Learn SOLIDWORKS 2025 E-Book

Tayseer Almattar

• Herausgeber: Packt Publishing
• Kategorie: Fachliteratur
• Sprache: Englisch

Seitenzahl: 565

Veröffentlichungsjahr: 2025

Beschreibung

Discover what makes SOLIDWORKS 2025 the leading choice for 3D engineering and product design applications across industries such as aviation, automobile, and consumer product design. Drawing from his experience of teaching over 100,000 global learners and expertise in design thinking, Tayseer Almattar brings a uniquely practical and learner-focused approach to mastering SOLIDWORKS.
Starting with the fundamentals, this new edition walks you through the software interface and introduces you to working with 3D files. Through easy-to-follow exercises and hands-on examples, you’ll master essential skills such as sketching, building complex 3D models, generating dynamic and static assemblies, and generating 2D engineering drawings. Each concept will build upon the last to prepare you to take on any design project with confidence. To reinforce your understanding of SOLIDWORKS, the book includes downloadable resources and real-world 3D modeling projects inspired by everyday objects.
By the end of this book, you'll have the expertise to create professional 3D mechanical models using SOLIDWORKS and be well-prepared for the Certified SOLIDWORKS Associate (CSWA) and Certified SOLIDWORKS Professional (CSWP) exams.

Leseprobe

Learn SOLIDWORKS 2025

Gain the skills and knowledge you need to become a certified SOLIDWORKS Associate or Professional

Tayseer Sadiq J Almattar

Learn SOLIDWORKS 2025

Copyright © 2025 Packt Publishing

All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means, without the prior written permission of the publisher, except in the case of brief quotations embedded in critical articles or reviews.

Every effort has been made in the preparation of this book to ensure the accuracy of the information presented. However, the information contained in this book is sold without warranty, either express or implied. Neither the author, nor Packt Publishing or its dealers and distributors will be held liable for any damages caused or alleged to have been caused directly or indirectly by this book.

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First published: January 2020

Second edition: January 2022

Third edition: January 2025

Production reference: 1240125

Published by Packt Publishing Ltd.

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B3 1RB, UK

ISBN 978-1-83546-308-6

www.packtpub.com

To my parents and siblings for their unbounded love, support, and care.

– Tayseer Almattar

Contributors

About the author

Tayseer Almattar began his career in engineering before transitioning to design. He holds a Master of Design (MDes) degree in international design and business management and is a strong advocate for the role of design in fostering sustainable business innovation. As the founder of TforDesign, Tayseer has dedicated himself to advancing design education and practice.

With nearly two decades of experience using SOLIDWORKS for 3D design, Tayseer has created numerous online learning programs that have attracted thousands of learners worldwide. In this book, he combines his extensive design and training expertise to offer a unique and practical SOLIDWORKS learning experience. Tayseer is also a SOLIDWORKS Champion, and the founding leader of the Hong Kong SOLIDWORKS user group.

Beyond SOLIDWORKS, Tayseer Almattar works as a design and innovation consultant. He leads workshops on various design innovation topics, including design thinking and systems thinking. Additionally, he has served as a visiting lecturer at the Hong Kong Polytechnic School of Design and has conducted design innovation workshops across Asia and the Middle East.

I want to thank the people who made this book possible, the amazing reviewers, and the Packt team.

About the reviewers

Ritish Hegde is a certified SOLIDWORKS professional and has been a part of the global SOLIDWORKS Champions Program since 2022. He also holds a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering. He currently works as a mechanical design engineer, with a seasoned amount of experience and expertise in the field of CAD, he has performed a large number of projects across multiple software, including SOLIDWORKS, Catia, NX, Inventor, and Fusion 360. He is passionate about transforming ideas into reality, with a background in engineering design and 3D modeling, he thrives on tackling complex projects and bringing them to life through advanced software tools. He is constantly keen to learn new techniques and keeps up to date on industry trends.

I’d like to thank my family for always being constant pillars of support.

Iqra Bibi has a profound passion for the intricate world of engineering. Iqra received her bachelor’s degree in aerospace engineering from the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology. She has experience in various engineering disciplines from Computer Aided Design (CAD) to Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD). Iqra has also actively participated in the research and development of ocular medical devices during her undergraduate years, and she aspires to be part of engineering projects that drive substantial and impactful change.

Table of Contents

Preface

Part 1: Getting Started

1

Introduction to SOLIDWORKS

Introducing SOLIDWORKS

SOLIDWORKS applications

Core mechanical design

Sample SOLIDWORKS 3D models

Exploring the 3DEXPERIENCE platform

Properties of the 3DEXPERIENCE platform

Why should you know about the 3DEXPERIENCE platform?

Understanding parametric modeling

Exploring SOLIDWORKS certifications

Associate certifications

Professional certifications

Professional advanced certifications

Expert certifications

Summary

Questions

Further reading

2

Interface and Navigation

Technical requirements

What are parts, assemblies, and drawings?

Opening a part, assembly, or drawing file

Main components of the SOLIDWORKS interface

The Command Bar

The FeatureManager design tree

The canvas/graphics area

The Task Pane

The document’s measurement system

Different measurement systems

Adjusting the document’s measurement system

Summary

Questions

Part 2: 2D Sketching

3

SOLIDWORKS 2D Sketching Basics

Technical requirements

The position of SOLIDWORKS sketches

Simple sketches versus complex sketches

Sketch planes

Getting started with SOLIDWORKS sketching

Getting into sketching mode

Defining sketches

Geometrical relations

Sketching lines, rectangles, circles, arcs, and ellipses

The origin

Sketching lines

Sketching rectangles and squares

Sketching circles and arcs

Sketching ellipses and using construction lines

Fillets and chamfers

Under-defined, fully defined, and over-defined sketches

Under-defined sketches

Fully defined sketches

Over-defined sketches

Summary

Questions

4

Special Sketching Commands

Technical requirements

Mirroring and offsetting sketches

Mirroring a sketch

Offsetting a sketch

Creating sketch patterns

Defining patterns

Linear sketch patterns

Circular sketch patterns

Trimming in SOLIDWORKS sketching

Understanding trimming

Using power trimming

Summary

Questions

Part 3: Basic Mechanical Core Features – Associate Level

5

Basic Primary One-Sketch Features

Technical requirements

Understanding SOLIDWORKS features and their role in 3D modeling

Simple models versus complex models

Sketching planes for features

Understanding and applying extruded boss and cut

What are extruded boss and extruded cut?

