INTRODUCTION

SolidWorks Tutorial with Video Instruction is target towards a technical school, two
year college, four year university or industry professional that is a beginner or
intermediate CAD user. The text provides a student who is looking for a step-by-step
project based approach to learning SolidWorks with an enclosed 1.5 hour video
instruction DVD, SolidWorks model files, and preparation for the CSWA exam.

The book is divided into two sections. Chapters 1 - 7 explore the SolidWorks User
Interface and CommandManager, Document and System properties, simple machine
parts, simple and complex assemblies, design tables, configurations, multi-sheet, multi-
view drawings, BOMs, Revision tables using basic and advanced features along with
Intelligent Modeling Techniques, SustainabilityXpress, SimulationXpress and
DFMXpress.

Chapters 8 - 11 prepare you for the new Certified SolidWorks Associate Exam (CSWA).
The CSWA certification indicates a foundation in and apprentice knowledge of 3D CAD
and engineering practices and principles.

Follow the step-by-step instructions and develop multiple assemblies that combine over
100 extruded machined parts and components. Formulate the skills to create, modify and
edit sketches and solid features.

Learn the techniques to reuse features, parts and assemblies through symmetry, patterns,
copied components, design tables and configurations. Learn by doing, not just by
reading!

Desired outcomes and usage competencies are listed for each chapter. Know your
objective up front. Follow the steps in each chapter to achieve your design goals. Work
between multiple documents, features, commands, custom properties and document
properties that represent how engineers and designers utilize SolidWorks in industry.

LINKAGE Assembly
Courtesy of Gears Educational
Systems

PAGE I - 1
Introduction SolidWorks 2012 Tutorial

About the Cover

Create the final ROBOT assembly illustrated on

the cover. The physical components and
corresponding Science, Technology,
Engineering, and Math (STEM) curriculum are
available from Gears Educational Systems
www.gearseds.com. All assemblies and
components for the final ROBOT assembly are
located on the DVD under the Chapter 5 model
folder.

About the Authors Pneumatic Components Diagram

Courtesy of Gears Educational Systems
David Planchard is the founder of D&M
Education LLC. Before starting D&M
Education, he spent over 27 years in industry and academia holding various engineering,
marketing, and teaching positions and degrees. He holds five U.S. patents and one
international patent. He has published and authored numerous papers on Machine Design,
Product Design, Mechanics of Materials, and Solid Modeling. He is an active member of
the SolidWorks Users Group and the American Society of Engineering Education
(ASEE). David holds a BSME, MSM with the following Professional Certifications:
CCAI, CCNA, CCNP, CSWA, and CSWP. David is a SolidWorks Solution Partner, an
Adjunct Faculty member and the SAE advisor at Worcester Polytechnic Institute in the
Mechanical Engineering department.

Marie Planchard is the Director of World Education Markets at DS SolidWorks Corp.

Before she joined SolidWorks, Marie spent over 10 years as an engineering professor at
Mass Bay College in Wellesley Hills, MA. She has 14 plus years of industry software
experience and held a variety of management and engineering positions. Marie holds a
BSME, MSME and a Certified SolidWorks Professional (CSWP) Certification. She is an
active member of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) and the
American Society for Engineering Education (ASEE).

David and Marie Planchard are co-authors of the following books:

 A Commands Guide for SolidWorks® 2012, 2011, 2010, 2009 and 2008

 A Commands Guide Reference Tutorial for SolidWorks® 2007

 Assembly Modeling with SolidWorks® 2012, 2009, 2008, 2006, 2005-2004, 2003
and 2001Plus

 Drawing and Detailing with SolidWorks® 2012, 2010, 2009, 2008, 2007, 2006,
2005, 2004, 2003, 2002 and 2001/2001Plus

PAGE I - 2
SolidWorks 2012 Tutorial Introduction

 Engineering Design with SolidWorks® with Video Instruction 2012, 2011, 2010,
2009, 2008, 2007, 2006, 2005, 2004, 2003, 2001Plus, 2001 and 1999

 Engineering Graphics with SolidWorks with Video Instruction 2012, 2011, and
2010
 SolidWorks® The Basics with Multimedia CD 2009, 2008, 2007, 2006, 2005, 2004
and 2003

 SolidWorks® Tutorial with Video Instruction, 2012, 2011, 2010, 2009, 2008,
2007, 2006, 2005, 2004, 2003 and 2001/2001Plus

 The Fundamentals of SolidWorks®: Featuring the VEXplorer robot, 2008 and

2007

 Official Certified SolidWorks® Associate Examination Guide, Version 3; 2011,

2010, 2009, Version 2; 2010, 2009, 2008, Version 1; 2007

 Official Certified SolidWorks® Professional (CSWP) Certification Guide with

Multimedia DVD, 2011, 2010

 Applications in Sheet Metal Using Pro/SHEETMETAL & Pro/ENGINEER

Acknowledgments

Writing this book was a substantial effort that would not have been possible without the
help and support of my loving family and of my professional colleagues. I would like to
thank Professor John Sullivan and Robert Norton and the community of scholars at
Worcester Polytechnic Institute who have enhanced my life, my knowledge, and helped
to shape the approach and content to this book.

The author is greatly indebted to my colleagues from Dassault Systèmes SolidWorks

Corporation for their help and continuous support: Jeremy Luchini, Avelino Rochino, and
Mike Puckett.

Thanks also to Professor Richard L. Roberts of Wentworth Institute of Technology,

Professor Dennis Hance of Wright State University, and Professor Jason Durfess of
Eastern Washington University who provided insight and invaluable suggestions.

