Managing documents can be tricky, especially when working with a team on designs, reports, and feedback. The 3DEXPERIENCE software makes it easier by providing a central place where everyone can work together more effectively.
Key Benefits of Document Management
Enhanced Productivity: Spend less time searching for files and more time working on projects.
Secure Sharing: Share documents with internal teams or external stakeholders while controlling access permissions.
Collaboration Without Boundaries: Break down silos and enable team members from different locations to work together effortlessly.
Audit Readiness: Keep an organized record of all changes and actions for easy compliance with industry standards.
Getting Started with Document Management
Step 1: Log In to the 3DEXPERIENCE Platform
Open your browser and navigate to the 3DEXPERIENCE platform.
Step 2: Navigate to the Collaborative Space
Once logged in, head to the Collaborative Spaces app.
Collaborative Spaces are shared environments where teams can store and manage project files.
Select an existing space or create a new one for your project.
Step 3: Upload Your Documents
Open the 3DDrive or 3DSpace app, depending on your requirements.
Click Upload Files and drag and drop your documents or select them from your local device.
Organize files into folders for easy navigation.
Step 4: Tag and Categorize Files
Add metadata such as tags, categories, or keywords to your files.
This makes searching for documents faster and more efficient.
Step 5: Set Permissions
Control who can view, edit, or share your files.
In 3DSpace, you can assign permissions based on roles, ensuring that sensitive documents stay secure.
Step 6: Collaborate in Real-Time
Use the 3DComment tool to leave feedback directly on documents.
Team members can reply, resolve comments, or tag others for input.
Keep all discussions tied to the relevant document for easy tracking.
When you select a file and right-click, you'll see options like:
Step 7: Document's lifecycle (Maturity)
Private (draft)
In Work (development)
Frozen (review)
Released (final)
Obsolete (archived)
Step 8: Search and Retrieve Files
Use the search bar to locate documents by name, tag, or content.
Advanced filters help narrow down results, even in large repositories.
Step 9: Link Documents to Projects
Link your documents to specific tasks or projects using Project Management.
This ensures your files are connected to the right workflows, enhancing team coordination.
Step 10: Share Files with External Stakeholders
If you need to collaborate with people outside your organization, use secure sharing options.
You can send a link with access permissions and expiration dates to maintain control.
Benefit
✓ Engineers and Designers: Keep design files updated and linked with project tasks.
✓ Project Managers: Oversee all project-related documents and ensure timely delivery.
✓ Cross-Functional Teams: Collaborate effectively across departments like marketing, production, and quality assurance.
Conclusion
Managing documents doesn’t have to be stressful. Therefore, with 3DEXPERIENCE, all your files are organized, easy to access, and secure in one place. Whether you’re a designer, engineer, or project manager, this platform helps your team stay on track and focus on creating great ideas.
Kanban Board app uses direct access responsibilities, instead of baseline behavior responsibilities, to determine whether you can access a specific kanban board, and whether you have permission to perform specific actions on it.
Any user with a license role that includes Kanban Board app can create a kanban board.
The system automatically assigns the Owner responsibility to the user who creates the kanban board. The Owner is the only one who can access the kanban board when it is created.
Step 1:
Click New Kanban Board for New Task
Step 2:
Enter Task Tile and Detailed Description of The Work
Kanban boards have the following maturity states:
Draft
Active
Archived
Contributors and Informed Users of a kanban board can only view it and work in it when the kanban board maturity is Active
Step 3:
Click Add Button for Creating New Task and Select File From Cloud
Step 4:
Once Click The Issue Having File Task as Been Added Todo List
Step 5:
The Status of Your Work Monitored by Kanban Board.
Kanban Board is a web app that lets you create a kanban board according to your needs. You can:
Add or remove columns depending on the process flow that you want your team, project, or organization to follow.
Optionally map columns with actual maturity states to manage the maturity of the objects by moving the corresponding cards from one column to the other.
The 3D Sheetmetal Maker is a user-friendly web application that offers parametric associative sheet metal design tools for making enclosures, assemblies, and parts.
Quickly releasing sheet metal components to the market is made possible by its dedicated, all-in-one 3D sheet metal design environment, which streamlines the development, storage, sharing, validation, and management of designs.
3D Sheetmetal Maker is based on the 3DEXPERIENCEWorkscloud platform, providing seamless integration across design to manufacturing portfolios. It includes tools for data management and collaboration, ensuring efficient workflows and secure storage. All design data is safely kept in one location.
Log in the 3DEXPERIENCE and Search the Sheetmetal
STEP 1
Select your file location, create a new component with a fresh interface, and begin designing.
STEP 2
Importing Cad Files: You may start working on your current CAD files right away with Xapps by importing them as Neutral Files. This allows you to rebuild and remove components as well as add new features to the previous CAD file. Additionally, choose the file location after your project.
STEP 3
Making Sheet Metal: Begin by creating your design in Simple Sketch, and then begin building miter flanges, edge flanges, hem bends, and other shapes using the sheet metal feature. Select the Relief type and use the sheet metal specifications to calculate the K factor.
STEP 4
Creating a wall on edges: This will let you to construct flanges at the edges, offering additional features such as wall offset, bend option, and geometry modification. You can adjust the K factor and offset the bends from the edges
if you like to change the flanges using this option. Additionally, you can change the flanges' geometry.
Highlights
A versatile and user-friendly 3D sheet metal design role with powerful feature-based tools.
3DSpace is a core application of the 3DEXPERIENCE platform designed for project management and collaboration. It serves as a centralized repository for project data, enabling teams to access, manage, and share information seamlessly.
Features:
1. Centralized Data Management
3DSpace allows users to store and organize all project-related information in one location.
2. Intuitive User Interface
With a user-friendly interface, 3DSpace simplifies navigation and data retrieval. Users can easily search for documents, models, and other project files.
3. Version Control
Allowing teams to track changes, manage revisions, and ensure that everyone is working with the most up-to-date information. This capability is crucial for maintaining data integrity throughout the project lifecycle.
4. Collaborative Workspaces
3DSpace provides collaborative workspaces where team members can share ideas, feedback, and project updates in real-time. This helps teams stay aligned on project goals.
Getting Started with 3DSpace
Accessing the App
Step 1: Create a Collaborative Space
To get started, you need to create a Collaborative Space in 3DSpace. This is where all your project files and data will be stored.
Go to the 3DEXPERIENCE dashboard and select the 3DSpace app from the menu.
Click on “New Collaborative Space” to set up a new space for your project
Name your space based on your project (e.g., "Project X Design Files").
Define roles and permissions: Decide who will have access to this space and what actions they can take (view, edit, etc.).
Step 2: Add Team Members
Now that you have your Collaborative Space set up, it’s time to bring your team in.
Within the space, click on “Members” or “Add Participants”.
Search for your team members by name or email and invite them to the space.
Assign roles to each team member (e.g., viewer, editor, project manager). This controls what they can do inside the space.
Set up folders for different tasks or project phases to keep everything easy to find.
Add tags or keywords to files to quickly find them during searches.
3DEXPERIENCE platform for viewing models, sharing ideas, or tracking tasks.
Benefits:
Enhanced Collaboration With 3DSpace, teams can work together more effectively,
Improved Efficiency By centralizing project data and streamlining workflows
Better Decision-Making Access to real-time data and insights enables teams to make informed decisions quickly.
3DSpace supports projects of varying sizes and complexities, providing scalability for diverse project needs.
Conclusion:
The 3DSpace app within the 3DEXPERIENCE platform is a powerful tool for enhancing collaboration and project management.
By centralizing data, promoting teamwork, and integrating with other applications, 3DSpace helps teams work more efficiently and effectively.
Moreover, the 3DEXPERIENCE platform includes a variety of applications, such as the Issue 3D Review app, designed to facilitate design, collaboration, and product lifecycle management. The 3D Review app is a crucial tool within this ecosystem; consequently, it focuses on the review and feedback process for 3D models.
Steps to Use the Issue 3D Review App:
Step 1: To begin, drag and drop the app into the tab, then insert the file from the 3D space.
Step 2: Click new issue to create an issue report, and consecutively proceed to fill in the required details.
Step 3: Enter the detailed description and, consecutively, the title of the issue.
Step 4: Next, locate the issue-presented part, attach the related files, and consecutively assign the task to the relevant team member.
Step 5: First, click start to create a new issue, and then proceed to fill in the necessary details.
Step 6: Viewing tools also available in 3D issue review like rotate, pan, zoom in, zoom out, gridline line etc.
Step 7: Section view, measure, and relation also available on inside of 3D issue review app.
Step 8: After completing an issue report, the concerned team receives a notification in the issue management app for prompt action.
Create a Template for Future Issue Report Creation:
Step 1: The 3DEXPERIENCE platform includes a variety of applications. The Issue 3D Review app is designed to facilitate design, collaboration, and product lifecycle management consecutively.
Step 2: Then, click save and proceed to the Issue 3D Review app to select the template.
Conclusion
The 3DEXPERIENCE platform, with its variety of applications including the Issue 3D Review app, significantly enhances design, collaboration, and product lifecycle management. By providing tools to efficiently manage issues and feedback on 3D models, it supports teams in maintaining high standards of product quality and performance.
Drafter (WDR-OC) enables rapid conversion of 3D models into accurate 2D drawings, significantly enhancing the product development cycle. With real-time updates, modifications to the 3D model are instantly reflected in the 2D drawings, minimizing errors. Users can easily annotate and dimension their drawings, facilitating clear communication among team members. Integrated with the 3DEXPERIENCE platform.
Drafter allows for easy sharing and access to drawings from any device, enhancing collaboration. This streamlined approach reduces the time and cost associated with the design-to-manufacturing process, optimizing workflows and allowing teams to focus on creativity and innovation. Ultimately, Drafter is an invaluable asset for design and engineering teams.