Applying extruded boss

Applying extruded cut and building on existing features

Modifying and deleting extruded boss and extruded cut

Understanding and applying fillets and chamfers

Understanding fillets and chamfers

Applying fillets

Applying chamfers

Modifying fillets and chamfers

Applying partial fillets and chamfers

Understanding and applying revolved boss and revolved cut

What are revolved boss and revolved cut?

Applying revolved boss

Applying revolved cut

Modifying revolved boss and revolved cut

Summary

Questions

6

Basic Secondary Multi-Sketch Features

Technical requirements

Reference geometries – additional planes

Understanding planes, reference geometries, and why we need them

Defining planes in geometry

Defining a new plane in SOLIDWORKS

Understanding and applying Swept Boss and Swept Cut

What are Swept Boss and Swept Cut?

Applying Swept Boss

Applying Swept Cut

Modifying Swept Boss and Swept Cut

Understanding and applying Lofted Boss and Lofted Cut

What are Lofted Boss and Lofted Cut?

Applying Lofted Boss

Applying Lofted Cut

Modifying Lofted Boss and cut

Guide curves

Summary

Questions

Part 4: Basic Evaluation and Assemblies – Associate Level

7

Materials and Mass Properties

Technical requirements

Reference geometries – defining a new coordinate system

What is a reference coordinate system and why are new ones needed?

How to create a new coordinate system

Assigning materials and evaluating and overriding mass properties

Assigning materials to parts

Viewing the mass properties of parts

Overriding mass properties

Summary

Questions

8

Standard Assembly Mates

Technical requirements

Opening assemblies and adding parts

Defining SOLIDWORKS assemblies

Starting a SOLIDWORKS assembly file and adding parts to it

Understanding mates

Understanding and applying non-value-oriented standard mates

Defining the non-value-oriented standard mates

Applying the coincident and perpendicular mates

Applying the parallel, tangent, concentric, and lock mates

Under-defining, fully defining, and over-defining an assembly

Viewing and adjusting active mates

Understanding and applying value-driven standard mates

Defining value-driven standard mates

Applying the distance and angle mates

Utilizing materials and mass properties for assemblies

Setting a new coordinate system for an assembly

Material edits in assemblies

Evaluating mass properties for assemblies

Summary

Questions

Part 5: 2D Engineering Drawings Foundation

9

Introduction to Engineering Drawings

Understanding engineering drawings

Interpreting engineering drawings

Interpreting lines

Interpreting views

Axonometric projections

Summary

Questions

Further reading

Project 1

3D Modelling a Pair of Glasses

Technical requirements

Understanding the project

3D modeling the individual parts

Creating the individual parts

Creating a mirrored part

Creating the assembly

Summary

10

Basic SOLIDWORKS Drawing Layout and Annotations

Technical requirements

Opening a SOLIDWORKS drawing file

Exploring and generating orthographic and isometric views

Selecting a model to plot

Generating orthographic and isometric views

Adjusting the drawing’s scale and display

Communicating dimensions and design

Using the Smart Dimension tool

Centerline, center mark, note, and hole callout annotations

Utilizing the drawing sheet’s information block

Editing the information block

Adding new information to the information block

Exporting the drawing as a PDF file or image

Exporting a drawing as a PDF file

Exporting the drawing as an image

Summary

Questions

11

Bills of Materials

Technical requirements

Understanding BOMs

Understanding a BOM

Generating a standard BOM

Inserting an assembly into a drawing sheet

Creating a standard BOM

Adjusting information in the BOMs

Adjusting listed information in the BOM

Sorting information in our BOMs

Adding new columns

Utilizing equations with BOMs

What are equations in SOLIDWORKS drawings?

Inputting equations in a BOM

Utilizing parts callouts

Manual balloon command

Summary

Questions

Part 6: Advanced Mechanical Core Features – Professional Level

12

Advanced SOLIDWORKS Mechanical Core Features

Technical requirements

Understanding and applying the draft feature

What are drafts?

Applying drafts

Understanding and applying the shell feature

What is a shell?

Applying a shell

Multi-thickness shell settings

Understanding and utilizing the Hole Wizard

What is the Hole Wizard and why use it?

Utilizing the Hole Wizard

Understanding and applying features mirroring

What is mirroring for features?

Utilizing the Mirror command to mirror features

Understanding and applying the rib feature

Understanding ribs

Applying the Rib command

Drafted rib

Understanding and utilizing multi-body parts

Defining multi-body parts and their advantages

Generating and dealing with a multi-body part

Feature scope applications

Separating different bodies into different parts

Understanding and applying linear, circular, and fill feature patterns

Understanding feature patterns

Applying a linear pattern

Applying a circular pattern

Applying a fill pattern

Applying the fill pattern to more than one boundary

Summary

Questions

13

Equations, Configurations, and Design Tables

Technical requirements

Understanding and applying equations in parts

Understanding equations

Applying equations in parts

Modifying dimensions with equations

Understanding and utilizing configurations

What are configurations?

Applying configurations

Understanding and utilizing design tables

What are design tables?

Setting up a design table

Editing a design table

Summary

Questions

Part 7: Advanced Assemblies – Professional Level

14

SOLIDWORKS Assemblies Advanced Mates

Technical requirements

Understanding and using the profile center mate

Defining the profile center advanced mate

Applying the profile center mate

Understanding and using the width and symmetric mates

Defining the width advanced mate

Applying the width advanced mate

Defining the symmetric advanced mate

Applying the symmetric advanced mate

Understanding and using the distance range and angle range mates

Defining the distance range and angle range

Applying the distance range mate

Applying the angle range mate

Understanding and using the path mate and linear/linear coupler mates

Defining the path mate

Applying the path mate

Defining the linear/linear coupler

Applying the linear/linear coupler

Summary

Questions

15

Advanced SOLIDWORKS Assembly Competencies

Technical requirements

Understanding and utilizing the Interference Detection and Collision Detection tools

Interference detection

Collision detection

Understanding and applying assembly features

Understanding assembly features

Applying assembly features

Understanding and utilizing configurations and design tables for assemblies

Using manual configurations

Design tables

Summary

Questions

Project 2

3D Modeling an RC Helicopter Model

Technical requirements

Understanding the project

3D modeling the individual parts

Exploring the individual parts

Creating the assembly

Summary

16

Introduction to SOLIDWORKS Cloud Services

Technical requirements

Introducing SOLIDWORKS Cloud Services

Cloud Services

Cloud Services and the 3DEXPERIENCE platform

Getting started with SOLIDWORKS Cloud Services

Setting up Cloud Services

Saving and sharing your 3D models

Storing your designs with bookmarks and storage spaces

Showing the hidden Lifecycle and Collaboration tab

Opening your designs from the 3DDrive

Sharing your designs

Marking up on designs

How to access the shared file

How to annotate the design

How to edit and save your work after feedback

Viewing the comments

Editing and saving your work

Maturity level

Summary

Questions

Assessments

Index

Other Books You May Enjoy

Preface

SOLIDWORKS stands as a leading piece of software in the realm of 3D engineering and product design, widely utilized across industries such as aviation, automotive, consumer products, and more. This book adopts a practical methodology to help you master SOLIDWORKS at a professional level. Beginning with the fundamentals, such as navigating the software interface and opening new files, it gradually advances through various topics. You’ll learn everything from sketching and constructing intricate 3D models to creating both dynamic and static assemblies.

