most transformative features and how they elevate your CAD experience. Whether you’re enhancing manufacturability, accelerating workflows, or breaking down barriers between 2D and 3D design, these browser-based roles are the future of agile, accessible design.

Breaking Down the Barriers: Unified Workflows for 2D and 3D Design

The design process often toggles between 2D drawings and 3D models, creating potential inefficiencies. SOLIDWORKS browser-based roles eliminate this hurdle by offering a unified approach, giving you a single source of truth for your projects.

What’s New

Versatile 2D and 3D Workflows: Add views, dimensions, and tolerances in a 2D environment while simultaneously generating 3D annotations for consistency.
Improved Accuracy: Automatically sync 2D and 3D data, ensuring all annotations and views align perfectly across platforms.

Why It Matters

This integration breaks the silos between 2D and 3D workflows, reducing errors and streamlining communication with stakeholders. Whether you’re designing components or documenting manufacturing instructions, this feature saves time while maintaining precision.

Find Commands Faster: Command Search Enhancements

Efficiency is critical in today’s fast-paced design environment. SOLIDWORKS browser-based roles make it easier than ever to locate the tools you need.

What’s New

Intuitive Search: Search for commands by name, tooltip keywords, or synonyms directly from the S-key shortcut menu.
Accessibility: Quickly access commands—even if you’re unsure of the exact name—by using descriptive keywords.

Why It Matters

Navigating through countless menus is a thing of the past. This feature accelerates workflows, reduces frustration, and helps new users adapt to the software more quickly.

From Concept to Creation: Picture to Sketch

Have a hand-drawn concept or a reference image? SOLIDWORKS browser-based roles now enable you to transform ideas into actionable designs with the new Picture to Sketch tool.

What’s New

Image Conversion: Seamlessly convert images into parametric 2D sketches for editing.
Migration Simplified: Trace 2D sketches from other CAD systems for smooth transitions into 3D CAD.
Creative Freedom: Use hand-drawn sketches or screenshots as a starting point to rapidly prototype ideas.

Why It Matters

This tool bridges the gap between imagination and execution, allowing designers to turn rough concepts into polished designs without starting from scratch.

Ensuring Manufacturability with DFM Helper

Design for Manufacturing (DFM) is a critical consideration for any product. With the DFM Helper, SOLIDWORKS browser-based roles provide proactive checks to optimize your designs for production.

What’s New

Customizable Checks: Analyze parameters like part size, wall thickness, and hole specifications to identify potential manufacturing issues.
Error Prevention: Catch critical design flaws early, saving time and reducing costly manufacturing delays.

Why It Matters

By integrating manufacturability checks directly into the design process, DFM Helper ensures that your designs are production-ready from the start.

Advanced Tools for Sheet Metal Design

Sheet metal components are essential in many industries, and SOLIDWORKS browser-based roles enhance their design and documentation with powerful new features.

What’s New

Closed-Corner Feature: Easily close gaps between flanges with customizable joint types (butt, overlap, underlap).
Bend Table Integration: Generate flat patterns with detailed bend information, including order, direction, radius, and more.

Why It Matters:

These tools streamline sheet metal design and improve communication with manufacturing teams, ensuring precise and efficient fabrication.

Align, Modify, and Optimize: Expanded Geometry Tools

Designing freeform shapes and modifying meshes is now faster and more intuitive, thanks to these geometry-focused updates.

What’s New

Align to External Geometry: Reference existing components during subdivision editing for accurate alignment of freeform designs.
Alternate Mesh Modifier Robot: Access mesh modification options directly from a new, intuitive interface.

Why It Matters:

These updates enhance precision and usability, giving designers greater control over complex geometries without interrupting their workflows.

Why Choose SOLIDWORKS Browser-based roles?

SOLIDWORKS browser-based roles redefine accessibility and collaboration, giving you the freedom to work on your designs from any device with a browser. This flexibility removes hardware constraints, making it easier than ever to stay productive.

With advanced features like Picture to Sketch and DFM Helper, you’ll save time, minimize errors, and streamline your workflows. Plus, integrated tools ensure consistency across teams and projects, enabling faster and more effective collaboration.

Ready to Dive Deeper?

Want to explore everything at once? Download the full guide here: What’s New in SOLIDWORKS Browser-Based Roles.

At Solidxperts, we’re here to help you get the most out of these innovative tools. Whether it’s onboarding or expert training, our team is dedicated to your success. Contact Solidxperts today to schedule a demo or learn how browser-based design can revolutionize your workflows.

Let’s shape the future of design together.

Any questions? Need help? Ask one of our experts.

Whether you’re ready to get started or just have a few more questions, you can contact us toll-free:

What’s New in SOLIDWORKS 2025 Part 1: Innovation at Every Turn

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What’s New in SOLIDWORKS 2025 Part 1: Innovation at Every Turn

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SOLIDWORKS 2025: Key Innovations You Should Know

SOLIDWORKS 2025 delivers an array of new features designed to enhance collaboration, streamline workflows, and elevate design precision. This latest release integrates advanced tools for real-time team connectivity, boosts performance for complex assemblies, and introduces smarter part modeling techniques. Users can also expect improvements in detailing, immersive rendering, and ECAD-MCAD collaboration, ensuring their projects meet the highest standards of efficiency and innovation.

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With seamless integration into the 3DEXPERIENCE platform, SOLIDWORKS 2025 sets the stage for a new era of connected design and data management. Whether you’re optimizing workflows or exploring new creative possibilities, this release is tailored to help you achieve more in less time.

Intro

The wait is over—SOLIDWORKS 2025 is here, and it’s designed to push the boundaries of what’s possible in engineering and design. Packed with advanced tools and updates, this release focuses on enhancing collaboration, boosting performance, and delivering precision across every phase of the design-to-production journey.

At Solidxperts, we believe that staying ahead of industry trends means adopting tools that not only keep up but help you lead. With SOLIDWORKS 2025, you’ll find smarter workflows, new levels of connectivity, and features that empower you to take your ideas further.

This blog marks the beginning of a multi-part series, where we’ll dive deeper into the newest features of SOLIDWORKS 2025 over the coming weeks. From part modeling to assembly performance, collaboration tools, and more, we’ll explore how these updates can elevate your projects and streamline your workflows.

Let’s dive into the highlights of what’s new in SOLIDWORKS 2025.

Collaboration Without Boundaries

Innovation thrives in collaboration, and SOLIDWORKS 2025 takes team connectivity to new heights. With improved integration and real-time updates, your projects stay on track—even when your team is working remotely.

What’s New

Instant Updates: Get real-time notifications on file changes, ensuring your team always works with the latest versions, preventing costly errors.
Connected Communities: Share insights, ask questions, and discuss designs directly within the platform—no more juggling external tools.
3DEXPERIENCE PDM Integration: Leverage the power of SOLIDWORKS PDM combined with the 3DEXPERIENCE platform for robust data management and collaborative design.

