We are excited to announce the release of SolidSteel parametric for SOLIDWORKS version 6.0, which brings a wealth of new functionalities and significant improvements to streamline your structural steel design workflow. This latest update is designed to enhance your productivity and simplify your design process with new tools and refined features.
What makes SolidSteel parametric for SOLIDWORKS 6.0 stand out from previous versions?
SolidSteel parametric for SOLIDWORKS 6.0 introduces groundbreaking features like the interactive Introductory Assistant and revamped Drawing Assistant, streamlining the design process and enhancing productivity. With enhanced management tools, SDNF data updates, and bug fixes, this update ensures smoother workflows and empowers users to achieve unparalleled efficiency and precision in structural steel design.
Starting with SolidSteel parametric has never been easier, thanks to the new interactive Introductory Assistant. This built-in tutorial guides you through your initial designs, covering basic working methods, handling profiles, components, and connections. No need to search for external resources—the Introductory Assistant offers a structured, step-by-step learning experience directly within the software, ensuring you can quickly become proficient in using SolidSteel parametric.
Drawing Assistant
Recognizing the critical role of shop drawings in many companies, the new Drawing Assistant has been completely redesigned based on user feedback.
This feature now includes:
– Dedicated User Interface: Easily manage all parts, assemblies, and their status in relation to drawings. Decide whether to create new drawings, update existing ones, or not create drawings at all for each part.
– Automated Shop Drawings: Automatically generate shop drawings for all profiles, sheets, welded assemblies, and main/sub-assemblies created with SolidSteel parametric. This includes parts created with standard SOLIDWORKS functions, provided they follow the SolidSteel parametric part template.
– Individual Drawing Settings: Customize drawing templates for each part and assembly, allowing for different bill of material formats on assembly and welded assembly drawings.
– Update Function: Preserve all existing drawing information when parts are modified. Only the dimensions affected by the change are updated, saving you from redundant work during late design changes.
– BOMs on Drawings: Automatically include bills of materials on assembly and welded assembly drawings based on your drawing templates, eliminating manual rework.
– Dimensioning Options: Choose between chain dimensioning and ordinate dimensioning based on your project needs or company standards.
Enhanced Diagnostic and Management Tools
Diagnostics Tab
– View profiles, create ToDo entries, and edit profiles directly from the Diagnostics tab.
ToDo Manager
– Automatically load and update ToDos when opening an assembly.
– Temporarily store ToDos when switching between assemblies.
– Delete multiple entries simultaneously.
PDM Equal Part Detection
– The “Finalize” function has been renamed to “PDM Equal Part Detection”, for a bit more clarity.
– Post-detection changes on the assembly are blocked to ensure consistency.
SDNF Data and Profile Updates
– Detailed change tracking for SDNF files.
– Updated profile database with UK standards including CHS, SHS, and RHS as per EN 10210 and EN 10219, and flat, square, and round bars as per EN 10025-2.
Additional Improvements
Manual Bolting
– Position holes and bolted connections using hole sketches for precise customization.
Miscellaneous and Bug Fixes
– Enhanced stability and error corrections across various functionalities, including SDNF import, diagnostics, railings, and connection management.
– Improved handling and editing of profiles, connections, and bolted joints.
Important Note: Password Update Required
To use the new version 6.0.0, you will need to request new passwords. You can conveniently request these through the Klietsch PasswordCenter or from your SolidXperts representative.
Conclusion
SolidSteel parametric for SOLIDWORKS version 6.0 is packed with powerful features and improvements to make your design process more efficient and intuitive. From the comprehensive Introductory Assistant to the robust Drawing Assistant and beyond, this update ensures you can achieve higher levels of automation and significant time savings in your daily work.
For more information or to request your new passwords, contact SolidXperts today and take your structural steel design to the next level with SolidSteel parametric 6.0.
SolidXperts is stepping into the future with a brand-new image that reflects our commitment to innovation, collaboration, and cutting-edge solutions. Buckle up, because we’re about to take you on an exciting rebranding journey.
A Vibrant Color Palette
Say goodbye to the classic primary blue and red – we’ve traded them for something bolder. Our new color scheme features electric lime and deep navy blue. Why? Because we believe these hues resonate better with the dynamic CAD and technology landscape. They’re fresh, energetic, and ready to light up our brand.
Farewell, Red ‘X’ Logo
Remember the red ‘X’ in our old logo? Though loved, it’s officially retired.
We’ve embraced simplicity and elegance. Our new logo is sleek, discreet, and carries a touch of intrigue. Picture an illuminating electric lime spotlight – that’s us! Precision, focus, and the spirit of innovation.
The Three-Stage Rollout
SolidXperts is giving itself a digital makeover. Our website, marketing materials, and everything in between are leveling up. We want them to look sleek, modern, and cohesive – like a well-organized Feature Tree.
STEP 1: THE VISUAL OVERHAUL
We’re kicking things off with a visual makeover. Our website, marketing materials, and merch are getting a visual upgrade.
STEP 2: A SOCIAL MEDIA REVAMP
Follow us on our social channels! We’ll be sharing industry insights, success stories, and glimpses behind the scenes. Get ready for engaging content that sparks conversations.
STEP 3: USER-FOCUSED WEBSITE
Again?
SolidXperts hasn’t had the best track record with its rebrandings in the past. Its most recent changes left many thinking, ‘why’, more than ‘wow”. We promise this will be our last makeover for a long time.
But! Our new look doesn’t change the high-quality service and solutions you’ve come to expect from your friendly neighborhood SOLIDWORKS reseller and authorized training center. In fact, our refresh comes with a renewed passion for innovation. We’re not just about CAD models, we’re about turning ideas into reality. Whether it’s a sleek aerodynamic car body or a complex assembly of gears, our team is fueled and ready to go.
SXP: Empowering Innovation from Behind the Scenes
As we embark on this exciting journey, we’d like to shed light on the transformation happening within our parent company, SolidXperience. While SolidXperts takes center stage, SolidXperience will gracefully fade into the supportive background, allowing its brands to shine independently and amplify their own unique value propositions.
