CREATION OF TERMINAL DIAGRAM IN SOLIDWORKS ELECTRICAL

Creation of a new terminal strip drawing in SolidWorks electrical and customizing it according to our specification.

In SOLIDWORKS ELECTRICAL, the creation of terminal drawings is automated, ensuring that the origin and destination of wires, as well as component details, are dynamically updated on the terminal drawing sheet.

STEP 1

  • AS shown in the below image 
  • Create a wire before inserting a terminal.
  • To ensure automatic updates of wire origin and destination, place a component before and after the terminal.
SolidWorks Electrical Terminal Diagram

  STEP 2

TERMINAL OPTIONS

  • One method allows you to place a single terminal...
  • The other method is used for placing a set of multiple terminals...
  • SolidWorks Electrical offers two insertion options: one for placing a single terminal and another for placing a set of multiple terminals.
SolidWorks Electrical Terminal Diagram

STEP 3

ADDING MULTIPLE TERMINAL

  • To add a multiple set of terminals a line needed to draw and a triangle in the image represents the flow of the wire
  • The line signifies that these wires function as a single group, from which you can extract a cable or a set of neutral wires.
SolidWorks Electrical Terminal Diagram

STEP 4

TERMINAL PROPERTIES

  • Two important markers are displayed in the terminal properties: parent mark and terminal number.
  • To clarify the terminal hierarchy, the first MARK identifies the parent mark, such as X2.
  • Second MARK represents terminal number in the parent terminal i.e X2-1,2,3.
  • Before clicking "OK," ensure you haven't added manufacturer data yet. There is an easy way of adding manufacturer data that we ll discuss in next topic.
SolidWorks Electrical Terminal Diagram

STEP 5

MANUFACTURER DATA ADDING

  • After adding a terminal, right-click on it and navigate to "Edit Terminal Strip X2" to include manufacturer data.
  • Second image shows adding the manufacturer by selecting every number of terminal and right click-> Assign manufacturer 
SolidWorks Electrical Terminal Diagram
SolidWorks Electrical Terminal Diagram

STEP 6

MANUFACTURER PART PROPERTIES

  • The library will then display a list of manufacturers.
  • The selection process involves choosing the ideal manufacturer based on compatibility with the circuit and terminal points.
  • Completing these steps creates a terminal and assigns a manufacturer, as illustrated in the second image.

STEP 7

TERMINAL STRIP PAGE

  • SolidWorks Electrical can automatically generate a separate page for your terminal connection details.
  • Right-clicking the X2 terminal in the image reveals a menu with various options.
  • Following the image's highlight, select the "Draw" option.
  • A new page showcasing terminal strip connection details is automatically generated, as shown in the second image below.A screenshot of a computer

Description automatically generated

Summary

  • Building on the steps outlined above, we can now create a terminal connection in SolidWorks Electrical.
  • Creating these points automatically generates a terminal connection detail page.

3DEXPERIENCE SOLIDWORKS SHARE AND MARKUP

Share and Mark-up

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.

SOLIDWORKS Inspection : Enhancing OCR Accuracy Using Customized DictionariesSOLIDWORKS Inspection

SOLIDWORKS Inspection software greatly assists in generating quality control and planning documentation. When utilizing the standalone edition of SolidWorks Inspection to balloon PDF or Tiff files and produce inspection reports, encountering a drawing with a non-standard font can lead to potential inaccuracies in dimension and note extraction. 

Keep reading to learn how to prevent this problem and receive a quick tip for resolving it.

In this example, we are using Cooper Black as the non-standard font.

How-to-Create-a-Custom-OCR-Dictionary-in-SOLIDWORKS-Inspection-2

The OCR (Optical Character Recognition) function attempts to match the captured image of a dimension or note with characters from a predefined "dictionary" or list of known characters. Consequently, using non-standard fonts can lead to inaccurate matching between the two. Take note of the image below, where the dimension, tolerance, units, and dimension sub-type are extracted incorrectly.

As a default feature, SOLIDWORKS Inspection includes standard "dictionaries" or lists of characters available for selection. You can access these dictionaries under Options > Project Options > Imaging/OCR.

The solution to this issue is to train SOLIDWORKS Inspection to recognize and interpret the font used in the drawings you receive:

Step 1: Access the OCR Editor

Step 2: Insert a sample drawing into the editor to use as a tool to extracting characters and assigning them values.

