The SOLIDWORKS 2027 Preview program starts on July 15th, 2026. Save the date! This is your chance to test-drive SOLIDWORKS 2027 before it ships. Get hands-on with new capabilities, user-driven enhancements, and performance improvements, and share your feedback with the R&D team. What you can do in the Preview: • Test-drive new and enhanced features before they are final • Submit feedback directly to the development team • Access the Preview Community to compare notes with

When AI Lies and SOLIDWORKS Soars Ever wondered if AI is ready to take over your design job, or if it's just like a super-fast intern who sometimes gets a bit confused? In the first episode of the SPRED podcast, I had an amazing chat with @KD, the friendly host of The Core podcast and a true veteran in the 3D printing world. Together, we dove into the exciting world of artificial intelligence and engineering! AI: Your New Co-Pilot! Can AI really handle all the tricky tasks in SOLIDWORKS? Kirby

We have updated the SOLIDWORKS + 3DEXPERIENCE Getting Started Guide with a new topic covering the new AI Virtual Companions. This new section covers everything you need to get start using AI in SOLIDWORKS Design, from installing the add-in, to accessing the companions in your SOLIDWORKS session. The section also includes several use case examples demonstrating how to utilise the companions to help assist in different scenarios. Links to the new sections below: AI Virtual Companions - Getting

How Can AI Virtual Companions Help Me?When model features fail during a rebuild, LEO can help you get to the root cause. Rather than relying on the list of issues displayed in the What's Wrong dialogue, LEO will provide deeper insights into what's wrong and give clear guidance on how to fix the failed features. What's Wrong Analysis: Simply ask LEO What's Wrong? Prerequisites and Set UpAURA and LEO AI Virtual Companions can be accessed directly within SOLIDWORKS Design via the AI Labs tab in the

How Can AI Virtual Companions Help Me?Use the LEO AI Virtual Companion to evaluate the performance of your assembly in SOLIDWORKS Design. LEO will provide feedback on what may be causing performance bottlenecks, such as slow opening and save times, poor graphics performance, and excessive rebuild times. LEO will provide you with clear recommendations on how to address any of the issues found. Assembly Performance Analysis: Ask LEO what issues could be damaging performance and how to resolve them

How Can AI Virtual Companions Help Me?Using the AURA AI Virtual Companion is a great way to get guidance and learn the recommended working practices for using SOLIDWORKS Design. By simply typing a question, AURA can help guide you, whatever your comfort level. Below are a few examples: Modelling command queries - Ask AURA about a specific feature or option. Geometry creation guidance - Ask AURA for the most efficient way of doing something. Recommendations for setup and configuration -

In this page, you will learn how to access and utilize the SOLIDWORKS AI Virtual Companions. Virtual Companions embed intelligence directly into your SOLIDWORKS Design session, guiding ideas, taking action, fixing issues, and helping you make decisions across design, simulation, and manufacturing. These Virtual Companions function as intelligent assistants that understand your design intent, automate routine operations, and provide predictive insights to keep your design projects on schedule

The following use case examples highlight how AI Virtual Companions in SOLIDWORKS Design can help you with everyday design tasks. Access the Virtual Companions from your SOLIDWORKS Task Pane, no need to change the way you work, added value from your SOLIDWORKS Design application. For more information on how to get started with SOLIDWORKS AI Virtual Companions, check out this guide. Use Cases and Description AURA Use AURA's SOLIDWORKS Insights, providing general guidance on using SOLIDWORKS and

Best Practice InformationDomain and Role/ProductSOLIDWORKS Simulation What's Covered? - Jump to each section using the Contents List in the top right!Problems with large SOLIDWORKS models (many large part and assembly files) Problems with large meshes Problems creating large result files Problems reading large result files Problems displaying mesh or results. Revision HistoryRev #DateDescription1.0August 2020Document verified for current software release (2020 SP3.0). Some changes

Best Practice InformationDomain and Role/ProductSOLIDWORKS Flow Simulation Electronics Cooling Module What's Covered? - Jump to each section using the Contents List in the top right!Fundamentals of Thermal Management SOLIDWORKS Flow Simulation Electronics Cooling Module Revision History Rev #DateDescription1.0April 2019Created document2.0April 2021Document verified for current software release & modified: new section added on ‘DTMs vs CTMs approach?’ and added detailed information about

Best Practice Information Domain and Role/Product SOLIDWORKS Simulation What's Covered? - Jump to each section using the Contents List in the top right!What Does “Solver Selection” Mean? Equation Solver Selection in SOLIDWORKS Simulation The Importance of Performing Your Own Tests Additional Tips for Making the Best Choice Revision History Rev #DateDescription1.0Sep 2020Updated and revised for use by customers. Changed document version to 1.0. Added new section ‘What Does “Solver Selection”

Best Practice Information Domain and Role/Product SOLIDWORKS Design, SOLIDWORKS Motion What's Covered? - Jump to each section using the Contents List in the top right!Mechatronics Relevant SOLIDWORKS Software Functionality Partner Products Motion Study Solver Settings Advanced Motion Analysis Options Motion Study Properties - Recommendations for Troubleshooting Tips and Best Practices Additional Resources Revision History Rev #DateDescription1.0August 2019Updated and revised for use by