Our approach is hands-on, ensuring that each tool in SOLIDWORKS is introduced through practical exercises. These exercises will guide you in creating sketches, 3D part models, assemblies, and drawings. To support your learning, we provide downloadable files that you can use to follow along with the concepts and exercises at your own pace. Additionally, the book features two comprehensive projects that integrate the different sections, offering practical applications of the skills you’ve acquired.

Whether you’re a complete beginner or looking to deepen your expertise, this book is structured to be followed sequentially, like a story, but also allows for flexibility to jump between chapters as needed.

Who this book is for

This book is aimed at individuals eager to begin their journey with SOLIDWORKS and gain confidence in using the software. It caters to aspiring engineers, designers, makers, drafting technicians, and hobbyists alike. Additionally, it is tailored for those aspiring to become Certified SOLIDWORKS Associates (CSWAs) or Certified SOLIDWORKS Professionals (CSWPs).

No specific background is required to follow this book, as it starts with the basics of what SOLIDWORKS is and how to use it. However, having a basic theoretical understanding of 3D modeling would be beneficial.

What this book covers

Chapter 1, Introduction to SOLIDWORKS, covers what SOLIDWORKS is and the applications that utilize the software. It also explores the professional certifications that are offered by SOLIDWORKS.

Chapter 2, Interface and Navigation, explores how to navigate the SOLIDWORKS interface.

Chapter 3, SOLIDWORKS 2D Sketching Basics, covers what sketching is in SOLIDWORKS. It also covers how you can sketch basic entities such as lines, circles, rectangles, arcs, and ellipses.

Chapter 4, Special Sketching Commands, covers commands that enable us to sketch more efficiently. These include the fill, mirror, offset, trip, and pattern commands.

Chapter 5, Basic Primary One-Sketch Features, explores the most basic features used for generating 3D models from sketches. Each of these features requires you to have one sketch to apply it. The features include extruded boss and cut, revolved boss and cut, fillets, and chamfers.

Chapter 6, Basic Secondary Multi-Sketch Features, explores another set of basic features that require more than one sketch to apply. They include the swept boss and swept cut and the lofted boss and lofted cut. It also explores reference geometries and how to generate new planes.

Chapter 7, Materials and Mass Properties, explores structural materials for our 3D parts. It also teaches you how to calculate mass properties, such as mass, volume, and the center of gravity.

Chapter 8, Standard Assembly Mates, explores what assemblies are in SOLIDWORKS. You will learn how to generate simple assemblies using the standard mates: coincident, parallel, perpendicular, tangent, concentric, lock and set distance, and angle.

Chapter 9, Introduction to Engineering Drawing, explores what engineering drawings are and how to interpret them as per the commonly recognized international standards.

Project 1, 3D Modeling a Pair of Glasses, presents a comprehensive practical exercise linking the topics in Chapters 2 to 9 to 3D model a pair of glasses.

Chapter 10, Basic SOLIDWORKS Drawing Layout and Annotations, explores how to generate basic engineering drawings using SOLIDWORKS drawing tools.

Chapter 11, Bills of Materials, explores what bills of materials are and how to generate and adjust bills of materials with SOLIDWORKS drawing tools.

Chapter 12, Advanced SOLIDWORKS Mechanical Core Features, explores the advanced features used to generate more complex 3D models. These include the draft feature, shell feature, Hole Wizard, features mirroring, rib feature, and multi-body parts.

Chapter 13, Equations, Configurations, and Design Tables, explains how you can apply equations to link different dimensions within the model. You will also learn how to utilize configurations and design tables to generate multiple variations of a single part within one SOLIDWORKS file.

Chapter 14, SOLIDWORKS Assemblies and Advanced Mates, explores using advanced mates to generate more dynamic assemblies. These include the profile center, symmetric, width, distance and angle range, path, and linear/linear coupler mates.

Chapter 15, Advanced SOLIDWORKS Assembly Competencies, explores additional assembly features to better evaluate and generate more sound and flexible assemblies. These include the Interference and Collision Detection tools, assembly features, configurations, and design tables for assemblies.

Project 2, 3D Modeling an RC Helicopter Model, presents a comprehensive practical exercise covering topics from across the book to 3D model a remote-control helicopter.

Chapter 16, Introduction to SOLIDWORKS Cloud Services, explores SOLIDWORKS cloud services, enhancing design sharing, change management, and design files storage through seamless integration with 3DEXPERIENCE.

To get the most out of this book

You will need access to the SOLIDWORKS software for most chapters. Some chapters will also require Microsoft Excel on the same machine.

To get the most out of this book, you should follow all the steps and examples in your version of SOLIDWORKS as you go through them. This book is designed to provide hands-on practical experience.

There are no prerequisite knowledge or skills required to follow this book. However, having a basic theoretical understanding of 3D modeling and interpreting engineering drawings would be helpful.

Download the project files

You can download the project files for this book from GitHub at https://github.com/PacktPublishing/Learn-SOLIDWORKS-2025-Third-Edition If there’s an update to the code, it will be updated in the GitHub repository.

We also have other code bundles from our rich catalog of books and videos available at https://github.com/PacktPublishing/. Check them out!

Code in Action

The Code in Action videos for this book can be viewed at https://packt.link/ci6I9

Download the color images

We also provide a PDF file that has color images of the screenshots and diagrams used in this book. You can download it from https://packt.link/8jkQD

Conventions used

There are a number of text conventions used throughout this book.

Codeintext: Indicates code words in text, database table names, folder names, filenames, file extensions, pathnames, dummy URLs, user input, and Twitter handles. Here is an example: “Now, we can use the distance range advanced mate to limit the movement of the drawer support from 0.00mm to 30.00mm.”

Bold: Indicates a new term, an important word, or words that you see onscreen. For instance, words in menus or dialog boxes appear in bold. Here is an example: "Navigate to the Sketching mode using the Top Plane."