Overview
Connected to the 3DEXPERIENCE® platform, Drafter is a Windows-based application that rapidly derives 2D drawings from your 3D models. One of its standout features is the ability to update drawings instantly whenever modifications are made to the 3D design. With Drafter’s comprehensive, production-quality drawing and detailing capabilities, designers and engineers can easily annotate and add dimensions to their drawings. Plus, with data saved to the cloud, sharing drawings in real time has never been easier.
Key Features
Fully Associative 2D Drawings:
Drafter ensures that every 2D drawing is dynamically linked to its corresponding 3D model. This powerful integration means that any adjustments made to the 3D design—whether minor tweaks or significant overhauls—are automatically reflected in the associated 2D drawings. Your documentation is always accurate, reducing the risk of errors and discrepancies.
Efficient Design Communication:
Clear communication is essential in manufacturing. Drafter provides intuitive tools to apply dimensions, annotations, and cross-sections to your drawings. This functionality helps convey complex manufacturing requirements in a straightforward manner, facilitating better understanding among team members and stakeholders.
Accelerated Product Development:
In a competitive market, speed is essential. Drafter significantly reduces the time required to transition from design to manufacturing. By automating the drawing update process, your team can focus more on innovation and less on manual documentation tasks, giving your business a competitive edge.
Capabilities of Drafter
Quickly generate detailed drawings from your 3D parts and assemblies with ease.
Effortlessly apply dimensions, annotations, and cross-sections to enhance your drawings.
Your 2D drawings update instantly whenever you modify your 3D model, thanks to powerful integration.
Benefits of Using Drafter
Real-Time Updates: Enjoy the confidence that comes with knowing your 2D drawings are always accurate. The automatic update feature eliminates the tedious task of manual revisions.
Enhanced Productivity: By streamlining the drawing generation process, Drafter allows your team to focus on creative problem-solving and refining product designs.
Cost Efficiency: Less time spent on documentation directly translates to lower costs, helping you bring products to market faster.
Conclusion
Drafter (WDR-OC) is an essential tool for designers and engineers, integrating powerful drawing capabilities with the 3DEXPERIENCE platform to transform product development. It enhances accuracy, improves communication, and streamlines workflows while reducing costs and boosting productivity. Using Drafter can elevate your design processes and help you meet project goals. In today’s fast-paced environment, having the right tools is crucial, so start using Drafter today and see how it can improve your product development cycle.
The Relations app in the 3DEXPERIENCE platform is designed to help users manage and visualize relationships between various entities, such as parts, documents, and projects.
This is a powerful tool for managing complex relationships in product development and ensuring that teams work cohesively.
Using the Relations app:
Step 1: Launch the platform for 3D experience.
Step 2: Please enter the term “Relations” into the search bar to initiate a comprehensive search on the topic. This will help you access relevant information and resources related to the subject matter.
Step 3: Please proceed to open the Relations Application to access the relevant features and functionalities it offers.
Step 4: To find specific files, utilize the 6W tags or enter keywords in the search bar. Make sure to apply the appropriate tags to enhance your search results and locate the documents you need more efficiently.
Step 5: Please locate the file you need and open it using the Relations application on your device. Make sure the app is installed and running properly before proceeding.
Step 6: Define Relationships. Select the entity you wish to link and choose the “Create Relation” option. Use the graphical interface to view all existing relationships. This will display connections clearly, helping you understand dependencies.
Benefits:
Enhanced Collaboration: By clearly defining relationships, teams can collaborate more effectively.
Improved Efficiency: Understanding dependencies helps streamline workflows and reduce errors.
Better Decision-Making: Visual insights into relationships aid in making informed decisions regarding design changes and project management.
Conclusion
The Relations app in the 3DEXPERIENCE platform is a powerful tool for managing complex relationships in product development. By providing tools to efficiently manage and visualize relationships, it supports teams in maintaining high standards of product quality and performance.
The 3D Motion Creator role within the 3DEXPERIENCE platform offers powerful simulation tools for performing kinematic and dynamic motion analyses of assemblies. This browser-based solution allows you to simulate mechanical motion and interactions efficiently without needing any software installation, making it accessible from anywhere with an internet connection.
Working with a kinematics player, you can easily analyze the kinematic system behaviour. Enhance the simulation with drivers, forces, torques, and 3D contacts or add dynamic modeling elements, such as a helical spring, to create a dynamic motion simulation. After running an analysis, you can review results with an animation or 2D plots.
Core Features Of 3D Motion Creator:
Motion Simulation with Mechanisms and Analysis Cases/Steps
Functions, Drivers, Gravity, Forces, Torques, …
Motion Manager for managing Mechanisms and quick preview.
Kinematics Player to see how parts with Joints are moving.
Animation Results & Plots and share them with anyone.
3D Motion Creator Key Capabilities:
Kinematic and Dynamic Simulation: Users can perform kinematic (motion without forces) and dynamic (motion with forces) simulations of mechanisms. This is useful for determining part movement, interaction, and overall system behaviour.
Mechanism Design and Motion Analysis: The role allows users to design complex mechanical systems. It also enables them to conduct motion studies to predict how the mechanisms will behave. This is valuable in evaluating the performance of assemblies under real-world conditions.
Contact and Collision Detection: Motion Creator helps detect contact between parts, including friction and collisions. These factors are essential for understanding how mechanical systems will perform in practical applications.
Time-Based and Event-Driven Simulations: The role supports time-based simulations, allowing observation of changes over time. It also includes event-driven simulations triggered by specific actions. This provides flexibility to model real-world scenarios, such as parts actuating in response to external triggers.
Data-Driven Simulations:It includes the ability to apply external forces, torques, and friction. This makes simulations more realistic by modeling real-world conditions.
Cloud-Based Collaboration:Since it’s on the 3DEXPERIENCE platform, users can collaborate and share their motion studies with other team members. This allows for real-time feedback and iteration on designs.
Results Visualization: After a motion study, the results can be visualized in a user-friendly format. These results include velocities, accelerations, and forces. Graphs and animations are generated to better communicate the motion behavior of the assembly.
Motion Study Integration: SOLIDWORKS Motion Creator works seamlessly with SOLIDWORKS CAD models. It allows users to easily import and export assemblies for motion analysis.
3D Motion Creator Benefits:
Enhanced design insight: Enables teams to analyze and optimize designs before physical prototyping, reducing costs and time-to-market.
Improved collaboration: As part of the cloud-based 3DEXPERIENCE platform, the role allows teams to collaborate effectively from anywhere.
Optimized performance: Through detailed simulations, engineers can refine their designs to ensure smooth mechanical operations and avoid potential issues.
Who Can Benefits:
Mechanical Engineers: To study and optimize moving components in machines.
Design Engineers: To ensure the functionality of mechanical systems during the design phase.
Simulation Analysts: To provide advanced motion analysis and troubleshooting.
This role is ideal for designers and engineers looking to enhance their design process with advanced motion simulations. It offers the opportunity to work in a fully connected, cloud-based environment
As You All Know SOLIDWORKS PDM is a Data Management Solution where You Can Secure/Organize/Manage You Data (CAD & Non-CAD). In this Blog We go through the Reference Management Tools Available in PDM.
Creating Reference Between CAD & Non-CAD:
Feature Name: Copy & Paste as Reference
Scenario: An Excel & Word File Needs to Referenced with SOLIDWORKS Assembly File
Benefits of Contains & Where used:
Contains & Where Used Tab are used to See & Verify the References Between Parent & Child Components
Contains
Where used
A Parent File that Contains Child Components
A Child Component Where It Was Used So Far
Let’s See Contains & Where Used Tab Result for Our Example
Contains Tab | Before Referencing
Where Used Tab | Before & After
Conclusion:
Thus Copy & Paste as Reference, Contains & Where Used Tab Make User Life Easy to Create Reference Between CAD & Non-CAD as well Reviewing them.
Route Management in 3DEXPERIENCE is a critical component for streamlining and automating your workflow. Whether you're managing a complex project or a simple task list, the ability to create and modify routes on demand ensures that each step in your process is completed efficiently and on time. With 3DEXPERIENCE, notifications are automatically sent to the right people at the right time, keeping everyone aligned and informed. As tasks are completed, the system seamlessly transitions to the next stage, ultimately promoting connected files to their intended maturity state, such as "Released." This guide will walk you through the essentials of managing route tasks in 3DEXPERIENCE, helping you optimize your operations.
Routes make it possible to define custom processes that are similar to custom PDM workflows, but with additional functionality. Routes are a single process that consists of tasks that when completed, completes the route. If the said process requires repeating, it is best to create a new route.
ROUTE TYPES
1. Approve
The assignee must approve the work that is associated with the task, whether it is a design or a document.
2. Notify only
Whoever is assigned to a task as Notify Only receives a notification about the task.
3. Comment
The task assignee must add a comment to complete the task. This is usually to provide additional insights or information for those who later approve the work that is tied to the sequence of tasks.
Tasks in a route can be either serial or in parallel.
a) Serial Route:
In a serial route, the tasks run in a particular order, means that Route Task 1 must complete before Route Task 2 can begin. The image above gives an example of approval tasks, though the same principle applies to tasks that specify Comment. Tasks that specify Notify Only send a notification to the people assigned to the task, and then automatically complete the task and proceed to the next task in the route.
b) Parallel Route:
It is possible to set up parallel tasks in two ways, i. Any one of the assignees complete the task, the route task moves to next stage.
ii. In all condition, every assignees need to complete the task. Then only the route task moves to next stage.
Why Use a Route?