First, say goodbye to the tongue-twisting “SolidXperience.” We’re streamlining it to a sleek and memorable acronym: SXP. To the point and impactful.
Plus, hidden in plain sight, the SXP emblem will be our silent ambassador. It won’t scream for attention, but those who recognize it will understand its significance. This emblem encapsulates the full range of 3D design and manufacturing solutions that both SolidXperts and our sister brand, Mecanica, have to offer. It’s the key to unlocking a world of possibilities for our valued customers.
Join the Conversation
We invite you to be part of this exciting journey. Follow us on social media, stay tuned for our revamped website, and share your thoughts. Let’s collaborate, innovate, and shape the future 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 products does Markforged offer in the 3D printing industry?
Markforged offers a wide range of 3D printers, including desktop and industrial models. Their products are known for their ability to print with industrial-strength materials like carbon fiber, Kevlar, and fiberglass, making them ideal for producing strong and durable parts for various applications.
Key Highlights
Revolutionizing the manufacturing industry with strong and durable parts.
Markforged printers have core features that make them stand out from other 3D printers in terms of precision, versatility, and durability.
The printing process with Markforged printers is easy and efficient.
Post-processing techniques such as cleaning and finishing are simple for optimizing prints.
Carbon fiber 3D printing finds applications in various industries such as aerospace, defense, automotive, and industrial manufacturing.
Introduction
Markforged desktop 3D printers combine the benefits of additive manufacturing and carbon fiber material to produce functional and high-quality parts. Whether you are in the aerospace industry, automotive sector, or industrial manufacturing, Markforged printers can meet your needs.
In this blog, we will explore the world of carbon fiber 3D printing with Markforged. We will delve into the basics of carbon fiber material, understand its benefits in 3D printing, and explore the core features of Markforged printers. We will also discuss the design considerations for printing, the printing process with Markforged, post-processing techniques, common challenges, and advanced techniques in carbon fiber 3D printing. Let’s get started!
Understanding Carbon Fiber in Fused Deposition Modelling (FDM)
Markforged carbon fiber 3D printing combines the power of fused deposition modelling (FDM) technology, also referred to as fused filament fabrication (FFF), with the strength and versatility of carbon fiber, enabling rapid prototyping, complex geometries, and unparalleled customization.
The layer-by-layer approach of FDM 3D printing can create intricate geometries previously impossible or difficult to achieve with traditional methods and internal structures that can enhance the functionality of your printed parts while minimizing material usage.
Markforged offers carbon fiber to your 3D prints in 2 ways: a polymer printing filament, Onyx, and as a continuous fiber inlay. Onyx is a micro carbon fiber infused nylon boasting high strength, durability, and resistance to chemicals. We’ll cover continuous inlays a bit later in our exploration.
The Basics of Carbon Fiber Material
Carbon fiber is widely used across industries thanks to its exceptional mechanical properties. It is composed of thin strands of carbon atoms bound together in a matrix material, resulting in a material that is stiff, strong, and lightweight.
One of the key advantages of carbon fiber is its high strength-to-weight ratio. It is stronger than many metals while being significantly lighter. This makes it an ideal material for applications where weight reduction is crucial, such as aerospace or automotive.
Carbon fiber also has excellent fatigue resistance, meaning it can withstand repeated loading and unloading without experiencing significant degradation in performance. This property makes it suitable for applications that involve cyclic loading, such as structural components in aircraft or high-performance sports equipment.
In addition to its mechanical properties, this material is highly resistant to corrosion, which makes it suitable for use in harsh environments or applications where exposure to chemicals is a concern.
From Prototypes to End-Use Parts: Benefits of Using Carbon Fiber in 3D Printing
Carbon fiber is an advanced material that offers exceptional strength, lightweight properties, fatigue and corrosion resistance. These properties make it an excellent choice for applications in industries that require high performance.
The printing process is more efficient compared to traditional manufacturing methods. You can create functional parts directly from digital files, eliminating the need for costly molds or tooling. This not only saves time but also significantly reduces your cost of production.
Additionally, traditional manufacturing methods often result in significant material waste, due to the subtractive nature of the processes. 3D printing adds material only where you need it, minimizing waste and making it a more sustainable manufacturing solution.
Overall, using carbon fiber in 3D printing allows you to create functional parts with more complex designs at a lower cost and with less material waste.
Introduction to Markforged Desktop 3D Printers
Markforged desktop printers are known for their precision, versatility, and durability. They are designed to deliver consistent and accurate prints, ensuring the highest level of quality. Whether you need to create functional prototypes or end-use parts, Markforged printers have got you covered.
Core Features of Markforged Printers
Precision: Markforged printers are designed to deliver high precision and accuracy, ensuring that every print meets the desired specifications.
Desktop Size: Markforged desktop printers are compact and convenient for small-scale manufacturing or prototyping operations where space is a constraint.
Versatility: Markforged printers offer versatility in range of compatible materials. From nylon to patented continuous fiber reinforcement, these printers can handle a wide variety of materials, allowing for greater flexibility in design and application.
Durability: Markforged printers are built to withstand the demands of industrial use. They are durable and reliable, ensuring consistent performance even in high-volume production environments.
Comparing Markforged with Other 3D Printers
Deposition Technology: Markforged printers use a precise deposition technology that allows for the controlled placement of material, resulting in high-quality prints with excellent dimensional accuracy and surface finish.
Repeatability: Markforged printers are known for their repeatability, meaning that they can consistently reproduce the same results with each print. This is important for achieving consistent part quality and performance.
Range of Materials: Markforged printers offer a wide range of materials to choose from, including carbon fiber, nylon, and other polymers. This allows for greater flexibility in design and application, catering to a variety of industry needs.
Agility: Markforged printers are equipped with Eiger software, which provides a user-friendly interface and advanced features for optimizing prints. The software allows for easy file preparation, design optimization, and print management, enhancing the overall printing experience.
Overall, Markforged printers stand out from other 3D printers in terms of their deposition technology, repeatability, range of materials, and software agility. These factors make them a preferred choice for high-quality prints and versatile printing capabilities.