Best Practice InformationDomain and Role/Product SOLIDWORKS Simulation What's Covered? - Jump to each section using the Contents List in the top right!Basics of Nonlinear Analysis Examples of what you can and cannot do with SOLIDWORKS Simulation Nonlinear Analysis Options Material Models and Constitutive Relations Interactions between parts Troubleshooting and Questions from the Knowledgebase Revision History Rev #DateDescription1.0May 2019Updated and revised for use by customers. Reset as

Best Practice InformationDomain and Role/Product SOLIDWORKS Simulation What's Covered? - Jump to each section using the Contents List in the top right!Planning your Simulation Mesh Geometry and Simulation Meshing Procedures Guidelines and Preparing Geometry for Simulation Meshing Guidelines for Mixed Meshing When not to use Beams Meshing Strategy and Quality Revision HistoryRev #DateDescription1.0August 2020Document entirely updated and with new screen captures. Added section 5 - “Solid

Best Practice InformationDomain and Role/Product SOLIDWORKS Simulation , SOLIDWORKS PDM What's Covered? - Jump to each section using the Contents List in the top right!Backbone of Simulation Data Management Intelligent Simulation Framework The 5Ws of Simulation Workflow Revision History Rev #DateDescription1.0Mar 2019Revised for use by customers. Reset as document version 1.01.1Mar 2021Document verified for current software release, no changes made.1.2Mar 2024Document verified for current

Best Practice InformationDomain and Role/ProductSOLIWORKS Simulation What's Covered? - Jump to each section using the Contents List in the top right!Frequency Analysis Dynamic Analysis Modal Time History Analysis Harmonic Analysis Random Vibration Analysis Response Spectrum Analysis General Tips and Tricks Revision History Rev #DateDescription1.0Oct 2020Document verified for current software release, template, and other minor changes. Added reference to new KB S-078397. Revised for use by

Best Practice InformationDomain and Role/Product SOLIDWORKS Simulation What's Covered? - Jump to each section using the Contents List in the top right!Introduction to Pumps Simplification Before Simulation Creating Rotation Regions Meshing Measuring Pump Performance Revision HistoryRev #DateDescription1.0August 2020Document created1.1August 2023Document verified for current release 2023 SP2.0 [日本語版は QA00000124002 からダウンロードできます。] Note All SolidPractices are written as guidelines. It is a

Best Practice InformationDomain and Role/Product SOLIDWORKS Simulation What's Covered? - Jump to each section using the Contents List in the top right!Fastener and Bolts Differences and Definitions Bolt Connections - Technical Definitions Automatic Conversion of Toolbox Fasteners to Bolt Connectors Tips and Best Practices Revision HistoryRev #DateDescription1.0Mar 2019Document created.1.1Mar 2021Document reviewed. Verified for current software release. Expanded the topic 6b ‘Von Mises

Best Practice InformationDomain and Role/ProductSOLIDWORKS Simulation (SIMULIA) , Durability and Mechanics Engineer, Fluid Dynamics Engineer, Plastics Injection Engineer What's Covered? - Jump to each section using the Contents List in the top right!Optimal configuration for single and multi-user access, installation, hardware, and software compatibility tools Tips and best practices for a successful first simulation Managing your simulation environment, including storage, deletion, and

SOLIDWORKS 3DEXPERIENCE Simulation Get Started with 3DEXPERIENCE SimulationSOLIDWORKS Simulation (SIMULIA) SOLIDWORKS Simulation Bolt Connectors Technical Definition, Tips and TricksSOLIDWORKS Simulation Linear Dynamics: Concepts and ApplicationsSOLIDWORKS Simulation Managing Simulation DataSOLIDWORKS Simulation, SOLIDWORKS PDM Meshing and Modelling Tips & TricksSOLIDWORKS Simulation Modeling Nonlinear ProblemsSOLIDWORKS Simulation Solver SelectionSOLIDWORKS Simulation

Best Practice InformationDomain and Role/Product SOLIDWORKS Manage What's Covered? - Jump to each section using the Contents List in the top right!Backing up your SOLIDWORKS Manage system Upgrading SOLIDWORKS Manage Restoring your SOLIDWORKS Manage System to a different server Optimizing SOLIDWORKS Manage Revision HistoryRev #DateDescription1.0November 2024Document created.2.0 May 2025Document formatted for 3DSwym Note All SolidPractices are written as guidelines. It is a strong

Best Practice Information Domain and Role/ProductSOLIDWORKS PDM What's Covered? - Jump to each section using the Contents List in the top right!Introduction to the SOLIDWORKS PDM API Common Pitfalls The Different Types of PDM Apps Available Through the SOLIDWORKS PDM API Add-In Development The SOLIDWORKS Task Add-In Script Developing Custom Task Add-Ins Add-In Issues and How to Resolve Them Useful Techniques of Exception and Error Logging PDM Pro Web API Service Revision HistoryRev

Best Practice InformationDomain and Role/ProductSOLIDWORKS PDM What's Covered? - Jump to each section using the Contents List in the top right!Implementation Planning Frequently Asked Questions Troubleshooting SQL Server and Network Connections References Revision HistoryRev #DateDescription1.0May 2020Updated and revised for use by customers. Received full editorial review. Reset as document version 1.01.1May 2023Updated screen captures and Knowledge Base articles2.0May 2025Document

