Lesson 1 – Introducing SolidWorks
Section I – Preliminaries 1.1 Lesson Objectives
Lesson 1 – Introducing SolidWorks
1.1 Lesson Objectives
After completing this Lesson, you will be able to:
Explain how to start SolidWorks.
Explain the SolidWorks Interface.
Explain how SolidWorks files are named.
Explain the difference between a part and an assembly of parts.
Explain the difference between a part drawing and an assembly drawing.
Explain concurrent engineering.1.2 Introduction
SolidWorks is a modern
computer aided design (CAD)
program. It enables designers
to create a mathematically
correct solid model of an
object that can be stored in a
database. When the
mathematical model of a part
or assembly is associated with
the properties of the materials
used, we get a solid model
that can be used to simulate
and predict the behavior of the
part or model with finite
element and other simulation
software. The same solid
model can be used to
manufacture the object and
also contains the information
necessary to inspect and
assemble the product. The
marketing organization can produce sales brochures and videos that introduce the product to
potential customers. SolidWorks and similar CAD programs have made possible concurrent
engineering, where all the groups that contribute to the product development process can share
information real-time.
Concurrent Engineering
The practice of sharing the solid model throughout the
organization is called concurrent engineering. It can reduce the
time it takes to develop a new product. Previous to concurrent
engineering, the design group had to complete the design before
the manufacturing organization decided how to make each part.
For example, if a part is injection molded, the manufacturing
organization must design the mold. With concurrent engineering,
manufacturing personnel does not have to wait for the drawings of
the part to be complete and can use the solid model to design the
mold in parallel. If the design of the part changes, the new
dimensions are available to the manufacturing organization in
real-time and the mold design always reflect the latest
information. In addition to reducing the product development time,
this early involvement of the manufacturing organization promotes
better communication that reduces errors and improves product
quality.
The ultimate expression of concurrent is the integrated product
team (IPT). The team includes representation from all the
company stakeholders including the design and manufacturing
organizations, the field maintenance organization, and the
marketing, accounting and legal departments.