A route ensures that contributors to the process follow the correct procedures, for example, in the product approval and release process. It is a systematic way of tracking reviews and approvals.
How to use Route?
Launch Route management application in compass and clicks + New Route.
2. In the Properties tab, enter the title of the route task.
3. In content tab, add the document to be reviewed by using drag and drop (or) use + icon.
4. In the task tab, click add task to create the workflow of the route.
5. Once the 1st task has been created use + icon to add series and parallel route task.
After setting up two or more parallel tasks, it is possible to select whether All or Any of the assignees of the task need to approve or comment for the route to progress.
On the task, double clickthe new task to open the properties pane. In the properties pane, add a title and description, and ensure that the Expected Action option. Then assignee the member to work on the route task.
Once the route task has been set to start. The route process workflow starts with the notification to the user to work on the route task.
Summary
routes provide organizations with a systematic process of performing a series of tasks with automation. In short, routes could be described in the following steps:
To start a new process, you can create and run a route on demand, which enables you to add or remove route tasks because the route is active.
When the route runs, notifications about the tasks to complete are sent automatically to those who are assigned to the task. If the assignee is a group, all members of the group receive a notification.
When the route task completes, the route automatically moves to the next task in the route and sends a notification to the assignees.
Upon completion, the route – if intended and set up to do so – promotes the connected files to the specified maturity state. For example, Released.
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Task Management in Real-time and Seamless with 3DEXPERIENCE Works
Innovation in the quickly evolving domains of technology and design depends on teamwork. The 3DEXPERIENCE platform is excellent at fostering adaptable teamwork and creative thinking. At the center of this collaborative revolution is the 3DEXPERIENCE Collaborative Task, a feature that allows teams to collaborate in real-time, overcoming physical boundaries and revolutionizing the entire process of product development.
Step1:
Drag and drop a Collaborative tasks app from dashboard
Step 2:
Create a new task
Step 3:
Next, enter the description and title.
Step 4:
First, assign a person and then enter the details of the task.
Step 5:
Furthermore, the user can get notifications through the platform.
Step 6:
Additionally, update the task status through the platform
Step 7:
Next, move the task from the To Do stage to the In Work stage.
Once task is completed drag and drop a task to completed stage.
Partnering is far more than an expression of intent; in a world where creativity propels progress, teamwork is vital. Clearly, it becomes apparent that encouraging effectiveness, cooperation, and communication throughout the product development process needs the 3DEXPERIENCE Collaborative Task. As a result, breaking down organizational silos enables real-time collaboration, enhances communication, and seamlessly integrates with other tools—all of which contribute to the innovation and effectiveness of teams. Companies that want to succeed in the long run must acknowledge that collaboration platforms like 3DEXPERIENCE Works are a strategic need as they continue to handle the complexities of a rapidly evolving industry.
Several tools are available to prepare and move your SOLIDWORKS CAD files to the 3DEXPERIENCE platform.
1. SOLIDWORKS File Utilities
All packages of 3DEXPERIENCE SOLIDWORKS and SOLIDWORKS Desktop include the SOLIDWORKS File Utilities.
The utilities are accessible when you right-click a SOLIDWORKS file in File Explorer.
Use this tool during the file preparation phase to rename, replace and move files.
2. Pack and Go
Pack and Go is a very powerful SOLIDWORKS File Utilities tool. It is useful to gather all related files for a model and it allows you to rename and copy all related files to another location.
Pack and Go is accessible when you right-click a SOLIDWORKS file in File Explorer, or from the File menu within SOLIDWORKS.
Use this tool during the file preparation phase to locate your file set.
3. Interactive Save to 3DEXPERIENCE
The Save to 3DEXPERIENCE command is available from the SOLIDWORKS File menu, toolbars and from the My Session app within the 3DEXPERIENCE task pane. This is an interactive, synchronous command that securely uploads SOLIDWORKS files and creates corresponding SOLIDWORKS mastered database objects in a specified collaborative space. This command works well for file sets containing several projects with a combined file size. < 500 MB.
Accessible to all platform members.
Included with all 3DEXPERIENCE SOLIDWORKS roles and Collaborative Designer for SOLIDWORKS.
There is no gatekeeper. Saving the same files by multiple platform members only triggers a warning about duplicate data creation from the system. The system does not block the creation of duplicate data in the collaborative space.
Limited efficiency since it prevents you from using SOLIDWORKS while the save processes.
4. Batch Save to 3DEXPERIENCE.
The Batch Save to 3DEXPERIENCE tool is available from the SOLIDWORKS Tools menu. This is an automated, asynchronous tool that has the same secure upload and database object creation capability as the Save to 3DEXPERIENCE command. It provides the ability to save SOLIDWORKS files from multiple folders into various collaborative spaces and bookmarks. Large datasets containing multiple projects with specific size requirements benefit from this command. < 5GB.
Accessible to all platform members.
Included with all 3DEXPERIENCE SOLIDWORKS roles and Collaborative Designer for SOLIDWORKS.
Ability to save referenced files located outside of the selected folders.
Provides a save report.
The tool automatically prevents duplicate files within the same location when run multiple times on the same file set.
The tool improves efficiency because the save runs asynchronously, in a separate process. This allows you to use SOLIDWORKS while the save processes.
3DEXPERIENCE Integration is a feature available for users of 3DEXPERIENCE on Cloud for managing SOLIDWORKS CAD data. The platform has been continuously providing companies with more customization options to tailor their experience.
One of the critical features to be aware of is 3DEXPERIENCE Integration, which allows for improved metadata specification (such as part number, description, and author). SOLIDWORKS allows you to access this feature by navigating to Tools > Options > System Options. Detailed information is available in the SOLIDWORKS Help. So, what exactly does this option do? Let's delve into it.
3DEXPERIENCE Integration:
3DEXPERIENCE Integration empowers users to control both the configuration structure of parts or assemblies and how that structure translates into the Platform.
To ensure compatibility with the 3DEXPERIENCE platform, enable the "Update SOLIDWORKS files" option.. Be aware that updating a document for 3DEXPERIENCE compatibility is permanent. Additionally, the Rules Editor allows users to create rules for how certain configurations become Physical Products versus representations of existing data, though this is beyond the scope of this article.
Update SOLIDWORKS files to ensure compatibility with the 3DEXPERIENCE platform.
Introduced in FD01 2024x (February 2024), this feature allows a single physical product in new parts/assemblies or multiple physical products. You might wonder, what is a physical product? Let's explore this option further.
Physical Product:
3DEXPERIENCE Integration provides better control over the CAD object's structure within the Platform. The Platform is the source of truth for a company’s Purchasing department or Management seeking part numbers. In SOLIDWORKS, users are familiar with its structure—a part configuration and derived configuration form the potential structure in CAD. In 3DEXPERIENCE, there are CAD Family, Physical Product, and representations. SOLIDWORKS utilizes representations, but these are not transferred to the Platform.
The traditional feature tree in SOLIDWORKS shows the CAD Family top-level object with three physical products underneath. In the Relations app (All Relations), we see one CAD Family, three physical products, and three objects referred to as representations, which allow viewing in the web via 3DPlay. Web browsers leverage these tessellated models to generate graphics.
The following example demonstrates a different mapping approach: the feature tree displays one CAD Family object, one Physical Product, and two representations. The "Large" and "Small" sizes do not appear in the Platform but as a master configuration called Bracket. Thus, only one string of metadata exists, with Large and Small being different sizes used in various CAD states.
Working with Physical Products:
Physical Products are crucial in the 3DEXPERIENCE platform, showing CAD geometry when using tools like 3DPlay, and downstream apps like Product Release Engineer and Project Planner primarily work with the physical product object type. Hiding the CAD Family object reveals a Bracket with two configurations (Large and Small). Even though hidden, the CAD Family object remains part of the package.
3DEXPERIENCE Integration allows converting between physical products and representations. This flexibility helps in part number generation and other properties. The user can convert objects to a physical product or a representation.
When turning off 3DEXPERIENCE Integration with two configurations one derived, you end up with three physical products in 3DEXPERIENCE, meaning three independent but connected objects. Disabling 3DEXPERIENCE Integration allows you to assign separate part numbers.
Check the object’s name the prd prefix is the default naming convention for the Physical Product object type. Different numbers indicate different Physical Product objects. The right-click menu provides an option named "Update for 3DEXPERIENCE compatibility" to process documents for compatibility even after they've been created.
Should I Use 3DEXPERIENCE Integration:
Each organization should test the use of 3DEXPERIENCE Integration. Companies might create templates to standardize this feature across their design team. At the very least, companies should consider their part numbering intent early and understand this option's nuances.
3DEXPERIENCE Integration offers better control over a company’s numbering intent and aligns 3DEXPERIENCE object names—CAD Family, Physical Product, and representations. With the option off, the verbiage remains configurations and derived configurations, and variants called configurations generally become physical products in 3DEXPERIENCE, potentially with separate part numbers.
SOLIDWORKS Share and Markup simplifies design sharing with external stakeholders. They can view, annotate, and share comments on your designs. SOLIDWORKS Share and Markup streamlines collaboration. It allows external stakeholders to interact with your designs by viewing, annotating, and sharing comments. This functionality is available to anyone who has the 3DSwymer, Collaborative Designer for SOLIDWORKS or 3DEXPERIENCE SOLIDWORKS roles.
A key benefit of Share and Markup is that the recipient doesn't need a 3DEXPERIENCE role or SOLIDWORKS license. This allows them to view the file, make notes, and share comments with you directly. You only need a 3DEXPERIENCE account, which is free to create. This way, you can avoid the hassle of alternative file sharing tools that can add unnecessary overhead to your design collaboration process.