Best Practice Information Domain and Role/ProductSOLIDWORKS PDM What's Covered? Jump to each section using the Contents List in the top right!Prerequisites for multi-site implementations Installing SOLIDWORKS PDM in a replicated environment Using an archive server and database replication Troubleshooting slow system behaviour Revision HistoryRev #DateDescription1.0August 2019Updated and revised for use by customers. Reset as document version 1.0.1.1May 2021Updated document – added new

Best Practice Information Domain and Role/Product SOLIDWORKS PDM What's Covered? - Jump to each section using the Contents List in the top right!SOLIDWORKS PDM Architecture Installation and Configuration Investigating Performance Problems References Revision History Rev #DateDescription1.0Apr 2020Document updated for the latest software version. Revised for use by customers and reset as document version 1.01.1Nov 2022Document updated for SOLIDWORKS PDM 2023 SP0 Document renamed to

Best Practice Information Domain and Role/Product SOLIDWORKS PDM What's Covered? - Jump to each section using the Contents List in the top right SQL Server failover network topology Installing and configuring SQL Server Enabling always-on Testing your SQL server setup Revision History Rev #DateDescription1.0Jun 2018Document created.1.0Jun 2020Updated and revised for use by customers. Retain as document version 1.0.1.1Mar 2023Document validated for the current release2.0June 2025Document

Best Practice Information Domain and Role/Product SOLIDWORKS PDM What's Covered? - Jump to each section using the Contents List in the top right! Network authentication Determining authentication servers Authentication testing Understanding when PDM authenticate Testing and troubleshooting authentication Revision History Rev #DateDescription1.0Mar 2020Added information about single sign on. Updated URLs and screen captures. Revised for use by customers and reset as document version

Best Practice Information Domain and Role/Product SOLIDWORKS PDM What's Covered? - Jump to each section using the Contents List in the top right!Backup strategies for the database, archives, and more Set up a test environment for restore scenarios. Addressing inconsistencies while restoring non-synchronous server components. Revision History Rev #DateDescription1.0Apr 2020Document and screenshot minor changes. Revised for use by customers and reset as document version 1.01.1Apr 2022Minor

Best Practice Information Domain and Role/Product SOLIDWORKS PDM What's Covered? - Jump to each section using the Contents List in the top rightUnderstanding PDM architecture and server components Client-side architecture WAN model and replication Understanding PDM operations Understanding PDM Web2 architecture Site definitions and examples Revision History Rev #DateDescription1.0Mar 2019Revised for use by customers Reset as document version 1.0 1.1Mar 2021Removed legacy Web information

Best Practice InformationDomain and Role/ProductSOLIDWORKS PDM What's Covered? - Jump to each section using the Contents List in the top rightUnderstanding space requirements What is Cold Storage? Setting up Cold Storage What happens when you use Cold Storage? Working in a replicated environment Restoring files from Cold Storage Revision HistoryRev #DateDescription1.0Jan 2021Updated and revised for customer publication.1.1Jul 2024Document validated for the current release. No major changes

Best Practice InformationDomain and Role/ProductSOLIDWORKS PDM What's Covered? - Jump to each section using the Contents List in the top right!Improvements to search The types of searching available to users Setting defaults on search cards Creating favorite searches Modifying search result columns SQL modifications to improve search speed The best ways to fill out the default complete search card Do’s and Don’ts Command line options Content search Revision HistoryRev

Best Practice InformationDomain and Role/ProductSOLIDWORKS PLM Product Release Engineer What's Covered? - Jump to each section using the Contents List in the top rightProduct Release Engineer Fundamentals Understanding the Unified Product Structure Creating a Bill of Materials Overview of the Additional 3DEXPERIENCE Roles that Integrate with Product Release Engineer Getting Started with BOM Management Using Product Release Engineer Revision HistoryRev #DateDescription1.0Dec 2024Document

Best Practice InformationDomain and Role/ProductSOLIDWORKS PLM 3D Product Architect What's Covered? - Jump to each section using the Contents List in the top right3D Product Architect Fundamentals Creating a digital mock-up Defining a product structure for a new design project Building a multi-CAD product structure Revision History Rev #DateDescription1.0Dec 2024Document created.2.0May 2025Document formatted for 3DSwym Note All SolidPractices are written as guidelines. It is a strong

SOLIDWORKS + 3DEXPERIENCE SOLIDWORKS + 3DEXPERIENCE - SolidPracticesSOLIDWORKS Design SOLIDWORKS Design with Cloud Services SOLIDWORKS and 3DEXPERIENCE PLM Author and Modify SOLIDWORKS and Multi-CAD Product Structures using 3D Product ArchitectSOLIDWORKS PLM 3D Product Architect Getting Started with BOM Management Using Product Release Engineer SOLIDWORKS PLM Product Release Engineer SOLIDWORKS PDM Searching in SOLIDWORKS PDM SOLIDWORKS PDM Managing Simulation DataSOLIDWORKS

Best Practice InformationDomain and Role/ProductSOLIDWORKS Electrical What's Covered? - Jump to each section using the Contents List in the top right!Architecture Installation Projects and Data Flow Terminology and Definitions Revision HistoryRev #DateDescription1.0June 2019Updated and revised for use by customers. Reset as document version 1.0.1.1March 2021Document modified with minor changes, added new table entry in section 2D.1.2May 2023Document validated for SOLIDWORKS 2023 SP2.12.0May

