The sheet-metal module included in SolidWorks allows us to create different types of consumer products that are part of our daily lives.
Continue reading “How to create a multi-body sheet metal part from a solid geometry”
Industry Tags: Engineering
With SOLIDWORKS PDM, it is possible to export the results of a search.
- Just do a search: Using the built-in search in the SOLIDWORKS PDM file explorer, search from the root of the vault or according to your needs.
- In the left menu of the SOLIDWORKS PDM File Explorer window, you have two new options (previously only available in the SOLIDWORKS PDM Professional search tool).
a) Option 1: Open search result
The results open in Microsoft Excel in a .tmp file.
From Microsoft Excel, you can (Save As) in the format of your choice.
b) Option 2: Export search result
This will export to a .csv file (Type: Comma-Separated Files).
The .csv file will open by default in Microsoft Excel.
It is possible to open the .cvs file with Microsoft Bloc-Notes or any other note editor.
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How to Insert Sheet Metal Bend Notes within SOLIDWORKS MBD
by Steven Murphy – Application Specialist at SolidXperts
Engineers are always looking for faster and more efficient means of providing manufacturing information for their models. SOLIDWORKS 2019 expansion of Model-Based Definition to sheet metal components allows for designers to integrate the necessary product manufacturing information (PMI) directly into their sheet metal parts.
In any sheet metal part, right-click on the flattened pattern and select ‘Insert bend notes.’ The flattened pattern includes all of the bend notes on the flattened view. This includes the bounding box in the 2D view for easy reference.
Once the bend notes have been created, simply add a bend table from the tables drop-down menu. The bend table can be used to consolidate all of the directions, radii, and bend angles into one location. As with any SOLIDWORKS table, the bend table can be exported as a separate table.
After creating the bend table, the final step of the process is to generate a 3D view with the derived flattened pattern configuration. This 3D view can be used to export to a 3D PDF, Edrawings, or just saved in SOLIDWORKS for anyone to access.
And just like that, SOLIDWORKS MBD has removed an extra step from the design to fabrication workflow. Even if the 3D views are used in conventional 2D engineering drawings, all of the PMI is localized within the SOLIDWORKS part model.
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How to open Windows Firewall ports for SOLIDWORKS PDM
By Elene Teolis – PDM Application Specialist at SolidXperts
To establish a connection between the different components of a PDM installation, it must be ensured that communication is possible via the following ports:
PDMWorks Enterprise Archive Server Uses TCP and UDP 3030 Ports
SQL Server uses TCP port 1433 and UDP port 1434
Web server uses HTTP port 80 and HTTPS port 443
SolidNetWork License Server Uses TCP Port 25734
1- Start Windows Firewall
2- Select Inbound Rules and click New Rule
2.1. – Rule type
– Select Port ˃ Next
2.2. – Protocol and ports
– Choose TCP
– Enter the ports to allow ˃ Next
2.3. – Action
– Allow the connection ˃ Next
2.4. – Profile
– Check Domain and Private ˃ Next
2.5. – Name
– Enter a descriptive name for the rule ˃ Next
PDM – TCP IN
PDM – TCP OUT
PDM – UDP IN
PDM – UDP OUT
3- Select Outbound Rules and click on New Rule
3.1. – Rule type
– Select Port ˃ Next
3.2. – Protocol and ports
– Choose TCP
– Enter the ports to allow ˃ Next
3.3. – Action
– Allow the connection ˃ Next
3.4. – Profile
– Check Domain and Private ˃ Next
3.5. – Name
– Enter a descriptive name for the rule ˃ Next
PDM – TCP IN
PDM – TCP OUT
PDM – UDP IN
PDM – UDP OUT
4- Define the Incoming Traffic Rule for the UDP protocol by following the steps in point 2.
– Protocol and ports: choose UDP
5- Define the Outgoing Traffic Rule for the UDP protocol by following the steps in point 3.