Finally to my wife, who is infinitely patient for her support and encouragement and to our
loving daughter Stephanie who supported me during this intense and lengthy project.

Contact the Authors

This is the 10th edition of this book. We realize that keeping software application books
current is imperative to our customers. We value the hundreds of professors, students,
designers, and engineers that have provided us input to enhance our book. We value your
suggestions and comments. Please visit our website at www.dmeducation.net or contact

PAGE I - 3
Introduction SolidWorks 2012 Tutorial

us directly with any comments, questions or suggestions on this book or any of our other
SolidWorks books at [email protected] or [email protected].

Note to Instructors

SolidWorks 2012 Tutorial with Video Instruction is target towards a technical school,
two year college, four year university or industry professional that is a beginner or
intermediate CAD user. The text provides a student who is looking for a step-by-step
project based approach to learning SolidWorks with an enclosed 1.5 hour video
instruction DVD, SolidWorks model files, and preparation for the CSWA exam.

The physical components and corresponding Science, Technology, Engineering, and

Math (STEM) curriculum are available from Gears Educational Systems
www.gearseds.com. Additional information (four chapters) on the SolidWorks Certified
Associate CSWA exam is provided at the end of the book, to assist the user to take and
pass the CSWA exam (a recognized industry CAD standard).

Please contact the publisher www.schroff.com for additional classroom support

materials: PowerPoint presentations, Adobe files along with avi files, term projects,
quizzes with initial and final SolidWorks models and tips that support the usage of this
text in a classroom environment.

Trademarks, Disclaimer and Copyrighted Material

DS SolidWorks Corp. is a Dassault Systèmes S.A. (Nasdaq: DASTY) company that

develops and markets SolidWorks® software for design, analysis and product data
management applications. Microsoft Windows®, Microsoft Office® and its family of
products are registered trademarks of the Microsoft Corporation. Other software
applications and parts described in this book are trademarks or registered trademarks of
their respective owners.

The publisher and the authors make no representations or warranties with respect to the
accuracy or completeness of the contents of this work and specifically disclaim all
warranties, including without limitation warranties of fitness for a particular purpose. No
warranty may be created or extended by sales or promotional materials. Dimensions of
parts are modified for illustration purposes. Every effort is made to provide an accurate
text. The authors and the manufacturers shall not be held liable for any parts,
components, assemblies or drawings developed or designed with this book or any
responsibility for inaccuracies that appear in the book. Web and company information
was valid at the time of this printing.

The Y14 ASME Engineering Drawing and Related Documentation Publications utilized
in this text are as follows: ASME Y14.1 1995, ASME Y14.2M-1992 (R1998), ASME
Y14.3M-1994 (R1999), ASME Y14.41-2003, ASME Y14.5-1982, ASME Y14.5M-1994,
and ASME B4.2. Note: By permission of The American Society of Mechanical
Engineers, Codes and Standards, New York, NY, USA. All rights reserved.

PAGE I - 4
SolidWorks 2012 Tutorial Introduction

Additional information references the American Welding Society, AWS 2.4:1997

Standard Symbols for Welding, Braising, and Non-Destructive Examinations, Miami,
Florida, USA.

References

 SolidWorks Users Guide, SolidWorks Corporation, 2012

 ASME Y14 Engineering Drawing and Related Documentation Practices
 Beers & Johnson, Vector Mechanics for Engineers, 6th ed. McGraw Hill, Boston, MA
 Betoline, Wiebe, Miller, Fundamentals of Graphics Communication, Irwin, 1995
 Hibbler, R.C, Engineering Mechanics Statics and Dynamics, 8th ed, Prentice Hall,
Saddle River, NJ
 Hoelscher, Springer, Dobrovolny, Graphics for Engineers, John Wiley, 1968
 Jensen, Cecil, Interpreting Engineering Drawings, Glencoe, 2002
 Planchard & Planchard, Drawing and Detailing with SolidWorks, SDC Pub., Mission,
KS 2010
 Walker, James, Machining Fundamentals, Goodheart Wilcox, 1999
 80/20 Product Manual, 80/20, Inc., Columbia City, IN, 2009
 Reid Tool Supply Product Manual, Reid Tool Supply Co., Muskegon, MI, 2007
 Simpson Strong Tie Product Manual, Simpson Strong Tie, CA, 2009
 Ticona Designing with Plastics - The Fundamentals, Summit, NJ, 2008
 SMC Corporation of America, Product Manuals, Indiana, 2011
 Gears Educational Design Systems, Product Manual, Hanover, MA, 2011
 Emhart - A Black and Decker Company, On-line catalog, Hartford, CT, 2009

Every license of SolidWorks contains a copy of SolidWorks SustainabilityXpress.

SustainabilityXpress calculates environmental impact on a model in four key areas:
Carbon Footprint, Energy Consumption, Air Acidification and Water Eutrophication.
Material and Manufacturing process region and Transportation Usage region are used as
input variables.

During the initial SolidWorks installation, you are requested to select either the ISO
or ANSI drafting standard. ISO is typically a European drafting standard and uses First
Angle Projection. The book is written using the ANSI (US) overall drafting standard and
Third Angle Projection for drawings.

PAGE I - 5
Introduction SolidWorks 2012 Tutorial

All templates, logos, and needed

models for this book are included on the
enclosed DVD.

Copy the model folders from the DVD to

your local hard drive. Work from your
local hard drive. View the 1.5 hour
Video Instruction DVD for additional
help.

Additional projects are included in the

exercise section of Chapter 5. Copy the
components from the Chapter 5
Homework folder located on the DVD. View all components.
Create an ANSI Assembly document.