Best Practice InformationDomain and Role/ProductSOLIDWORKS Electrical What's Covered? - Jump to each section using the Contents List in the top right! System Requirements Installation Types and Prerequisites Licensing Program Components SQL Server Management Installation - Individual, Server, and Admin Image Archiving Tips Revision History Rev #DateDescription1.0Apr 2019Revised for use by customers and reset as document version 1.01.1June 2021Document modified with adding info from what’s

Best Practice InformationDomain and Role/ProductSOLIDWORKS Composer What's Covered? - Jump to each section using the Contents List in the top right!Understanding Data Translation Translating Data Understanding the Update Function Updating SOLIDWORKS Composer Documents Updating Different Types of Views Importing Appearances from SOLIDWORKS Revision History Rev #DateDescription1.0Apr2019Revised for use by customers and reset as document version 1.01.1Apr2021Document validated and updated with

Best Practice InformationDomain and Role/ProductSOLIDWORKS Composer What's Covered? - Jump to each section using the Contents List in the top right!Installing SOLIDWORKS Composer Licensings Installing Previous Versions Upgrading from 3DVIA Composer Upgrading from SOLIDWORKS Composer Recommended Options Troubleshooting Revision History Rev #DateDescription1.0July 2019Revised for use by customers and reset as document version 1.01.1July 2021Updated for version 2021. Adds more details in the

Best Practice InformationDomain and Role/ProductDraftSight What's Covered? - Jump to each section using the Contents List in the top right!Usage Context and Supported Languages API Documentation API Object Model Macro Development Add-in Development Standalone App Development Common Use Case Examples Revision History Rev #DateDescription1.0Dec 2023New document.2.0 May 2025 Document formatted for 3DSwym Note All SolidPractices are written as guidelines. It is a strong recommendation to

Best Practice InformationDomain and Role/ProductSOLIDWORKS Design SOLIDWORKS Design with Cloud Services What's Covered? - Jump to each section using the Contents List in the top right!Supported File Types End Results Running for the First Time Lite vs. Professional Working with: IDF Files Prostep Files (IDX) Comonent Databases Best Practices for multi-users CircuitWorks Options CircuitWorks and PDM Revision History Rev #DateDescription1.0Jan 2021New document.1.1Oct 2023Routine maintenance

Best Practice Information Domain and Role/ProductSOLIDWORKS Design SOLIDWORKS Design with Cloud Services What's Covered? - Jump to each section using the Contents List in the top right!Programming Best Practices Programming Type and Language Comparisons Macro Recorder SOLIDWORKS API Help The API Object Model API Usage Advice .Net Development Developing Add-ins Standalone App Development Interfaces for: Add-Ins Standalone Apps Revision History Rev #DateDescription1.0March 2020Document

Best Practice Information Domain and Role/ProductSOLIDWORKS Design SOLIDWORKS Design with Cloud Services SOLIDWORKS PDM SOLIDWORKS Manage What's Covered? - Jump to each section using the Contents List in the top right! SOLIDWORKS Licensing Licensing Types Components of an SNL Environment SolidNetwork License Manager Licensing for SOLIDWORKS PDM and SOLIDWORKS Manage Global License Administration Revision History Rev #DateDescription1.0Dec 2020Revised for use by customers Reset as document

Best Practice InformationDomain and Role/ProductSOLIDWORKS Design SOLIDWORKS Design with Cloud Services What's Covered? - Jump to each section using the Contents List in the top right!Overview and Benefits of CAD Administration Assigning and Managing Licenses Deploying Installations Standardizing Workflows Enforcing Adherence to Standards Training Users Monitoring Usage Answering Questions from Users Updating Hardware Preparing for Upgrade Additional Resources Revision History Rev

Best Practice Information Domain and Role/ProductSOLIDWORKS Design SOLIDWORKS Design with Cloud Services What's Covered? - Jump to each section using the Contents List in the top right!Uninstalling the SOLIDWORKS software Deleting Specific Folders Deleting Registry Keys Deactivate the .NET Framework Software Uninstall the Bonjour Software Reactivate the .NET Framework Software Revision HistoryRev #DateDescription1.0July 2020Document created.1.1Sept 2022Document validated for 2022 SP3 with

Best Practice InformationDomain and Role/ProductSOLIDWORKS Design SOLIDWORKS Design with Cloud Services What's Covered? - Jump to each section using the Contents List in the top right!Preliminary Considerations Permissions Considerations Licensing Upgrade Installation Files Preparing Client Machines for Upgrade Upgrading SOLIDWORKS Clients Testing Installations The Upgrade Process Revision History Rev #DateDescription1.0Jan 2019Revised for use by customers Reset as document version 1.0

Best Practice InformationDomain and Role/ProductSOLIDWORKS Design SOLIDWORKS Design with Cloud Services What's Covered? - Jump to each section using the Contents List in the top right!3D File Import Example Import Workflow Tips for Importing Geometry and Kernel Limitations Repair and Evaluation of Imported Files 3D Interconnect Importing Mesh Files Importing PMI Importing STEP, IGES, and ACIS Files Modification of Imported Geometry Simplification of Geometry Exporting Files Revision History