– Protocol and ports: choose UDP
You have now successfully opened Windows Firewall ports for SOLIDWORKS PDM! If you want to learn more about new features in SOLIDWORKS from 2015 to 2019, download our White Paper.
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A Beginner’s Guide to SOLIDWORKS
Steven Murphy – Certified SOLIDWORKS Expert (CSWE)
So you want to learn SOLIDWORKS? Well, you are in luck- SolidXperts has your back! Whether you are learning SOLIDWORKS as your first Computer-Aided Design (CAD) package or augmenting your software portfolio, this guide will go through the information you need to get you up and running in no time!
Step 1: Know your Resources
Good News: you are not the first person to learn the software! SolidXperts is helping people just like you to learn the software on a daily. The SOLIDWORKS community can also provide a ton of valuable material to augment your learning experience. Here is a list of the resources that you should become familiar with:
In-Person or Online Training
The most important resource for getting up to speed quickly on SOLIDWORKS is the online and in-person training courses provided by SolidXperts. These classes are designed to teach new users not only how to use SOLIDWORKS, but to understand the thought process behind design intent. You will work with SOLIDWORKS Experts who will personally cater to your learning style. The “SOLIDWORKS ESSENTIALS” class is the best way to get to where you want to be.
Tutorials
Did you know that SOLIDWORKS has built-in Tutorials to teach you the software? Located under Help (1)> SOLIDWORKS Tutorials (2) > Getting Started (3), there are a series of hands-on tutorials that will walk you through learning the basics of the program.
Blogs & Forums
Well, you already found this blog, so you are on the right track! From walkthroughs to tutorial videos to Q&A threads, the SOLIDWORKS community is here to help you succeed. No matter your skill level, there is tons of value to be gained from interacting with other users who have the same questions as you!
My.Solidworks.com
Provided by SOLIDWORKS, MySolidworks contains many training paths (each training path is composed of many individual topic videos) targeting a specific workflow of the software. Use these to your advantage to learn about areas of the software that is relevant to your profession. I would suggest starting with the “Part Modeling Basics” learning path.
*Note: online training works best when it is used to augment in-person training! Good modeling habits developed in the classroom have more staying power and will serve you better in learning the software.
Step 2: Learn the User Interface
A key portion of getting used to any new software is learning the user interface (UI). You want to be comfortable navigating through the menus. Here is a brief description of the key UI elements for getting started:
- Menu Bar
The Menu Bar contains a set of the most frequently used tool buttons from the Standard toolbar, the SOLIDWORKS menus, the SOLIDWORKS Search, and a flyout menu of Help options.
- CommandManager
The CommandManager is a context-sensitive toolbar that dynamically updates based on the toolbar you want to access. By default, it has toolbars embedded in it based on the document type.
- CommandManager Tabs
When you click a tab below the CommandManager, it updates to show that toolbar. For example, if you click the Sketches tab, the Sketch toolbar appears.
- SOLIDWORKS Search
You can use SOLIDWORKS Search to find information in documentation and forums. You can also find files and models, and find and run a SOLIDWORKS command with just a few keystrokes.
- Heads-Up Toolbar
A transparent toolbar in each viewport provides all the common tools required for manipulating the view.
- Task Pane
The Task Pane provides access to SOLIDWORKS resources, libraries of reusable design elements, views to drag onto drawing sheets, and other useful items and information. The SolidXperts custom task pane (part of UtilsXperts) has all of our contact information, tools, and custom macros to help our customer base take full advantage of the SOLIDWORKS software.
- Feature Manager Design Tree
The FeatureManager design tree on the left side of the SOLIDWORKS window provides an outline view of the active part, assembly, or drawing. This makes it easy to see how the model or assembly was constructed or to examine the various sheets and views in a drawing.
- Graphics Area
The graphics area displays and lets you manipulate parts, assemblies, and drawings.