Insert and create all needed components and mates to assemble

the assembly and to simulate proper movement per the provided
avi file located in the folder.

PAGE I - 6
SolidWorks 2012 Tutorial Introduction

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Introduction I-1
About the Cover I-2
About the Authors I-2
Acknowledgements I-3
Contact the Authors I-3
Note to Instructors I-4
Trademarks, Disclaimer, and Copyrighted Material I-4
References I-5
Table of Contents I-7
What is SolidWorks? I-16
Design Intent I-18
Overview of Chapters I-21
About the Book I-27
Windows Terminology in SolidWorks I-28
Chapter 1 - Linkage Assembly 1-1
Chapter Objective 1-3
Chapter Overview 1-4
AXLE Part 1-5
Start a SolidWorks Session 1-6
SolidWorks User Interface and CommandManager 1-7
Menu bar toolbar 1-7
Menu bar menu 1-7
Drop-down menu 1-8
Right-click Pop-up menus 1-8
Consolidated toolbar 1-8
System feedback icons 1-8
Confirmation Corner 1-9
Heads-up View toolbar 1-9
CommandManager 1-11
CommandManager - Default Part tabs 1-11
FeatureManager Design Tree 1-15
PropertyManager tab 1-15
CommandManager tab 1-15
PropertyManager tab 1-15
DimXpertManager tab 1-15
Display Manager tab 1-15
Task Pane 1-18
Design Library 1-18
File Explorer 1-19
Search 1-19
View Palette 1-19
Appearances, Scenes, and Decals 1-20
Custom Properties 1-20
Document Recovery 1-20
Motion Study tab 1-20
New Part 1-22

PAGE I - 7
Introduction SolidWorks 2012 Tutorial

AXLE Part 1-26

AXLE Part-Extruded Boss/Base Feature 1-27
AXLE Part-Save 1-30
AXLE Part-Edit Color 1-31
AXLE Part-View Modes 1-32
SHAFT-COLLAR Part 1-35
SHAFT-COLLAR Part-Extruded Boss/Base Feature 1-35
SHAFT-COLLAR Part-Extruded Cut Feature 1-38
SHAFT-COLLAR-Modify Dimensions and Edit Color 1-39
FLATBAR Part 1-43
FLATBAR Part-Extruded Boss/Base Feature 1-43
FLATBAR Part-Extruded Cut Feature 1-46
FLATBAR Part-Linear Pattern Feature 1-48
LINKAGE Assembly 1-49
Mate Types 1-50
Standard Mates 1-50
Advanced Mates 1-51
Mechanical Mates 1-51
AirCylinder Assembly-Open and Save As option 1-52
LINKAGE Assembly-Insert FLATBAR Part 1-56
LINKAGE Assembly-Insert SHAFT-COLLAR Part 1-60
Motion Study - Basic Motion tool 1-63
LINKAGE Assembly-Motion Study 1-63
Summary 1-66
Terminology 1-67
Questions 1-69
Exercises 1-70
Chapter 2 - Front Support Assembly 2-1
Chapter Objective 2-3
Chapter Overview 2-4
Reference Planes and Orthographic Projection 2-5
HEX-STANDOFF Part 2-9
HEX-STANDOFF Part-Extruded Boss/Base Feature 2-10
HEX-STANDOFF Part-HOLE Wizard Feature 2-14
ANGLE-13HOLE Part 2-15
ANGLE-13HOLE Part-Documents Properties 2-17
ANGLE-13HOLE Part-Extruded Thin Feature 2-18
ANGLE-13HOLE Part-Extruded Cut Feature 2-20
ANGLE-13HOLE Part-Linear Pattern Feature 2-22
ANGLE-13HOLE Part-Fillet Feature 2-23
ANGLE-13HOLE Part-Second Extruded Cut and Linear Pattern 2-24
ANGLE-13HOLE Part-Third Extruded Cut Feature 2-26
TRIANGLE Part 2-31
TRIANGLE Part-Mirror, Offset and Fillet Sketch Tools 2-33
TRIANGLE Part-Extruded Boss/Base Feature 2-36
TRIANGLE Part-First Extruded Cut Feature 2-37
TRIANGLE Part-Second Extruded Cut Feature 2-39
TRIANGLE Part-Mirror Feature 2-41
TRIANGLE Part-Third Extruded Cut Feature 2-42
TRIANGLE Part-Circular Pattern Feature 2-44