1. How to enable Share and Markup capabilities
To share files with external recipient some initial setup is required using the Drives Control Center app. The platform Administrator must turn on:
Allow platform members to share content with external users by link.
Allow external users to view and comment on shared content.
These settings are located on “Share with External” tab.
2. Sharing a file from SOLIDWORKS
In SOLIDWORKS you chose the file format to share. From the “Lifecycle and Collaboration” tab you can select the ‘arrow down’ on the “Share a file” button and then select the desired file format.
In this example 3DXML is chosen, this is the recommended format for sharing an assembly. The 3DXML file will contain all of child components and sub-assemblies.
After choosing the file format, you can create the sharable link. Click the “Share a file” command again and a formatted file is created and placed in your 3DDrive application, in the folder named “Shared with external”.
plus, a dialog box will appear with an option to enable guests to comment on the file, plus an option to restrict access to specific users. If you do NOT enable “restrict access to specific users” anyone with the shared link can access the file.
However, if you activate “Restrict access to specific users” you will have the option to type in the email address of the person you wish to share your file with or multiple email addresses if several persons are to be involved and finally, you can add a message in the dialog box.
Having applied the required settings, next click the “Share” button, to automatically send an email to your chosen recipient that will include a link to the file and a message.
The recipient will receive an email with a subject line stating the name of the sender, the name of the file, and a link to access the shared file.
When recipients click on the link, they will be prompted to set up a free 3DEXPERIENCE ID account, if they don’t have one already. If they do have an account, they can just select the link and access the model by signing in to the 3DEXPERIENCE platform. Note: They must use the same email address entered when creating the shared link.
3. Adding annotations and comments to the shared file
Once the recipient has logged in, they can access the model from their browser, which will take them to the shared model in the 3DPlay viewer application, where they can rotate, view, mark up, and comment on it using the intuitive tools in 3DPlay.
All the recipient needs to do is hover over the icons to get a description of the various tools to begin a “mark-up” procedure.
As an example, they can click on the Edit Clipping tool, which cuts through objects using a section plane to view and to access details inside an object, and also to measure hidden items.
4. Sharing annotations and comments with the original sender
Recipients can save their markups/comments as a snapshot by hitting the "Share as Comment" command. This will then display the snapshot in the Comments window on the right side of their screen.
The 3DEXPERIENCE platform will notify the original sender when the feedback has been applied and sent.
Clicking on the notification displays the 3DPlay app in the SOLIDWORKS task pane, where of the annotations and comments made by the recipient of the file can be viewed.
5. 3DDrive: Locating Shared Files
The process which has just been described, seems very automatic and simple, and so it is. However, it’s always important to be aware of where the shared files are located, if you, at some point, wish to search for a specific file and other files that might have been shared.
By opening the 3DDrive application, searching can be performed in SolidWorks as well, simply locating the 3DDrive application through the Compass and open it.
The 3DDrive application appears and shows all the 3DDrive folders you have access to. When you share a file like shown in previous steps, the folder “Shared with external” is automatically created and to be found in the “My Files” folder.
This is where all the files you have shared using the “Share a file” feature in SOLIDWORKS are be located.
All the files you have shared from SOLIDWORKS are accessible from this folder. From here you have several options, for example viewing the information of the files you have shared and previewing it so you are able to see exactly what the external recipient is seeing when they open the file in the browser.We recommend deleting the file, but be aware that this will also remove all comments and markups attached to it. The 3DDrive file, not the copy in your 3DSpace, stores this information
6. Adding new users to existing shared files
If you want to add more external recipients to collaborate with, you can do it from the folder as well. Just select the desired file, select the share button and then the “Share with external” tab and you get the same window as described previously.
Note: Although there is an expiration date “30 days from link creation” it is only the link to the file that expires, not the file itself. We will keep the shared file in the 3DDrive until we remove it.
7. Revoking access to shared files
You have the option to revoke the shared access. When you have located the file you wish to revoke access from in the 3DDrive “Share with external” folder, open the “Share with external” tab in the “Share this file” menu.
Select the “Authorized list”
This program will show you the list of authorized users for this file. You can then select the recycle bin icon next to a user to revoke their access.
Share and Markup – use case examples
In this chapter you will find 3 use cases for sharing documents. These examples are commonly used by consultant designers, suppliers, and manufacturers in their daily information exchange.
1. Sharing a SOLIDWORKS drawing
Let’s say you need to share 2D drawing with a supplier. In this case you have made some changes to an original part and would like to get feedback from the supplier.
From the drawing in SOLIDWORKS, you can share the file as PDF, DXF, DWG and PNG.
Having chosen PDF as file format - select “Share a file” again. In this example we will not restrict the access to the file, so we will just make sure that the “Enable guest comments” is active and then click the “Copy external link” followed by “Close”.
The dialogue closes with a message stating that you have uploaded the file to 3DDrive. And if you forget to copy the link before closing the “Share a file” window, there is a Copy Link button in the info pop-up. This pop-up will disappear after a while. Hovering over it, will keep it visible.
We can send the copied link to an external supplier by email.
The external recipient pastes the link into a browser. They can then log in to the 3DEXPERIENCE platform using their account credentials to view the file.
The recipient can now access the drawing and start giving feedback. They can also share comments as described previously.
2. Sharing a design for manufacture
We have approved your design and it is ready for manufacturing. Now you need to send the 3D file. You could send it as a STEP file or as a native SLDPRT file. This can in some cases make it much easier to start producing data for CNC machining or 3D Printing.
We can easily share a file after making modifications. Simply select 'Share a file' and a dialog box will appear, allowing you to update the existing file.
The update process retains all previous annotations and comments, allowing the communication thread to continue seamlessly.
3. Sharing a large assembly design for review
When dealing with large assemblies, sharing a design efficiently can pose a real challenge as file sizes can get large. Previously, opening a large assembly, even in lightweight mode, often required recipients to use a workstation with the native CAD application installed.
This task is now much easier in SOLIDWORKS by utilizing a combination of the 3DXML file format and the Share a File feature.
The 3DEXPERIENCE platform allows you to view 3DXML files on both workstations and mobile devices. As long as you access the received link for the shared file – you will be able to open, view, zoom and rotate, explode even complicated assemblies.
Let’s have a look at an example using an all-terrain adventure bike designed by Bowhead Corp.
I have opened the assembly in SOLIDWORKS and prepared it for sharing by selecting 3DXML as the file format.
The user selects the "Share a file" command and then proceeds to follow the sharing procedure outlined earlier.
The recipient clicks the link and logs in to 3DEXPERIENCE. They can then easily view the assembly and add comments. A non-windows device took these screenshots.
Share and Markup compared with traditional methods of file sharing.
Using the Share and Markup workflow can remove the need to use traditional methods of file sharing. Traditional methods of file sharing include PDFs, screenshots of models in documents, and even SolidWorks Pack and Go. These methods often require multiple applications and can cause compatibility issues. Share and markup takes away previously used unstructured workflows and eliminates the typical obstacles in historical file sharing which include:
The need for various applications for saving and viewing files.
File sizes exceeding mailbox capacity.
File formats not compatible with recipient operating system or applications for viewing.
1. Share and Markup summary
SOLIDWORKS Share and Markup offers a powerful solution for sharing designs with external stakeholders. This functionality leverages the Share a File command and the 3DEXPERIENCE platform. It eliminates the need for less efficient file sharing methods. With SOLIDWORKS Share and Markup, you eliminate the hassle of manual file zipping, email limitations, and recipient software downloads. Now, anyone can view and comment on your designs using a simple web link. The browser supports the 3DEXPERIENCE platform. This allows recipients to view and add comments to shared files on a mobile device.
SOLIDWORKS Share and Markup streamlines design collaboration. Designers and stakeholders can work together efficiently, getting products to market faster.
Metrics Reader is a cutting-edge application for public cloud dashboards that provides a range of essential features. With Metrics Reader, you can effortlessly generate charts based on your imported datasets, enabling you to gain valuable insights and analyse the data effectively. Additionally, this powerful tool allows you to compare multiple charts, empowering you to make informed decisions based on comprehensive visualizations.
Metrics Reader is compatible with 3DDrive, Social Analytics, and Potion for enhanced functionality.
When incorporating a Metrics Reader widget into your dashboard, it is essential to customize it with your specific data set to showcase a chart.
You can modify the settings of any Metrics Reader widget that you have personalized.
By importing your own data (.CSV or .XLS), you can analyse trends and uncover valuable insights through customizable charts and graphs.
The Task Shows:
Select data type.
Import data.
Select Range.
Customize.
1. Select Data Type:
Quantitative Time-series
Quantitative Series
Qualitative Series
Quantitative Time-Series:
Bring in a collection of numeric data gathered at consistent time intervals. We will closely examine the Quantitative time series.
2. Import Data:
There are three options for importing the data.
Cloud (One time upload):
This is a one-time upload process where you will need to enter your Login ID and Password in the File URL field.
Select the Cloud option and enter the URL of a file saved on the cloud. If access is limited, please provide your login information.
Note: Your 3DEXPERIENCE Platform requires Internet access if the URL you provided directs to an online resource.
Paste Data:
Select the "Paste data" option and then paste the data that you have copied from your clipboard.
Dropped file:
Choose the dropped file and effortlessly transfer a file from your 3DDrive (3DDrive is the storage application located on the 3DEXPERIENCE Platform. To draw a parallel, it functions similarly to Dropbox, Google Drive, and OneDrive. Interestingly, these three programs can also be seamlessly integrated into 3DEXPERIENCE).
In addition, there is an advantage to editing the dropped file from 3DDrive, as it will automatically update the Charts.
3. Select Range
You have the option to choose a column and import the time zone, indicating the date column and the desired date format. Additionally, you can display the results as Sum, Average, Maximum, or Minimum.