Preparing Your Design for Printing
When preparing your design for printing, consider the intricacies of additive manufacturing and the unique properties of carbon fiber. Take into account factors like dimensional stability, precise geometries, and the strength required for functional parts.
Take advantage of the software tools available in Eiger to optimize your design for the printing process, ensuring that your final product meets the desired mechanical properties.
Design Considerations for Additive Manufacturing
When designing for carbon fiber 3D printing, consider structural requirements, layer orientation, and part orientation to optimize strength. Utilize lattice structures for lightweight yet robust designs and ensure proper support structures for complex geometries. Factor in material properties like dimensional stability and mechanical strength for functional parts. Prioritize design for additive manufacturing to leverage the benefits of carbon fiber, such as durability and agility in production.
Software Tools for Optimizing 3D Designs
Eiger by Markforged offers features that optimize designs for additive manufacturing. Tweak parameters for print quality, material properties, and structural integrity. By simulating the printing process virtually, you can ensure that your designs will translate perfectly into physical objects.
Leveraging such software streamlines the manufacturing process, leading to efficient production of durable and precise parts.
Step-by-Step Guide to Your First Carbon Fiber Print
Let’s take a look at the printing process. Step one is always to ensure your Markforged printer is calibrated and that enough of the right filament is loaded.
Next, open Eiger and import your design. Select the material that best meets your application and adjust print settings to your liking. Generate toolpaths and preview the print.
If all looks good, send the file to the printer directly from Eiger.
Monitor your print’s progress either at the printer or online through Eiger. Once complete, carefully remove the print from the print bed.
Post-process by removing any support structures and gently sanding away any material left behind for a flawless surface finish.
Finally, celebrate your successful debut into carbon fiber 3D printing!
Tips for Ensuring Print Quality and Strength
To guarantee optimal print quality and strength when using your Markforged for carbon fiber 3D printing, consider these essential tips:
Ensure proper bed leveling and nozzle calibration for precise prints.
Optimize print settings such as layer height and infill density to balance strength and print time.
Monitor the printing process regularly to catch any issues early, and post-cure parts when necessary for enhanced strength and durability.
Post-Processing of Carbon Fiber Prints
Cleaning and finishing carbon fiber prints is a breeze. Finishing touches like sanding or polishing can further refine the surface quality. However, to enhance the final aesthetics and durability, use gentle cleaning methods to avoid damaging any intricate details.
Cleaning and Finishing Techniques
When it comes to cleaning and finishing techniques for your carbon fiber prints, precision is key. Gently remove any support structures using tools like pliers or tweezers. To smooth out rough edges, use fine grit sandpaper for a flawless finish.
Post-Processing Safety Tips
Remember to prioritize safety when post-processing your prints. Wear appropriate protective gear like gloves and eyewear to avoid contact with any residual fibers or dust. Always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for handling any finishing agents or solvents to prevent any accidents or health risks.
Remember, safety first!
Common Challenges and Solutions
Issues like delamination, warping, or filament breakage can occur. To combat this, ensure proper bed adhesion and environmental control. Fine-tuning print settings for layer adhesion and infill density can enhance strength. Also, inconsistent fiber alignment may lead to weaker parts; adjusting parameters in the slicer software can resolve this.
Regular maintenance, like calibrating and cleaning your printer, also plays a key role in mitigating challenges; Troubleshooting promptly ensures smooth printing processes and a long life for your printer.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Regular maintenance and adjustment can resolve many printing problems, ensuring smooth and successful prints.
One common issue in FDM 3D printing is delamination, where layers separate. To address this, ensure the print bed is leveled correctly and your printer environment isn’t too humid.
Warping can occur due to inadequate bed adhesion or cooling, so adjust printer settings or environmental factors like temperature and humidity to prevent this.
Issues with layer adhesion might stem from incorrect print temperatures or inadequate filament flow. Check these settings and calibrate them for optimal results.
Advanced Techniques in 3D Printing
Advanced techniques elevate the capabilities of the material, offering unparalleled versatility and strength for various industrial applications. To enhance the strength of your carbon fiber 3D prints, try incorporating continuous fiber inlays.
Incorporating Continuous Fiber for Added Strength
This process involves strategically placing continuous strengthening fibers within your print to reinforce specific areas, providing added durability and structural integrity. By utilizing this method, you can boost the mechanical properties of your carbon fiber parts, making them ideal for applications requiring high strength and precision. This technique elevates the overall performance of your printed components, making them more resilient to various stresses and strains, contributing to the durability and functionality of your final product.
Applications for Carbon Fiber 3D Printing
Aerospace and Defense, Automotive and Transportation, and Industrial Manufacturing are prime examples of where carbon fiber 3D printing excels. In Aerospace, the lightweight yet durable nature of the Markforged material enhances fuel efficiency. The Automotive sector benefits from the material’s strength to weight ratio for components like body panels. Industrial Manufacturing leverages carbon fiber’s durability for machinery parts.
These applications showcase the versatility and strength of carbon fiber.
Aerospace and Defense
The lightweight yet sturdy nature of carbon fiber is ideal for creating parts with high mechanical properties and dimensional stability. Markforged’s printers can produce intricate designs with thin walls and complex geometries, ensuring precision and durability in critical components. By utilizing additive manufacturing technology, the production process is agile and cost-effective, making it a preferred choice for rapid prototyping and spare parts manufacturing in the aerospace and defense sectors, ultimately speeding up the product development process.
Automotive and Transportation
3D printing with carbon fiber has found remarkable utility in the automotive and transportation sectors. Markforged printers offer precision and agility in producing functional parts with superior mechanical properties. By incorporating continuous fiber, these printers create durable components ideal for applications requiring strength and lightweight characteristics. From rapid prototyping to spare parts production, Markforged drives innovation in automotive manufacturing.
Industrial 3D Printing & Manufacturing
With its agility and versatility, Markforged brings additive manufacturing to the forefront of creating durable and functional parts for industrial applications. The precision and repeatability of Markforged printers ensure that complex designs with thin walls can be printed with utmost dimensional stability, meeting the stringent requirements of the manufacturing sector. Additionally, Markforged offers the unique capability of printing with composites through fused filament fabrication (FFF) for even stronger and more lightweight parts to be produced in a fraction of the lead time compared to traditional methods.