Note: It would be ideal to have a print with all the letters, numbers and symbols used. (A thru Z, 1 to 9, and commonly used symbols).

Step 3: Extract the characters, assign the corresponding values, and store the dictionary.

You have the option to select "auto extract" or utilize the extraction tool in your command manager to box around of letters, numbers, or symbols. The Auto-extract feature in the OCR editor will then separate the characters for you, enabling you to input a value for each one.

For instance, in the example below, the character box is "A". On the extraction panel's left side, under the "value" section, we input "A" Subsequently, you can utilize the arrows in the extraction panel to proceed to the next character and input its corresponding value.

Ideally, aim to include all possible characters in the dictionary. Additionally, duplicating the same character multiple times could prove beneficial in certain situations. Once you have completed this process, save the dictionary to a location of your choice and then close the editor.

Step 4: Direct SOLIDWORKS Inspection to the dictionary you've created.

In SOLIDWORKS Inspection, incorporate the custom dictionary you've created.

Select the custom dictionary file in the specific folder.

Conclusion:

As a result, you'll achieve precise OCR recognition for the non-standard font. This dictionary is now applicable to any drawing featuring that specific font.

SOLIDWORKS COMPOSER : Creation of HIGH RESOLUTION IMAGE using SOLIDWORKS COMPOSER

Creating a high-quality image of a product using Solidworks composer.

After creating an image, you can follow a few steps to transform it into different types of images and ultimately use it to create a video

STEP 1

  • As shown in the below image,
  • You directly import a SOLIDWORKS assembly file.
  • The left side bottom tab consists of various properties used to change the colors, background colors, camera alignment and a few other options to change the product looks.
  • At the top, you'll find additional options that provide various features we'll explore in the following pages.

STEP 2

Assembly, Collaboration, Views

  • Once the above points are done, as per the below image 
  • Three tabs (highlighted) will be present which consist of assembly, collaboration, and views.
  • In the Assembly option every subassembly can be selected and modified separately. In the model, the selected subassembly will be highlighted in the assembly tab in a shaded brown color as shown in the image.
  • Once selected we can hide others and work on the selected subassembly, or we can hide the selected subassembly and work on the other subassembly file.
  • The VIEW tab allows you to take screenshots. Will discuss about VIEW tab in upcoming topics.

STEP 3

TRIAD

  • A TIRAD option is to pull out the subassembly in any direction.
  • The image shows bolts selected.. Once selected, the left side tab shows the selected bolts with highlighted shaded brown color.
  • The software opens a pop-up with three colored triads for moving the selection.
  • Every color represents the XYZ directions. Selecting and dragging the colored triads will cause the subassembly file to move in that direction.

STEP 4

PATH

  • SOLIDWORKS Composer allows you to create an associative path using the "Create Associative Path from Neutral" tool.
  • A second image is the resulting image which shows where the removed bolt comes from i.e. neutral path.
  • With this option even in exploded view we find the origin of the removed items.

STEP 5

LINEAR DRAG

  • Linear drag allows you to drag multiple subassembly files simultaneously.
  • The only thing is that subassembly should be either vertical or horizontal.
  • Selecting subassembly files vertically or horizontally is necessary to maintain their removal process.

STEP 6

VIEWS

  • The VIEWS tab allows you to capture a screenshot, which can then be used to create videos.
  • Those videos show how to assemble the product and how to remove it at the same.
  • Every view will be different and showcase the process of the product assembling.
  • We will cover how to add various effects to views, including exploding parts, highlighting elements, zooming in for detail, and using diggers for interactive exploration..

STEP 7

HIGH RESOLUTION IMAGE

  • With high resolution image option under the tab Home, A workshops opened at the right side.
  • A multiple options will be available like preview, Detail view, background options etc…are selected and saved according to requirements.

A machine with rollers on it

Summary

  • With these above-mentioned points we can be able to create high-quality images (VIEWS) using SOLIDWORKS COMPOSER
  • We will cover video creation and other topics in the next session.

SOLIDWORKS TASK SCHEDULER

In our day-to-day design lives, the designer spends lots of time taking a
number of pins, creating a drawing, and exporting and importing files. SOLIDWORKS
professional and premium offer to access the SOLIDWORKS task scheduler for helps
your productivity and work efficiently.
The SolidWorks Task Scheduler sets up tasks to perform at a future time. You
can use SOLIDWORKS Task Scheduler for scheduling the job during off-peak hours.