4. Customize
Within the design tab, you can modify the sequence of your products using Forecast, Smooth curve, Linear regression, total, and time zone. Additionally, you can define the name and Source URL in the Credits tab before choosing the Chart type displayed in the image.
The personalized dashboard is utilized by millions daily to effectively monitor, customize, and share various aspects of their digital lives. Depending on your company's needs, you can choose from a variety of chart types and configure multiple metric readers on the desired tab within the dashboard. This ensures that all the essential data of your company is conveniently accessible on a single page.
Essentially, this tool can assist you in replacing the outdated process of manually analysing Excel files, which often results in errors and is quite time-consuming. Moreover, it can be conveniently accessed from any location, at any time, and on any device - all you have to do is log in to the platform to access it.
Learn how to manage files on the 3DEXPERIENCE Platform using a 3DEXPERIENCE Title identifier in this blog.
As a SOLIDWORKS model, the 3DEXPERIENCE platform offers an excellent file management solution that makes sure all references are kept up-to-date, even if models are renamed or moved across multiple projects. SOLIDWORKS uses references to verify that all drawings, assemblies, and parts link together during parametric changes.
Windows File Management
The File and folder Name's that we've become use to is a unique Windows identification. It is the filename that is saved in various folders on the hard disk. The same name may appear in more than one file stored in different folders. If SOLIDWORKS PDM isn't used, then changing a file name or folder structure will unavoidably lead to file reference issues.
3DEXPERIENCE File Management
The 3DEXPERIENCE platform offers a different approach. All files are saved to a single local cache folder with unique file names, even though Windows still needs a file name to save a local copy to disk. The file name is no longer useful once it is saved to the platform. It is actually unchangeable at this point.
Now that we have a 3DEXPERIENCE attribute called Title, we can manage the naming. It is simple to rename this at any time. Organizing is done with the Bookmark Editor instead of storing things in different folders. References are not broken because the files are not renamed or moved to a different folder.
Differences in Terminologies
In the 3DEXPERIENCE platform, file management is referred to by a few terms. Here is a brief explanation, however the title is the primary and most important part.
1. File Name
This file's name is stored in Windows' local cache folder. The file is locked and cannot be modified once it has been saved to the platform. That prevents any references from being missed. Since Windows prohibits multiple files with the same name in the same folder, if two files with the same name were saved to the platform, the local cache may apply a unique file name (e.g., xcadmodel###.sldprt).
2. Name
A unique 3DEXPERIENCE identification, such as (prd-R###) is used to differentiate a product within a Collaborative Space.
3. File Title
This is a 3DEXPERIENCE feature that may be utilized for organizing your models. The CAD Family, physical products and drawing title are all included with this.
4. Title
This characteristic is also known as the Physical Product Title; it is basically the same as the File Title.
When a part or assembly has many configurations, the configuration name is added in the title to keep them unique, as in "Part123(Config123)".
In the case of a drawing, this might be the specific file title or the file title of the part or assembly that is being referenced.
5. Component Name
This is a unique SOLIDWORKS identifier that appears in the My Session app and provides the component's assembly instance number. This is related to the File Title. Any modifications made to the File Title will have an impact on the Component Name.
Renaming the 3DEXPERIENCE Title
We can now rename the Title without affecting the SOLIDWORKS references because we know the file name will never change. By right-clicking on the top of the Feature Manager Design Tree and selecting Rename Title, you can change it.
Conclusion:
The ability to connect to dashboards, messaging, activity streams, communities, and drag-and-drop task management means everyone is on the same page directly from SOLIDWORKS.
Windows explorer has current limitation on cache file, which will be removed in 3DEXPERIENCE SOLIDWORKS.
3DEXPERIENCE SOLIDWORKS has an in-built data management solution to manage and organize your CAD and Non-CAD Data with the help of Bookmark editor.
Potion Lab is an innovative application in the 3DEXPERIENCE platform that simplifies workflow automation. By setting triggers like file uploads or project creations, users can activate automated actions effortlessly. What makes PL unique is its customizable ingredient selection, enabling users to choose outputs like notifications or bookmarks.
PL = Potion Lab.
What is Potion Lab?
Potion Lab is a groundbreaking application within the 3DEXPERIENCE platform that allows users to automate tasks and processes seamlessly. Whether you're managing projects, collaborating with teams, or optimizing workflows, PL empowers you to streamline your operations with ease.
How Does Potion Lab Work?
Creating your own "Potion" with Potion Lab is a breeze. You start by setting a trigger, which can range from a file being uploaded to the cloud to the creation or termination of a project. This trigger serves as the catalyst for your automated process, kicking off the magic of PL.
Next, you select the output, known as an ingredient, which determines what action should occur when the trigger is activated. The possibilities are endless – from sending notifications and emails to creating a new bookmark or updating the lifecycle of a component. With up to five ingredients per Potion, you have the flexibility to tailor your automation to suit your specific needs.
Empowering Users with Potions:
Potion Lab offers users the remarkable ability to harness the full potential of automation, placing control firmly in their hands. With each 3DSwym (IFW) role, users are granted the opportunity to craft three Potions, presenting ample scope to refine their workflows and amplify productivity levels. This allocation empowers users to tailor automation to their specific needs, whether it involves simplifying file management, expediting project processes, or automating communication tasks.
Furthermore, for individuals with the Social Analytics (NBA) role, the horizon expands exponentially, as they gain access to a generous quota of 20 Potions. This heightened accessibility not only broadens the scope of automation but also enables users to delve into more intricate and expansive automation scenarios. Whether users aim to streamline team collaboration, optimize data analysis processes, or enhance project management efficiency, PL equips them with the tools to transform their workflow landscape and achieve unprecedented levels of automation prowess.
Benefits of Potion Lab
Increased Efficiency:
Say goodbye to manual tasks and repetitive processes. Potion Lab automates routine actions, allowing you to focus your time and energy on more meaningful tasks
Enhanced Collaboration:
With Potion Lab, teams can collaborate more effectively by automating notifications, updates, and other communications, ensuring everyone stays in the loop.
Greater Control:
Potion Lab gives you full control over your automation processes. Easily customize triggers and ingredients to meet your unique requirements and preferences.
Ready to experience the transformative power of automation? With PL, you can unlock new levels of efficiency, collaboration, and control on the 3DEXPERIENCE platform. Start creating your Potions and unleash the magic of automation in your workflow. Revolutionize your workflow on the 3DEXPERIENCE platform? Look no further than PL, one of the most innovative applications that can automate large parts of your platform experience. Let's dive into how PL can transform the way you work and unleash a world of possibilities.
The 3DEXPERIENCE platform empowers users with a powerful tool: dashboards. These customizable interfaces provide a centralized location to access resources and content relevant to your organization's activities. Imagine having all the information you need at your fingertips, organized to streamline your workflow. That's the magic of 3DEXPERIENCE dashboards.
This guide walks you through the process of creating and customizing dashboards, putting you in control of your 3DEXPERIENCE experience.
Getting Started with "My First Dashboard"
Upon logging into 3DEXPERIENCE for the first time, you'll encounter "My First Dashboard." This serves as your launchpad, featuring pre-populated tabs like "Getting Started" and "Learn the Experience." These tabs showcase available widgets and applications in action, giving you a taste of the platform's capabilities.
Creating a New Dashboard
Ready to personalize your experience? Let's dive into creating a new dashboard.
1. Locate the Dashboard Menu:
Navigate to the top left corner of the page, next to the Compass icon. Expand the "Dashboard and Cockpit Search" menu by clicking it.
2. Initiate Dashboard Creation:
Click the plus sign (+) symbol displayed beside the search bar.
3. Choose Your Template (Optional)
The "Create Dashboard" menu appears. Here, you can choose between a blank dashboard or leverage a template to jumpstart the process. Template availability depends on your assigned roles. Provide a name for your dashboard and an optional description to personalize it further. Once satisfied, click "Create" to bring your new dashboard to life. For this example, let's create a blank dashboard named "Examples."
4. Your New Dashboard Appears:
The newly created dashboard will populate the main view and be added to your dashboard list.
Customizing Your Dashboard with Tabs
1. Welcome to the New Tab:
Upon creating a new dashboard, you'll land on a blank "New Tab." Rename this tab to reflect the tasks you intend to accomplish within this section.
2. Explore Roles and Apps:
Click the 3DEXPERIENCE Compass icon to explore the available Roles and Apps within the platform.
3. Identify Task-Specific Apps:
Locate the applications most relevant to your tasks. Widgets, identifiable by the arrow icon in their upper right corner, represent these applications.
4. Drag and Drop for Seamless Integration:
Don't hesitate to add widgets to your tabs! Simply drag and drop any widget you require onto the designated page.
5. Snapping to the Grid:
As you drag and drop widgets, observe how they attempt to snap to specific locations within the viewport, ensuring a clean and organized layout.
6. Widget Resizing and Rearrangement:
Widgets are not limited to their default square size. Feel free to rearrange and resize them to fit your preferences.
This guide equips you with the knowledge to create and personalize dashboards and tabs within 3DEXPERIENCE. With these custom dashboards, you can streamline your workflow, gain instant access to crucial information, and ultimately boost your productivity.
The 3DEXPERIENCE platform offers a powerful tool for collaboration and communication: 3DSwym. It empowers users to share ideas, spark discussions, and drive innovation within communities. This guide explores the various post types available in 3DSwym, equipping you to leverage its full potential.pen_spark
3DSWYM POSTS:
Share text-based content using 3DSwym's posts. Utilize the Rich Text Editor to format your message for clarity and impact. Additionally, categorize your posts with 6WTags for better organization. Furthermore, embed multimedia content to enhance understanding.