Transitioning to 3D workflows with SOLIDWORKS Pro enhances product design accuracy, facilitates efficient collaboration through shared models, and provides realistic visualization from all angles. It streamlines your processes with advanced tools for not only CAD, but sheet metal modeling, CAM integration, reverse engineering and more, saving time and boosting productivity. Kick your boring 2D routines to the curb and unlock the full potential of your designs, elevating your product development process to the next level.
Key Highlights
SOLIDWORKS Pro offers a seamless transition from 2D to 3D, enhancing the product development process.
Transitioning to 3D offers benefits such as improved product design, efficient collaboration, and enhanced visualization.
Key features like advanced modeling tools, sheet metal capabilities, and CAM integration.
Integrating SOLIDWORKS Pro into your workflow offers additional benefits like powerful simulation, realistic visualization, and streamlined documentation.
Getting Started in 3D with SOLIDWORKS Pro
Congratulations on taking the first steps towards transitioning from 2D to 3D design! It all starts with a SOLIDWORKS Professional license and a dream. This shift opens up a world of possibilities, offering enhanced product design, efficient collaboration, and advanced visualization. As we delve into the possibilities, you will discover a full range of features designed to streamline your workflow, save time, and boost productivity.
Integrating SOLIDWORKS Pro into your process will revolutionize the way you approach product development. By harnessing the power of shared 3D models and realistic visualization, this software empowers you to elevate your designs from every angle. With advanced tools for CAD, sheet metal modeling, CAM integration, and more, including the file management capabilities of SOLIDWORKS PDM Standard, you can bid farewell to mundane 2D routines and embrace a new era of efficiency and creativity.
Key Features for 3D Modeling
SOLIDWORKS is robust 3D modeling software designed to help you create intricate designs. Its advanced tools enable smooth model creation and editing, including standard features such as sheet metal design, CAM integration, and stress analysis. The sheet metal features streamline the creation of sheet metal parts, encompassing flat patterns and bends. Integration with CAM simplifies machining processes, while built-in stress analysis tools verify structural integrity. With all the features of SOLIDWORKS Standard, Professional also includes additional features such as wizards to automate designs, perform stress analysis, and determine the environmental impact of components, making it the ultimate tool for seamless 2D to 3D transition with the added capability of SOLIDWORKS Simulation Standard.
Setting Up Your First 3D Project in SOLIDWORKS Professional
Let’s break down the process of setting up your first 3D project in SOLIDWORKS Pro step by step:
Create a New Part or Assembly File:
Open SOLIDWORKS Pro.
Choose “New” from the File menu.
Select either a part or assembly file, depending on your project requirements.
Try choosing standard templates to help you get started.
Define Your Project:
Give your project a descriptive name.
Set the units (e.g., millimeters, inches) for your design.
Sketch Your Design:
Use the sketch tools to create the basic shape of your 3D model.
Add dimensions and constraints to define the geometry.
Extrude or Revolve:
Extrude or revolve your 2D sketch to create a 3D solid.
Adjust the dimensions as needed.
Apply Features:
Use features like fillets, chamfers, and holes to enhance your design.
SOLIDWORKS Pro offers a wide range of tools for creating complex shapes.
Save Your Project:
Save your work frequently to avoid losing progress.
Start Designing!
With your project set up and tools at your disposal, unleash your creativity and start designing confidently.
Remember, SOLIDWORKS Pro provides a robust environment for 3D modeling, and by following these steps, you’ll be well on your way to giving your designs a full 3D overhaul!
Advanced Techniques in SOLIDWORKS CAD for Efficient Design
Once you’ve mastered the basics of SOLIDWORKS Pro, it’s time to delve into advanced techniques to enhance your design process.
SOLIDWORKS Pro offers a suite of advanced features tailored for efficiency. These include leveraging assemblies for complex designs, utilizing cut lists and cost estimation, and integrating composite materials. Additionally, SOLIDWORKS Pro provides tips for efficient sketching and 3D modeling, alongside utilizing SOLIDWORKS Premium and CAD integration capabilities. By mastering these techniques, you elevate your designs and optimize the product development process.
Leveraging SOLIDWORKS Assemblies for Complex Designs
In SOLIDWORKS Pro, using assemblies is a big help! With intelligent tools and features, they can give accurate cut lists, estimate costs, and handle materials like composites. With the cut list feature, you can know exactly how much material you need. Cost tools predict manufacturing expenses. Plus, it’s great for working with cool materials like carbon fiber or fiberglass. You can easily figure out shapes and sizes when they’re flattened.
Simply put, SOLIDWORKS Pro with its assemblies is like having a smart assistant for making complex designs and manufacturing simpler.
Tips for Efficient Sketching and Modeling in 3D
Designers have access to a range of tools and features that can enhance their sketching and modeling process. Here are some tips for efficient sketching and modeling in 3D using SOLIDWORKS Pro:
Utilize advanced sketching tools for precise and efficient sketch creation.
Leverage efficient design iterations and modifications.
Utilize the comprehensive library of prebuilt 3D CAD models and other CAD data available in Toolbox.
Integrating 3D into Your Workflows
Integrating SOLIDWORKS Pro ramps up your design game and boosts productivity. It’s packed with features that smooth out every design stage, from simulation to documentation.
You get stress analysis tools, stunning visualizations with Visualize, and top-notch documentation. Plus, there’s PDM for file management, automation to speed up tasks, and a toolbox for quick access to CAD models.
Collaborating on Projects
Collaboration is essential in any design project, and SOLIDWORKS Pro nails it with a variety of features. Whether you’re teaming up with engineers, electrical designers, or other stakeholders, it has tools to make collaboration seamless.
For electrical design, there’s CircuitWorks for ECAD/MCAD data sharing. Plus, there’s eDrawings Professional, making it a breeze to share 3D models and 2D drawings via email. With Pro’s collaboration features, including the ability to design and route electrical wiring, harnessing, cabling, and conduit assemblies in 3D, and the possibility to connect to the cloud-powered 3DEXPERIENCE platform, designers can boost communication, streamline workflows, and elevate the entire design process with additional capabilities for collaborating on projects.