Best Practice InformationDomain and Role/ProductSOLIDWORKS Design SOLIDWORKS Design with Cloud Services What's Covered? - Jump to each section using the Contents List in the top right!Overview of Weldments File Locations Creating Profiles Sketching Tips Working with Weldment Groups Weldment Configuration Weldment Properties and Cut Lists Weldment Specific Features Welment Document Properties Linking Cut List Properties Configuring Cut Lists Tips Revision History Rev

Best Practice InformationDomain and Role/ProductSOLIDWORKS Design SOLIDWORKS Design with Cloud Services SOLIDWORKS PDM What's Covered? - Jump to each section using the Contents List in the top right!Toolbox Components Considerations for Managing the Toolbox in SOLIDWORKS PDM Shared Toolbox Folder Location Important Settings to Configure Before Using the Toolbox in a Production Environment Custom Property Definitions Part Numbers, Descriptions, and Configuration Names Adding Content Separating

Best Practice InformationDomain and Role/ProductSOLIDWORKS Design SOLIDWORKS Design with Cloud Services What's Covered? - Jump to each section using the Contents List in the top right!Working With 2D Files Viewing in eDrawings Editing With DraftSight Importing Into SOLIDWORKS 2D to 2D Import Process – The DXF/DWG Import Wizard 2D to 3D Import Process - Workflows for 3D Part Creation Using 3D DXF/DWG files Considerations Revision History Rev #DateDescription1.0Jan 2021Document created.1.2Apr

Best Practice Information Domain and Role/Product SOLIDWORKS Design SOLIDWORKS Design with Cloud Services What's Covered? - Jump to each section using the Contents List in the top right!SOLIDWORKS Activities When Opening and Updating an Assembly or Drawing Best Practices to Improve File Open Times Best Practices to Improve Update Times Best Practices to Improve Drawing Update Times Hardware Considerations Revision History Rev #DateDescription1.0Feb 2019Document created.1.1Feb 2021Add

Best Practice Information Domain and Role/Product SOLIDWORKS Design SOLIDWORKS Design with Cloud Services What's Covered? - Jump to each section using the Contents List in the top right!Structure of a Drawing Document Upgrade Old Templates to Maximize Efficiency Use of Custom Properties in Drawings Table Templates Use Batch Processing Tools for Repetitive Tasks Drawing Opening Modes Controlling Drawing Updates View Palette and Potential Impact on Update Time Types of Drawing Views and

Best Practice Information Domain and Role/Product SOLIDWORKS Design SOLIDWORKS Design with Cloud Services What's Covered? - Jump to each section using the Contents List in the top right!Tailoring the SOLIDWORKS user interface for maximum performance Best practices for Sketching Best practices for part and assembly modelling Revision History Rev #DateDescription1.0Mar 2023Document created.2.0May 2025Document formatted for 3DSwym2.1 November 2025 Updated product naming 中文 ; Deutsch ;

Best Practice InformationDomain and Role/ProductSOLIDWORKS Design SOLIDWORKS Design with Cloud Services What's Covered? - Jump to each section using the Contents List in the top right!Optimal Hardware for Efficient Modeling and Drafting System option settings 3DExperience Integration Several Option settings for optimal performance Revision HistoryRev #DateDescription1.0 Nov 2023 New document created 2.0May 2025 Document formatted for 3DSwym3.1 November 2025 Updated product naming 中文 ;

Best Practice InformationDomain and Role/ProductSOLIDWORKS Design SOLIDWORKS Design with Cloud Services What's Covered? - Jump to each section using the Contents List in the top right!Units and Enforcing Standardization Templates Default Drawing Settings Default Display Elements Default Graphics Settings for Optimal Performance Preventing Local Users from Overriding and Making Changes to SOLIDWORKS Options and Settings SOLIDWORKS Toolbox SOLIDWORKS Logs File Management Important and

Working with SOLIDWORKS CAD Getting Started With SOLIDWORKSSOLIDWORKS Design SOLIDWORKS Design with Cloud Services Setup for Efficient Modeling and DraftingSOLIDWORKS Design SOLIDWORKS Design with Cloud Services Efficient SOLIDWORKS ModelingSOLIDWORKS Design SOLIDWORKS Design with Cloud Services Efficient SOLIDWORKS DraftingSOLIDWORKS Design SOLIDWORKS Design with Cloud Services Managing Large Assemblies and Drawings - SolidPracticesSOLIDWORKS Design SOLIDWORKS Design with Cloud

Best Practice InformationDomain and Role/ProductSOLIDWORKS Design Collaborative Designer for SOLIDWORKS SOLIDWORKS Design with Cloud Services What's Covered? - Jump to each section using the Contents List in the top right! Prerequisite Learning Introduction to Iterations on the 3DEXPERIENCE PlatformWhat is an Iteration Iterations Vs Revisions How Do Iterations Work in SOLIDWORKS Design Configuring the 3DEPERIENCE Platform. Use Case ExamplesWorking with Iterations of a SOLIDWORKS Part Working

Assembly Size Ranges SOLIDWORKS configurations are a powerful feature that allow you to create variations of a design within a single file. When working with assembly size ranges, configurations can be particularly useful. The common uses cases include, but are not limited to, creating: Product families Parametric design Maintaining one Physical Product configuration per SOLIDWORKS file reduces unnecessary complexity for all SOLIDWORKS and 3DEXPERIENCE platform users within an organization. The