PAGE I - 8
SolidWorks 2012 Tutorial Introduction

SCREW Part 2-45

SCREW Part-Documents Properties 2-47
SCREW Part-Revolved Feature 2-47
SCREW Part-Extruded Cut Feature 2-51
SCREW Part-Circular Pattern Feature 2-53
SCREW Part-Fillet Feature 2-53
SCREW Part-Chamfer Feature 2-54
FRONT-SUPPORT Assembly 2-56
FRONT-SUPPORT Assembly-Insert ANGLE-13HOLE 2-57
FRONT-SUPPORT Assembly-Insert HEX-STANDOFF 2-58
FRONT-SUPPORT Assembly-Insert TRIANGLE 2-61
FRONT-SUPPORT Assembly-Insert SCREW 2-64
Chapter Summary 2-66
Chapter Terminology 2-67
Questions 2-70
Exercises 2-71
Chapter 3 - Fundamentals of Drawing 3-1
Chapter Objective 3-3
Chapter Overview 3-4
Drawing Template and Sheet Format 3-5
Create a new Drawing 3-7
Drawing-Document Properties 3-9
Title Block 3-10
Create a Title Block 3-11
Company Logo 3-15
Create a Drawing Logo 3-15
Save Sheet Format and Save As Drawing Template 3-18
FLATBAR Drawing 3-21
FLATBAR Drawing-Open the FLATBAR Part 3-21
Move views and Properties of the Sheet 3-25
FLATBAR Drawing-Position views 3-27
Detail Drawing 3-28
FLATBAR Drawing-Dimensions and Annotations 3-30
FLATBAR Drawing-Part Number and Document Properties 3-35
FLATBAR Drawing-Linked Note 3-38
LINKAGE Assembly Drawing-Sheet1 3-41
LINKAGE Assembly Drawing-Exploded view 3-44
LINKAGE Assembly Drawing-Animation 3-47
LINKAGE Assembly Drawing-Bill of Materials 3-48
LINKAGE Assembly Drawing-Automatic Balloons 3-50
LINKAGE Assembly Drawing-Sheet2 3-51
LINKAGE Assembly Drawing-Sheet2 Section view 3-53
LINKAGE Assembly Drawing-Sheet2 Detail view 3-53
FLATBAR Part-Design Table 3-55
FLATBAR Drawing-Sheet2 3-59
FLATBAR-SHAFTCOLLAR Assembly 3-60
Chapter Summary 3-65
Chapter Terminology 3-66
Questions 3-69
Exercises 3-70

PAGE I - 9
Introduction SolidWorks 2012 Tutorial

Chapter 4 - Advanced Features 4-1

Chapter Objective 4-3
Chapter Overview 4-4
WEIGHT Part 4-6
WEIGHT Part-Loft Feature 4-12
WEIGHT Part-Extruded Cut Feature 4-13
HOOK Part 4-14
HOOK Part-Swept Profile 4-20
HOOK Part-Swept Base Feature 4-21
HOOK Part-Dome Feature 4-21
HOOK Part-Threads with Swept Cut Feature 4-22
WHEEL Part 4-27
WHEEL Part-Extruded Boss/Base Feature 4-30
WHEEL Part-Revolved Cut Feature 4-31
WHEEL Part-First Extruded Cut Feature 4-34
WHEEL Part-Second Extruded Cut Feature 4-36
WHEEL Part-Circular Pattern Feature 4-39
Modify a Part 4-42
HEX-ADAPTER Part 4-42
HEX-ADAPTER Part-Extruded Boss/Base Feature 4-45
HEX-ADAPTER Part-Extruded Cut Feature 4-45
AXLE-3000 Part 4-48
SHAFTCOLLAR-500 Part 4-49
Chapter Summary 4-52
Chapter Terminology 4-52
Questions 4-53
Exercises 4-54
Chapter 5 - PNEUMATIC-TEST-MODULE and ROBOT Assembly 5-1
Chapter Objective 5-3
Chapter Overview 5-4
Assembly Techniques 5-5
PNEUMATIC-TEST-MODULE Layout 5-7
FLATBAR Sub-assembly 5-9
3HOLE-SHAFTCOLLAR Assembly 5-9
WHEEL-FLATBAR Assembly 5-16
WHEEL-FLATBAR Assembly-Insert 3HOLE-SHAFT-COLLAR 5-19
WHEEL-FLATBAR Assembly-Insert 5HOLE-SHAFT-COLLAR 5-21
WHEEL-AND-AXLE Assembly 5-25
WHEEL-AND-AXLE Assembly-Insert HEX-ADAPTER 5-28
WHEEL-AND-AXLE Assembly-Insert SHAFTCOLLAR-500 5-30
PNEUMATIC-TEST-MODULE Assembly 5-32
Modify the LINKAGE Assembly 5-33
PNEUMATIC-TEST-MODULE-Insert LINKAGE Assembly 5-42
PNEUMATIC-TEST-MODULE-Insert AIR-RESERVOIR-SUPPORT 5-44
PNEUMATIC-TEST-MODULE-Component Pattern 5-47
PNEUMATIC-TEST-MODULE-Linear Component Pattern 5-48
PNEUMATIC-TEST-MODULE-Insert FRONT-SUPPORT 5-50
PNEUMATIC-TEST-MODULE-Mirrored Component 5-53
PNEUMATIC-TEST-MODULE-MIRRORFRONT-SUPPORT 5-55
Component Properties 5-56

PAGE I - 10
SolidWorks 2012 Tutorial Introduction

PNEUMATIC-TEST-MODULE-Insert WHEEL-AND-AXLE 5-56

PNEUMATIC-TEST-MODULE-Remove Rigid State 5-58
PNEUMATIC-TEST-MODULE-Review AirCylinder Configurations 5-59
Final ROBOT Assembly 5-64
Insert the Robot-platform Assembly 5-65
Insert the PNEUMATIC-TEST-MODULE Assembly 5-65
Insert the basic_integration Assembly 5-67
Chapter Summary 5-68
Chapter Terminology 5-68
Engineering Journal 5-70
Questions 5-73
Exercises 5-74

Chapter 6 - SimulationXpress, Sustainability and DFMXpress 6-1

Chapter Objective 6-3
SolidWorks SimulationXpress 6-3
SolidWorks SimulationXpress Interface 6-7
Welcome 6-7
Fixtures 6-7
Loads 6-7
Material 6-7
Run 6-7
Result 6-7
Optimize 6-7
Analyze the Bend Bar Part 6-8
SolidWorks Sustainability 6-15
Life Cycle Assessment 6-16
Raw Material Extraction 6-16
Material Processing 6-16
Part Manufacturing 6-17
Assembly 6-17
Product Use 6-17
End of Life 6-17
Life Cycle Assessment Key Elements 6-17
SolidWorks SustainabilityXpress Wizard 6-17
Carbon Footprint 6-18
Energy Consumption 6-18
Air Acidification 6-18
Water Eutrophication 6-18
Generate a Report 6-19
References 6-20
Underlying LCA Technology: PE International 6-20
International LCA Standards 6-20
SolidWorks Sustainability Methodology 6-20
Analyze a Simple Part 6-21
SolidWorks DFMXpress 6-28
Analyze a Simple Part AXLE 6-28