Overcoming Common Challenges in Moving to 3D
Some common challenges in moving to 3D design include adapting to new software, transferring existing 2D or CAD data to the new system, and ensuring compatibility with other design tools and processes. To overcome these challenges, SOLIDWORKS Pro provides troubleshooting tools for typical issues, strategies for smooth transitioning, and comprehensive support for design engineers.
Strategies for Smooth Transitioning from 2D to 3D
Transitioning from 2D to 3D requires careful planning and execution to ensure a smooth transition. Here are some strategies for smooth transitioning from 2D to 3D:
Define clear goals and objectives for the transition: Clearly define what you want to achieve with the transition to 3D design and communicate these goals to your team.
Plan and prioritize: Create a roadmap for the transition process, including a timeline and milestones. Prioritize which projects will be transitioned first based on complexity and impact.
Provide training and support: Invest in training for your team to ensure they are familiar with the tools and features at their disposal. Provide ongoing support and resources to address any challenges or questions that may arise.
Utilize built-in tools: Take advantage of tools for data migration, compatibility checking, and performance optimization to ensure a smooth transition.
Introduction to Simulation
Simulation is vital for design and SOLIDWORKS Pro, with its compatible add-ins, nail it with a robust set of tools and features for your design environment.
Simulation Standard offers stress analysis, motion analysis, and more, letting designers test their creations in various scenarios. This helps spot problems early, saving time and money on physical prototypes. With simulation features, designers are empowered to make smarter decisions, fine-tune designs for safety and performance, and ensure top-notch results.
Applying Simulation to Validate Your Designs
Now that you have your simulation data, what do you do with it? Validating designs is key in the design process, and SOLIDWORKS Pro has that covered too! Its purpose-built tools ensure designs meet performance and safety standards.
By running simulations using Simulation Standard, you can analyze stress distribution, evaluate motion behavior, and assess other key factors that impact your design’s performance. Leveraging Simulation allows for informed decisions, reducing design flaws and optimizing performance and efficiency.
Leveraging Visualize for Realistic Renderings
Effective communication relies on visualizing designs. Visualize simplifies the creation of realistic renderings. Designers can effortlessly produce top-tier visual content, enhancing presentations and marketing materials with photorealistic images. Visualize boasts advanced rendering features, including dynamic lighting and realistic textures, which make designs truly stand out. By leveraging Visualize, designers can craft compelling visuals that breathe life into their creations, effectively conveying their vision to stakeholders. It’s a valuable asset for elevating presentations, marketing collateral, and design reviews, ensuring stakeholders grasp the essence of the design accurately.
Conclusion
Transitioning from 2D to 3D design with SOLIDWORKS Pro not only unlocks enhanced product development possibilities but also offers improved visualization, advanced simulations, streamlined workflows, and seamless collaboration. Mastering SOLIDWORKS Pro empowers efficient design creation, while overcoming challenges through troubleshooting and smooth transitioning strategies ensures success.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are the Prerequisites for Transitioning to SOLIDWORKS?
To transition to 3D design, some prerequisites include a basic understanding of mechanical design principles, familiarity with CAD data management, and a clear understanding of the design process. Additionally, having access to SOLIDWORKS tools and resources is essential for a successful transition to 3D design.
In our world of product design, efficient collaboration, and seamless lifecycle management are crucial. Thankfully, the 3DEXPERIENCE platform emerges as a powerful solution, offering a comprehensive suite of tools and applications designed to streamline the product development process. In this ultimate guide, we’ll delve into the intricacies of working with the 3DEXPERIENCE platform and explore the key features and functionalities of its associated apps.
Understanding the 3DEXPERIENCE Platform
At its core, the 3DEXPERIENCE platform serves as a business experience platform, providing robust product lifecycle management capabilities. This platform encourages and supports collaboration among your team members, allowing them to design products together, and guides them through the entire lifecycle from conception to final release.
Roles and Apps
Roles play a pivotal role in determining the apps and services accessible to you as a platform user. For mechanical designers working in collaborative teams, the Collaborative Designer for SOLIDWORKS role opens the gateway to a host of design routine-boosting functionalities.
With this role, users can:
Search for, store, and manage files in collaborative spaces on the 3DEXPERIENCE platform in the cloud.
Share files with team members and leverage product lifecycle management features such as lock and unlock, tags, and revisions.
Access additional apps and services in the 3DEXPERIENCE Marketplace.
The Collaborative Designer for SOLIDWORKS role comes with a set of apps that run within SOLIDWORKS and SOLIDWORKS Visualize, including:
Design with SOLIDWORKS
Render with SOLIDWORKS Visualize
Derived Format Converter (Optional)
*You’ll need both the 3DSwymer and Collaborative Industry Innovator roles before you can get started with Collaborative Designer.
Key Terms for Navigating the Platform
To effectively navigate the 3DEXPERIENCE platform and the 3DEXPERIENCE Connector for SOLIDWORKS, understanding key terms is essential:
Compass – The Compass serves as the gateway to the 3DEXPERIENCE platform, providing access to roles and apps.
Role – Roles define the scope of apps and services available to users, tailored to specific job requirements. Administrators can create custom roles for users.
Collaborative Spaces – Collaborative spaces are secure areas on the platform for storing and managing files, supporting version control, and enabling collaboration among team members.
Physical Product – A physical product is a configuration of a part or assembly that can be manufactured, each with a unique part number for efficient searching.
CAD Family and CAD Family Objects – CAD families encompass one or more configurations of a part or assembly. CAD family objects represent the root configuration, all saved in the same collaborative space.
Installing and Connecting
Installing the 3DEXPERIENCE apps requires several prerequisites, including platform credentials, a web browser, Java 11 JRE, SOLIDWORKS 2019 SP0 or later, and SOLIDWORKS Visualize Standard or Professional 2020 SP3 or later. Once installed, users can seamlessly connect to the platform and access the designated apps and services.
To install the 3DEXPERIENCE apps:
Close SOLIDWORKS and SOLIDWORKS Visualize.