Why It Matters

Collaboration tools in SOLIDWORKS 2025 streamline communication and ensure everyone, from engineers to stakeholders, stays on the same page. Say goodbye to wasted time and hello to connected productivity.

Precision in Every Part

Design is in the details, and the latest part modeling enhancements in SOLIDWORKS 2025 make achieving precision easier than ever. These updates are designed to reduce manual effort while expanding your creative possibilities.

What’s New

Chamfer Command Accelerators: Select edges faster with intuitive accelerators that save time on repetitive tasks.
Variable Fillets: Create fluid, smooth transitions between edges with continuous blending capabilities.
Sheet Metal Efficiency: Automatically generate bend notches on flat patterns for quicker and more accurate manufacturing setups.
Silhouette Defeature: Simplify complex parts for large assemblies while keeping them linked to the original geometry.

Why It Matters

These tools allow you to focus on design innovation while minimizing repetitive tasks. The new modeling features ensure your designs are not only functional but also manufacturable, saving time and resources down the line.

Assembly Performance Redefined

When working with large assemblies, every second counts. SOLIDWORKS 2025 introduces performance improvements that help you manage complex designs with speed and precision.

What’s New

Top-Level SpeedPak Configurations: Add SpeedPak configurations directly to the top level of assemblies without editing subassemblies.
Faster Mass Properties Calculations: Pre-calculated values for parts streamline mass property analyses in assemblies.
Interference Detection: Identify clashes between surface and solid bodies—even in Large Design Review mode.

Why It Matters

SOLIDWORKS 2025 empowers you to handle massive assemblies efficiently, helping you make decisions faster and maintain tight project timelines.

Elevated Drawing and Detailing

Great designs require clear documentation. With SOLIDWORKS 2025, creating and refining detailed drawings is faster and more intuitive, ensuring your team and partners can bring concepts to life seamlessly.

What’s New

Multi-Approval Stamps: Enforce company rules and add approval stamps on connected devices for better control and accountability.
Custom BOM Quantities: Tailor BOM tables to display QUANTITY or LENGTH x QUANTITY based on your project needs.
Streamlined Layouts: Automatic placement of tables, dimensions, and annotations creates cleaner, more readable drawings.

Why It Matters

Time spent on creating, adjusting, and organizing drawings is now significantly reduced, allowing you to focus on delivering high-quality designs.

A Visual Revolution with Immersive Rendering

Captivating visuals are key to bringing your designs to life, and SOLIDWORKS 2025 is raising the bar with cutting-edge rendering features for Visualize.

What’s New

Automated Rendering: Automate photorealistic renderings using the SOLIDWORKS Visualize API.
Vulkan API Ray Tracing: Leverage advanced GPU technology for real-time, interactive ray tracing that produces stunning visuals faster.

Why It Matters

These enhancements ensure you can present your designs with confidence, whether you’re pitching to stakeholders or showcasing ideas to customers.

Bridging the Gap Between ECAD and MCAD

For products that merge mechanical and electronic components, SOLIDWORKS 2025 introduces tools to ensure seamless integration between ECAD and MCAD workflows.

What’s New

Detailed PCB Imports: Include internal and external copper features in PCB designs for accurate mass and thermal analyses.
CircuitWorks for All: Now universally available, CircuitWorks simplifies ECAD-MCAD collaboration.

Why It Matters

By bridging these traditionally siloed workflows, SOLIDWORKS 2025 enables teams to produce better designs in less time.

Why Choose SOLIDWORKS 2025?

SOLIDWORKS 2025 isn’t just an update; it’s a toolkit for success in a fast-paced, connected world. From collaborative tools to enhanced performance and precision, this version empowers you to deliver designs that stand out.

At Solidxperts, we’re here to help you unlock the full potential of SOLIDWORKS 2025. Our team of experts is ready to guide you through its features, ensure a smooth transition, and provide ongoing support.

Ready to Dive Deeper?

For an in-depth look at these design, collaboration, and data management features and enhancements, download the full PDF guide here.

Any questions? Need help? Ask one of our experts.

Whether you’re ready to get started or just have a few more questions, you can contact us toll-free:

3DEXPERIENCE World 2025’s Keynote Speakers and a Surprise Special Guest

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3DEXPERIENCE World 2025’s Keynote Speakers and a Surprise Special Guest

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A keynote speaker takes center stage at 3DEXPERIENCE World 2024

What is 3DEXPERIENCE World?

3DEXPERIENCE World is the premier annual CAD convention hosted by Dassault Systèmes, uniting engineers, designers, and innovators from across the globe. This conference offers a unique opportunity to explore groundbreaking technologies, connect with industry leaders, and gain hands-on experience with not only SOLIDWORKS, but the 3DEXPERIENCE platform and the technology both are helping to create. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just beginning your career in design and engineering, this event provides unparalleled access to knowledge, networking, and inspiration.

3DEXPERIENCE World 2025

📅 February 23-26th

📍George R. Brown Convention Center

Why Should You Go?

Attendees at 3DEXPERIENCE World 2025 can expect:

Exclusive insights from top keynote speakers and industry experts.
Workshops and breakout sessions covering cutting-edge tools and techniques.
Networking opportunities with peers, leaders, and innovators from around the world.
Live demos of the latest 3D, CAD, and manufacturing solutions.
SO MUCH MORE!

Meet the Keynote Speakers

Marc Raibert – Executive Director of The AI Institute and Founder of Boston Dynamics

Marc Raibert, a lifelong roboticist, has been at the forefront of robotics innovation for over 50 years. As the founder of Boston Dynamics, he led the creation of iconic robots like BigDog, Atlas, and Spot, which revolutionized dynamic mobility. He founded The AI Institute in 2022 to advance intelligent robotics. Raibert’s career highlights include tenure at MIT and Carnegie Mellon University, pioneering dynamic robot research at the Leg Laboratory, and earning accolades like the IEEE Robotics Pioneer Award and the Engelberger Award. His inspiring journey continues to shape the future of robotics and AI.

Karim Rashid – Founder of Karim Rashid, Inc.

Karim Rashid is a globally renowned designer whose work spans over 47 countries and 4,000 designs, from luxury goods to interiors and branding. With over 400 awards to his name, his creations are featured in 20 permanent museum collections, including MoMA and the Pompidou. Rashid’s innovative approach aims to seamlessly integrate design into everyday life, shaping culture and redefining aesthetics. His keynote will explore the intersection of design, technology, and human experience.

A Surprise Special Guest

Spot – The Robotic Platform by Boston Dynamics

Spot, the versatile robotic platform, will make a special appearance at 3DEXPERIENCE World 2025. Known for its dynamic mobility and adaptability, Spot has garnered fame for its ability to navigate diverse environments, carry payloads, and even climb stairs with ease. This particular Spot, nicknamed “One”, has achieved celebrity status, starring in a Billie Eilish music video and even making an appearance in renowned sci-fi franchise, Black Mirror. Don’t miss the chance to see Spot live in action!

