Linking SOLIDWORKS Electrical 2D to 3D Assemblies

August 6, 2025

 Linking SOLIDWORKS Electrical 2D to 3D Assemblies

Linking SolidWorks Electrical 2D to 3D Assemblies

🧭 Step 1: Electrical 2D Project Should Be Created

  • SOLIDWORKS Electrical 2D should be launched.
  • A new project should be created by selecting “New Project” and choosing a template or starting from scratch.
  • Schematics should be designed:
  • Components, symbols, wires, and cables should be added.
  • Circuits and terminal strips should be defined.
  • The project should be saved, and manufacturer part numbers must be assigned to all components to ensure 3D integration compatibility.

🔄 Step 2: 3D Part Data Should Be Assigned to Components

The manufacturer part manager should be opened.

For each component:

  • “Edit Part” should be selected, then navigated to the “SolidWorks Part” tab.
  • A 3D model from the library should be assigned, or a custom one should be inserted.
  • Mating points for wire connections must be defined properly.

🧩 Step 3: SolidWorks 3D Should Be Launched and the Electrical 3D Add-In Enabled

  • SolidWorks 3D CAD should be opened.
  • From the “Tools” > “Add-Ins” menu, SolidWorks Electrical 3D should be activated.
  • The Electrical 3D tab should be accessed from the Command Manager.

📁 Step 4: The 2D Project Should Be Linked in SolidWorks 3D

  • In the Electrical 3D tab, “Open Electrical Project” should be clicked.
  • The same project created in 2D should be located and opened.
  • Upon loading, the following will be imported automatically:
  • Component list
  • Wiring data
  • Cable references

📦 Step 5: Components Should Be Placed in the 3D Assembly

  • A new assembly should be started, or an existing enclosure layout should be opened.
  • The “Place Component” button should be used to insert parts defined in the 2D project.
  • Components should be positioned and mated as needed within the cabinet or panel.

🔌 Step 6: Wires and Cables Should Be Routed in 3D

  • The “Route Wires” or “Route Cables” function in the Electrical 3D tab should be clicked.
  • The software will:
    • Automatically generate paths between electrical connection points.
    • Respect wire types and lengths defined in the 2D schematic.
  • Routing paths can be manually adjusted using available Routing tools, if necessary.

📊 Step 7: Reports Should Be Synced and Generated

  • The Electrical 2D project should be reopened.
  • From the Project menu, “Update from 3D” should be selected to sync any changes made in 3D (e.g., lengths, locations).
  • The following updated reports should be generated:
    • Wire lists
    • Cable summaries
    • Cutting and routing reports

✅ Final Checks

  • The “Connection Report” should be used to verify schematic completeness.
  • Wire lengths and 3D model accuracy should be carefully double-checked.
  • The project can be exported in PDF, DWG, or STEP formats for sharing.

📘 Conclusion

When SolidWorks Electrical 2D and 3D are linked, enhanced design integrity is achieved, collaboration between teams is improved, and production errors are significantly reduced. By following a streamlined workflow, smarter, cleaner, and more efficient control panels, harnesses, and assemblies can be delivered with confidence.

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