Engage Through Posts:
Take center stage with multimedia content using the 3D/Photo/Video post type. Upload directly to your SWYM community and don't worry if you lack pre-made media. Create presentations, tables, and drawings directly within this content type to support your message.
Showcase Visuals with 3D/Photo/Video:
Community ideas form the foundation for groundbreaking designs and advancements. These function similarly to articles, with an added advantage: users can evaluate and refine the concept. You can even customize the idea pipeline to match your existing workflows.
Ask and Answer with Questions:
Conduct surveys within your SWYM community to gather valuable insights. 3DSwym offers multiple answer formats, including rating scales, open-ended questions, and multiple choice. Results can be visualized in pie charts or downloaded as CSV files for further analysis.
Fuel Innovation with Ideas:
Wiki Pages serve as editable online resources for storing and sharing information within a community. Maintain a glossary of industry terms, provide quick access to crucial company documents, or leverage rich text formatting and embedded media for effective information presentation. Wikis can be nested for a structured hierarchy, and locked once finalized to prevent unauthorized changes.
Make Decisions with Surveys:
WeDos provide a space to assign simple tasks to community members or colleagues during discussions. They function alongside the Project Planning widget for enhanced capabilities. Add an optional title and description for further context. Leveraging your SWYM Community, you can assign WeDos to up to ten participants, each receiving relevant materials and deadlines based on their user credentials.
Organize Knowledge with Wiki Pages:
3DSwym unlocks a world of possibilities for collaborative communication within the 3DEXPERIENCE platform. By mastering the various post types, you can share knowledge, spark discussions, and drive innovation within your teams. Start exploring 3DSwym today and unlock the full potential of collaborative creation!
Assign Tasks with WeDos:
WeDos provide a space to assign simple tasks to community members or colleagues during discussions. They function alongside the Project Planning widget for enhanced capabilities. Add an optional title and description for further context. Leveraging your SWYM Community, you can assign WeDos to up to ten participants. Each participant will then receive relevant materials and deadlines based on their user credentials.
Empower Your Collaboration
Unleash the power of collaborative communication within the 3DEXPERIENCE platform with 3DSwym. By mastering its various post types, you can effortlessly share knowledge, spark engaging discussions, and ultimately drive innovation within your teams. Therefore, start exploring 3DSwym today and unlock the full potential of collaborative creation!
We have just wrapped up another successful webinar and are thrilled about the positive feedback that we’ve received. The focus of this live webinar addressed the unique issues of industrial equipment design. It showed how to use both SOLIDWORKS 3D modeling and cloud-based 3DEXPERIENCE Works® Industrial equipment manufacturers face a unique set of design challenges. Today's machines are becoming increasingly complex, with intricate electromechanical systems and large assemblies that can slow down the 3D CAD development process.
Traditional physical prototypes are often expensive and time-consuming to create, further hindering efficient design iterations.
Overcoming Industrial Equipment Design Issues
To stay competitive in a rapidly evolving market, manufacturers are embracing automation and specialized tools to achieve greater productivity and flexibility.
This is where SOLIDWORKS® 3DEXPERIENCE Works Simulation (3DEXPERIENCE Works Simulation, not SOLIDWORKS itself, should be the keyphrase in the title for SEO) comes in.
This cloud-based platform offers a powerful combination of 3D modeling and simulation (often referred to as MODSIM) that can help you address critical industrial equipment design issues, including:
Customization and Adaptability:
Industrial equipment needs often vary depending on specific customer requirements or unique processes. 3DEXPERIENCE Works Simulation empowers you to design equipment that is adaptable and customizable, meeting these diverse needs while maintaining efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
Durability and Reliability:
Industrial environments are often harsh, with extreme temperatures, vibration, dust, and corrosion being common factors. 3DEXPERIENCE Works Simulation allows you to virtually test your designs under these conditions, ensuring they are durable and reliable, minimizing downtime for maintenance or repairs.
Technological Advancements in Soliworks:
The industrial landscape is constantly evolving with advancements in automation, robotics, AI, and IoT. 3DEXPERIENCE Works Simulation helps you stay ahead of the curve by incorporating these innovations into your designs, meeting ever-changing customer expectations.pen_spark
Cost-Effectiveness:
Balancing advanced features and high-quality materials with cost control is a constant challenge for manufacturers. 3DEXPERIENCE Works Simulation allows you to optimize designs for cost-effectiveness without compromising on performance, durability, or efficiency.pen_spark
Safety and Compliance:
Stringent safety standards and regulations govern industrial equipment. 3DEXPERIENCE Works Simulation helps ensure your designs meet these safety requirements and comply with various regulations, streamlining the compliance process.
Unlocking the Power of MODSIM
By leveraging the collaborative cloud environment of 3DEXPERIENCE Works Simulation, you gain valuable insights from embedded simulation solutions. This allows you to analyze factors like strength, durability, thermal comfort, flow, manufacturability, and electromagnetic performance throughout the design process. This digital prediction of real-world behavior empowers you to make informed decisions at every stage, potentially reducing (or even eliminating) the need for physical prototypes and ultimately leading to higher quality industrial equipment.
Watch the Recorded Webinar
Gain insights on SOLIDWORKS-embedded simulation solutions while enhancing strength, durability, thermal comfort, flow, manufacturability, and electromagnetic performance within a collaborative cloud environment. The MODSIM approach to product development empowers you to make improvements at each phase of the design by predicting real-world behavior digitally, where you can help decrease (and sometimes eliminate) the need for prototypes and increase all aspects of product quality.
Conclusion
3DEXPERIENCE Works Simulation offers a powerful and cost-effective solution for industrial equipment manufacturers. This innovative platform allows you to overcome design challenges, optimize equipment performance, and ultimately deliver stronger, safer, smarter, and more comfortable industrial equipment to your customers.
Imagine a world where managing revisions for your 3D projects is a breeze. No more confusion over version numbers or lost updates. This is the power of Collaborative Lifecycle Management (CLM) within the Open 3D Experience Platform. CLM empowers you to track changes, create branches, and effortlessly merge revisions, all while fostering seamless collaboration throughout your design process.
Harnessing the Power of Collaborative Lifecycle Management:
The Open 3D Experience Platform offers a robust set of tools accessible through Google Chrome. By leveraging your 3D Passport credentials, you can unlock the full potential of CLM. Here's a step-by-step guide to get you started:
1. Access the Collaborative Industry Innovator Role:
Upon logging in, navigate to the Compass icon. This will grant you access to the Collaborative Industry Innovator role, where you'll find the CLM app.
2. Launch the Collaborative Lifecycle App:
Double-clicking the CLM app icon will launch it within the platform.
3. Open Your Model and Initiate Revisions:
Select your desired model within the 3D space and open it within the CLM interface. This will initiate a new conversation for the updated revision.
4. Provide Revision Details:
This is where you can clearly document any changes made to the model. A detailed revision history is key for maintaining transparency and efficient collaboration.
5. Finalize the Revision:
Once you've documented the revision details, simply click "Revise" to commit the changes and update the file revision.
Beyond the Basics: Unlocking the Full Potential of CLM
While the above steps provide a foundational understanding of CLM, its capabilities extend far beyond basic revision control. This powerful tool allows you to:
Create and Manage Branches: Facilitate parallel development by creating separate branches for different design iterations. This enables exploration of alternative concepts without jeopardizing the core model.
Effortless Merging: Seamlessly integrate changes from various branches back into the main model, ensuring all team members are working with the most up-to-date version.
Enhanced Collaboration: CLM fosters a collaborative environment by providing a clear historical record of changes, revisions, and contributors. This promotes transparency and streamlines communication within your design team.
Conclusion
By incorporating Collaborative Lifecycle Management into your workflow, you can revolutionize the way you manage revisions and propel your 3D design projects to new heights. With its intuitive interface and comprehensive features, CLM empowers you to maintain control, streamline collaboration, and unlock the full potential of your design vision.
Let us see how we can Import and Export Package with 3DEXPERIENCE Exchange.
Collaborating together with users outside of your company has always been better! Assembly files can be easily bundled into a single package file by using the Export as a Package capability. You can share this file with third-party suppliers so you can track and get back their modifications. Even the files that are editable within the package can be restricted.
Similar to SOLIDWORKS Pack and Go, but with more ease of use as well as integration with 3DEXPERIENCE Platform products, is this capability.
How to Export as Package:
1. In 3DEXPERINCE SOLIDWORKS, open the assembly file you would like to share with External Stack Holder.
2. To save, pick Tools from the 3DEXPERIENCE tab on the right, choose Export, and then select Export as Package.
3. On the launch of the export window, you have the option to mark assemblies and components as read-only or editable for whoever you are sharing data with
4. Following that, providing the package a name and choose Export. The 3DEXPERIENCE Platform permits you to save the package file (.sldpkg) locally or to 3DDrive.
How to Import as Package with 3DEXPERIENCE Exchange for SOLIDWORKS:
1. Initially ensure certain SOLIDWORKS' "3DEXPERIENCE Exchange" Add-in is activated.
2. Select the 3DEXPERIENCE Exchange tab on task plane, then pick Import Package.
3. To open the ".sldpkg" file that you received, click the "Open" icon in the "Import Package" Window. A working folder will be created when importing this package, and its default path will be taken automatically.
4. The window on the right will display the files that are read-only or unchanged when the package has been imported.
5. The window on the right will display the files that are read-only or unchanged when the package has been imported.
Export Package:
Once you've decided to send the updated package back to the the sender, select Package, Export. The revised ".sldpkg" file can be saved from here on and forwarded to the 3DEXPERIENCE user you are collaborating with.