Featured Speakers

The conference will also showcase an impressive lineup of presentations from industry experts across diverse fields, each bringing unique perspectives and experiences to the event. Attendees will gain insights into the latest trends, innovative technologies, and practical applications directly from these accomplished professionals, fostering inspiration and knowledge-sharing. Learn from industry leaders, including:

Charles Vincent Barrete – Regional Technical Manager, Asia Pacific, FIELD READY
Matthew Fonte – President, ColdSnap Corp.
Daniel Galante – Designer and Simulation Analyst, CALOI
Ken Mansfield – Senior Mechanical Engineer, Seneca Dairy Systems
Chris Rauch – Chief Product Officer, Dolphin Labs
Sriharsha Sheshanarayana – Co-founder and CTO, Bullwork Mobility
Leandro Timotio da Silva – Product Engineer, CALOI
Timoci Vosailagi – Field Engineer, FIELD READY

Check out the full line up here!

Dassault Systèmes Speakers

Gain valuable insights from the thought leaders behind the 3DEXPERIENCE platform, whose expertise and vision have been instrumental in driving the future of design and collaboration. These industry pioneers will share their perspectives on innovation, technology, and the strategies shaping the 3DEXPERIENCE ecosystem.

Gian Paolo Bassi – With over 25 years in the 3D, CAD, and PLM industries, Gian Paolo Bassi drives innovation as 3DEXPERIENCE Works SVP & Customer Role Experience. Previously SOLIDWORKS CEO, he spearheaded groundbreaking developments in cloud-based design. Before Dassault Systèmes, he founded RIWEBB and co-invented multiple patents at ImpactXoft, showcasing his passion for advancing functional modeling and collaboration technologies.

Suchit Jain – Vice President of Strategy & Business Development, Suchit Jain leads the cloud transformation and 3DEXPERIENCE Works expansion of SOLIDWORKS, focusing on product and sales strategies. He also oversees the User Advocacy team, supporting SOLIDWORKS’ passionate global community. A mentor and advocate for startups, Suchit actively engages with innovation hubs like Greentown Labs and MassChallenge, driving collaboration between entrepreneurs and resources. His academic achievements include a bachelor’s degree from IIT Bombay and a master’s degree in Structural Mechanics from USC.

Manish Kumar – With over two decades at SOLIDWORKS, Manish Kumar has been instrumental in driving innovation. As CEO, he leads the synergy between R&D and SOLIDWORKS’ vibrant user community, fostering adoption of the expanding SOLIDWORKS portfolio. From pioneering developments in sketching and modeling to introducing V6 technology, Manish has shaped the future of design. A graduate of IIT Delhi and Harvard University, he is also an artist, woodworker, and avid cricket enthusiast, balancing his professional achievements with personal passions.

Conclusion

3DEXPERIENCE World 2025 promises to be an unforgettable experience, blending technology, creativity, and community. With an incredible lineup of speakers, hands-on workshops, and networking opportunities, it’s the must-attend event for anyone passionate about innovation in engineering and 3D design.

Don’t wait—register today for 3DEXPERIENCE World 2025. See you in Texas!

Any questions? Need help? Ask one of our experts.

Whether you’re ready to get started or just have a few more questions, you can contact us toll-free:

5 Must-Attend Sessions You Won’t Want to Miss at 3DEXPERIENCE World 2025

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5 Must-Attend Sessions You Won’t Want to Miss at 3DEXPERIENCE World 2025

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A lineup of award winners presented on the main stage at 3DEXPERIENCE World 2024

That’s right—it’s that time of year again! 3DEXPERIENCE World 2025 is coming up fast and the Solidxperts team is gearing up to head to Houston, Texas for yet another jammed-packed convention schedule of industry learning, networking, and discovery.

3DEXPERIENCE World 2025

📅 February 23-26th

📍 George R. Brown Convention Center – Houston, Texas (USA)

Every year 3DEXPERIENCE World stands as the CAD industry’s premier annual event, highlighting cutting-edge technology, thought leadership, and the latest collaborative tools that fuel our innovation. It offers insightful sessions, hands-on workshops, and countless opportunities to explore industry trends. From advanced design strategies to game-changing SOLIDWORKS tips, this convention has something for everyone.

First Things First: Why Attend?

3DEXPERIENCE World 2025 is more than just an event—it’s an opportunity to immerse yourself in the latest advancements shaping the design and engineering industries. Connect with like-minded professionals, gain insights from industry leaders, and discover groundbreaking tools that can transform the way you work. The energy, innovation, and collaboration at this event are unparalleled, providing the perfect environment to sharpen your skills, expand your professional network, and fuel your creativity.

To help you make the most of your experience, here are just a few sessions we know you won’t want to miss at 3DEXPERIENCE World 2025:

1. Decoding the Mind of a Machine: Exploring Large Language Models & Generative AI

Monday, February 24 | 1:30 PM – 2:15 PM CST

Dive into the fascinating world of Large Language Models (LLMs) and Generative AI in this masterclass designed for all levels. This session offers a comprehensive exploration of the architecture and mechanics behind LLMs, their transformative potential for CAD and design innovation, and the challenges they present—from bias to ethical dilemmas. You’ll leave with a deeper understanding of how these advanced tools are reshaping the future of design.

2. Introduction to Smart Components

Tuesday, February 25 | 11:00 AM – 12:30 PM CST

Smart components revolutionize how you incorporate standard hardware into your designs. This beginner-friendly, hands-on workshop will guide you through creating and using smart components that automatically add fasteners and mounting features to assemblies. By simplifying repetitive tasks, this session will empower you to save time and enhance productivity in your day-to-day design workflows.

3. Data Matters: Preparing SOLIDWORKS Files for a Smooth Save to 3DEXPERIENCE

Tuesday, February 25 | 1:30 PM – 3:00 PM CST

Preparing your SOLIDWORKS data for migration to the 3DEXPERIENCE platform can be daunting—but it doesn’t have to be. This workshop will teach you data cleaning and preparation techniques using the File Preparation Assistant. Learn how to batch save files, organize bookmarks, and update data seamlessly to ensure a smooth transition. Whether you’re a designer or a CAD manager, this session is a must for optimizing workflows.

4. The Latest Features to Enhance Your Drafting Workflows

Wednesday, February 26 | 11:15 AM – 12:15 PM CST

With so many new features rolling out every year, it’s easy to lose track of updates that could transform your work. This intermediate session highlights recent enhancements—from big-ticket innovations to hidden gems—that streamline drafting workflows. Learn tips, tricks, and best practices to make the most of SOLIDWORKS and 3DEXPERIENCE updates.

