3D CAD I: SolidWorks

Introduction to SolidWorks.

SolidWorks is an engineering CAD program and 3D modeler. SolidWorks is suitable for mechanical engineering work and thus is subtly different in emphasis from more art-oriented modelers such as Maya or Sketchup.

Students will learn the basics of SolidWorks and will create 3D models and 2D drawings of them. We will use all sketch elements and all positive and negative features in at least one exercise each. We will use associated dimensions to control models and to drive revision of drawings. The class will have an emphasis on design intent as it relates to mechanical engineering. We will learn to assemble our 3D parts into assemblies using mating and dimensional constraints.

We won't have time to get into the analysis features of the program but will cover just enough of the photorealistic renderer to generate pretty 3D images of our designs.