PAGE I - 11
Introduction SolidWorks 2012 Tutorial

DFMXpress Wizard 6-28

Run 6-28
Settings 6-29
Close 6-29
Help 6-29
Chapter Summary 6-30
Chapter 7 - Intelligent Modeling Techniques 7-1
Chapter Objective 7-3
Design Intent 7-4
Sketch 7-4
Fully Defined Sketch 7-5
SketchXpert 7-8
Equations 7-11
Dimension Driven by Equations 7-11
Equation Driven Curve 7-14
Explicit Equation Driven Curve 7-14
Parametric Equation Driven Curve 7-16
Curves 7-18
Curve Thought XYZ Points 7-19
Projected Composite Curves 7-21
Feature - End Conditions 7-23
Along a Vector 7-26
FeatureXpert (Constant Radius) 7-27
Symmetry 7-28
Bodies to Mirror 7-28
Planes 7-30
Angle Plane 7-30
Conic Section and Planes 7-31
Assembly 7-32
Assembly Visualization 7-33
MateXpert 7-34
Drawing 7-34
DimXpert 7-34
Summary 7-38
Definitions 7-38
Chapter 8 - CSWA Introduction and Drafting Competencies 8-1
Introduction 8-1
Goals 8-5
Objectives 8-6
Procedure to Create a Named Drawing view 8-7
Tutorial: Drawing Named Procedure 8-1 8-8
Tutorial: Drawing Named Procedure 8-2 8-8
Tutorial: Drawing Named Procedure 8-3 8-8
Tutorial: Drawing Named Procedure 8-4 8-9
Tutorial: Drawing Named Procedure 8-5 8-9
Tutorial: Drawing Named Procedure 8-6 8-10

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SolidWorks 2012 Tutorial Introduction

Tutorial: Drawing Named Procedure 8-7 8-10

Tutorial: Drawing Named Procedure 8-8 8-11
Summary 8-11
Questions 8-12
Chapter 9 - Basic & Intermediate Part Creation and Modification 9-1
Objectives 9-1
Read and Understand an Engineering Document 9-2
Build a Basic Part from a Detailed illustration 9-3
Tutorial: Volume / Center of Mass 9-1 9-3
Tutorial: Volume / Center of Mass 9-2 9-4
Tutorial: Mass-Volume 9-3 9-7
Tutorial: Mass-Volume 9-4 9-8
Tutorial: Mass-Volume 9-5 9-12
Build additional Basic Parts 9-15
Tutorial: Mass-Volume 9-6 9-15
Tutorial: Mass-Volume 9-7 9-15
Tutorial: Basic/Intermediate-Part 9-1 9-19
Tutorial: Basic/Intermediate-Part 9-2 9-20
Summary 9-25
Questions 9-26
Chapter 10 - Advanced Part Creation and Modification 10-1
Objectives 10-1
Build an Advanced Part from a Detailed illustration 10-2
Tutorial: Advanced Part 10-1 10-2
Tutorial: Advanced Part 10-2 10-7
Calculate the Center of Mass Relative to the Coordinate System 10-10
Tutorial: Coordinate Location 10-1 10-10
Tutorial: Coordinate Location 10-2 10-12
Tutorial: Advanced Part 10-3 10-13
Tutorial: Advanced Part 10-3A 10-17
Tutorial: Advanced Part 10-3B 10-18
Tutorial: Advanced Part 10-4 10-20
Tutorial: Advanced Part 10-4A 10-26
Summary 10-27
Questions 10-28
Chapter 11 - CSWA - Assembly Creation and Modification 11-1
Objectives 11-1
Assembly Modeling 11-2
Build an Assembly from a Detailed Dimensioned Illustration 11-3
Tutorial: Assembly Modeling 11-1 11-5
Tutorial: Assembly Modeling 11-2 11-11
Tutorial: Assembly Modeling 11-3 11-16
Mate the First Component with Reference Planes 11-21
Tutorial: Assembly Modeling 11-4 11-21
Tutorial: Assembly Modeling 11-5 11-25
Summary 11-28
Questions 11-29

PAGE I - 13
Introduction SolidWorks 2012 Tutorial

Appendix A-1
ECO Form A-1
Types of Decimal Dimensions (ASME Y14.5M) A-2
SolidWorks Keyboard Shortcuts A-3
Windows Shortcuts A-3
On-Line Information A-4
CSWA Homework Answers A-6
Index I-1

The Instructors DVD contains

PowerPoint presentations, Adobe files along
with avi files, Term Projects, quizzes with
initial and final SolidWorks models.

PAGE I - 14
SolidWorks 2012 Tutorial Introduction

What is SolidWorks?

SolidWorks® is a mechanical design automation software package used to build parts,

assemblies and drawings that takes advantage of the familiar Microsoft® Windows
graphical user interface.
SolidWorks is an easy to learn design and analysis tool, (SolidWorks SimulationXpress,
SolidWorks Motion, SolidWorks Flow Simulation, etc.) which makes it possible for
designers to quickly sketch 2D and 3D concepts, create 3D parts and assemblies and
detail 2D drawings.
In SolidWorks, you create 2D and 3D sketches, 3D parts, 3D assemblies and 2D
drawings. The part, assembly and drawing documents are related. Additional information
on SolidWorks and its family of products can be obtained at their URL,
www.SolidWorks.com.