5. Tips and Techniques: Combining Sub-D Surfacing and Parametric Modeling

Wednesday, February 26 | 4:15 PM – 5:00 PM CST

Discover how to blend the artistic freedom of subdivision surfacing with the precision of parametric modeling. This session will demonstrate how to use SOLIDWORKS 3D Sculptor and 3D Creator to create ergonomically optimized designs efficiently. Perfect for intermediate-level designers, this masterclass provides insights into combining these powerful tools to bring your most ambitious designs to life.

Beyond the Sessions

While the sessions are undoubtedly a highlight, 3DEXPERIENCE World 2025 offers so much more. The interactive expo floor is your chance to see cutting-edge technology and tools in action. Meet exhibitors showcasing the latest innovations and get hands-on with products that could redefine your workflows. Additionally, the keynote speeches from visionary leaders in design and technology will provide inspiration and insight into the future of the industry.

The event also features community meetups and special interest group sessions, where you can dive deeper into topics you’re passionate about and connect with others who share your interests. Whether it’s exploring sustainability in design or learning about the latest in additive manufacturing, these sessions offer something for everyone.

Wrapping It Up

With dozens more sessions than just these 5 that cover a wide range of subjects, 3DEXPERIENCE World 2025 offers opportunities for everyone to grow, learn, and be inspired. From discovering the latest tools to connecting with a passionate community of innovators, this event is your chance to elevate your skills and broaden your horizons. We can’t wait to see you in Houston for what promises to be an unforgettable experience.

Don’t miss your opportunity to be part of this incredible event. Register here and check out the full agenda to start planning your schedule. See you in Texas!

Any questions? Need help? Ask one of our experts.

Whether you’re ready to get started or just have a few more questions, you can contact us toll-free:

What’s New in SOLIDWORKS Visualize 2025 and Visualize Boost

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What’s New in SOLIDWORKS Visualize 2025 and Visualize Boost

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Detailed close-up rendering of a mechanical component showcasing the photorealistic capabilities of SOLIDWORKS Visualize, with intricate textures, lighting, and reflections.

Abstract

SOLIDWORKS Visualize 2025 introduces powerful new features to streamline rendering workflows and elevate the quality of photorealistic visuals. Highlights include Fast Render mode, AI and Vulkan Ray Tracing for real-time previews, and API integration for automated rendering processes. The new Faded Ground option enhances scene composition, while updates to Visualize Boost simplify distributed rendering for faster outputs. With the discontinuation of NVIDIA Iray, the Stellar engine takes center stage, offering improved performance and compatibility. These updates make SOLIDWORKS Visualize 2025 an indispensable tool for designers and engineers, enabling faster, smarter, and more efficient rendering.

Introduction

The ability to create stunning, photorealistic visuals is no longer a luxury—it’s a necessity. Whether you’re pitching concepts to clients, crafting marketing materials, or simply refining your designs, tools like SOLIDWORKS Visualize make it all possible. With the release of SOLIDWORKS Visualize 2025, Dassault Systèmes has raised the bar, introducing innovative features designed to accelerate workflows, enhance rendering quality, and improve overall user experience. From AI-powered rendering modes to streamlined distributed rendering with Visualize Boost, this latest version empowers designers and engineers to bring their ideas to life like never before.

In this article, we’ll dive into the key enhancements of SOLIDWORKS Visualize 2025. Let’s explore what’s new and how these tools continue to lead in creating visually stunning content.

Fast Render Mode

One of the standout features in SOLIDWORKS Visualize 2025 is the new Fast Render mode. This mode utilizes Deep Learning artificial intelligence (AI) technology alongside advanced ray tracing to deliver real-time interactive rendering.

By rapidly eliminating noise from the viewport, Fast Render mode offers users a near-instantaneous preview of their designs, significantly accelerating the rendering process. This enhancement is particularly beneficial for users requiring quick iterations and approvals, as it reduces the time needed to produce high-quality images and animations.

Photorealistic Rendering via SOLIDWORKS API

Another significant advancement is the integration of Visualize with the SOLIDWORKS Application Programming Interface (API). This integration allows users to render SOLIDWORKS documents directly or convert them into Visualize project files through the Add-In. The API facilitates automation in the creation of photorealistic renderings, enabling a more efficient workflow and reducing manual intervention. This feature is particularly advantageous for users looking to automate repetitive tasks or integrate rendering capabilities into custom applications.

Faded Ground Option

SOLIDWORKS Visualize 2025 introduces a Faded Ground option, providing users with enhanced control over scene composition. By enabling the Faded setting under the Ground Shadow Catcher, the ground plane can be hidden without affecting the lighting and reflections on the model.

This feature is especially useful for creating composite images, as it reduces the need for post-processing and allows for seamless integration of rendered models into various backgrounds.

Enhancements in SOLIDWORKS Visualize Boost 2025

Visualize Boost has been redesigned to offer a more intuitive setup and streamlined workflows. For those unfamiliar, SOLIDWORKS Visualize Boost is an add-on that enables distributed rendering across multiple machines, effectively lightening the load on a single computer and accelerating the rendering process. The 2025 update simplifies the configuration of rendering farms, making it easier to distribute rendering tasks and achieve faster results. This enhancement is particularly beneficial for users handling complex scenes or high-resolution outputs, as it allows for efficient utilization of networked resources.

Discontinuation of NVIDIA Iray Support

With the 2025 release, SOLIDWORKS Visualize has discontinued support for the NVIDIA Iray rendering engine. The Stellar Physically Correct engine now serves as the default renderer.

Projects previously created with NVIDIA Iray will be automatically converted to the Stellar engine upon opening in SOLIDWORKS Visualize 2025. This transition ensures compatibility and takes advantage of the latest advancements in rendering technology, providing users with improved performance and quality.

Leveraging GPU Technology with Vulkan Ray Tracing API

The Fast Render mode in SOLIDWORKS Visualize 2025 leverages the Vulkan Ray Tracing API, an open-standard API for 3D graphics and computing. This integration allows users to harness the power of modern GPUs, enabling real-time, interactive ray tracing.

The result is a more responsive rendering experience, with accurate shadows and reflections, reducing the time required to achieve photorealistic results.

Improved User Experience and Workflow Efficiency

The 2025 release focuses on enhancing user experience by introducing features that streamline workflows and reduce manual effort. The integration with the SOLIDWORKS API allows for automation in rendering tasks, while the Faded Ground option minimizes the need for post-processing. Additionally, the intuitive setup of Visualize Boost facilitates the creation of rendering farms, enabling users to distribute workloads efficiently. These improvements contribute to a more efficient and user-friendly environment, allowing designers and engineers to focus on creativity and innovation.

Why Choose SOLIDWORKS Visualize?

SOLIDWORKS Visualize sets itself apart as a premier rendering tool by combining cutting-edge technology with user-friendly functionality.

Real-Time Rendering with AI-Enhanced Speed

The new Fast Render Mode leverages AI and Vulkan Ray Tracing technology to deliver real-time, noise-free previews. This revolutionary feature accelerates the rendering process, saving valuable time while ensuring the visual fidelity of your designs.