PURPOSE OF TASK SCHEDULER

The Task Scheduler allows you to perform automated tasks on a computer.
you can schedule any program to run at any time for you.
You can access SOLIDWORKS TASK SCHEDULER in two different locations:

  1. Windows search > TYPE task > CLICK SOLIDWORKS task scheduler...
  2. In SOLIDWORKS menu bar, click Tools > SOLIDWORKS applications > CLICK
    SOLIDWORKS task scheduler...

SOLIDWORKS TASK SCHEDULER INTERFACE

The user interface helps to assign the task and verify the status, along with a
date and time. The highlighted area is the task lists.

The task details are given in the next picture, for more clarity.
NOTE: In scheduling time, your system must be in switch ON condition.

TASK LIST

In the task scheduler, the most commonly used tasks are given below:

a) Print files
b) Import files
c) Export files
d) Creating drawings

PRINT FILES

The print file task helps you save time and productivity. You can schedule
tasks to print drawing files in are specified type within a folder. You can specify
one or more files or folders, but you cannot specify both files and folders in the
same task. For example, A0, A1, A2, A3, and A4

Steps:

1) Click the print file in the task list.
2) Add a specific file or folder to print.
3) Click an option for printer setting.
4) Set the printer name, sheet size, and number of copies.
5) Set the scheduling date and time.
6) Click Finish for scheduling.
Note: your drawing sheet size and printer set size must be the same.

IMPORT FILES

You can schedule tasks to import Parasol ID, IGES, STEP, ACIS, VDAFS,
SLDXML and Rhino files into SOLIDWORKS part (*.sldprt) files. You can import
individual files or all files of a specified type within a folder.

Steps:
1) Click the import file in the task list.
2) Add a specific file or folder to import.
3) Click an option for import type.
4) Set the import option for your need.
5) Choose your file output location.
6) Set the scheduling date and time.
7) Click finish for scheduling.

EXPORTING FILES

You can schedule tasks to export SOLIDWORKS documents into other
formats. You can export individual files or all files of a specified type within a
folder.

Steps:

1) Click the export file in the task list.
2) Choose your export file type in the drop-down.
3) Add a specific file or folder to export.
4) Click an option for export type.
5) Set the export option for your requirement.
6) Choose your file output location.
7) Set the scheduling date and time.
8) Click finish for scheduling.

CREATE DRAWINGS

You can schedule tasks to create drawing files for the SOLIDWORKS part
and assembly files. You can create drawings for individual files or all files of a
specified type within a folder.

Steps:

1) Click creates drawings in the task list.
2) Choose your drawing template with a predefined view.
3) Add a specific file or folder to export.
4) Choose your file output location.
5) Set the scheduling date and time.
6) Click Finish for scheduling.
Note: create a drawing template with a predefined view for proper drawing
creation.

Create Drawing Templates in Minutes: Leverage Predefined Views in Your SOLIDWORKS CAD Workflow

The world of product development is constantly evolving, and innovative tools like 3D Product Architect (PAU) are pushing the boundaries of Solidworks. This powerful software empowers users to create and modify complex product structures without the need for dedicated design software. This translates to a more inclusive development process, allowing even non-designers to contribute to product visualization and refinement. With 3D PAU, digital mockups become a breeze, fostering earlier collaboration and reducing the number of design iterations required. Let's delve deeper and explore the exciting functionalities of 3D PAU and how it can streamline your product development journey.

PREDEFINED VIEW

The predefined view in SOLIDWORKS is the easier way to set up the
orientation of our models like the front view, top view, right view, and an
isometric view. Additionally, configure the model dimensions, display style,
and scale.

Streamline Drawing Creation with Predefined Views

Predefined views are a built-in feature in popular Computer-Aided Design (CAD) software like SolidWorks. They offer a faster and more efficient way to generate standard views of your 3D models, such as front, top, and right side views.

This blog dives into how you can leverage predefined views to create drawing templates, saving you significant time and effort in the long run.

Building Your Predefined View Template

The core of this technique lies in creating a template that incorporates your preferred view orientations, dimensions, and annotations. Here, we'll walk you through the steps involved in building your own predefined view template:

  • Choosing the Right Template and Sheet Size: We'll discuss selecting the appropriate base template and sheet size for your drawings.
  • Inserting Predefined Views: Learn how to easily insert standard views like front, top, and right side views using the predefined view options.
  • Customizing Annotations and Dimensions: Explore the options for setting annotations and dimensions within your predefined views.
  • Saving Your Template: Discover how to save your customized template for future use.