Part Assembly

Drawing

PAGE I - 15
Introduction SolidWorks 2012 Tutorial

Features are the building blocks of parts. Use

features to create parts, such as: Extruded
Boss/Base and Extruded Cut. Extruded
features begin with a 2D sketch created on a
Sketch plane.

The 2D sketch is a profile or cross section.

Sketch tools such as: lines, arcs and circles are
2D Sketch
used to create the 2D sketch. Sketch the
general shape of the profile. Add Geometric
relationships and dimensions to control the
exact size of the geometry.

Create features by selecting edges or faces of

existing features, such as a Fillet. The Fillet
feature rounds sharp corners.

Dimensions drive features.

Change a dimension, and you
change the size of the part.

Apply Geometric relationships:

Vertical, Horizontal, Parallel,
etc. to maintain Design intent.

Create a hole that penetrates

through a part. SolidWorks
maintains relationships through
the change.

The step-by-step approach used in

this text allows you to create
parts, assemblies and drawings by
doing, not just by reading.

The book provides the knowledge

to modify all parts and
components in a document. Change is an
integral part of design.

PAGE I - 16
SolidWorks 2012 Tutorial Introduction

Design Intent

What is design intent? All designs are created for a purpose. Design intent is the
intellectual arrangements of features and dimensions of a design. Design intent governs
the relationship between sketches in a feature, features in a part and parts in an assembly.
The SolidWorks definition of design intent is the process in which the model is
developed to accept future modifications. Models behave differently when design
changes occur.
Design for change! Utilize geometry for symmetry, reuse common features, and reuse
common parts. Build change into the following areas that you create:
 Sketch
 Feature
 Part
 Assembly
 Drawing

When editing or repairing geometric relations, it is considered best practice to edit

the relation vs. deleting it.
Design Intent in a sketch

Build design intent in a sketch as the profile is

created. A profile is determined from the
Sketch Entities. Example: Rectangle, Circle,
Arc, Point, Slot etc. Apply symmetry into a
profile through a sketch centerline, mirror
entity and position about the reference planes
and Origin. Always know the location of the
Origin in the sketch.
Build design intent as you sketch with
automatic Geometric relations. Document the
decisions made during the up-front design
process. This is very valuable when you
modify the design later.
A rectangle (Center Rectangle Sketch tool)
contains Horizontal, Vertical and
Perpendicular automatic Geometric relations.
Apply design intent using added Geometric
relations if needed. Example: Horizontal,
Vertical, Collinear, Perpendicular, Parallel,
Equal etc.

PAGE I - 17
Introduction SolidWorks 2012 Tutorial

Example A: Apply design intent to create a square profile.

Sketch a rectangle. Apply the Center Rectangle Sketch tool.
Note: No construction reference centerline or Midpoint
relation is required with the Center Rectangle tool. Insert
dimensions to fully define the sketch.
Example B: If you have a hole in a part that must always be
16.5mm≤ from an edge, dimension to the edge rather than to
another point on the sketch. As the part size is
modified, the hole location remains 16.5mm≤ from the
edge as illustrated.

Design intent in a feature

Build design intent into a feature by addressing End

Conditions (Blind, Through All, UpToVertex, etc.)
symmetry, feature selection, and the order of feature
creation.
Example A: The Extruded Base feature remains
symmetric about the Front Plane. Utilize the Mid Plane
End Condition option in Direction 1. Modify the depth,
and the feature remains symmetric about the Front
Plane.
Example B: Create 34 teeth in the model. Do
you create each tooth separate using the
Extruded Cut feature? No.
Create a single tooth and then apply the
Circular Pattern feature. Modify the Circular
Pattern from 32 to 24 teeth.

Design intent in a part

Utilize symmetry, feature order and reusing

common features to build design intent into a part.
Example A: Feature order. Is the entire part
symmetric? Feature order affects the part.
Apply the Shell feature before the Fillet feature and
the inside corners remain perpendicular.

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SolidWorks 2012 Tutorial Introduction

Design intent in an assembly

Utilizing symmetry, reusing common parts and using

the Mate relation between parts builds the design intent
into an assembly.
Example A: Reuse geometry in an assembly. The
assembly contains a linear pattern of holes. Insert one
screw into the first hole. Utilize the Component Pattern
feature to copy the machine screw to the other holes.
Design intent in a drawing

Utilize dimensions, tolerance and notes in parts

and assemblies to build the design intent into a
drawing.
Example A: Tolerance and material in the
drawing. Insert an outside diameter tolerance
+.000/-.002 into the TUBE part. The tolerance
propagates to the drawing.
Define the Custom Property Material in the Part.
The Material Custom Property propagates to
your drawing.

Create a sketch on any of the default planes: Front,

Top, Right or a created plane.

Additional information on design process and design

intent is available in SolidWorks Help.

The book is design to expose the new user to many

tools, techniques and procedures. It may not always use
the most direct tool or process.

Every license of SolidWorks contains a copy of

SolidWorks SustainabilityXpress. SustainabilityXpress
calculates environmental impact on a model in four key
areas: Carbon Footprint, Energy Consumption, Air
Acidification and Water Eutrophication. Material and
Manufacturing process region and Transportation Usage
region are used as input variables.