Seamless Integration with the SOLIDWORKS Ecosystem

As part of the SOLIDWORKS family, Visualize integrates smoothly with tools like SOLIDWORKS CAD and the 3DEXPERIENCE platform. This integration allows for effortless import of CAD models, direct manipulation of materials and textures, and streamlined data sharing across projects.

User-Friendly Experience

SOLIDWORKS Visualize is designed to accommodate users of all skill levels. Its intuitive interface makes it easy for beginners to produce professional-quality visuals, while advanced features empower seasoned users to refine and perfect their work.

Scalable Performance with Visualize Boost

With Visualize Boost, users can distribute rendering tasks across multiple computers for faster processing. This scalability ensures high performance even for complex projects, making it ideal for teams handling detailed models or high-resolution outputs.

Key Use Cases for SOLIDWORKS Visualize

Product Design and Marketing

From concept sketches to final prototypes, SOLIDWORKS Visualize helps designers create lifelike representations of their products. These renderings are ideal for marketing materials, investor pitches, and design reviews, enabling stakeholders to visualize the end product with clarity.

Automotive and Aerospace Industries

Industries like automotive and aerospace require precise visualizations for engineering validation and customer presentations. The Faded Ground Option allows for seamless scene composition, while advanced lighting tools ensure accurate representations of materials and finishes.

Architecture and Construction

Architectural designers use SOLIDWORKS Visualize to create immersive visuals of buildings, interiors, and outdoor spaces. The realistic rendering capabilities help clients and stakeholders envision the final result, supporting faster approvals and better decision-making.

Consumer Goods and Packaging

For consumer goods, photorealistic renderings of products and packaging play a crucial role in branding and marketing. Features like material manipulation and scene customization enable companies to highlight product details and differentiate themselves in competitive markets.

Conclusion

SOLIDWORKS Visualize 2025 brings a host of enhancements aimed at improving rendering performance, flexibility, and integration. The introduction of Fast Render mode, integration with the SOLIDWORKS API, Faded Ground option, and improvements in Visualize Boost collectively contribute to a more efficient and powerful rendering toolset. These features enable users to produce high-quality, photorealistic renderings with greater speed and ease, supporting a wide range of applications from marketing materials to design reviews.

To learn more about what SOLIDWORKS Visualize can do for your specific workflows, or to kick start your next 3D design journey, reach out to our SOLIDWORKS experts today!

Any questions? Need help? Ask one of our experts.

Whether you’re ready to get started or just have a few more questions, you can contact us toll-free:

5 New Features You Should Know About in 3D SheetMetal Creator

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5 New Features You Should Know About in 3D SheetMetal Creator

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A screenshot showcasing the Jog Command in 3D SheetMetal Creator, demonstrating the creation of two bends from a single sketch, with parameters for offset, bend angle, and fixed points visible in the interface.

Abstract

The 3D SheetMetal Creator role on the 3DEXPERIENCE platform, available in the SOLIDWORKS Cloud Offer, streamlines sheet metal design with powerful browser-based tools for creating precise 3D geometries and manufacture-ready 2D flat patterns. Key features like the Jog Command, Bend Order Table, Sheet Metal Hole Command, Closed Corner, and Point or Curve Mapping enhance efficiency by reducing manual steps, organizing manufacturing details, standardizing hole creation, simplifying flange gap closure, and enabling detailed flat pattern mapping for better communication with manufacturers. These tools save time, improve design accuracy, and ensure seamless collaboration from design to production.

Introduction

3D SheetMetal Creator, part of the 3DEXPERIENCE platform, is a browser-based solution tailored to streamline sheet metal design. It empowers users to create intricate 3D geometries, automatically generate 2D flat patterns, and enhance collaboration through seamless integration with other tools in the platform. Whether you are a seasoned designer or new to sheet metal work, the recent updates to 3D SheetMetal Creator make it an essential tool for efficient and precise design. Here, we explore five new features that significantly improve the user experience, alongside a deeper dive into the software’s capabilities.

1. Jog Command

The new Jog Command simplifies the process of creating bends in sheet metal parts. With this feature, you can quickly add two bends using a single sketch, reducing the need for multiple steps. This capability is particularly useful when designing features like stiffening ribs or decorative jogs, where two bends often occur in tandem.

For example, instead of creating separate sketches for each bend and applying individual bend features, the Jog Command combines these actions into one seamless operation. This not only saves time but also ensures greater consistency in your design. By minimizing manual input, the Jog Command helps eliminate errors and enhances productivity for designers working under tight deadlines.

2. Bend Order Table

The Bend Order Table is a game-changer for improving communication between designers and manufacturers. This feature provides a tabular representation of a sheet metal component’s bends, detailing critical information such as bend order, direction, angle, and radius.

By simply dragging rows within the table, you can reorder bends to optimize manufacturing processes. This flexibility makes it easier to communicate manufacturing intent to shop floor teams. Additionally, you can rename bends to indicate stages (e.g., “Stage 1 Bend” or “Final Bend”), adding clarity to complex designs.

With the Bend Order Table, collaboration becomes more straightforward. Manufacturers can better understand and execute designs, reducing errors and costly rework. This feature bridges the gap between virtual designs and physical production, ensuring smooth handoffs at every stage of the workflow.

3. Sheet Metal Hole Command

The Sheet Metal Hole Command makes it easier than ever to create holes across multiple sketches and planes in one operation. This command supports:

Predefined industry-standard hole types, including those tailored for sheet metal (e.g., PEM fastener holes).
Automatic hole alignment across different planes, ensuring precision and uniformity.

Whether you’re designing ventilation slots, mounting points, or hardware accommodations, this feature speeds up the process by eliminating the need for repetitive manual work. Consistency is key in manufacturing, and the Sheet Metal Hole Command ensures that your design adheres to these principles without added effort.

4. Closed Corner

The Closed Corner feature addresses the challenge of aligning overlapping flanges in sheet metal parts. This tool provides three distinct options:

Gap: Define specific gap dimensions between flanges.
Overlap: Close the gap entirely, creating a seamless finish.
Tabbed: Close the gap while introducing a tab for additional structural support.

Clean, aligned corners are critical in applications like enclosures, cabinets, and frames. By automating the process of closing corners, this feature eliminates manual adjustments, ensuring your designs are production-ready.

5. Point or Curve Mapping

Point or Curve Mapping is an invaluable feature for engineers who need to convey additional details in flat patterns. With this tool, you can map sketches, edges, curves, or points from the 3D design directly onto the flat pattern. This is especially useful for adding engravings, construction elements, or alignment marks.

These mapped details can be included in DXF exports, ensuring manufacturers have all the information needed for fabrication. Point or Curve Mapping enhances communication and reduces ambiguity in production workflows.

Why Choose 3D SheetMetal Creator?