Step 3: Get Comfortable with the Basic Features
Now it is time to start using the program. As suggested earlier, check out the tutorials as they provide a solid explanation of the primary features used in CAD. Since the majority of CAD work only uses a fraction of all of the features available in SOLIDWORKS, focus on understanding these commands to start. Most people find that once you understand the thought process behind the below features, it is really easy to learn the rest! Focus on:
Sketch
When you open a new part document, first you create a sketch. The sketch is the basis for a 3D model. You can create a sketch on any of the default planes (Front Plane, Top Plane, and Right Plane), or a created plane.
Boss Extrude
The primary method of converting 2D sketches into 3D geometry, the Boss Extrude feature allows you to add depending on several conditions to your part. You will need to either have a sketch or create a sketch in order to create an extrusion!
Revolve
Revolves add or remove material by revolving one or more profiles around a centerline. Use these to create cylindrical or spherical parts in a single feature! A perfect example of a revolve would be a soda can.
Extrude Cut
Want to remove some material? The Extrude Cut features allow you to get rid of material on your part. Be aware that you need to have material before you can activate the extruded cut command.
Hole Wizard
Hole WizardIf you are looking to make any type of circular hole, look no further! The Hole Wizard contains specifications for the majority of holes, and even lets you bring that information into your 2D drawings automatically. Just select your Hole Type, Size, and Location to make your first hole.
While using these key features is a good starting point, it is not enough. During the SolidXperts courses, we discuss the ins and outs of these features and how to best apply them. Be you want to avoid picking up bad modeling habits!
Step 4: Start Modeling
See that pencil holder on your desk? Model it. What about your phone? Model that too! The more you work to understand completed parts as a combination of extrudes and cuts, the easier it is to CAD. There is no “secret” to getting good at modeling besides practice. At the end of the day, it takes time and a positive attitude to go from a casual user to a master modeler.
So that is it! If you follow this outline, you will have all of the tools you need to start modeling like a champ. Remember that you are only limited by your own creativity, so have fun and continue to grow. If you need help, feel free to give us at SolidXperts a call (we are the Experts!).
- Know your Resources
- Learn the UI
- Get Comfortable with the Basic Features
- Start Modeling
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Welded Constructions with the SOLIDWORKS Structure System
From the 2004 version of SOLIDWORKS onward, the welded construction function speeds up the creation of assemblies because it allows the representation of assemblies without having to create multiple individual files. But, there is more since version 2019.
The new “Structure” function allows the creation of welded constructions in a different way. It is not necessary to draw a path for each profile. For example, it is possible to create a starting profile (“Primary Element”) from:
– From 4 planes;
– Of a path element (a bit like welded construction);
– By defining a length by selecting only one point (note the absence of a sketch in the requested selection);
– By defining an intersection between a face and a plane.
So, with a few clicks, you can define a structure, including corner treatment:
You can then modify the created structure (in one function!) to change the profiles of certain elements:
Following the creation of the external shape of the frame, reinforcements or other elements must generally be attached to it. As mentioned above, creation methods using entities other than sketch segments can be used. For so-called “secondary” elements, using the selection of two existing profiles, two methods are possible:
– Supporting Plan Element” uses an existing plan to position the newly created profile.
Activating chain selection allows the automatic creation of element pairs when two entities are selected.
– Between point elements.
This method has two ways of working, using either distance or length ratio.
The first allows the definition of two distances from the starting point of the profiles:
We can see on the screenshot above that despite the two equally defined distances, the profile is at an angle. The reason for this is that the dimension is defined by the starting point of the profile, which corresponds to the starting point of the sketch, i.e. at the top of the structure for the profile on the left of the screenshot and at the bottom for the profile on the right:
Just click on the appropriate icons to reverse the directions and thus obtain a secondary profile perpendicular to the primary profiles.
Ratios (whose value must vary between 0 and 1) of length relative to each previously selected element can also be used. In this way, always taking the direction into account, it is easy to create a spacer that would be on one side at the upper third of a profile and at the lower third on the other.