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Introduction SolidWorks 2012 Tutorial

Overview of Chapters

Chapter 1: Linkage Assembly

Chapter 1 introduces the basic concepts

behind SolidWorks and the SolidWorks 2012
User Interface.

Create a file folder to manage projects.

Create three parts: AXLE, SHAFT-COLLAR,
and FLATBAR. Utilize the following
features: Extruded Boss/Base, Extruded Cut
and Linear Pattern.

Create the LINKAGE assembly. The

LINKAGE assembly utilizes the SMC
AirCylinder component located on the
enclosed DVD in the book. Note: Copy all
SolidWorks files from the DVD to your hard
drive. Work from your hard drive.

Chapter 2: Front Support Assembly

Chapter 2 introduces various Sketch planes to

create parts. The Front, Top and Right Planes
each contain the Extruded Boss/Base feature
for the TRIANGLE, HEX-STANDOFF and
ANGLE-13HOLE parts.

Utilize Geometric relationships in your

sketch.

Create the SCREW part using the following

features: Revolved Base, Extruded Cut, Fillet
and Circular Pattern.

Create the FRONT-SUPPORT assembly.

Utilize additional parts from the Web or the
enclosed DVD to create the RESERVOIR
SUPPORT assembly in the Chapter exercises.

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SolidWorks 2012 Tutorial Introduction

Chapter 3: Fundamentals of
Drawing

Chapter 3 covers the

development of a customized
Sheet format and Drawing
template.

Review the differences between

the Sheet and the Sheet format.
Develop a company logo from a
bitmap or picture file.

Create a FLATBAR drawing.

Insert dimensions created from
the part features. Create the
LINKAGE assembly drawing
with multiple views and assemblies.

Develop and incorporate a Bill of Materials into the drawing Custom Properties in the
parts and assemblies. Add information to the Bill of Materials in the drawing. Insert a
Design Table to create multiple configurations of parts and assemblies.

Chapter 4: Advanced Features

Chapter 4 focuses on creating six parts for

the PNEUMATIC-TEST-MODULE
Assembly: WEIGHT, HOOK, WHEEL,
HEX-ADAPTER, AXLE-3000 and
SHAFTCOLLAR-500.

Apply the following Advanced model

features: Plane, Lofted Base, Extruded
Cut, Swept Base, Dome, Helix and
Spiral, Swept Cut, Extruded Boss/Base,
Revolved Cut, Extruded Cut, Circular
Pattern, Axis and Hole Wizard.

Reuse existing geometry and modify

existing parts to create new parts with the
Save as copy command.

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Introduction SolidWorks 2012 Tutorial

Chapter 5: PNEUMATIC-TEST-MODULE Assembly and

Final ROBOT Assembly

Chapter 5 focuses on the PNEUMATIC-TEST-MODULE

Assembly and the final ROBOT Assembly.

Create the WHEEL-AND-AXLE assembly. First, create the

3HOLE-SHAFTCOLLAR assembly and the 5HOLE-
SHAFTCOLLAR assembly.

Insert the WHEEL part, AXLE 3000 part, HEX-

ADAPTER part and SHAFTCOLLAR-500 part.

Insert the FLAT-PLATE part that was create in the

Chapter 2 exercises. Insert the LINKAGE assembly and
add components: HEX-STANDOFF, AXLE and
SHAFT-COLLAR.

Insert the AIR-RESERVOIR-SUPPORT assembly.

Insert the SCREW part. Utilize the Feature Driven
Component Pattern tool and the Linear Component
Pattern tool.

Insert the FRONT-SUPPORT assembly and apply the

Mirror Components tool to complete the Pneumatic Test
Module Assembly.

Create the final ROBOT Assembly as illustrated with the

Robot-platform sub-assembly, PNEUMATIC-TEST-
MODULE sub-assembly, basic_integration sub-assembly
and the HEX-ADAPTER component. Add additional
components in the Chapter exercises.

Learn the process to work with multiple documents

between parts and assemblies and to apply the following
Assembly tools: Insert Component, Standard
Mates: Concentric, Coincident, and Parallel,
Linear Component Pattern, Feature Driven
Component Pattern, Circular Component
Pattern, Mirror Components and Replace
Components.

Note: All assemblies and components for the

final ROBOT assembly are located on the
DVD under the Chapter 5 models folder.

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SolidWorks 2012 Tutorial Introduction

Additional projects are included in the exercise section of this

chapter. Copy the components from the Chapter 5 Homework
folder located on the DVD. View all components.

Create an ANSI Assembly document. Insert and create all needed

components and mates to assemble the assembly and to simulate
proper movement per the avi file located in the folder.

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SolidWorks 2012 Tutorial Introduction

Chapter 6: SolidWorks
SimulationXpress,
Sustainability, and
DFMXpress

Chapter 6 introduces
three general SolidWorks
analysis tools:
SimulationXpress,
SustainabilityXpress and
DFMXpress.

Execute a SolidWorks
SimulationXpress
analysis on a part.
Determine if the part can
support an applied load under a static load
condition.

Perform a SustainabilityXpress analysis on a

part. View the environmental impact
calculated in four key areas: Carbon
Footprint, Energy Consumption, Air
Acidification and Water Eutrophication.

Material, Manufacturing process region and

Usage region are used as input variables.

Compare similar materials and environmental impacts.

Implement DFMXpress on a part. DFMXpress is an analysis tool

that validates the manufacturability of SolidWorks parts. Use
DFMXpress to identify design areas that may cause problems in
fabrication or increase the costs of production.

The book is designed to expose the new user to many tools,

techniques and procedures. It may not always use the most direct
tool or process.