3D SheetMetal Creator goes beyond the traditional capabilities of desktop CAD software. As a fully browser-based tool, it offers several unique advantages.

Cloud-Based Accessibility

Work from anywhere, anytime. With no need for complex installations or hardware requirements, designers can access 3D SheetMetal Creator from any device with an internet connection. This flexibility is perfect for hybrid work environments and global collaboration.

Seamless Integration with 3DEXPERIENCE Platform

As part of the 3DEXPERIENCE platform, 3D SheetMetal Creator integrates seamlessly with other tools like Collaborative Designer for SOLIDWORKS, SIMULIA for simulation, and ENOVIA for data management. This ecosystem allows teams to share data, track changes, and manage projects in real time.

Intuitive User Interface

The software is designed with ease of use in mind. Its intuitive interface ensures that both novice and experienced users can quickly adopt the tool without extensive training.

Automatic Updates

With cloud-based deployment, you’ll always have access to the latest features and updates. There’s no need for manual installations, ensuring your team remains productive with the most up-to-date tools.

Enhanced Collaboration

Teams can collaborate in real time, reviewing designs and providing feedback directly within the platform. This reduces the need for back-and-forth communication and accelerates decision-making.

Use Cases for 3D SheetMetal Creator

Industrial Equipment

Designers of industrial equipment rely on 3D SheetMetal Creator to create robust and precise components. Features like the Jog Command and Closed Corner tool are particularly useful for crafting enclosures, brackets, and frames.

Consumer Products

From kitchen appliances to electronics, consumer product designers use the Sheet Metal Hole Command to incorporate ventilation slots, mounting points, and hardware accommodations into their designs.

Automotive and Aerospace

The automotive and aerospace industries benefit from the software’s ability to handle complex geometries and optimize manufacturing processes. The Bend Order Table ensures clear communication of production steps, while Point or Curve Mapping adds critical details to flat patterns.

Getting Started with 3D SheetMetal Creator

If you’re ready to make your sheet metal projects easier and more efficient, Solidxperts is here to help. As an authorized reseller, we’ll provide you with the tools, training, and support you need to get started.

Contact us today to learn more about 3D SheetMetal Creator, or schedule a demo to see it in action. Let’s take your sheet metal designs to the next level together!

Any questions? Need help? Ask one of our experts.

Whether you’re ready to get started or just have a few more questions, you can contact us toll-free:

How to Optimize CNC Programming with NC Shop Floor Programmer on the 3DEXPERIENCE Platform

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How to Optimize CNC Programming with NC Shop Floor Programmer on the 3DEXPERIENCE Platform

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A manufacturing engineer and a manager reviewing a CNC machine programming sheet in a well-lit factory, with a CNC machine visible in the background.

Streamline CNC Programming with NC Shop Floor Programmer

Efficiency drives success in today’s manufacturing landscape, where competition demands precision and speed. The NC Shop Floor Programmer role on the 3DEXPERIENCE platform is a powerful solution that helps manufacturers meet these demands. By enabling you to create optimized NC programs tailored for a wide range of operations, such as milling and toolpath creation, this role ensures accurate machining while reducing production delays and the risk of unexpected issues.

Its features are not limited to creating efficient workflows—they also provide unmatched accuracy in toolpath simulation and program validation. With the ability to seamlessly handle complex NC machine operations, Shop Floor Programmer becomes an essential asset for anyone looking to streamline production and reduce costs.

What Is NC Shop Floor Programmer on the 3DEXPERIENCE Platform?

Shop Floor Programmer is a specialized role within the 3DEXPERIENCE platform designed to enhance CNC programming processes. It empowers concurrent engineering, allowing multiple teams—such as design, programming, and manufacturing—to collaborate in real time on a single platform.

By integrating seamlessly with SOLIDWORKS and other DELMIA roles, Shop Floor Programmer connects stakeholders across your entire organization, ensuring that changes in CAD designs are instantly reflected in NC programs. This integration eliminates the need for redundant workflows, accelerates time-to-market, and protects intellectual property through centralized data management.

For manufacturers looking to optimize their product development and machining processes, Shop Floor Programmer delivers a streamlined and scalable approach to modern CNC programming.

How Does NC Shop Floor Programmer Simplify Setup?

Setting up CNC operations has traditionally been a complex and time-intensive process. Shop Floor Programmer simplifies this with its intuitive graphic dialog boxes and machining operation definition panel, which guide you through the setup process step-by-step. By presenting options in a user-friendly interface, the tool eliminates guesswork, reduces errors, and ensures that even less experienced users can achieve optimal results.

One of its standout features is automatic feature recognition, which identifies machining features such as pockets, holes, and contours directly from the CAD model. This significantly reduces programming time and ensures precise machining, all while maintaining the highest levels of accuracy.

Additionally, the help icon provides immediate, contextual assistance making it easier to troubleshoot challenges or learn new workflows. This combination of user-friendly tools and on-demand support ensures that Shop Floor Programmer is accessible to users of varying skill levels while delivering the precision required in high-stakes manufacturing.

Optimizing Toolpaths with Machine Simulation

In CNC programming, ensuring that toolpaths are error-free before production is critical to avoiding costly mistakes and delays. Shop Floor Programmer leverages machine simulation to empower programmers to validate toolpaths in a realistic virtual workplace, replicating the exact conditions of the tool’s physical environment.

This feature provides a comprehensive visualization of machining operations, allowing you to check for potential collisions, unnecessary tool movements, or inefficiencies in the cutting process. For example, validating the behavior of a cutter tool assembly ensures that it interacts correctly with the workpiece setup and machine components. By addressing potential issues during the programming stage, your teams can dramatically reduce the likelihood of production delays caused by unforeseen complications.

Additionally, machine simulation supports NC accessories like fixtures and clamps, ensuring that all components are accounted for during toolpath validation. This results in a safer, more reliable manufacturing process that minimizes scrap and maximizes throughput. The ability to simulate various scenarios also empowers you to optimize cutting strategies, achieving a perfect balance of speed and precision.

Milling Operations

Milling is one of the most intricate operations in CNC machining, requiring precise control over machine movements and cutting strategies. Shop Floor Programmer excels in this domain, offering a suite of advanced tools designed to simplify and enhance milling operations.

Key features include precise control over machine rotations, which is essential for achieving high-quality finishes and maintaining tolerances in complex geometries. This level of control lets you handle intricate toolpaths with ease, ensuring that the final product meets your exact specifications.

The role’s seamless integration with NC machines ensures that programs are compatible with a wide variety of equipment, from basic 2.5-axis setups to advanced multi-axis milling centers. This flexibility allows teams to adapt Shop Floor Programmer to their specific production needs, making it an invaluable tool for both small shops and large-scale manufacturers.

