How to Create Models in

SOLIDWORKS
Introduction
SOLIDWORKS is a powerful computer-aided design (CAD) software that allows
engineers and designers to create 3D models of products and components. Whether
you are designing a complex machine or a simple part, SOLIDWORKS provides a
comprehensive set of tools to bring your ideas to life. In this document, we will guide
you through the process of creating 3D models in SOLIDWORKS.

Getting Started
1. Installing SOLIDWORKS

Before you can start creating 3D models, you need to install SOLIDWORKS on your
computer. Follow the installation instructions provided by SOLIDWORKS, ensuring that
your system meets the software's requirements.

2. Launching SOLIDWORKS

Once installed, launch SOLIDWORKS. You'll be greeted with a welcome screen that gives
you several options, including creating a new part, assembly, or drawing. For this
tutorial, we'll focus on creating a new part.

Creating a New Part

Click on "New" in the welcome screen and select "Part" from the dropdown menu.
Alternatively, you can go to "File" > "New" > "Part."

2. Setting Parameters
Before you start modeling, define the parameters for your part. These parameters
include units (millimeters, inches, etc.) and part templates. SOLIDWORKS offers a range
of templates to get you started.

3. The SOLIDWORKS Interface

Familiarize yourself with the SOLIDWORKS interface, which includes the graphics area,
feature manager tree, command manager, and property manager. These components
will be your primary tools for modeling.

Sketching
1. Creating a Sketch

To create a 3D model in SOLIDWORKS, you usually begin with a 2D sketch. Click on the
"Sketch" button in the command manager and select the plane you want to sketch on
(e.g., Front, Top, or Right).

2. Sketch Tools

Use the sketch tools provided to draw lines, circles, rectangles, arcs, and other shapes.
The software offers smart dimensioning and constraints to help you create precise
sketches.

3. Applying Dimensions and Constraints

Add dimensions and constraints to fully define your sketch. Dimensions specify the size
of lines and angles, while constraints ensure that your sketch remains stable and
behaves as intended.

4. Exiting Sketch Mode

Once you've completed your sketch, exit sketch mode by clicking on the green
checkmark in the property manager or pressing "Escape." Your 2D sketch is now the
basis for your 3D model.

Creating Features
1. Extrusions
Extrusions are one of the fundamental features in SOLIDWORKS. To turn your 2D sketch
into a 3D object, select the sketch and click on "Extrude Boss/Base" in the command
manager. Enter the extrusion distance and other parameters in the property manager.

2. Revolves

You can also create features by revolving a sketch around an axis. Select the sketch, click
on "Revolve Boss/Base," and specify the axis and angle of rotation.

3. Fillets and Chamfers

To add fillets (rounded edges) or chamfers (beveled edges) to your model, use the
respective tools in the command manager. Select the edges you want to modify and
specify the radius or angle.

4. Holes and Cuts

Create holes or cuts in your model using the "Hole Wizard" or "Extrude Cut" features.
Specify hole dimensions, positions, and shapes.

5. Patterns

Save time by using pattern features to replicate geometry. SOLIDWORKS offers linear
and circular patterns, which allow you to create multiple copies of a feature with
specified spacing and angles.

Editing and Modifying Features

To make changes to your sketch, simply double-click on it in the feature manager tree.
This opens the sketch for editing, where you can adjust dimensions, add or remove
geometry, or apply constraints.

2. Edit Features

To modify features such as extrusions, revolves, or fillets, right-click on the feature in the
feature manager tree and select "Edit Feature." Make the necessary changes in the
property manager.
3. Rollback Bar

The rollback bar in the feature manager tree allows you to move back and forth in the
feature history of your model. This is useful for making changes to earlier features
without affecting later ones.

Assemblies
1. Creating Assemblies

SOLIDWORKS also enables you to create assemblies, which are collections of parts that
fit together to form a complete product. To create an assembly, select "New" >
"Assembly" from the welcome screen.

2. Inserting Parts

Insert individual parts into your assembly by selecting "Insert Components" in the
command manager. Place the parts in the assembly and use mates to define how they
fit together.

3. Mates

Mates are constraints that define the relative positions and orientations of parts in an
assembly. SOLIDWORKS offers various mate types, including coincident, concentric, and
distance mates.

4. Exploded Views

Create exploded views to show how parts in your assembly are assembled or
disassembled. This is useful for documentation and presentations.

Drawings
1. Creating Drawings

Once you have created your 3D model or assembly, you can generate 2D drawings to
communicate your design. To create a drawing, select "New" > "Drawing" from the
welcome screen.
2. Adding Views

Insert model or assembly views into your drawing by selecting the appropriate view type
(e.g., front, top, isometric) and placing them on the drawing sheet.

3. Annotations

Add dimensions, notes, and other annotations to your drawing to specify tolerances,
materials, and assembly instructions.

4. Bill of Materials (BOM)

Include a bill of materials to list the components and quantities used in your assembly.
SOLIDWORKS can automatically generate BOMs based on your assembly.

Conclusion
Creating 3D models in SOLIDWORKS is a fundamental skill for engineers and designers.
This document has provided an overview of the essential steps and tools needed to get
started with SOLIDWORKS, from sketching and creating features to working with
assemblies and generating drawings. With practice and exploration, you can harness the
full potential of SOLIDWORKS to bring your design ideas to fruition and efficiently
communicate them to others in the engineering and manufacturing industries.