Log in to the 3DEXPERIENCE platform.
If your company has an on-premises installation, contact your Administrator to get the sign-in link.
On the top bar of the 3DDashboard, click the Compass.
Under Me, click SOLIDWORKS.
6. Follow the prompts to download and install Design with SOLIDWORKS.
Creating Collaborative Spaces
Collaborative spaces are pivotal to the collaborative aspect of the platform. Users can create collaborative spaces to store, share, and manage files, providing a structured environment for efficient collaboration. Collaborative space owners and administrators have the authority to add members, assign access roles, and manage the collaborative space’s lifecycle.
Getting Started with 3DEXPERIENCE Apps
The 3DEXPERIENCE platform boasts a plethora of apps designed to cater to diverse needs. From project management to 3D model visualization, users can leverage these apps to enhance their workflow. The 3DDashboard serves as a portal, offering a centralized view of project and task information.
Commonly Used Apps:
3DSpace: Create collaborative spaces for data storage, sharing, and controlled access.
3DSwym: Connect with communities for collaborative discussions, questions, and information sharing.
3DSearch: Find content from various sources with the ability to filter results using 6WTags.
3DPlay: A viewer for manipulating 3D models, providing advanced functionalities such as sectioning, measuring, and annotating designs.
Managing Files in MySession
The MySession widget plays a pivotal role in managing your SOLIDWORKS on the 3DEXPERIENCE platform. Open, save, and export files seamlessly, utilizing the context menu or action bar. The FAQ section provides valuable insights into common queries related to saving all your SOLIDWORKS files, collaborative spaces, physical products, and CAD families.
The 3DEXPERIENCE platform, coupled with the Collaborative Designer for SOLIDWORKS role and associated apps, presents a comprehensive solution for modern product design and development. Whether you are a mechanical designer or a collaborative team member, this guide equips you with the knowledge to navigate the platform effectively, create collaborative spaces, and leverage the diverse range of apps available. Embrace the power of 3DEXPERIENCE for a seamless and collaborative product development experience.
Welcome to the SolidXperts guide on installing DraftSight Enterprise, a powerful 2D CAD software designed for large organizations. Tailored to enhance efficiency, this software offers a range of features, including network licensing, comprehensive technical support, and an intuitive interface. Our Xpert tutorial will walk you through the installation process, ensuring you unlock the full potential of DraftSight Enterprise for your team.
DraftSight Enterprise relies on the SolidNetWork license server to efficiently distribute licenses across users. To ensure smooth access for everyone within your network, this server software must be strategically installed on a centralized server or a machine that remains consistently connected.
If you’re ready to embark on the installation journey, this expert tutorial will guide you through the process, step by step. Without further ado, here is how to install Draftsight Enterprise. On the machine that will be used as the server, follow the following steps:
1 – First, download the SOLIDWORKS installation package and run setup.exe.
2 – Select “Install Server components” and “Install SOLIDNETWORK License Manager”. Click “Next”.
3 – On the next screen, after reviewing the License Agreement, select “I accept the terms of the SOLIDWORKS License Agreement”, and click “Install Now”.
4 – Then once this is installed, from the start menu open:
SOLIDWORKS Tools 20xx à SolidNetWork License Manager server 20xx
In the following message box, click “Yes”.
5 –Verify the SolidNetWork License Server Information, and click “Next”.
NOTE: Make sure firewalls are not blocking ports 25734 and 25735 on both ends of the connection.
6 – In the following Product Activation window, on the right side of the white box, click “Add” to add a serial number.
7 – Copy & paste the serial number into the box. Click “Okay”.
8 – Then, put your email address in the box and make sure to check “Automatically over the Internet”. Click “Next”.
9 – The next window confirms your licenses from SOLIDWORKS. If everything looks good, click “Finish”.
10 – Now is the time to install Draftsight on your workstations. Go to:
12 – Download and execute Draftsight.exe. Click “Run”.
13 – Choose SolidNetWorks License (SNL) and click “Next”.
14 – In the box, provide the Port@Name of the server, inserting your server name or its IP address on the local server. Click “Next”.
15 – Thoroughly review the agreement and check, “I accept the terms in the license agreement”, then click “Install”.
16 – Congratulations, you can now run DraftSight!
With DraftSight Enterprise successfully installed, your organization is perfectly positioned to leverage enhanced 2D productivity and collaboration. Don’t forget, SolidXperts is here to support your 3D journey every step of the way.
Montreal, Quebec – The SolidXperience Group, a leading provider of 3D engineering solutions in Canada and the United States, proudly announces a strategic partner withKlietsch, a distinguished German engineering firm and the developer of SolidSteel parametric. This collaboration seeks to support SolidXperience’s commitment to equipping the North American 3D design market with robust tools and comprehensive solutions. Effective January 1st, 2024, SolidXperience is the strategic partner of SolidSteel parametric in North America.
“As a Canadian with German ancestry, I’ve always had an affinity for German engineering and technology. Germany is known worldwide for having a strong engineering culture. So, forming a partnership with Klietsch, a German engineering company that developed a powerful SOLIDWORKS application, SolidSteel parametric, is a natural fit for my company. We look forward to building a strong partnership to advance this product in the North American marketplace,” says SolidXperience CEO and Founder, Alex Habrich.
Klietsch has a rich history of evolving to meet the needs of the engineering community. SolidXperience clients will benefit from Klietsch‘s extensive experience and the robust features of SolidSteel parametric, enhancing their SOLIDWORKS experience and streamlining their engineering workflows.
For more information or to learn how you can leverage SolidSteel parametric, or any of SolidXperience’s wide range of software and hardware, visit SolidXperts, or reach out directly to your SolidXperience Sales representative.
About SolidXperience:
SolidXperience is a leading provider of engineering solutions, dedicated to delivering advanced technology that empowers engineers and 3D designers. With a steadfast commitment to innovation and excellence, SolidXperience offers a range of products and services to enhance the full product development lifecycle, from ideation to manufacturing.