Beyond programming capabilities, Shop Floor Programmer also supports efficient tool changes, reducing machine downtime and ensuring uninterrupted workflows. With its robust features and intuitive interface, the role lets you optimize every aspect of your milling process, from toolpath simulation to final production, improving productivity and reducing costs.

Benefits of Using a Single Platform

Working on a single platform like the 3DEXPERIENCE platform offers a host of benefits, including:

Data management: Ensure intellectual property remains secure while providing real-time updates.
Collaboration: Empower the entire organization to work together, from product development to machining.
Scalability: The platform accommodates both small teams and large operations.

Best Practices

To fully leverage Shop Floor Programmer, follow these best practices:

Use automatic feature recognition to save time during programming.
Validate toolpath programs using machine simulation to reduce errors.
Regularly update documentation to reflect design changes and adjustments to parameter settings.

How Does Toolpath Simulation Improve Accuracy?

Toolpath simulation enables teams to visualize machining operations in detail. By simulating the tool’s physical environment, users can address potential issues with NC machine operations before production, minimizing the risk of unexpected issues.

DELMIA Integration

NC Shop Floor Programmer integrates seamlessly with DELMIA applications, ensuring that ERP systems and machining teams are aligned. This integration supports better documentation, enhances the accuracy of tool assemblies, and ensures the smooth execution of NC programs.

CNC Machining

Whether you’re programming for CNC machines or managing cutter configurations, Shop Floor Programmer excels in creating efficient, error-free processes. Its features allow you to optimize setup time while improving the quality of your machining results.

Handling SOLIDWORKS Design Changes

One of the standout features of Shop Floor Programmer is its ability to adapt to design changes seamlessly. When updates occur in CAD models, the tool automatically adjusts toolpath programs, keeping processes aligned and error-free.

Documentation and Stakeholder Collaboration

Shop Floor Programmer simplifies documentation for machining teams. By centralizing information on the 3DEXPERIENCE platform, it ensures all stakeholders have access to up-to-date, actionable data, improving communication across the entire organization.

Final Thoughts: How to Optimize CNC Programming with NC Shop Floor Programmer

In an industry where precision, efficiency, and adaptability are paramount, NC Shop Floor Programmer on the 3DEXPERIENCE platform stands out as a transformative solution. By uniting powerful tools for machining, toolpath simulation, and milling within a single, integrated platform, it addresses the core challenges faced by manufacturers today.

Seamlessly connect NC programmers, designers, and stakeholders, fostering collaboration across your entire organization. This integration ensures that design changes are automatically reflected in machining operations, eliminating the risk of miscommunication and reducing production delays. Additionally, the tool’s advanced features, such as automatic feature recognition and realistic virtual workplace simulation, empower you to optimize your workflows and achieve error-free results.

Whether it’s simplifying workpiece setup, enhancing toolpath programs, or integrating with existing NC machines, the NC Shop Floor Programmer role on the 3DEXPERIENCE platform provides a comprehensive, scalable solution tailored to modern manufacturing needs. With this role, manufacturers can transform their approach to CNC programming, unlocking new levels of precision and efficiency.

Ready to take the first step toward optimized manufacturing?—Reach out and discover the power of NC Shop Floor Programmer on the 3DEXPERIENCE platform today!

Any questions? Need help? Ask one of our experts.

Whether you’re ready to get started or just have a few more questions, you can contact us toll-free:

Designing for a Greener Future: Sustainability Tools in SOLIDWORKS

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Designing for a Greener Future: Sustainability Tools in SOLIDWORKS

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A silhouetted CAD engineer working on a tablet in a brightly lit design studio with large windows, plants, and eco-friendly design elements.

In the age of environmental awareness, designing sustainable products has become a cornerstone of responsible engineering. From reducing waste to facilitating recycling and improving energy efficiency, the decisions made during the design phase significantly impact a product’s environmental footprint. SOLIDWORKS addresses these challenges with its robust Sustainability tools, enabling designers and engineers to integrate eco-conscious practices seamlessly into their workflows.

This article explores some of the stand-out features of the SOLIDWORKS Sustainability toolkit, demonstrating how they empower users to design with sustainability in mind and contribute to a greener future.

Why Does Sustainable Design Matter?

Sustainable design focuses on minimizing the negative environmental impact of products throughout their lifecycle—from material selection to end-of-life disposal. It prioritizes resource efficiency, waste reduction, energy conservation, and recyclability.

Key Principles of Sustainable Design

Material Efficiency: Choosing eco-friendly, renewable, or recyclable materials.
Energy Efficiency: Reducing energy usage during manufacturing and product operation.
Waste Reduction: Designing products with minimal material waste during production.
End-of-Life Planning: Facilitating recycling, reusing, or repurposing of products.

SOLIDWORKS Sustainability tools are built to help engineers and designers embed eco-conscious practices directly into their design workflows. They go beyond theoretical concepts, offering practical, data-driven features that turn sustainability goals into tangible design actions.

Overview of SOLIDWORKS Sustainability Tools

SOLIDWORKS offers two primary tools for sustainability analysis:

SustainabilityXpress: Integrated into the core SOLIDWORKS package, this tool provides a basic assessment of part documents, offering insights into the environmental impact of design choices.
SOLIDWORKS Sustainability: Available in SOLIDWORKS Premium and Ultimate editions, this advanced tool extends functionality to include assemblies, configuration-specific analyses, and comprehensive reporting.

Get Actionable Insights

SOLIDWORKS Sustainability tools provide real-time feedback on critical environmental metrics, such as carbon footprint, energy consumption, air acidification, and water eutrophication. This data gives designers a clear picture of how their material choices, manufacturing processes, and design modifications affect the environment.

For example, a designer working on a product can immediately see how switching from virgin aluminum to recycled aluminum reduces the overall carbon footprint, helping them choose the most sustainable option without compromising performance.

Empower Informed Decision-Making

The integration of lifecycle assessment data ensures that you can consider the entire lifecycle of their product, from material sourcing and manufacturing to end-of-life disposal. This holistic view allows for smarter decisions that prioritize sustainability at every stage.

Tools like Material Comparison and Find Similar Materials make it easy to identify eco-friendly alternatives to traditional materials, enabling users to strike a balance between environmental responsibility and engineering requirements.

Stay Aligned with Established Design Principles

By focusing on material efficiency, recyclability, energy conservation, and durability, these tools directly support key principles of sustainable design. They encourage practices like lightweighting (using topology optimization) and modular design (facilitating disassembly and repair), which reduce resource consumption and extend product lifespan.

Experience Intuitive Usability and Integration

SOLIDWORKS Sustainability tools are integrated into your familiar SOLIDWORKS environment, making assessments an intuitive part of your design process rather than a separate, time-consuming step. This seamless integration ensures that even small design teams can incorporate sustainability into their workflows without requiring extensive training or additional software.

By providing immediate, meaningful feedback and enabling easy exploration of sustainable design alternatives, SOLIDWORKS Sustainability tools empower users to innovate while reducing environmental impacts, turning sustainable design from a lofty goal into an everyday reality.

