Solidworks

Owned by Devon Copeland
Last updated: Mar 02, 2017

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Solidworks Workshop


Renaming Files

If you are going to rename any files used by Solidworks (for example if you are moving a file from Development to Trunk) make sure you use Solidworks Explorer to rename it so that all references will be carried forward. Solidoworks Explorer can be downloaded here. 

Sketch Geometry

  • PUT THE ORIGIN IN A USEFUL POSITION
  • Try to use relations whenever possible. For example, if you want to put a hole in the middle of an object use center lines and midpoint relations rather than dimensions. 
  • Don't do fillets or chamfers in sketches

Fasteners and Off the Self Parts 

  • We will be using metric fasteners whenever possible
  • Do not use toolbox fasteners. Try to use fastener already in trunk whenever possible. Otherwise find a CAD model on McMaster and download the model. Make sure to delete the default custom fields and add the VendorNo field. Fasteners should also have "Y" set in the "IsFastener field" 
  • Try to spec Spaenaur fasteners whenever possible. If you want to use a fastener that Spaenaur does not sell, check with a Mech lead first. 
  • Make sure to suppress threads in fasteners.
  • Fasteners should only occupy part numbers 10xxx in the drawing number registry
  • Save the fastener according to the naming convention if you are adding it to trunk. Update the drawing number registry accordingly.

In Context Mates

  • In context mates should be used when two parts are properly mated
  • These mates can help make the models more dynamic

Making Drawings

Use the Midnight Sun sheet format

  1. Select File → New → Drawing or File → Make Drawing from Part/Assembly 
  2. When prompted for sheet format, select "Browse"
  3. Navigate to <GrabCADFolder>StandardComponentsTemplates and select MidnightSunANSI-B.slddrt. 
  4. Click "OK"
  5. Select File → Properties, then click "Custom"
  6. Enter the appropriate information into the fields. 
  7. Save your document and the title block should automatically update. 

Tip for making great drawings

  • Use baseline dimensions. Include a dimension table if the drawing begins to look cluttered or you run out of room
  • Use section views or auxiliary view where appropriate
  • Add notes for clarity 
  • Make sure there is a visible gap between your dimension lines and object lines

Tips for making parts and assemblies

  • Always make sure your parts are fully dimensioned. This is indicated at the bottom of the screen when doing a sketch, and you should not be able to move your sketch around. 
  • If a part is symmetric, mirror features or the body when possible 
  • If creating holes meant for fasteners, pick a bolt and use the standard size (google clearance or tap sizes for chosen bolt)
  • Round all dimensions to the nearest whole number, or one decimal place if possible
  • Chose standard sizes when working with thicknesses and dimensions (2mm, 3mm, etc.)
     

When in doubt, refer to your ME/MTE100 workbooks (praise Jim Baleshta)