Managing Reference Component Revisions in 3DEXPERIENCE SOLIDWORKS
This blog post explains how to revise components within the SOLIDWORKS My Session Task Pane of the 3DEXPERIENCE platform. It covers the different approaches available and clarifies how to handle situations where reference components appear outdated.
This lesson demonstrates the many approaches to revising these components.
Challenges with Updating Downloaded Assemblies
When you download an assembly from the 3DEXPERIENCE platform and then update its reference components, those components might still show up in the Task Pane with the previous revision. This lesson will guide you through various methods to revise these components effectively.
Updating Individual Components
There are two main ways to update individual components:
Replace by Revision: Right-click a component in the Task Pane that has a newer revision available. Select "Replace by Revision" from the menu. This brings up a dialog box showcasing all compatible revisions for that component.
Latest Revision: This option replaces the component with its most recent revision.
Important Note: This functionality only works for components that have child references (components with derived parts or contextual connections).
2. Update Revisions in Top-Level Assembly: Selecting "Update Revision" on a top-level assembly offers a more streamlined approach. This action triggers a dialog box displaying the entire assembly structure. Next to each component, a drop-down list appears, allowing you to efficiently select the latest revision for multiple components simultaneously. This eliminates the need to update revisions one by one.
Important Considerations During Updates:
Warning Message: When replacing a file with a different revision while it still shows as updated in the Task Pane, a warning message will pop up. This message informs you that any local changes made to the file will be overwritten. It's recommended to back up your data beforehand if necessary.
Latest Revisions Update:
Selecting the "Update Revision" option on a top-level assembly streamlines the process. Consequently, a dialog box will appear, conveniently displaying the entire assembly structure. Furthermore, a drop-down list will be available next to each component, allowing you to efficiently link the most recent revisions of multiple components simultaneously. This eliminates the need to update each revision individually, as previously mentioned.
Replacing a component with the most recent revision available.
Replacing a component with the most recent stable revision takes it back to its most recent frozen or released lifecycle stage.
Replace with Most Recent Released Revision: Replace a component exclusively with the most recent revision to be made public.
Note: The option Replace by Latest Revision will be the only one available if there are only unreleased versions.
Updating All Components to Latest Revision
If you want to update all components within an assembly to their latest revisions at once, you don't need to use the drop-down menu for each component individually.
Simply select "Replace All" from the top right corner of the dialog box that appears when you choose "Update Revision" on the top-level assembly. This will instantly update all components to their most recent versions.
Additional Resources
You can find all the settings mentioned above within the Lifecycle tab located at the bottom of the My Session Task Pane.
This concludes the lesson on updating revisions in SOLIDWORKS My Session Task Pane. If you'd like to learn more about the 3DEXPERIENCE platform and SOLIDWORKS, explore the articles provided below.
In 3DEXPERIENCE platform, the Bookmark Editor empowers you to streamline cloud data organization and management. Imagine creating a personalized filing system based on projects, departments, products, or any other criteria that suits your workflow. This blog post delves into four key tips to unlock the full potential of the Bookmark Editor and transform your data management experience.
Customise the columns on your bookmark editor.
Enable Product Expansion.
Remove File vs Delete File.
Index and Authoring in Active Mode.
1. Customize the columns on your bookmark editor:
The Bookmark Editor displays a wealth of information about each file within its top row columns. These columns are instrumental in organizing and managing your data effectively. Tailor these columns to your specific needs by dragging and dropping them for rearrangement and selecting which ones to display.
Pro Tip: Right-click any column header and choose "Tree List View Options" to manage column visibility. This menu allows you to select the specific columns you want to display (Step 2). For even more granular control, click the settings gear in the upper right corner (Step 3) and navigate to "More Attributes" followed by "Select Attributes" (Step 4 & Step 5) to add even more columns.
2. Leverage Product Expansion for Effortless Navigation
Subassemblies and subcomponents become a breeze to navigate with product expansion enabled. Simply access the drop-down menu in the upper right corner of your Bookmark Editor Widget (Step 1) and select "Preferences" (Step 2)
. Next, activate the checkbox labelled "Enable product expansion" (Step 3). This will add a plus sign (+) to your files, allowing you to expand them and effortlessly view sub-components.
3. Understanding Remove vs. Delete: Keep Your Data Organized
The Bookmark Editor of 3DEXPERIENCE Platform offers two options for file management: Remove and Delete. It's crucial to understand the distinction between these two functions.
Remove: This action removes the selected file from the current Bookmark only. The file itself remains within the Collaborative Space where it was originally saved and can still be accessed through other Bookmarks.
Delete: This permanent action removes the selected file from your entire Platform. Use this option with caution, as deleted files cannot be recovered.
4. Switch Between Indexing and Authoring Modes for Real-time Updates
The Bookmark Editor offers two viewing modes: Indexing and Authoring. Indexing mode, the default setting, displays the latest items available from the server's database. However, there might be a slight delay in reflecting recent modifications or uploads due to the indexing process.
To view the most up-to-date changes, switch to Authoring mode. This mode allows you to see any files still being indexed. Keep in mind that the window will automatically revert to Indexing mode after a minute in Authoring mode, unless you adjust this behavior in the Preferences.
Unleash the Power of the Bookmark Editor
By incorporating these essential tips, you can transform the Bookmark Editor into a powerful tool for managing your cloud data within the 3DEXPERIENCE platform. From customized column views to seamless navigation and control over file management, the Bookmark Editor empowers you to organize and access your data with greater efficiency.
In today's fast-paced design environment, clear and efficient communication is paramount. Imagine a world where highlighting design issues, sharing feedback, and collaborating with colleagues becomes effortless.
This is the power of 3D Markup within the innovative 3DEXPERIENCE platform. It empowers users to streamline the review process, eliminate communication roadblocks, and foster seamless collaboration throughout the design cycle.
This blog post will guide you through the creation and utilization of 3D Markups, allowing you to leverage the full potential of this valuable tool within the 3DEXPERIENCE platform.
Get ready to revolutionize the way you communicate design ideas and dramatically improve project efficiency!
Accessing 3D Markup:
Before diving into creating markups, let's explore how to access the 3D Markup application within the 3DEXPERIENCE platform:
Open the 3DEXPERIENCE Platform: Head to Google Chrome and launch the 3DEXPERIENCE platform webpage.
Login with your Credentials: Use your 3D Passport login credentials to access the platform.
Finding 3D Markup: There are two ways to access 3D Markup. You can either open it directly from the Compass icon or drag it to your dashboard for easy future access.
Creating a New Markup:
Now that you've accessed 3D Markup, let's create a new markup to highlight design elements and communicate your ideas:
Initiate a New Markup: Within the Markup tab, locate and select the "Markup" icon to create a fresh markup.
Select Your File: It allows you to work with various file types. Choose the component, existing markup, drawing, or any other approved file type you want to annotate.
Enriching Your Markup:
With your file selected, it's time to add value through annotations:
Include Notes and Annotations: Clearly communicate your ideas by incorporating essential notes, shapes, or annotations directly onto the 3D model.
Save as Slides: Organize your markups for clear and efficient information sharing by saving them as slides.
Additional Features of 3D Markup
3D Markup offers even more functionalities to streamline your design review process:
Issues and Change Actions: Facilitate efficient problem-solving by creating Issues and Change Actions directly within the markup.
Share with the Community: Capture screenshots of your markups with ease and share them with the 3DSwym community, fostering a platform for exchanging ideas.
Seamless Transition to 3DPlay: After adding notes and annotations, simply switch to the 3DPlay application for further analysis while keeping the document active.
Creating Markups Directly from 3DPlay:
Here's a bonus tip: Did you know you can also create markups directly from within 3DPlay? Simply access the "Annotations Commands" icon in the Tools menu of the 3DPlay window to generate annotations similar to those made in It.
By incorporating these steps and exploring the functionalities of 3D Markup, you can significantly enhance communication and collaboration within your design projects.
SolidWorks 3DEXPERIENCE Project Planner empowers teams to streamline project execution through a web-based solution. This guide explores its functionalities, equipping you to harness its potential for collaborative project management.
1. what is project planner?
SolidWorks 3DEXPERIENCE Project Planner simplifies project planning by offering a browser-based solution. Teams can define, share, and complete tasks and deliverables through continuous project planning and execution. This collaborative and secure environment, powered by the 3DEXPERIENCE platform, keeps teams on track and within budget, ultimately accelerating time to market.
2. Who needs a project planner?
3DEXPERIENCE Project Planner empowers teams and organizations to manage complex engineering and product development projects. It proves valuable for various professionals, including:
Engineers and Designers: Plan and manage the development of 3D models, CAD designs, and other engineering-related tasks.
Product Managers: Plan and track new product development, including defining project timelines, assigning tasks, and monitoring progress.
Project Managers: Oversee and coordinate various project aspects, ensuring adherence to schedules and budgets.
Manufacturing and Production Teams: Align the production process with the product design and development schedule.
Collaborative Teams: Facilitate collaboration among team members, including cross-functional teams, suppliers, and partners.
Large Organizations: Manage complex projects involving multiple teams and departments with a unified platform.
3DEXPERIENCE Project Planner is ideal for anyone working on projects involving 3D modeling, CAD design, and engineering, especially when collaboration and task management are crucial.
3. The usage of a project planner?
SolidWorks 3DEXPERIENCE Project Planner offers a range of functionalities to streamline project management:
Project Planning:You can create and define projects within the software,
Task Management: Create and define projects within the software.
Resource Allocation:Create tasks and sub-tasks, assign them to team members.
Gantt Charts:Allocate resources like team members, equipment, and materials to tasks or projects for efficient utilization.
Collaboration:Utilize Gantt charts to visualize project timelines, dependencies, and critical paths.