Key Features of SOLIDWORKS Sustainability

Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) Integration

At the heart of SOLIDWORKS Sustainability lies its ability to perform lifecycle assessments. This feature evaluates the environmental impact of a product from raw material extraction to disposal, enabling designers to consider every phase of the product’s existence.

Key Metrics Assessed:

Carbon Footprint: Total greenhouse gas emissions.
Energy Consumption: Energy required during the product lifecycle.
Air Acidification: Impact of emissions contributing to acid rain.
Water Eutrophication: Nutrient pollution affecting water bodies.

The LCA feature provides real-time feedback, empowering users to adjust their designs to minimize negative environmental effects.

Material Selection and Analysis

Material choice is critical in determining a product’s sustainability. SOLIDWORKS Sustainability integrates a robust material database, allowing users to evaluate the environmental performance of different materials.

Features:

Material Comparison: Assess the environmental impact of materials based on criteria like recyclability, carbon footprint, and energy usage.
Find Similar Materials: Identify alternative materials with similar mechanical properties but lower environmental impact.
Eco-Friendly Materials: Explore options for recycled or renewable materials.

Example: Switching from traditional plastic to a bioplastic alternative could significantly lower a product’s environmental footprint without sacrificing functionality.

Environmental Impact Dashboard

The Environmental Impact Dashboard provides real-time visualization of sustainability metrics. This interactive interface allows users to monitor the effects of their design choices and adjust parameters as needed.

Benefits:

View metrics like carbon footprint and energy usage at a glance.
Experiment with design modifications to reduce environmental impact.
Generate detailed reports for presentations or compliance documentation.

Example: A packaging engineer could use the dashboard to refine the shape of a container, reducing material waste while maintaining structural integrity.

End-of-Life Analysis

Designing with the product’s end-of-life in mind is essential for sustainability. SOLIDWORKS Sustainability helps users consider disassembly, recycling, and reusability options.

Features:

Assess recyclability of materials used.
Simulate disassembly processes to identify areas for improvement.
Design modular components for easier upgrades or repairs.

Example: A consumer electronics company can design a modular smartphone with replaceable components, ensuring longevity and easier recycling.

Simulation for Optimization

Efficient designs often require fewer resources and materials. SOLIDWORKS Simulation tools integrate seamlessly with Sustainability, helping you optimize your designs for minimal material usage and maximum durability.

Features:

Topology Optimization: Reduce weight and material usage while maintaining strength.
Stress Analysis: Ensure durability without overengineering components.
Thermal and Flow Analysis: Optimize designs for energy efficiency in operation.

Example: An automotive designer could use topology optimization to create lightweight vehicle parts, improving fuel efficiency and reducing emissions.

Sustainability in a Circular Economy

Sustainability doesn’t end with the product’s lifecycle—it extends into a circular economy, where materials are continuously reused and recycled. SOLIDWORKS Sustainability supports circular design principles with tools that enable:

Modular Design: Simplify repair and upgrades by creating replaceable modules.
Disassembly Simulation: Ensure products can be disassembled efficiently for recycling.
Lifecycle Evaluation: Optimize the entire lifecycle for minimal waste and energy use.

Example: Designing appliances with easily replaceable parts ensures a longer product lifespan and less electronic waste.

Business Benefits of Sustainable Design

Adopting sustainable practices isn’t just good for the environment—it’s also a sound business strategy. Companies that integrate sustainability into their designs can:

Reduce Costs: Minimize material waste and energy usage during production.
Enhance Brand Reputation: Appeal to eco-conscious consumers and stakeholders.
Stay Ahead of Regulations: Meet or exceed environmental standards and certifications.
Drive Innovation: Explore new materials, processes, and design methodologies.

Final Thoughts

Designing for a greener future and balancing technological innovation with environmental protection often feel like trying to hit moving targets. But, SOLIDWORKS Sustainability tools empower engineers and designers to tackle environmental challenges head-on, to more efficiently deliver products that align with eco-friendly values. By leveraging features like lifecycle assessments, material analysis, and topology optimization, you can create innovative designs that minimize waste, conserve resources, and facilitate recycling.

Ready to design for a greener future? Explore SOLIDWORKS Sustainability tools today and see how they can help you achieve your sustainability goals. Contact SolidXperts for expert guidance, training, and support to get started.

Together, let’s build a more sustainable tomorrow!

Any questions? Need help? Ask one of our experts.

Whether you’re ready to get started or just have a few more questions, you can contact us toll-free:

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What’s New in SOLIDWORKS 2025 Part 4: ECAD and MCAD Collaboration

Intro

Unified Product Structures with 3DEXPERIENCE Integration

What’s New

Why It Matters

Enhanced Terminal Strip Functionality

What’s New

Why It Matters

Accelerated Electrical Content Import

What’s New

Why It Matters

Harness Routing Simplified

What’s New

Why It Matters

Dynamic 2D Drawings from 3D Models

What’s New

Why It Matters

CircuitWorks and ECAD-MCAD Collaboration

What’s New

Why It Matters

Copper Trace Support for Advanced Simulations

What’s New

Why It Matters

Improved Harness Board Documentation

What’s New

Why It Matters

Why Choose SOLIDWORKS 2025 for ECAD?

Key Benefits

Ready to Explore More?

What’s New in SOLIDWORKS 2025 Part 3: Simulation Reimagined

Intro

General Spring Connector: Simplified and Accurate Simulations

What’s New

Why It Matters

Enhanced Pin Connector: Precision at Every Step

What’s New

Why It Matters

Improved Handling of Large Models

What’s New

Why It Matters

Advanced Surface Interactions for Better Results

What’s New

Why It Matters

SOLIDWORKS Plastics: Analyze Warpage with Precision

What’s New

Why It Matters

SOLIDWORKS Flow Simulation: Speed and Accuracy Combined

What’s New

Why It Matters

Mesh Performance Upgrades

What’s New

Why It Matters

Why Choose SOLIDWORKS 2025 for Simulation?

Key Features

The Solidxperts Advantage

Ready to Dive Deeper?

What’s New in SOLIDWORKS 2025 Part 2: Browser-Based Roles

Intro

Breaking Down the Barriers: Unified Workflows for 2D and 3D Design

What’s New

Why It Matters

Find Commands Faster: Command Search Enhancements

What’s New

Why It Matters

From Concept to Creation: Picture to Sketch

What’s New

Why It Matters

Ensuring Manufacturability with DFM Helper

What’s New

Why It Matters

Advanced Tools for Sheet Metal Design

What’s New

Why It Matters:

Align, Modify, and Optimize: Expanded Geometry Tools

What’s New

Why It Matters:

Why Choose SOLIDWORKS Browser-based roles?

Ready to Dive Deeper?

What’s New in SOLIDWORKS 2025 Part 1: Innovation at Every Turn