Tips or important notes

Appear like this.

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Part 1: Getting Started

This part provides an essential introduction to SOLIDWORKS and its applications, including the professional certifications available. It covers the basics of navigating the SOLIDWORKS interface, starting new files, and understanding the main components. Additionally, it covers an introduction to parametric modeling and how to adjust the measurement system for open documents, setting a solid foundation for your journey with SOLIDWORKS.

This part has the following chapters:

Chapter 1, Introduction to SOLIDWORKSChapter 2, Interface and Navigation

1

Introduction to SOLIDWORKS

SOLIDWORKS is a three-dimensional (3D) computer-aided design (CAD) software that runs on Windows computer systems. It was launched in 1995 and has grown to be one of the most common pieces of software used globally regarding engineering design. Currently, SOLIDWORKS is owned by Dassault Système.

This book covers the fundamental skills for using SOLIDWORKS. It will take you from knowing nothing about the software to acquiring all the basic skills expected of a Certified SOLIDWORKS Professional (CSWP). En route, we will also cover all the skills needed for the more basic Certified SOLIDWORKS Associate (CSWA) level. In addition to knowing what the tools are, you will also need to develop software fluency, which you will gain gradually as you practice using the software for different applications. Both the tools and fluency are essential to acquiring any official SOLIDWORKS certifications. If you are new to SOLIDWORKS, we recommend that you follow the book like a story, from this chapter onward. If you are already familiar with SOLIDWORKS, feel free to jump between chapters.

This chapter will provide you with a brief introduction to what SOLIDWORKS is and the fields it can support. We will learn about all the features and capabilities of SOLIDWORKS and will gain a clearer idea of what types of certifications or fields you can strive for. Learning about applicable certifications will enable you to plan your personal SOLIDWORKS development.

The chapter will also explain the governing principle with which SOLIDWORKS functions: parametric modeling. Equipped with a knowledge of SOLIDWORKS’ operating principles, we will be able to deepen our understanding of how the software works and what to expect from it. Understanding the software’s operating principles will help us to manage the different software commands that are used when building 3D models.

The following topics will be covered in this chapter:

Introducing SOLIDWORKSExploring the 3DEXPERIENCE platformUnderstanding parametric modelingExploring SOLIDWORKS certifications

For this chapter, there is no Code in Action (CiA) video available.

Introducing SOLIDWORKS

SOLIDWORKS is a 3D design software that’s officially capitalized to SOLIDWORKS. It is one of the leading pieces of engineering 3D design software globally. Today, more than 2 million organizations use SOLIDWORKS to develop products and innovations, which represent a large proportion of over 6 million SOLIDWORKS users in total. In this section, we will explore the different applications that SOLIDWORKS supports.

SOLIDWORKS applications

SOLIDWORKS mainly targets engineers and product designers. It is used in a variety of applications and industries. Some of these industries are as follows:

Consumer productsAerospaceConstructionHigh-tech electronicsMedicineOil and gasPackagingMachineryEngineering servicesFurniture designEnergyAutomobiles

Each of these industries utilizes SOLIDWORKS for its design applications to some extent. Within SOLIDWORKS, several disciplines correspond to different design and analysis approaches. They are as follows:

Core mechanical design: This involves the creation of parametric 3D models for parts and assemblies in various machines and systemsTwo-dimensional (2D) drawings: This encompasses the generation of detailed and accurate engineering schematics necessary for manufacturing, inspection, and documentationSurface design: This utilizes advanced surfacing techniques to create complex and visually appealing designs, particularly vital in industries such as automotive and consumer productsSheet metal: This covers the design and manufacturing process for sheet metal parts and assemblies, incorporating features such as bends, flanges, and cutsSustainability: This uses integrated tools to ensure environmentally friendly design practices, considering factors such as material selection and energy usage to conduct life cycle assessments (LCAs)Motion analysis: This employs kinematics and dynamics to provide insights into the performance of mechanical systems, focusing on elements such as movement and forceWeldments: This facilitates the design of welded structures, the production of cut lists, and the creation of accurate weld bead documentationSimulations: This involves conducting stress, thermal, and vibration analyses to aid engineers in validating and optimizing their designs for improved performance and durabilityMold making: This entails the use of precise tools to streamline the creation of injection molded and cast parts, which covers aspects such as mold base assembliesElectrical: This integrates electrical design approaches to better control aspects such as wire routing and component placement, easing collaboration between mechanical and electrical fields

Even though the preceding list highlights some possible domains where SOLIDWORKS can be applied, it is not necessary for a single individual to master them all. However, they do demonstrate the capabilities enabled by the software and the fields it can serve. This book will focus on addressing applications within the core mechanical design disciplines.

Core mechanical design

Core mechanical design skills are the basic tools every SOLIDWORKS user needs. These skills include the main 3D modeling features used to create mechanical parts. This book will help you learn these important skills, allowing you to design complex parts and assemblies. With these skills, you can create things like engines, furniture, and everyday items like phones and laptops

We will cover all the knowledge and skills needed to achieve the two major SOLIDWORKS certifications, CSWA and CSWP, under the core mechanical design discipline. Also, mastering core mechanical design concepts can be considered a prerequisite to learning most other specialized modeling disciplines, such as sheet metal and mold making. Because of that, we will only cover a common foundation for core mechanical design in this book. We will discuss all the certifications and levels in more detail in the Exploring SOLIDWORKS certifications section.

Sample SOLIDWORKS 3D models

As SOLIDWORKS caters to a variety of fields, it is possible to create 3D models with varying complexity using the software. Figure 1.1 and Figure 1.2 show samples of 3D models from different fields that have been made using SOLIDWORKS:

Figure 1.1 – 3D models of a gears assembly, turbine rotor, and mechanical seal

Figure 1.2 – 3D models of Gallon, bookshelf design, and headset design

These models are selections from different fields that can show flexibility and the range of possible applications. In reality, SOLIDWORKS is a tool, and it will remain up to you as to what you will use it for. At this point, we have an understanding of SOLIDWORKS as a leading 3D design software used by various industries, with varied applications such as mechanical design and simulations. Next, we will explore what the 3DEXPERIENCE platform is and how it relates to SOLIDWORKS.

Exploring the 3DEXPERIENCE platform

If you are working with SOLIDWORKS, you will most likely also come across or engage in conversations about the 3DEXPERIENCE platform. In case you have not heard about it yet, here is a small introduction.