As for the creation of a drawing, the operation is the same as for a welded construction.
All in all, even if you are already using welded construction, this new working method can be confusing at first, but you quickly get used to it and learn to appreciate the lightness of the creation tree it produces. Moreover, just like the welded construction, the result produced is compatible with the BeamCutXperts beam optimization tool.
For more information visit our SOLIDWORKS product page, or consult an Xpert!
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3D modeling for additive manufacturing
Repair Resolution –
You might be an engineer – if, you fix broken fitness equipment with CAD and 3D printing. This case study shows just how that was done. It starts with a budget water rower exercise machine that had arm failures in the resistance paddle which spins inside the water tank. The machine had been purchased early in the year and the paddle arms failed by December.
Note that the arms of the original paddle broke off where the plastic transitions from a thinner beam profile to the larger hub. Of course, it could have been predicted by using SOLIDWORKS Flow, Plastics, or Simulation software, but that discussion will be saved for another article.
For the moment we will focus on designing and producing a 3D printed replacement paddle that is more similar to the design used in expensive health club water rower machines.
The commercial grade water rower has single mixing paddle design that extends across the diameter of the tank. There are openings between the shaft hub and the scoop ends, but the paddle has solid plastic arms at the top and bottom of the water tank. The budget rower was connected only at the bottom of the water tank leading to increasing offset dynamic loads as athlete exertion increases.
Although the original design paddle diameter of 18 inches is larger than many 3D printer print volume dimensions, it was possible to get 16 inches diagonally across the build plate. Adjusting the width of the working portion of the paddle and having the solid section on top allows the surface area displacing the water to be similar between the 3D printed design and the injection molded paddle.
By using a pattern of triangle and diamond shapes for the open section, the replacement paddle can be printed without support.Chamfers are used for edge breaks around the edges and openings for better flow characteristics while still being easy to print.
The original paddle had a pressed and brazed connection between the paddle and rower shaft, and this has been replaced with a pentagon shaped hole to allow for screw fastening to the shaft.
For strength Markforged Onyx filament is used which is a carbon and nylon blend. The wall passes are increased and gyroid infill is used along with maintaining the full paddle width through the paddle cross section.
Disassembly of the original paddle from the rower was a bit involved, requiring drilling and a gear puller to get the shaft clear to accept the printed replacement.
Some additional drilling and bolting allowed the new paddle to be installed on the rower shaft.
With a slight adjustment of water volume in the tank, the 3D printed replacement paddle provides the same resistance and workout as the when the machine was new.
Water flow is different with the replacement paddle but the workout is the same. And the repair is done in time for a new year of health resolutions.
John Nolin
Senior Applications Engineer
SolidXperts
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What’s New SOLIDWORKS 2022 – Hit List
Installation –
Admin Image types (option) Standard, Remote, Compressed
Remote – allows users to download image from internet / SOLIDWORKS Customer Portal instead of from company VPN
Compressed – smaller download, but must use full package at each service pack upgrade
SOLIDWORKS Electrical – new client or server specific installation options (easier for multi-user environments)
PDM – vault views can now be deployed as part of an Admin Image
Copy Settings wizardcan now adapt to System Options distributed and locked with Admin Image
User Interface –
New message bar pop-up at top of graphics window
Quick Copy utility for Measure tool – allows 1 click copy of values or values + units
Command Search now integrated in Shortcut toolbar (and can be directly added to toolbar)
Drawings saved to PDF can now include the sheet / paper color
Reference Geometry display and selection during Mate, Measure or Pattern.
While in the command hover mouse over faces or cylinders press [Q] to momentarily display reference geometry for selection.
Additional options for Component Tree display to show various combinations of Component Name, Description, Configuration, and Display State.