Benefits of Predefined View Templates

By investing time in creating predefined view templates, you'll reap numerous benefits:

  • Increased Efficiency: Significantly reduce the time spent on setting up basic views in your drawings.
  • Standardized Drawings: Ensure consistent layout and presentation across all your drawings.
  • Reduced Errors: Minimize the risk of errors by pre-defining critical annotations and dimensions.

Leverage Predefined Views for a Smoother Workflow

Predefined views offer a powerful approach to creating drawing templates in SolidWorks. implementing this technique, you can significantly boost your productivity and ensure consistent, high-quality drawings for your projects.

CREATING A PREDEFINED VIEW

STEP-1: Choosing drawing template and sheet size.

Choosing drawing template and sheet size - Solidworks

➢ Click New > Template > Drawing > Click OK.
➢ Select the sheet size > Click OK.

STEP-2: Placing the predefined views on the drawing sheet.

➢ In the command manager, click Drawing > Choose a predetermined
view.
➢Begin by placing the first predefined view onto the drawing sheet.
➢ Select the front view as the orientation on the property manager tab.
➢ Set the annotation on the property management tab and choose import
and design annotations from the drop-down menus.
➢ Set the first view by clicking OK.
Note: The same procedures apply for the top view and right-side views as
well.

 Placing the predefined views on the drawing sheet - Soidworks

STEP-3: Placing the flat pattern views on the drawing sheet.

➢ In the command manager, click Drawing > Choose a predetermined
view.
➢ Place the predefined view in the necessary location on the drawing
sheet.
➢ Select the flat pattern view as the orientation on the property manager
tab.
➢ Set the annotation on the property management tab and choose import
and design annotations from the drop-down menus.
➢ Set the view by clicking OK.

Note: In SOLIDWORKS 2022 version new features include the flat pattern
view, dimetric views, and trimetric views.

Placing the flat pattern views on the drawing sheet - solidworks

STEP-4: Set the marked dimension for drawing.

Set the marked dimension for drawing - Solidworks

➢Select the document properties option on the settings menu.
➢In the document properties drop-down select detailing.
➢ The dimensions marked for drawing should be turned on.
➢ To make the selection, click OK.

STEP-5: Review the final position of the predefined view

Review the final position of the predefined view - Solidworks

STEP-6: Save the predefined view as a template.

Save the predefined view as a template  - Solidworks

➢Click File > Save As.
➢ Save as type pick a drawing template from the drop-down menu.
➢ If the drawing template is selected as the save as type, it transports to
the location of the pre-set template.
➢ Click OK to save the template

Save the predefined view as a template  - Solidworks

STEP-7: Create a drawing of the model.

➢Open the part > select the drop-down on a new tab.
➢ Choose mark drawing from part.
➢ Pick the created predefined view.
➢Click OK to see the model detailing.

Create a drawing of the model  - Soliworks
Create a drawing of the model  - Soliworks

Final Result:

Result - Solidworks.

Note: The predefined view template was also used in the task scheduler to
increase productivity. Click Here for More Information.

Conclusion:

Using Predefined Views to build templates is an excellent method to
automate projected or regular views and make the most of your Solidworks
tools. To work smarter rather than harder, try incorporating Predefined views
into your workflow.

SolidWorks Simulation: Design Stronger, Safer Industrial Equipment

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.

solidworks - Traditional physical prototypes

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.

Gain insights on SOLIDWORKS-embedded simulation solutions while enhancing strength

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.

EMBEDDING SOLIDWORKS COMPOSER PLAYER IN MICROSOFT POWER POINT PRESENTATION

Imagine captivating your audience with a presentation that transcends static images. SOLIDWORKS Composer empowers you to create dynamic, 2D and 3D visuals that bring your product or process to life. But how do you integrate these rich visuals into your existing presentations? Look no further than Microsoft PowerPoint!

This guide unlocks the secrets of embedding SOLIDWORKS Composer directly into PowerPoint. By following these steps, you'll transform your presentations from informative to interactive, fostering deeper audience engagement.

Enabling the Developer Ribbon:

  1. Open a new PowerPoint presentation.
  2. Navigate to the File menu and select Options.
  3. Within the Options window, click on Customize Ribbon.
  4. Locate the Developer checkbox and ensure it's selected. Click OK to confirm.