The 3DEXPERIENCE platform is developed by Dassault Systèmes, SOLIDWORKS’s parent company. You can think of the 3DEXPERIENCE platform as a full operating system tailored for product design and development. This entails a unified digital workspace that includes a selection of integrated apps designed for tasks such as CAD modeling, simulation, project management, and data analytics. The intention of the platform is to alter the methodologies of designing, testing, and manufacturing products.

A user’s access to these apps and the rules that govern them depends on the individual user’s role. The platform aims to house these various apps in one system to enhance workflow. It strives to eliminate isolated work, promote collaboration among global teams, and stimulate business innovation.

Properties of the 3DEXPERIENCE platform

The platform aims to enhance digital workflows through aspects such as communication improvements, faster design cycles, and predictive analytics capabilities.

Some of the capabilities in offers include the following:

Global connection: Real-time collaboration with peers regardless of their geographical location is made possible.All-in-one access: The platform houses various design, engineering, and manufacturing applications together with cloud tools in a single place to ease design tracking and collaboration.Efficient monitoring: Management of projects and data is facilitated through dashboards and reporting features.Informed decision-making: Analytics and simulation capabilities allow scenario modeling to guide strategic decision-making from a position of informed prediction.

Why should you know about the 3DEXPERIENCE platform?

In this book, our focus will be on the SOLIDWORKS desktop app to build your capabilities in building robust 3D models. However, the SOLIDWORKS desktop app can also connect with the 3DEXPERIENCE platform, which can be used more excessively by other members of your team for project management, simulations, 3D modeling, or other functions.

At this point, all you should know is that the 3DEXPERIENCE platform exists and that it would likely impact you in the future as a SOLIDWORKS user.

We will include a link to learn more about the 3DEXPERIENCE platform in the Further reading section at the end of this chapter.

Let us summarize what we have learned about the 3DEXPERIENCE platform. It is a product of Dassault Systèmes, which serves as a comprehensive operating system for product design and development. Aiming to enhance digital workflows, the platform promotes real-time collaboration, centralized access to tools, efficient project management, and data-driven decision-making. Next, we will learn the principle under which parametric 3D software such as SOLIDWORKS operates:parametric modeling.

Understanding parametric modeling

Parametric modeling is the core principle that SOLIDWORKS operates on. It governs how SOLIDWORKS constructs 3D models and how a user should think when dealing with SOLIDWORKS.

In parametric modeling, the model is created based on relationships and a set of logical arrangements that are set by the designer or draftsman. In the SOLIDWORKS software environment, they are represented by dimensions, geometric relationships, and features that link different parts of a model to each other. Each of these logical features is called a parameter. A collection of parameters in a 3D model forms our design intent, which guides how a 3D model behaves when subjected to modifications. We will address design intent more as we progress through the book.

For example, a simple cube with a side length of 1 mm would contain the following parameters:

Four lines in one plane with the following relationships listed and noted in Figure 1.3:All two-line endpoints are merged at the same point. This is presented with the merged parameter in Figure 1.3.Two opposite angles are right angles (90 degrees).Two adjacent lines are equal to each other in length.The length of one line is 1 mm, as follows:

Figure 1.3 – Four lines in one plane

A vertical extrusion that is perpendicular to the square defined in the first set of parameters. This extrusion is by an amount equal to the length of the square’s side (1 mm). This vertical extrusion will result in the shape shown in Figure 1.4:

Figure 1.4 – Extruding four base lines upward to make a cube

The parameters shown in Figure 1.3 and Figure 1.4 show how software such as SOLIDWORKS interprets and constructs 3D models. The user of the software should specify all those parameters to create a cube or any other 3D model.

Creating 3D models based on parameters/design settings has many notable advantages. One major advantage is the ease of applying design updates. Let’s go back to our cube to see how this works.

Notice that up to the point we reached the cube shown in Figure 1.4 we have only specified the length of one side of the base square, as shown in Figure 1.3. The other specifications are relationships that ensure the model is a cube, with equal, parallel, and perpendicular sides.. Those parameters make all the parts of our cube interconnected based on what we decide is important. Thus, updating the length of the side of the cube will not sabotage the cube’s structure. Rather, the whole cube will be updated while keeping the parameters intact. In other words, our design intent was to build a cube.

To clarify this, we can revisit the cube we just made to update it. In the same model, let’s change the dimension we identified earlier from 1 mm to 5 mm, as highlighted in Figure 1.5:

Figure 1.5 – Adjusting the elements in a parametric design propagated to the different parts

With that single step, the cube is fully modified, with all the sides changing to 5 mm in length. Again, this is because our cube parameters must have equal perpendicular and parallel sides. Given that we have defined our intended parameters/design settings for the software, all of those will be retained, resulting in the whole cube model being updated with one single adjustment.

This can be contrasted with pure direct modeling methods. In pure direct modeling, the user creates the cube more abstractly by drawing each line separately and constructing a cube of a certain size. Even though creating the initial cube might be faster, updating it would require updating all the elements separately as they don’t relate to each other with any intent or logical features. This would result in considerably more time and effort being invested in creating variations, which is an essential requirement for industrial application.

Other advantages of parametric modeling are as follows:

The ease of modifying and adjusting models throughout the design and production cycles.The ease of creating families of parts that have similar parameters.The ease of communicating the design to manufacturing establishments for manufacturing.

All the advantages of parametric modeling make it a popular modeling method for technical applications relating to engineering or product design. On the other hand, direct modeling can perform better in more abstract applications, such as modeling more artistic objects used in gaming or architecture. Understanding parametric modeling will enable us to use the software more easily as we are aware of its limitations, as well as how the software interprets the commands we apply. As we progress through this book, we will expand our understanding of parametric modeling as we tackle more advanced functions, such as design tables and other features.

Now that we know more about SOLIDWORKS and parametric modeling, we will discuss the certifications offered by SOLIDWORKS.

Exploring SOLIDWORKS certifications

SOLIDWORKS provides certifications that cover different aspects of its functionality. As a user, you don’t need to gain any of those certifications to use the software; however, they can prove your SOLIDWORKS skills. SOLIDWORKS certifications are a good way of showing employers or clients that you have mastery over a certain aspect of the software that would be required for a specific project.

Certifications can be classified under four levels: associate, professional, professional advanced, and expert. Associate certifications represent the entry level, expert certifications represent the highest level, and professional and professional advanced represent the middle levels. The following subsections list the certification levels provided by SOLIDWORKS. Note that SOLIDWORKS may add or remove certifications over time.

You can check the SOLIDWORKS certification program for more information. The link to the program is provided in the Further reading section.