Best Practice InformationDomain and Role/ProductSOLIDWORKS Design Collaborative Designer for SOLIDWORKS SOLIDWORKS Design with Cloud Services What's Covered? - Jump to each section using the Contents List in the top right!Fundamentals of Toolbox management using 3DEXPERIENCE Platform administrator settings Saving existing assemblies referencing Toolbox parts Inserting Toolbox parts Toolbox Physical Product characteristics Attribute mapping for Toolbox Physical Product Opening Toolbox parts

Managing Cast and Machined Variations SOLIDWORKS configurations provide a simple and efficient method of capturing the cast and machined variations of a part. When working with the 3DEXPERIENCE platform, the required strategy will depend on the lifecycle requirements of each variation. If the requirement is to treat both as one part number, then it's recommended that both the cast and machined variations are created as configurations in the same part file. This part file should contain only

Before starting any new design project, it is important to choose the right strategy for working with SOLIDWORKS configurations. Failure to plan ahead can result in many unwanted and unnecessary linked Physical Products being created when saving new parts and assemblies. The result of this can lead to an unnecessarily complex experience for both SOLIDWORKS and other 3DEXPERIENCE users, loss of revision and lifecycle flexibility, and at worse degraded SOLIDWORKS opening and saving performance due

Common Use Cases for SOLIDWORKS Configurations and Best Practices When Using the 3DEXPERIENCE Platform This section of the guide discusses common use cases for SOLIDWORKS part and assembly configurations and provides recommended best practices for each. Part Configuration Use CasesManaging Cast and Machined versions of a part Sheet Metal - Flat and Folded States Weldments - As Machined and As Welded states Working with Toolbox Part Geometry Simplification Assembly Configuration Use

SOLIDWORKS Data Model Understanding the SOLIDWORKS Data Model and identifiers is a prerequisite for using and accessing SOLIDWORKS data within the 3DEXPERIENCE platform. Windows In Windows (a file management-based platform), you create documents or files, and you store that data in a file system. The file system is more commonly known as a hard drive or disk drive, and you use the File Explorer app to organize and access your data. Within this platform, apps create and use a wide variety of

Overview As described in the Data Model and Identifiers in the 3DEXPERIENCE Platform page, when you save SOLIDWORKS files to the 3DEXPERIENCE platform, the system automatically creates a hierarchy of objects that represent and link to the SOLIDWORKS files. This out-of-the-box approach is great for people who want to get up and running with the data-management platform as quickly as possible, with no impact to their traditional or legacy workflows. However, the best practice is to update

There are two methods to update existing SOLIDWORKS files for 3DEXPERIENCE compatibility. System-Defined Update Logic The name and Part number displayed when used in a bill of materials property, for each configuration, determine whether a configuration is updated to a Physical Product configuration or a Representation configuration. The following logic, which applies to parts and assemblies, satisfies the majority of use cases. SOLIDWORKS Design Collaborative Designer for SOLIDWORKS +

Best Practice InformationDomain and Role/ProductSOLIDWORKS Design Collaborative Designer for SOLIDWORKS SOLIDWORKS Design with Cloud Services What's Covered? - Jump to each section using the Contents List belowIntroduction to Using SOLIDWORKS Configurations With 3DEXPERIENCEData Model and Identifiers in the 3DEXPERIENCE PlatformUpdate SOLIDWORKS Files for Compatibility with the 3DEXPERIENCE Platform Working with Existing SOLIDWORKS FilesRecommended Strategies for Working With Part and

SOLIDWORKS Configurations are a versatile tool set that allow a user to represent different variations of a part or assembly within the same file. Common use cases for SOLIDWORKS configurations include capturing a size range of a part or assembly, different component positions within an assembly, and different levels of geometric detail, plus many more. SOLIDWORKS Drawings do not have configurations but a drawing views can be set to display a specific configuration of the file they reference.

The following use case describes the recommended workflow for taking a component created in one of the xApps, and adding features to it in SOLIDWORKS. This example will be based around a motorcycle fuel tank concept design created in xShape. After the fuel tank concept has been completed in xShape it is opened in SOLIDWORKS where features are added to create the detail engineering design. 1.Create the new fuel tank design in xShape A new motorcycle fuel tank design concept is created using the

1. Why is the SOLIDWORKS (part or assembly) model displayed in a different orientation when opened in an xApp? The default orientation of parts and assemblies in the SOLIDWORKS browser-based design apps is Z-up. The default orientation for parts and assemblies in SOLIDWORKS is Y-up. When sharing files between the two, a Z-up orientation should also be used in SOLIDWORKS to avoid a mismatch. This is explained in the SOLIDWORKS Set Up section of the guide. 2. Why is the native 3DEXPERIENCE

The following use case describes the recommended workflow for designing a new component in xShape in the context of an assembly created in SOLIDWORKS. The internal components for a new gaming controller design have been positioned in a SOLIDWORKS assembly. xShape will be used to design the external shape of the gaming controller. Although xShape is the xApp used in this example, the methodology is the same for all of the other xApps for example xDesign or xSheet Metal. 1.Saving the SOLIDWORKS