Inserting the Composer Player ActiveX Control:

  1. With the Developer tab now visible, locate the Controls section.
  2. Click on More Controls.
  3. Scroll down the list and select Composer Player ActiveX. Click OK.
  4. A rectangular box will appear on your slide. Resize and position it as desired.

Linking the Composer File:

  1. Right-click on the Composer Player ActiveX control and choose Composer Player ActiveX Object followed by Properties.
  2. Under the General tab, click Browse. Locate and select your SOLIDWORKS Composer file (.smg) and click Open.
  3. In the Layout tab, uncheck all options to remove unnecessary toolbars from the ActiveX player. Click OK.

Creating Interactive Buttons (Optional):

  1. While on the Developer tab, navigate to Controls and select Command Button.
  2. Place the button on your slide where desired. Right-click and choose Command Button Object followed by Edit.
  3. Rename the button text to match a specific view name within your SOLIDWORKS Composer project (e.g., Default, BOM1).
  4. Double-click the button to access the Microsoft Visual Basic for Applications window.
  5. Paste the following code, replacing "Default" with your desired view name:

Code snippet : "DSComposerplayerActiveX1.GoToConfiguration"

6. Click Save and close the VBA window. Repeat steps 3-6 for additional buttons with different view names and corresponding code.

Testing and Saving:

  1. Switch to Slide Show mode to view the embedded model.
  2. Use your mouse to zoom, pan, and rotate the 3D model for a fully interactive experience.

Important Note: When reopening the presentation, you might need to enable macros for the ActiveX player to function correctly. To ensure compatibility, save your presentation as a PowerPoint Macro-Enabled Presentation (.pptm).

By following these steps, you'll successfully embed interactive 3D models from SOLIDWORKS Composer into your PowerPoint presentations. This powerful technique allows you to showcase your designs with unparalleled clarity, fostering a more impactful and engaging audience experience.

Creation of PLC in library of SOLIDWORKS ELECTRICAL

Creating a PLC in SOLIDWORKS ELECTRICAL SCHEMATICS and customizing the PLC according to our requirement.

Include this connector in your schematic diagrams to connect symbols like relays, contactors, sensors, and signals.

                     The creation of a PLC involves following a few steps. Once created, the same PLC specifications can be used for connections within SOLIDWORKS Electrical schematics.

STEP 1

  • To create a PLC first it must store in the library. The library permanently stores created connectors until you remove them manually
  • To create a PLC as shown in the below image first have to goto Library -> Manufacturer part management.
Windows Screen of Creating PLC in library of SOLIDWORKS ELECTRICAL

STEP 2

Manufacturer part management

  • Once the above points done.
  • Manufacturer part management will consist of more number classifications(folders). This section actively separates and organizes all components into different folders.
  • Selecting the PLC folder filters the manufacturer part management tab on the right side, displaying only PLC-related manufacturers already present in the library.
  • Selecting the "ADD MANUFACTURER PART" option allows you to create a new PLC. The system will provide a separate tab to enter details specific to the PLC.
Windows screnn of Manufacturing part management

STEP 3

New PLC details adding In Solidworks Electrical

  • Once the above points done.
  •  The system will open a Manufacturer Part Properties tab.
  • In this section three options will be present PROPERTIES, USER DATA, CIRCUIT, TERMINALS
  • The Properties tab requires you to fill in essential details like reference and manufacturer. Scrolling down reveals additional optional specifications such as height, weight, frequencies, and supplier name.
Windows Screen of New PLC details adding In Solidworks Electrical

STEP 4

Specifications of Circuit, Terminal

  • With continuation of above points
  • The third option, Circuit Terminals, lets you add circuit types.
  •  At the top circuit, terminal option will be present near to the properties tab.
  • This tab allows you to add circuits using the ADD option
  • The ADD MULTIPLE option, illustrated in the image below, allows you to efficiently add multiple circuits at once

STEP 5

Add Multiple Circuits In Solidworks Electrical

  • The image below demonstrates how to quickly and easily add multiple circuits.
  • All circuits type are present in the scroll down. Select circuits based on your specific requirements.
Windows screen of 
Add Multiple Circuits In Solidworks Electrical

Summary

  • With these above-mentioned points we can able to create a PLC in a solidworks electrical.
  • By following these steps, you will create a new connector that gets added to the SOLIDWORKS Electrical library for future use.
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