Associate certifications

Associate certifications are the most basic ones offered by SOLIDWORKS. Some of those certifications require hands-on testing, while others require the student to have theoretical knowledge related to the certification topic. Brief details pertaining to each certification are as follows:

CSWA: This is the most popular SOLIDWORKS certification. It covers the basic modeling principles involved in using the software. This certification allows the user to prove their familiarity with the basic 3D modeling environment in SOLIDWORKS. It touches on creating parts, assemblies, and drawings. The test for this certification is hands-on, so the student will need to have SOLIDWORKS installed before attempting the test.Certified SOLIDWORKS Associate – Electrical (CSWA-E): This covers the general basics of electrical theory, as well as aspects of the electrical functionality of SOLIDWORKS. This certification test does not involve practical work, so the student will not need to have SOLIDWORKS installed.Certified SOLIDWORKS Associate – Sustainability (CSWA-Sustainability): This covers theoretical principles of sustainable product design. To take this certification, SOLIDWORKS software is not required.Certified SOLIDWORKS Associate – Simulation (CSWA-Simulation): This covers basic simulation principles based on the finite elements method (FEM). This mainly includes stress analysis and the effect of different materials and forces on solid bodies. This is a hands-on test, so the student is required to have SOLIDWORKS installed.Certified SOLIDWORKS Associate – Additive Manufacturing (CSWA-AM): This is one of the newer certifications offered by SOLIDWORKS, due to the emergence of the common use of additive manufacturing methods such as 3D printing. This certification covers basic knowledge regarding the 3D printing market. This is not a hands-on test, so the student does not need to have the SOLIDWORKS software installed.

Professional certifications

Professional certifications demonstrate a higher mastery of SOLIDWORKS functions beyond the basic knowledge of a certified associate. All the certifications in this category involve hands-on demonstrations. Thus, the student is required to have access to SOLIDWORKS before attempting any of the tests. Brief details regarding each certification are as follows:

CSWP: This level is a direct sequence of the CSWA level. It demonstrates the user’s mastery over advanced SOLIDWORKS 3D modeling functions. This level upgrade focuses more on modeling more complex parts and assemblies.Certified SOLIDWORKS Professional – Model-Based Definition (CSWP-MBD): MBD is one of the newer SOLIDWORKS functionalities. This certification demonstrates the user’s mastery of MBD functions, which enable the communication of models in a 3D environment rather than in a 2D drawing.Certified PDM Professional Administrator (CPPA): PDM stands for product data management. This certification focuses on managing projects with a wide variety of files and configurations. Also, it facilitates collaboration in teams working on the same design project.Certified SOLIDWORKS Professional – Simulation (CSWP-Simulation): This is an advanced sequence of the CSWA-Simulation certificate. It demonstrates a more advanced mastery of the simulation tools provided by SOLIDWORKS, as well as the ability to evaluate and interpret more diverse simulation scenarios.Certified SOLIDWORKS Professional – Flow Simulation (CSWP-Flow): This is another advanced sequence of the CSWA-Simulation certificate. However, it focuses on the ability to set up and run different fluid flow simulation scenarios.Certified SOLIDWORKS Professional API (CSWP-API): API stands for application programming interface. This certificate addresses the user’s skill in programming and automating functions within the SOLIDWORKS software.Certified SOLIDWORKS Professional CAM (CSWP-CAM): CAM stands for computer-aided manufacturing. SOLIDWORKS provides a suite of CAM tools that can facilitate the manufacturing of parts by enabling the user to simulate and plan different manufacturing processes. The CSWP-CAM certificate assesses your ability to use those tools in SOLIDWORKS.

Professional advanced certifications

Professional advanced certifications address very specific functions within SOLIDWORKS. Often, these certifications apply to more specific industries compared to the CSWP certificate. All these certificates are advanced specializations of the CSWP certificate.

The advanced certificates offered by SOLIDWORKS are as follows:

Certified SOLIDWORKS Professional Advanced – Sheet Metal (CSWPA-SM): This focuses on applications related to sheet metal. This covers the design, analysis, and manufacturing aspects of sheet metal components.Certified SOLIDWORKS Professional Advanced – Weldments (CSWPA-WD): This focuses on applications related to welding. This includes welding both sheet metals and different formations such as frames.Certified SOLIDWORKS Professional Advanced – Surfacing (CSWPA-SU): This focuses on modeling surfaces of irregular shapes, such as car bodies and computer mice.Certified SOLIDWORKS Professional Advanced – Mold Making (CSWPA- MM): This focuses on making molds for production. This includes molds for both metal and plastic parts.Certified SOLIDWORKS Professional Advanced – Advanced DrawingTools (CSWPA-DT): This focuses more on generating 2D engineering drawings to help communicate models to different parties. These can include internal quality teams or external manufacturers.

Expert certifications

Expert certifications are the highest level of certification offered by SOLIDWORKS. Obtaining an expert certificate indicates your mastery of a large array of functions in the software. Also, expert certificates are the only ones with required prerequisites. There are two offered expert certificates, as follows:

Certified SOLIDWORKS Expert (CSWE): This demonstrates mastery over all SOLIDWORKS modeling and design functions. To qualify for this exam, the user must have the CSWP certificate, in addition to four CSWPA certificates.Certified SOLIDWORKS Expert in Simulation (CSWE-S): This demonstrates mastery over all the areas of the SOLIDWORKS Simulation software. To qualify for this exam, the user must have the CSWP, CSW-Simulation, and CSWP-Simulation certificates.

A SOLIDWORKS user doesn’t need to obtain all these certifications. It is rare to find one person with all these certificates. This is because each certification level can address very different needs and serve different industries and/or positions. Also, some certification levels are more in demand than others as they are more essential and, hence, used in more industries. Sequentially, the certifications can be viewed as in Figure 1.6:

Figure 1.6 – A map of the different SOLIDWORKS certifications

All the certifications mentioned in Figure 1.6 and the others that we have discussed in this section are related to the SOLIDWORKS desktop application, which is the focus of this book. Other than those, additional certifications are available concerning the 3DEXPERIENCE platform as well. You can learn more about those using the links in the Further reading section.

This book covers the two most essential, sequential certification levels: CSWA and CSWP. These two certifications cover the common usage scenarios within SOLIDWORKS.