The following use case describes the process and recommended workflow for inserting a component designed in an xApp into an assembly in SOLIDWORKS. A new monitor stand design has been created using SOLIDWORKS and saved to a collaborative space on the 3DEXPERIENCE platform. A mount for the monitor has been created using xDesign. This use case explains how to insert the xDesign created mount into the SOLIDWORKS assembly design and update the assembly after a modification to the mount component in

The following section of the guide describes three common workflow examples for sharing design content between SOLIDWORKS and the SOLIDWORKS browser-based design apps. Each use case provides “how to…” information and outlines the recommended working practices. The use cases are not intended to be step-by-step training. After reviewing each use case, you will be able to follow the same workflows with your own SOLIDWORKS design content. Before proceeding, please ensure that you are familiar with

Best Practice InformationDomain and Role/ProductSOLIDWORKS Design, Collaborative Designer for SOLIDWORKS, SOLIDWORKS xDesign What's Covered? - Jump to each section using the list below.Desktop SOLIDWORKS and SOLIDWORKS xDesign Interoperability FundamentalsSetting Up Your SOLIDWORKS EnvironmentInteroperability Use Case ExamplesAdding a Component Created in xDesign to Your SOLIDWORKS AssemblyDesigning in the Context of a SOLIDWORKS Assembly Using xShapeAdding Features in SOLIDWORKS to a

Maintaining SOLIDWORKS Feature References During Geometry UpdatesTo ensure that referenced features are successfully rebuilt each time xApp model geometry modifications are propagated to SOLIDWORKS, the derived format conversion rule for Exact Geometry creation must be configured accordingly. To configure the rule: Open the Platform Management dashboard, navigate to the content tab, and maximize the Collaborative Spaces Configuration Center widget. From the menu on the left, select Derived

SOLIDWORKS and the SOLIDWORKS Browser-Based Design apps are different applications that are each based on a different underlying architecture. Designs created in SOLIDWORKS are stored as Windows based files, whereas designs created using the browser-based Design design apps are stored directly on the cloud as native 3DEXPERIENCE components. These components are called physical products. When SOLIDWORKS parts and assemblies are saved to the 3DEXPERIENCE platform, in addition to the part or

Best Practice InformationDomain and Role/ProductSOLIDWORKS Design Collaborative Designer for SOLIDWORKS SOLIDWORKS Design with Cloud Services What's Covered? - Jump to each section using the Contents List in the top right!Preparation and planning Saving to the 3DEXPERIENCE best practices File preparation Preparing for saveRecommended SOLIDWORKS system options Recommended platform settings Save to the 3DEXPERIENCE processPilot testing Interactive save Batch save Data validation

Best Practice InformationDomain and Role/ProductSOLIDWORKS Design Collaborative Designer for SOLIDWORKS SOLIDWORKS Design with Cloud Services What's Covered? - Jump to each section using the Contents List in the top right! Preface Cut List Fundamentals in SOLIDWORKS Design Engineering Items on the 3DEXPERIENCE Platform Saving Weldment parts to the 3DEXPERIENCE Platform Publishing a Cut List Enriching Cut List Items Revision HistoryRev #DateDescription1.0March 2026 Document created. Note

Best Practice Information Domain and Role/ProductSOLIDWORKS Design Collaborative Designer for SOLIDWORKS SOLIDWORKS Design with Cloud Services What's Covered? - Jump to each section using the Contents List in the top right! Prerequisite Learning Introduction to choosing the right approach for managing material finishesDefining the material finish of a component as a function of design, or of manufacturing. Use Case Example - Defining a Material Finish in SOLIDWORKS Design as a function of

Best Practice Information Domain and Role/ProductSOLIDWORKS Design Collaborative Designer for SOLIDWORKS SOLIDWORKS Design with Cloud Services What's Covered? - Jump to each section using the Contents List in the top right! Prerequisite Learning Introduction to Managing Flexible Parts Using the 3DEXPERIENCE Platform and SOLIDWORKS Design Deformable Parts in the 3DEXPERIENCE Platform Revision HistoryRev #DateDescription1.0Oct 2025Document created. Note All SolidPractices are written as

Summary Choosing the Iteming naming strategy that meets the needs of your organization is an important for successful adoption of the 3DEXPERIENCE platform. For a single user working on solo projects, the chosen methodology can be as simple as manually assigning a Title in the same manner as naming a file in Windows Explorer. However, the requirements of both small design teams with multiple users and large organisations can vary in complexity with no set rule. Therefore, implementing the right

Attribute Driven Item NamingTypical Company Profile: Small and large organizations with complex part numbering requirements For any customer that has a requirement to capture additional information related to a design as part of a unique identifier, Enterprise Item Number (EIN) is the recommended solution. The EIN is the primary Part/Item numbering solution in 3DEXPERIENCE. The EIN offers much greater scope for configuration over the Content Naming rule. For example, an EIN can be configured to

Simple Automatic Counter Based Title Creation Typical Company Profile: Both small and large design teams with multiple users Most companies adopting the 3DEXPERIENCE platform will have multiple SOLIDWORKS users creating new designs and modifying existing designs. As discussed in the previous methodology, having each user manually define the Title of each new part and assembly themselves, could quickly and easily result in duplicate titles being created. Therefore, to eliminate the risk and

One of the key benefits of adopting the 3DEXPERIENCE platform is that individual parts, assemblies, and drawings can be made clearly identifiable by all stakeholders. Implementing the right naming methodology for SOLIDWORKS content is important to ensure that not only your design team can easily identify items, but potentially other people within the organisation, and external collaborators too. The 3DEXPERIENCE platform provides a scalable set of capabilities that define how items are named,