Sketching –
Linear sketch entity is now usable for direction reference in patterns
Sketch textnow works in patterns
Parts –
Coordinate systems – can be set with exact values in 3D space (independent of a geometry reference to select)
Coordinate systems – can be referenced or selected by its origin, an axis or plane
Cosmetic Threads – better display, retains proper depth and edge attachment
Draft Across Parting Lines – now draft can be applied in both directions from a parting line as 1 feature
External Threaded Stud Wizard – an extension of detailed Thread Feature that builds the stud with threads at 1 time
Hole Wizard Slots – dimension to arc center option added, hit [Tab] to rotate 90deg while placing feature.
Hybrid Modeling – allows mesh bodies (after BREP conversion) to be edited with surface features and combined with solid features
Segmented Mesh bodies – converted mesh bodies can have faces turned into classic BREP
Mirror about 2 planes – with 1 feature creation
Rotate Section View– around a hole or axis
Thickness Analysis – now offers Resolution control with Low, Med, High tessellation sizes
Model Display –
Performance improvement for 3D textures and silhouette edges
Sheet Metal –
Edge flanges on curves can now apply edit profile to limit the feature extents
Etched contours on bends (sketch text or split lines) retain display in flattened state
Structure System & Weldments –
Structure Systems now supports end caps
Custom Properties of older version weldments (2017 or earlier) can be upgraded to newer property architecture
Improvements in Complex Corner property manager
Ability for multiple secondary members (using between points, or up to member methods)
Connector Elements for Structure Systems now supported
Can include cut features as connector is placed.
ImprovedCustom Properties dialog for Structure Systems and Weldments bodies
Assemblies –
(x) Automatically optimize resolved mode, hide lightweight mode
Improves performance by letting system control lightweight use behind the scenes (behaves as resolved to the user)
Open Subassemblies in Different Mode– right click option to load subassembly as LDR or Resolved (independent of upper assembly current mode)
Exclude from BOM – custom configuration property for components
Configuration Table – Design Table functionality without needing the embedded Excel sheet (file size / performance / no excel ???)
Section View – option toexclude failed componentsand still create section view
Assemblies and components with equations will auto resolveas needed, if loaded lightweight
Move with Triad– automatically appears when more than 1 component selected
AdditionalQuick Mates options on In Context Toolbar
Detailing & Drawings –
Alternate Position Viewsnow allow cropping
Predefined Drawing Viewsnow support trimetric, dimetric, or flat pattern types
Detailing Modeimprovements – available for any version file, Save model data and include standard views performance options added
Geometric Tolerance frames now build dynamically on screen
Radius / Diameter dimension display toggle now on incontext bar for easier access
Sheet Metal flat pattern views can now show bend lines when sketch display is hidden
Handling of detailed cut lists within BOMtables is improved
Symmetric Linear Diameter Dimension is added
Import / Export –
Performance improvements forimport of large DXF/DWG and STEP files
Ability to select specific IFC Entity types from the files for import
Assigned colors of entities properly support in DXF/DWG export
PDM –
Improvements with Windows AD integration: additional user data fields, profile import, login validation tools
Improved configuration property managementand control
Archive Server and User log export capabilities added
Preview Tab now shows full eDrawings viewer controls
Performance improvementsfor file operations even when database has higher latency
Manage –
UI improvements for BOM, Project Properties, Process Tab and more
Additional user rights controls over check out of items
Replace User capability added
Performance improvements for BOM and Project display as well as PDM check in/out
Blended Curvature Based Mesher is now default for new studies
Bonded and Contactperformance improvements
Improved solver performance and automatic solver selection
Tools to set camera perspective to matchbackplate
Shadow catcher property can be assigned to scene elements
Scenes Tab UI improvements
Animations improvements for motion studies, key frames and more
Render Output Viewer – in project viewing, control, and management of renders
Pattern Tool – replaces and improves prior Formation function (Vee, Circle, Scatter, Grid)
CAM –
Toolpath endpointscan be set for a custom color for easier viewing