About Klietsch:
Klietsch is a Germany-based pioneer in engineering software, renowned for its flagship product, SolidSteel parametric. With a rich history and a commitment to technological excellence, Klietschcontinues to shape the future of engineering solutions globally.
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Happy 2024 SOLIDWORKS enthusiasts🥳! Brace yourselves for a year brimming with boundless creativity, relentless innovation, and just a sprinkle of unconventional inventions. To embark on this exciting journey, let’s dive into the realm of SOLIDWORKS assembly modeling. As design complexity increases, mastering efficient assembly techniques becomes paramount.
To kick things off, we’ll share practical strategies to make your design process smoother and more efficient.
Component Organization
Start by establishing a structured approach to organizing your components. Utilize folders and sub-assemblies to categorize parts logically. This not only makes your assembly tree more manageable but also enhances collaboration when working in a team.
Top-Down Design
Explore the benefits of top-down design to create relationships between parts directly within the assembly. By defining key features and dimensions at the assembly level, you can ensure that changes propagate seamlessly throughout the entire design, saving time and reducing errors.
Efficient Mate Usage
Mates are powerful tools for establishing relationships between components. However, an overuse of mates can lead to performance issues. Opt for the smart use of standard mates and explore advanced mate options like width and symmetry to reduce the mate count and improve performance.
Simplified Configurations
Take advantage of configurations to manage different versions of your assembly. Create simplified configurations for specific purposes such as analysis, rendering, or lightweight viewing. This helps enhance performance during specific tasks without affecting the overall design.
SpeedPak
Integrate SpeedPak into your workflow to simplify assemblies even further. By creating a lightweight representation of your assembly, you can navigate and work with large designs more efficiently. This is particularly useful when dealing with intricate components and large assemblies.
Sub-Assembly Design
Break down your assembly into sub-assemblies based on functional or structural relationships. This modular approach makes it easier to focus on specific sections of your design, simplifies collaboration, and facilitates changes without affecting the entire assembly.
Component Patterns
Leverage component patterns to replicate parts efficiently. Whether using linear, circular, or sketch-driven patterns, this feature can save time and effort when dealing with multiple instances of the same component.
Assembly Visualization for Enhanced Assembly Insight
Take advantage of SOLIDWORKS Visualize to gain a deeper understanding of your assemblies. This powerful tool allows you to create stunning visual representations of your designs, providing invaluable insights. Use Visualize to analyze and optimize your assembly based on various parameters such as component size, mass, or custom properties. By harnessing the capabilities of SOLIDWORKS Visualize, you can identify and address potential performance bottlenecks while creating visually compelling representations of your designs. This tool not only enhances the efficiency of your assembly but also elevates your ability to communicate and showcase your work effectively.
By implementing these strategies, you can enhance your proficiency in SOLIDWORKS assembly modeling, leading to more efficient designs and improved collaboration within your team. Happy modeling!
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SOLIDWORKS is an indispensable tool for engineers and designers across various industries. One standout feature that elevates SOLIDWORKS to new heights is its Simulation module. This powerful tool enables users to analyze and validate their designs before physical prototypes are created, ultimately saving time and resources while ensuring optimal product performance. In this blog, we will delve into the capabilities and benefits of SOLIDWORKS Simulation, shedding light on how it empowers engineers to bring their innovative ideas to life.
Understanding SOLIDWORKS Simulation
SOLIDWORKS Simulation is a robust finite element analysis (FEA) tool integrated seamlessly into the SOLIDWORKS CAD environment. It allows engineers to subject their designs to virtual testing, simulating real-world conditions and scenarios. This simulation-driven design approach empowers users to make informed decisions early in the design process, leading to better product performance, reduced development costs, and faster time-to-market.
Key Features of SOLIDWORKS Simulation:
Structural Analysis
SOLIDWORKS Simulation provides a comprehensive suite of tools for structural analysis, allowing engineers to evaluate the effects of loads, forces, and vibrations on their designs. Whether it’s a simple static analysis or a complex dynamic simulation, this feature helps ensure that components can withstand real-world conditions.
Thermal Analysis
Thermal management is crucial in many engineering applications. SOLIDWORKS Simulation allows users to simulate heat transfer and thermal behavior within their designs. This capability is particularly beneficial for optimizing electronic components, ensuring they operate within acceptable temperature ranges.
Fluid Flow Simulation
For products that involve fluid dynamics, such as pumps, valves, or HVAC systems, SOLIDWORKS Simulation provides a fluid flow analysis tool. Engineers can visualize and analyze how liquids or gases move through their designs, enabling them to optimize performance and efficiency.
Motion Analysis
Understanding the motion of mechanical components is essential in designing machinery and mechanisms. SOLIDWORKS Simulation offers motion analysis tools that help engineers simulate and validate the movement of assemblies, ensuring proper functionality and performance.
Benefits of Using SOLIDWORKS Simulation:
Reduced Prototyping Costs
By virtually testing designs, engineers can identify and rectify potential issues before physical prototypes are created. This significantly reduces the need for costly iterations and prototyping, saving both time and resources.
Improved Product Performance
Simulation allows for a deep understanding of how a design will behave under various conditions. This insight enables engineers to optimize designs for maximum performance and reliability.
Faster Time-to-Market
The ability to perform thorough virtual testing expedites the design validation process. Engineers can make informed decisions early in the development cycle, accelerating the overall product development timeline.
Enhanced Innovation
SOLIDWORKS Simulation encourages a more iterative and innovative design process. Engineers can experiment with different concepts, knowing that they can quickly assess their viability through simulation before committing to a specific design direction.
SOLIDWORKS Simulation is a game-changer for engineers, providing a virtual testing ground that empowers them to create better, more reliable products. By seamlessly integrating simulation into the design process, SOLIDWORKS enables engineers to push the boundaries of innovation while ensuring the practicality and performance of their designs. Whether it’s structural analysis, thermal simulation, fluid flow analysis, or motion analysis, SOLIDWORKS Simulation is a versatile tool that unlocks a world of possibilities for engineers seeking to bring their creative visions to life.
To learn more about SOLIDWORKS Simulation visit our webpage, Click Here.
To reach out to an Xpert for more information or to start taking advantage of our Simulation solutions, Click Here.