Summary

In this chapter, we learned what SOLIDWORKS is, how parametric modeling works, and the different certifications offered by SOLIDWORKS. This will help us set our expectations and create our future development roadmap concerning SOLIDWORKS. It will also help us to understand the capabilities of the software and its vast scope. We also learned about the 3DEXPERIENCE platform, a comprehensive suite from Dassault Systèmes that enhances collaboration and streamlines workflow within the product development cycle, which is an integral part of the modern SOLIDWORKS ecosystem. In the next chapter, we will cover the SOLIDWORKS interface and its navigation. This will enable us to navigate the software and identify the different components that exist in its interface.

Questions

Answer the following questions to test your knowledge of this chapter:

What is SOLIDWORKS?Name some industries that utilize SOLIDWORKS.What is the 3DEXPERIENCE platform and how does it complement SOLIDWORKS?Describe at least two benefits of using the 3DEXPERIENCE platform for a team working on a product design project.How is parametric modeling defined?What are the major advantages of parametric modeling?What is the difference between parametric modeling and direct modeling?What are the SOLIDWORKS certifications and why are they important?What are the main categories of certification levels offered by SOLIDWORKS?

Important note

The answers to the preceding questions can be found at the end of this book.

Further reading

More information about the 3DEXPERIENCE platform can be found here: https://www.3ds.com/3dexperience

More information about the certifications offered by SOLIDWORKS can be found here: https://www.solidworks.com/solidworks-certification-program

2

Interface and Navigation

In this chapter, we will look at SOLIDWORKS and its software interface, as well as its main components. In addition, we will cover how to navigate through the software interface so that you will be able to easily find your way around the software in the upcoming chapters. We will also talk about the document’s measurement system in terms of the different standard units it uses globally, such as feet, inches, centimeters, and millimeters for measurements of length. Interacting and setting up an interface with the software and setting up our measurement system will be the first two actions we will perform in any new project.

The following topics will be covered in this chapter:

Starting a new part, assembly, or drawing fileMain components of the SOLIDWORKS interfaceThe document’s measurement system

Technical requirements

In this chapter, you will need to have access to SOLIDWORKS.

The project files for this chapter are available at the following GitHub repository: https://github.com/PacktPublishing/Learn-SOLIDWORKS-2025-Third-Edition

The CiA video for this chapter can be found at https://packt.link/Vsh29

Starting a new part, assembly, or drawing file

This section addresses the three types of SOLIDWORKS files: parts, assemblies, and drawings. Here, we’ll briefly cover what each file is for and how we can use each of them; however, more about each type of file will be covered throughout this book.

What are parts, assemblies, and drawings?

As we just mentioned, SOLIDWORKS files fall into three distinctive categories: parts, assemblies, and drawings. Each file type corresponds to a certain deliverable when we’re making a product. By deliverable, we mean whether we need to deliver a three-dimensional (3D) part file, a 3D assembly file, or a two-dimensional (2D) engineering drawing. To illustrate these three file types, let’s break down the simple cylindrical box shown in the following diagram:

Figure 2.1 – A cylindrical box assembly consisting of two parts

We can identify three distinctive categories from the preceding cylindrical box diagram: parts, assemblies, and drawings. Let’s take a look at each of these here:

Parts: Parts are the smallest elements that make up an artifact. They are the first step in building any product in SOLIDWORKS. Since SOLIDWORKS is used to create 3D models, all of its parts are 3D. Also, each part can be assigned to one type of material. Our cylindrical box contains two parts: a main cylindrical container and a cap, as shown in Figure 2.2:

Figure 2.2 – Separating the parts making the cylindrical box assembly

After creating the two parts separately in two different part files, they can be put together into an assembly file.

Assemblies: SOLIDWORKS assemblies enable you to join multiple parts to create a cohesive assembly, much like the complex objects we use daily, such as cars, phones, water bottles, and tables. These assemblies are crucial for evaluating how separately created parts interact and fit together, ensuring they function correctly as a whole. Additionally, they allow design and engineering teams to assess the overall aesthetic and functionality of the product. Through SOLIDWORKS assemblies, you can also simulate the movements of mechanical products, providing a comprehensive view of the product’s performance. For instance, in a cylindrical box assembly, you can visualize how the parts come together, as illustrated in Figure 2.3.

Figure 2.3 – A closed cylindrical box assembly

Drawings: SOLIDWORKS drawings allow you to create 2D engineering drawings out of your parts or assemblies. Engineering drawings are the most common way to communicate designs on paper. They often show dimensions, tolerances, materials, costs, parts identifiers (IDs), and so on. Engineering drawings are often required when designs need to be reviewed by certain parties. Also, they are often required if you wish to talk about your designs with clients or manufacturing/prototyping establishments. For our cylindrical box, an engineering drawing might look like this:

Figure 2.4 – A 2D engineering drawing communicating the design of the cylindrical box

All three types of files—parts, assemblies, and drawings—are essential to SOLIDWORKS users. This is because they are all necessary for the creation of products.

Now that we understand what parts, assemblies, and drawings are, let’s look at how we can start using them in SOLIDWORKS.

Opening a part, assembly, or drawing file

Now that we know the difference between parts, assemblies, and drawings, we will explore how to start using each type of file. Once you open SOLIDWORKS 2025, a Welcome window will appear, along with some shortcuts. One of those options is opening a new Part, Assembly, or Drawing file. These options are highlighted in the following screenshot. Once you click on any of these options, that type of file will be opened:

Figure 2.5 – Default Welcome window once SOLIDWORKS is launched

If the Welcome window does not appear, there is another way to open a new file, as follows:

Click on File in the top-left corner of SOLIDWORKS.Select New..., as shown in the following screenshot:

Figure 2.6 – Opening a new file in SOLIDWORKS

After selecting New..., you will be able to pick one of the three options—that is, to open a new Part, Assembly, or Drawing file, as shown in the following screenshot. You can select the type of file you want to work with and click OK. Alternatively, you can double-click on the file type you would like to start with:

Figure 2.7 – The different options for a new SOLIDWORKS document

In this book, first, we will focus on creating parts, then assemblies, and—finally—drawings. Being able to distinguish between the different types of files is very important, as everything we do afterward will be built on top of the file type we choose. Now that we understand how to open parts, assemblies, and drawings in SOLIDWORKS, let’s look at how to use the software’s interface further.

Main components of the SOLIDWORKS interface

In this section, we will discuss the main components of the SOLIDWORKS interface. These main components are the Command Bar / CommandManager, the Task Pane, the canvas/graphics area, and the FeatureManager design tree.

Being familiar with these components is essential if we wish to use the software to a good extent. For a practical follow-up, you can download the SOLIDWORKS part linked with this chapter, which will be used to explain the main components of the SOLIDWORKS interface.

In this chapter, we will be focusing on the interface that’s used when we need to deal with parts, instead of assemblies and drawings. However, the main components of the interface are the same when we deal with each file type.