Filter for Mill & Turn tools containing specified text string
Composer –
Ability to import SOLIDWORKS appearance decals
Import file versionextensions: ACIS up to 2021 , Creo 7, SOLIDWORKS 2022
Electrical –
Links in BOM cells – allows multiple items to reference 1 mfg part
PDF data file support for Project PDF exports (bind PDF function)
Multiple UI improvements
Attribute capability added to Origin & Destination arrows (shows mark of connected component)
Electrical Content Portalcan now be set as dockable panel in UI
Improved Connection Point creation
Inspection –
New API– auto open SOLIDWORKS files, Balloon drawings, create reports and more
Standalone now supportsall native SOLIDWORKS files and NX/Unigraphics *.prt files (MBE)
Smart Extract in standalone has improved recognition and parsing of PDF file content
MBD –
HTML(5) exportoption on 3D PDF creation
Angle Dimension manual annotation for DimXpert added
Geometric Tolerancingimprovement including ANSI Y14.5 or ISO 1101 release selection
Support for SOLIDWORKS custom file properties when saved as eDrawings files
Components list UIimprovements
Scene Plot utility – stores all displayed plots and model display
Compare Tool improvements
Range Function – for handling of transient effects (such as power derating due to temperature calculation)
Flux Plot – now available within Transient Explorer
Plastics –
Symmetric & Cyclic Cavity and Runner Layout tools
Injection Location Advisor – based on part geometry software selects up to 4 recommended injection locations
Polymer materials data updates (using latest manufacturer properties)
SABIC, Polyplastics, Solvay Specialty Polymers, Radici Group, LANXESS
Improved UI of Plastics Manager Tree
4K and higher displayresolution support
Solver performance improvement – cooling calculation time reduced 34%, Fill & Pack reduced 60%
Routing –
Flatten Routeimprovements for horizontal selection, and line only output
Connector backshellsupport added
Replace Connectorcapability added – preserves line connection where possible
SolidXperts teams can help you become true 3D experts! An additional question? Need information?
Contact us!
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How to Produce an Adaptive Form with DriveWorks
By Marco Chery – SolidXperts Application Specialist
What is an adaptive form?
DriveWorks projects created using responsive forms adjust their content regardless of the size and orientation of your device screen, whether it is a computer, tablet, or smartphone. This eliminates the need to swipe the web page from left to right to see content and the user’s browsing experience is more intuitive.
Why should you use them?
- For the dissemination of DriveWorks projects on the web;
- Improved user navigation;
- Access the project anywhere from any device.
A Few Tips
The easiest way to make your forms responsive is to use Frame Controls on the main page. From this main page, the windows will allow you to see the content of your different forms.
First, define the location of your viewing windows for the resolution of a desktop computer.
Second, create a plan to switch these windows to the screen of a phone and tablet.
Third, determine the borders for switching windows between different device resolutions. For this, we use a special DriveWorks variable: FormContainerWidth.
- Phone Resolution: 320 – 640 pixels
- Tablet Resolution: 640 -1200 pixels
- Computer Resolution: 1200+ pixels
Fourth, for each zone, we can create variables that will position the window taking into account the different resolutions.
Finally, we import the variables to the main page, in the layout section for each type of viewing window.
Conclusion
This method ensures your DriveWorks project forms are adaptive and attractive, regardless of the device on which they are viewed.
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SOLIDWORKS Visualize – Video Decal
By Nikita Lambert – Certified SOLIDWORKS Expert (CSWE) at SolidXperts
You may have already said that your rendering is acceptable, but that it seems to be missing something, that your image lacks life. SOLIDWORKS Visualize now has the solution for you: You can now create a video decal and apply it to any surface of your model. For example, a cellphone company could put a clip showing the operating system in action on a newly designed device, an animated background plan outside a window, or even a television playing your favorite series! The possibilities are limited only by your imagination.
To take advantage of this 2019 innovation, simply go to your Appearances tab, Add, New Decal, and finally Video. Browse and search for your video file and you need only apply it to your project.
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