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Whether you’re ready to get started or just have a few more questions, you can contact us toll-free:
Welcome to the future of drafting and CAD design with the latest releases of DraftSight 2024 and 3DEXPERIENCE DraftSight R2024x GA. As we embark on this journey of innovation, we’re excited to unveil the enhancements that not only elevate the capabilities of our industry-leading 2D drafting and 3D CAD solution but also redefine the user experience.
In this article, we’ll delve into the key features that make DraftSight 2024 and 3DEXPERIENCE DraftSight R2024x GA stand out. From collaborative tools to advanced customization options, we aim to empower you with the tools you need to boost productivity and seamlessly bring your design ideas to life. So, buckle up as we explore the cutting-edge advancements that await you in these releases.
1.Support for CATIA Drawings –collaborate with clarity and precision.
Ensuring you and your partners have the best experience when collaborating is at the top of the list. In DraftSight 2024 you can import CATIA model drawings from a local disk or the 3DEXPERIENCE platform. When you import a CATIA drawing you can expect it to behave as any other DWG file so you can easily edit the drawing.
Import CATIA model space drawings from a local disk or the 3DEXPERIENCE platform.
2. Tool Palette Customization –accelerate drawing creation and ensure consistency.
The tool palettes in DraftSight 2024 are designed to heighten your productivity. For starters, you can find all your frequently used commands and features in one place. Customization extends to predefined settings including layer, color, and line type, and ensures all newly created entities conform to the pre-defined standards across drawings.
Quickly insert an existing palette with the Import Palette functionality.
You can also efficiently create new palettes simply by dragging and dropping or importing and exporting pre-existing palettes created in other 2D CAD solutions.
3. Layer Palette – enhance the legibility of drawings with greater control of how inactive layer groups display.
The new Layer Manager Palette provides quick access to all your layer commands in one place, including layers, layer states, layer previews, or isolating layers. There’s also a new Merge Layer command so you can merge multiple layers into a single layer for better control and management. Last, with the new Visibility Enhancement command you can specify how objects in inactive layer groups appear in drawing areas.
Accessibility to the tool palette has been simplified in the new CAD General workspace.
4. Export Sheet Command – rapidly create new drawings from existing files without loss of detail.
Your wish is our command. With all the new commands in DraftSight 2024, you can stay more productive than ever, including when it comes to dealing with sheets. With the new Export Sheet command, you can export all visible entities from an active sheet viewport and entities from the sheets to the new drawing.
In addition, you can enhance the readability of a specific section, area, or view of the drawing with exported entities that are scaled views of model space, title block, and other annotative entities, such as dimensions and notes.
Export all visible entities of the active sheet viewports in model space to a new drawing with the new Export Sheet command.
5. Enhanced User Interface – easily navigate 3D models and reduce eyestrain.
To reduce eyestrain and enhance feature function visibility there’s a new default Dark mode.
There’s also a new View Navigator so you can easily switch between standard and isometric views or parallel and perspective views of a model. Its interface acts as a 3D orientation indicator that lets you see the current view direction.
The user interface features a new default dark mode to reduce eyestrain and enhance feature function visibility.
With DraftSight 2024 and 3DEXPERIENCE DraftSight R2024x GA, you’re not just keeping pace – you’re surging ahead. Whether you’re collaborating with precision through CATIA drawings, streamlining your workflow with customizable tool palettes, or enjoying the enhanced legibility offered by the Layer Palette, these releases are designed to make your design journey smoother and more efficient. The Export Sheet Command and the Enhanced User Interface are the cherries on top, ensuring that you not only create with precision but do so with reduced eyestrain and enhanced visual clarity.
As you explore the latest capabilities, we invite you to elevate your drafting experience, embrace innovation, and make the most of the tools that DraftSight 2024 and 3DEXPERIENCE DraftSight R2024x GA bring to your fingertips. If you have any questions, comments, concerns, or just want some Xpert guidance, reach out to our dedicated DraftSight teams today to learn more about how we can help bring your designs to life!
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Whether you’re ready to get started or just have a few more questions, you can contact us toll-free:
Seamlessly transition from SOLIDWORKS Desktop to 3DEXPERIENCE SOLIDWORKS, and experience a new dimension of design and collaboration. With secure cloud data management, increased collaboration capabilities, and reduced IT administration, 3DEXPERIENCE SOLIDWORKS empowers your team to work smarter and faster.
Option 2: Upgrade to SOLIDWORKS TERM w/Cloud Services
Opt for SOLIDWORKS TERM with Cloud Services, a flexible and convenient option that combines the power of SOLIDWORKS with the benefits of cloud-based solutions. Say goodbye to traditional licensing hassles and welcome easy deployment and automatic updates for a seamless design experience.
Promotion Perks:
This promotion covers both Standalone and Network licenses (SNL), making it suitable for businesses of all sizes.
Take advantage of the promotion price and add as many new licenses (3DEXPERIENCE SOLIDWORKS or SOLIDWORKS TERM w/Cloud Services) as you need on the same Purchase Order, with no limit on extra seats.
Enjoy the promotion discount for 3 years, whether purchased annually or upfront.
Even after the promotion period, you’ll continue to benefit with a 25% discount on successive years.
Option 1: For licenses <1 year expired( Pay 2 Years Forward Upfront )
Get back on track with SOLIDWORKS CAD w/Cloud Services. By paying upfront for the next two years, you not only regain access to the powerful features of SOLIDWORKS but also enjoy cloud services to boost collaboration and efficiency.
Promotion Perks:
No need to worry about backdating and penalties. We’ll waive them for you!
Regain access to your design projects and continue where you left off, without any interruptions.
Option 2: For licenses >1 year expired ( Pay 3 Years Forward Upfront )
If your license has been expired for over a year, we understand the urgency to get back in the game. With this option, you can secure SOLIDWORKS CAD ALC w/Cloud Services.
Promotion Perks:
Our team is here to support your reintegration process, and we’ll waive backdating and penalties for a smooth transition.
Take advantage of the comprehensive SOLIDWORKS suite and unleash your creativity with the latest tools and features.