Document Management:Store and manage project-related documents, CAD files, designs, and other resources within the system for easy access and version control.
Project Tracking:Monitor the progress of your projects and tasks in real-time. Real-time tracking lets you identify tasks on schedule and those at risk of delay, allowing for swift corrective actions.
Risk Management: Proactively identify potential risks and develop mitigation strategies.
Reporting and Analytics: Generate reports to assess project performance, resource allocation, and other key metrics.
Integration: Integrate with other SolidWorks software and tools for a holistic product design and engineering process.
4. Who needs a project planner?
SolidWorks 3DEXPERIENCE Project Planner significantly enhances productivity for teams involved in engineering, design, and product development. Here's how:
Centralized Information: A central platform stores project information, tasks, documents, and communication, eliminating scattered information and saving time.
Streamlined Task Management: Break down projects into tasks, assign responsibilities, and set deadlines for improved efficiency and accountability.
Real-Time Collaboration: Real-time communication and data sharing among team members and external partners lead to faster decision-making and problem-solving.
Visual Project Planning: Understand project structure and dependencies with Gantt charts and visual timelines, enabling efficient resource allocation and work planning.
Resource Optimization: Allocate resources effectively to avoid overloading individuals or underutilizing resources, leading to better resource management and improved productivity.
Reduced Errors: Version control and central document management minimize errors and rework. Teams can access the latest design documents and CAD files, improving quality and reducing correction time.
Proactive Project Monitoring: Real-time project tracking allows for early identification of potential delays or issues. This proactive approach enables teams to take corrective actions swiftly, preventing small problems from becoming major setbacks.
Data-Driven Improvement: By analyzing project performance, resource utilization, and other key metrics data, you can identify bottlenecks and areas for improvement in future projects.
Integration Benefits: Integration with other SolidWorks tools and third-party software streamlines workflows and reduces manual data transfer, enhancing productivity by eliminating redundant tasks.
Risk Mitigation: Identify and manage project risks to avoid costly delays and disruptions.
In summary, SolidWorks 3DEXPERIENCE Project Planner improves productivity by streamlining project management processes, enhancing communication and collaboration, reducing errors, and providing insights into project performance. It helps teams work more efficiently and effectively, ultimately leading to faster project completion, cost savings, and higher-quality outcomes.
5.Is it possible for me to make manual edits to the project? Or Certainly, here's the rewritten version?
Yes, you can make manual edits within your SolidWorks 3DEXPERIENCE Project Planner. The software typically provides user-friendly interfaces for creating, modifying, and updating project details, tasks, timelines, and resources. You can edit project plans, adjust task assignments, update deadlines, and make other changes as needed to keep your project information accurate and up-to-date. These manual edits are an essential part of actively managing your projects and adapting to changing circumstances.
6. it is only for internal purposes or it has any external community can use it?
SolidWorks 3DEXPERIENCE Project Planner empowers you to manage internal projects and collaborate with external partners or communities. The software facilitates communication and collaboration among all project stakeholders, including internal team members, external collaborators, suppliers, customers, and partners.. This flexibility allows for a broader and more inclusive approach to project planning and management, enhancing transparency and coordination across the entire project ecosystem.
7. Is it only for any specific project or we can do anything?
SolidWorks 3DEXPERIENCE Project Planner targets engineering, design, and product development projects. It specifically tailors its features to support tasks and activities commonly found in these fields. While it is highly versatile within this context, it may not be the most suitable tool for managing projects in unrelated fields, such as construction or event planning.
In summary, SolidWorks 3DEXPERIENCE Project Planner is most effective when used for projects in the engineering, design, and product development domains. It may not be as well-suited for managing projects outside of these areas.
Task Scheduler:
Focus:Task Scheduler is primarily focused on managing and automating individual tasks or processes within a project.
Scope: It deals with the execution and scheduling of specific tasks, often related to routine or repetitive activities . Automation:Task Scheduler is commonly used to automate tasks like backups, data imports, script executions, and system maintenance. It's more about automating technical or operational processes.
Granularity: It can manage tasks at a granular level, often focusing on individual actions rather than the overall project.
Project Planner:
Focus: Project Planner is designed for comprehensive project management, from planning and resource allocation to execution and monitoring of the entire project.
Scope: It deals with the entire project lifecycle, including defining project objectives, creating task dependencies, assigning resources, tracking progress, and generating reports.
Project Management: Project Planner is a tool for managing projects of varying complexities, such as product development, construction, event planning, and more. It encompasses all aspects of project management.
Granularity: Project Planner offers a broader perspective and can handle tasks at various levels, from high-level project phases down to detailed task management.
Task Scheduler excels at automating and managing specific, recurring tasks or processes, often technical or operational in nature. In contrast, Project Planner tackles comprehensive project management. It handles the entire project lifecycle and is well-suited for complex projects with diverse tasks and dependencies. The choice between them depends on your specific needs and the scale of the project you are managing.
Struggling to manage complex 3D printed product designs across multiple design tools? Look no further than 3D Product Architect (PAU), a revolutionary browser-based application that empowers seamless collaboration and streamlines the entire 3D printed product development process.
3D Product Architect enables users to create or modify multi-CAD product structures without the use of design tools. Being able to digitally mockup a proposal reduces design iterations and makes reviews available to the product development process.
Connect everyone with the product development process using a browser-based application.
Enable non-CAD users to mock-up new products or product changes prior to the detailed design.
Create multi-CAD mock-ups of a product.
Optimize the product definition for configurable products into a single definition that satisfies the intent of product variations and maximizes IP reuse.
Beyond the Basics: Advanced Features for Efficiency:
3D PAU offers a robust set of features to optimize your 3D printed product development workflow:
Effortless 3D Visualization: Visualize and navigate your entire product structure in 3D, allowing for a comprehensive understanding of the design and the impact of any changes.
Intuitive Product Development: Create, modify, or derive new product structures directly from your web browser. Utilize drag-and-drop functionality and free-form tools for effortless product assembly.
Digital Mock-up Made Easy: Effortlessly build digital mockups within the browser and seamlessly transfer them to your preferred CAD software.
Work Under Change Management: Maintain complete control over design revisions. The "Work Under Change" feature captures all modifications within a designated change action, ensuring clear audit trails.
Key functionalities of 3D PAU include::
CAD Visualization
3D Visualization
Product Development
Work Under Change
Digital Mock-up
Derivative Product Development
Measurement and Sectioning
Related Products and Specifications
Product Structure Filtering
Unleash the Power of Collaboration
Effortless 3D Visualization: Visualize and navigate your entire product structure in 3D, allowing for a comprehensive understanding of the design and the impact of any changes.
Intuitive Product Development: Create, modify, or derive new product structures directly from your web browser. Utilize drag-and-drop functionality and free-form tools for effortless product assembly.
Digital Mock-up Made Easy: Effortlessly build digital mockups within the browser and seamlessly transfer them to your preferred CAD software.
Work Under Change Management: Maintain complete control over design revisions. The "Work Under Change" feature captures all modifications within a designated change action, ensuring clear audit trails.
Beyond the Basics: Advanced Features for Efficiency
3D PAU offers a robust set of features to optimize your 3D printed product development workflow:
Effortless Derivative Product Development: Duplicate existing products to create variations, selectively reusing components and streamlining the design process.
Precise Measurement and Sectioning: Perform detailed measurements, create sections for design clarity, and locate specific features within your product structure.
Enhanced Navigation with Related Products and Specifications: Effortlessly navigate the relationships between product components, change actions, and other specifications.
Streamlined Filtering: Utilize volume queries to isolate specific sections of your product structure, simplifying the visualization of complex designs.
Revolutionize Your 3D Printing Workflow with 3D PAU
3D PAU empowers efficient collaboration, streamlines product development, and simplifies 3D printed product design for users of all experience levels. Experience the future of 3D printed product development with 3D PAU.
The SOLIDWORKS costing tool helps you calculate how much it costs to manufacture sheet metal, machined, multibody parts, and assembles as well as plastic molded , cast, 3D printed parts, and multimode weldments by automating the cost estimation and quotation process.
Evaluating the Cost of a Sheet Metal part with the Material Weight Option:
The software depends on the un suppressing of flat patterns in sheet metal parts to determine the cut paths. Applying costing to a sheet metal part with an unsuppressible flat pattern may lead to inaccurate costing results.
Costing Task Pane
In a sheet metal part, click Costing (Tools toolbar or the Evaluate tab on the Command Manager) or Tools > SOLIDWORKS Applications > Costing.
When a sheet metal template has sufficient information and the part uses a matching material, the Costing Task Pane will display an Estimated Cost Per Part based on a cost estimate.
If there is not enough information in the template, or if you want to edit the Costing input values, follow the steps below.
ESTIMATED COST PER PART
Under Costing Template, select a template and the Default templates are available or you can create templates to use custom manufacturing data and See Creating a New Sheet Metal Template.
These fields will automatically populate from the template whenever the part's material matches a class, name, and thickness combination within the template.
The Material cost is the cost in the template for the selected Class, Name, and Thickness from template combination. You can override Material cost without editing the template. Overrides affect only the part that is open, not the template. If you override Material cost, the field appears in yellow.
Under Stock Type from Template, select Material Weight.
Under Area to cost select an item to define the material usage.
Under Quantity, set the Total number of parts and Lot size.
Optionally, under Markup/Discount, adjust the material cost or the total cost using a percentage factor.
The software extracts material information from the material set in the part and performs a cost estimate. The costing manager identifies and displays manufacturing features in the part, such as cut paths and bends. The Costing Task Pane displays the Estimated Cost Per Part.
Click Begin Cost Estimation.
The Costing Manager will display the cost estimate for the SolidWorks sheet metal part.