When opening a part in SOLIDWORKS, regardless of whether it is new or existing, you will be faced with the view shown in the following screenshot. We will cover the four main sections of this screen: the Command Bar, the FeatureManager design tree, the Task Pane, and the canvas/graphics area. These are the main sections of SOLIDWORKS that we’ll be interacting with and referring to throughout this book:

Figure 2.8 – A breakdown of the SOLIDWORKS interface

We will look at the Command Bar, the FeatureManager design tree, the canvas/graphics area, and the Task Pane in more detail in the following sections.

The Command Bar

The Command Bar is located at the top of the screen. It contains all the SOLIDWORKS commands that are used for building models. It contains different categories of commands, and each category contains a set of different commands. A close-up of the Command Bar is shown in the following screenshot:

Figure 2.9 – A breakdown of the Command Bar

Different categories (tabs) of commands correspond to different functions. For example, in the Sketch category/tab, you will find all the commands that we will need in the sketching phase. Those will enable us to sketch lines, circles, rectangles, and so on. In the Features category/tab, you will find all the commands that we will need to go from the sketching phase and start creating a 3D model. Those will enable us to build cubes, spheres, prisms, and so on. The categories that are shown in Figure 2.9 are not the only ones SOLIDWORKS provides, but they are the most common ones we will use. To show the hidden Commands categories, we can do the following:

Right-click on any of the Commands categories, then expand the Tabs menu. You will get the view shown in Figure 2.9, which contains more Commands categories, such as Surfaces, Weldments, and Mold Tools.Select the categories you want to be shown. By doing this, these categories will be added to the Command Bar, as illustrated in Figure 2.10:

Note

The commend bar is also refered to as the CommandManager. However, in this book, we will use call it the command bar.

Figure 2.10 – List of command categories that can be added to the Command Bar

This concludes our overview of the Command Bar, which contains the different commands we will use as we build 3D models. Now, we will look at the FeatureManager design tree.

The FeatureManager design tree

The FeatureManager design tree details everything that goes into creating your parts. The following screenshot shows the FeatureManager design tree for the part we explored in this chapter. We can simplify the FeatureManager design tree by splitting it into four parts, as illustrated in the following screenshot:

Figure 2.11 – A breakdown of the FeatureManager design tree

The four parts of the FeatureManager design tree are listed here:

Commands/features: These are the commands that are used to build the model. This includes sketches, features, and any other supporting commands that were added during the modeling phase (since we are building a 3D model). In the preceding screenshot, two features were used to create the model, as indicated by Commands. The first is Boss-Extrude1 and the second is Cut-Extrude1. Note that these commands are listed in the order of when they were applied.Default reference geometries: The SOLIDWORKS canvas can be understood as endless space. These default reference geometries are what can fix our model to a specific point or plane. Without these, our model will be floating in an endless space without any fixtures. Throughout this book, we will start our models from these default references. There are three planes (Front Plane, Right Plane, and Top Plane), in addition to the origin.Materials: All of the artifacts we have around us are made of a certain material. Some examples of materials include plastic, iron, steel, and rubber. SOLIDWORKS allows us to assign which structural material the part will be made of. In the preceding screenshot, the Material feature is classed as <not specified>.Others: This section includes other aspects of our model’s creation, such as History, Sensors, Annotations, and Solid Bodies. We will explore them later in this book.

Note

Through the book, we will use the term design tree as a reference to the FeatureManager design tree.

The design tree helps us to easily identify how the model was built and in what sequence. This makes it easier for us to modify existing models. Now, let’s look at the canvas.

The canvas/graphics area

The canvas provides a visual representation of the model we have at hand. It contains three main components, as illustrated in the following screenshot:

Figure 2.12 – A breakdown of the canvas/graphics area

Let’s break down the components, as follows:

Coordinate system: This shows the orientation of the model in relation to the default coordinate system in terms of the x, y, and z axes. They are interactive and can be used to position the viewing angle of the model. By clicking on the various axes, you can arrive at that viewing orientation.The part’s current status: This shows the current status of the part at work. This is updated with every construction command that’s used to build the model.Additional viewing commands: These provide alternative views of the model, such as the wireframe view and section view. They also provide shortcuts that we can use to modify the scene and the appearance of the model and hide/show various properties.

When controlling the model in the canvas, using a mouse with a scroll wheel is recommended due to the functionalities the scroll wheel has. Here are two ways the scroll wheel helps you control the model, which you can try with the provided model:

When the cursor is within the canvas, rolling the scroll wheel will allow us to zoom in and out of the cursor’s location.When the cursor is within the canvas, pressing on the scroll wheel and moving the mouse will rotate the model in a certain direction. For example, if we move the mouse to the right, the model will pivot to the right.

Note

We will use the term canvas throughout the book. However, many also use the term graphics area.

Now that we have covered the canvas, let’s talk about the Task Pane.

The Task Pane

The Task Pane shows to the right of our interface by default. It contains shortcuts for the different tools we will be using in order to enhance the efficiency of our work. This includes access to common online resources and forums, as well as different tools, such as appearance adjustments and the View Palette (mainly for drawing files). In this book, however, we won’t be using linked resources while making parts or assemblies. We will use the View Palette in Chapter 10.

Now that we know about the major components of the SOLIDWORKS interface, we will learn how to adjust the measurement system of our open document.

The document’s measurement system

Since SOLIDWORKS is an engineering software, all of the models are constructed with user-provided (user-input) measurements. To facilitate communication, SOLIDWORKS uses standard systems that are currently used in the industry, including the International System of Units (SI), the imperial system, and variations of each.

Different measurement systems

When modeling with SOLIDWORKS, the user must take note of the measurement system that is set in the document. A measurement system is a set of common agreed-upon units that facilitate how we communicate quantities in terms of length, mass, volume, and so on. Some examples of such units are meters and inches, which are measurements of length.

These often correspond with internationally recognized systems such as the SI and the imperial system. The SI system is also commonly known as the metric system. Currently, it is used in most countries around the world. Another common system is the imperial system, which is mostly used in the United States (US).

The following table compares the major units that are used in the SI and imperial systems:

Figure 2.13 – A comparison between the imperial and SI unit systems

Before we start modeling anything in SOLIDWORKS, we must decide on which system to use. The unit system we use often depends on the standards that have been adopted by the organization we work for or the requirements of our clients.

Adjusting the document’s measurement system

Now that you have decided which system to use, you must set it up in the software. You can adjust the unit of measurement by following these steps:

Open a new