PAGE I - 25
Introduction SolidWorks 2012 Tutorial

Chapter 8 - 11: Introduction to the Certified

SolidWorks Associate Exam

DS SolidWorks Corp. offers various stages of

certification representing increasing levels of expertise in
3D CAD design as it applies to engineering: Certified
SolidWorks Associate CSWA, Certified SolidWorks
Professional CSWP and Certified SolidWorks Expert CSWE along
with specialty fields in Simulation, Sheet Metal, and Surfacing.

The CSWA Certification indicates a foundation in and apprentice

knowledge of 3D CAD design and engineering practices and
principles. The main requirement for obtaining the CSWA
certification is to take and pass the on-line proctored 180 minute exam
(minimum of 165 out of 240 points). The new CSWA exam consists
of fourteen questions in the following categories and subject areas:

 Drafting Competencies: (Three questions - multiple choice - 5

points each).
 Basic Part Creation and Modification: (Two questions - one
multiple choice / one single answer - 15 points each).
 Intermediate Part Creation and Modification: (Two questions -
one multiple choice / one single answer - 15 points each).
 Advanced Part Creation and Modification: (Three questions -
one multiple choice / two single answers - 15 points each).
 Assembly Creation and Modification: (Two different assemblies
- four questions - two multiple choice / two single answers - 30
points each).
Note: Download the needed components during the exam for create
the assembly.
A total score of 165 out of 240 or better is required to obtain your
CSWA Certification.

For detail exam information see the Official Certified

SolidWorks Associate Examination Guide book. The primary goal
of this book is not only to help you pass the CSWA exam, but also
to ensure that you understand and comprehend the concepts and
implementation details of the CSWA process.

PAGE I - 26
SolidWorks 2012 Tutorial Introduction

About the Book

You will find a wealth of information in this book. The book is a project based - step-by
step text written for new and intermediate users. The following conventions are used
throughout this book:

 The term document refers to a SolidWorks part, drawing or assembly file.

 The list of items across the top of the

SolidWorks interface is the Menu bar
menu or the Menu bar toolbar. Each
item in the Menu bar has a pull-down
menu. When you need to select a series
of commands from these menus, the
following format is used: Click
Insert, Reference Geometry, Plane
from the Menu bar. The Plane
PropertyManager is displayed.

 The book is organized into Chapters. Each Chapter is focused

on a specific subject or feature. Use the enclosed DVD to
obtain parts and models that are used in this book and to view
the features created in each Chapter.

 The ANSI overall drafting standard and Third Angle projection is used as the default
setting in this text. IPS (inch, pound, second) and MMGS (millimeter, gram, second)
unit systems are used.
 Copy all folders and files from the DVD to your hard drive. Work from the hard
drive. All assemblies and components for the final ROBOT assembly are located on
the DVD in the Chapter 5 Models folder.

The following command syntax is used throughout the text. Commands that require you
to perform an action are displayed in Bold text.

Format: Convention: Example:

Bold  All commands actions.  Click Options from the Menu bar toolbar.
 Selected icon button.  Click Corner Rectangle from the
 Selected icon button. Sketch toolbar.
 Selected geometry: line,  Click Sketch from the Context toolbar.
circle.
 Select the centerpoint.
 Value entries.
 Enter 3.0 for Radius.

Capitalized  Filenames.  Save the FLATBAR assembly.

 First letter in a feature  Click the Fillet feature.
name.

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Introduction SolidWorks 2012 Tutorial

Windows Terminology in SolidWorks

The mouse buttons provide an integral role in executing SolidWorks commands. The
mouse buttons execute commands, select geometry, display Shortcut menus and provide
information feedback.

A summary of mouse button terminology is displayed below:

Item: Description:
Click Press and release the left mouse button.
Double-click Double press and release the left mouse button.
Click inside Press the left mouse button. Wait a second, and then press the left mouse button
inside the text box.
Use this technique to modify Feature names in the FeatureManager design tree.

Drag Point to an object, press and hold the left mouse button down.
Move the mouse pointer to a new location.
Release the left mouse button.

Right-click Press and release the right mouse button.

A Shortcut menu is displayed. Use the left mouse button to select a menu
command.
ToolTip Position the mouse pointer over an Icon (button). The tool name is displayed
below the mouse pointer.
Large ToolTip Position the mouse pointer over an Icon (button). The tool name and a
description of its functionality are displayed below the mouse pointer.
Mouse pointer Position the mouse pointer over various areas of the sketch, part, assembly or
feedback drawing.
The cursor provides feedback depending on the geometry.

A mouse with a center wheel provides additional functionality in SolidWorks. Roll the
center wheel downward to enlarge the model in the Graphics window. Hold the center
wheel down. Drag the mouse in the Graphics window to rotate the model.

PAGE I - 28
SolidWorks 2012 Tutorial Introduction

Visit SolidWorks
website:
http://www.solidworks.co
m/sw/support/hardware.ht
ml to view their
supported operating
systems and hardware
requirements.

The Instructors DVD

contains PowerPoint
presentations, Adobe files
along with avi files, Term
Projects, quizzes with the
initial and final SolidWorks
models.
The book is design to expose
the new user to numerous tools
and procedures. It may not
always use the simplest and
most direct process.

The book does not cover

starting a SolidWorks session
in detail for the first time. A
default SolidWorks installation presents
you with several options. For additional
information for an Education Edition,
visit the following sites:
http://www.solidworks.com/goedu and
http://www.solidworks.com/sw/education
/6443_ENU_HTML.htm.

PAGE I - 29
Introduction SolidWorks 2012 Tutorial

Notes:

PAGE I - 30