The following three sections explain the item naming methodologies available when using SOLIDWORKS connected to the 3DEXPERIENCE platform, and their recommended use cases. Manually Defining the Title of a Part, Assembly, and DrawingSimple Automatic Counter Based Title CreationAttribute Driven Item Naming

Manually Defining the Title of a Part, Assembly, and Drawing Typical Company Profile: Single user Setting the TitleThe simplest method of naming an item in 3DEXPERIENCE is manually defining the Title. This approach utilizes the default behaviour of your 3DEXPERIENCE platform. When a saving new SOLIDWORKS part or assembly to 3DEXPERIENCE for the first time, the Title can be set with a single left mouse button click in the Title field in the Save to 3DEXPERIENCE dialogue box. If the file has not

Best Practice InformationDomain and Role/ProductSOLIDWORKS Design Collaborative Designer for SOLIDWORKS SOLIDWORKS Design with Cloud Services What's Covered? - Jump to each section using the Contents List in the top right!Data Preparation and Setup Recommended Platform Settings Save Options Configuration Mapping Attribute Mapping Design Template Toolbox Management Revision History Rev #DateDescription1.0September 2023Document Published2.0November 2023Document Updated- section

Best Practice InformationDomain and Role/ProductSOLIDWORKS Design Collaborative Designer for SOLIDWORKS SOLIDWORKS Design with Cloud Services What's Covered? - Jump to each section using the Contents List in the top right!Introduction to Revisions in 3DEXPERIENCE Introduction to the 3DEXPERIENCE design release cycle Design collaboration using Bookmarks Revision History Rev #DateDescription1.0June 2022Document created.1.1Nov 2024Document updated and validated for 3DEXPERIENCE 2024X

Best Practice InformationDomain and Role/ProductSOLIDWORKS Design Collaborative Designer for SOLIDWORKS SOLIDWORKS Design with Cloud Services What's Covered? - Jump to each section using the Contents List in the top right!Introduction to Revisions in 3DEXPERIENCE 3DEXPERIENCE release cycle What are Change Actions, and why use them? Creating and working with Change Actions Revision HistoryRev #DateDescription1.0Jan 2022Document created.1.1Nov 2024Document updated and validated

Best Practice InformationDomain and Role/ProductSOLIDWORKS Design Collaborative Designer for SOLIDWORKS SOLIDWORKS Design with Cloud Services What's Covered? - Jump to each section using the Contents List in the top right!Terminology that is unique to the derived output Management of derived output and derived formats in your platform Derived formats that are available for you to generate How to generate derived formats Using derived output for interoperability between SOLIDWORKS® apps and

Best Practice InformationDomain and Role/ProductSOLIDWORKS Design Collaborative Designer for SOLIDWORKS SOLIDWORKS Design with Cloud Services What's Covered? - Jump to each section using the Contents List in the top right! Prerequisite Learning Introduction Working Concurrently with Multiple Users - The BasicsTrack Updates Using MySession Status Information Keeping MySession Status Information Up to Date Updating Modified Components Replacing Out-of-Date Revisions Locking and Unlocking Files

Best Practice InformationDomain and Role/ProductSOLIDWORKS Design Collaborative Designer for SOLIDWORKS SOLIDWORKS Design with Cloud Services What's Covered? - Jump to each section using the Contents List in the top right!Design collaboration between different users and teams within the 3DEXPERIENCE Platform Design collaboration with external stakeholders Revision History Rev #DateDescription1.0Dec 2022Document created.2.0Jan 2024-Updated for the 2024x GA release. “Change Action”

Best Practice InformationDomain and Role/ProductSOLIDWORKS Design Collaborative Designer for SOLIDWORKS SOLIDWORKS Design with Cloud Services What's covered? Jump to each section using the Contents List in the top right!Understanding File Properties Understanding Attributes Planning Data Type Mapping Content Type Mapping Create Custom Attributes Configure Attribute Mapping Attribute Mapping in Use Limitations, Tips, and Troubleshooting Frequently Asked Questions Revision History Rev

Getting Started and Implementing SOLIDWORKS Design with the 3DEXPERIENCE PlatformImplementing 3DEXPERIENCE for SOLIDWORKS UsersSOLIDWORKS Design SOLIDWORKS Design with Cloud Services Collaborative Designer for SOLIDWORKS Moving SOLIDWORKS Files to the 3DEXPERIENCE PlatformSOLIDWORKS Design SOLIDWORKS Design with Cloud Services Collaborative Designer for SOLIDWORKS Using SOLIDWORKS Design Specific Tools and Features with 3DEXPERIENCE Storing SOLIDWORKS Templates on the 3DEXPERIENCE

Welcome to SolidPractices, the home of Best Practices for working with SOLIDWORKS products on Desktop and the 3DEXPERIENCE platform! As we transition to this Community as the home for SolidPractices, you will find 3DEXPERIENCE-related guides here and Desktop-related guides in the full catalog. Please note: The product names of SOLIDWORKS Desktop (Machine License) and 3DEXPERIENCE SOLIDWORKS (Named License) have now been changed to SOLIDWORKS Design. Available as a standalone Machine License