SOLIDWORKS makes it easy to create auxiliary or current views to create a drawing that shows hidden or strangely angled features correctly.

When to Use Non-Standard Drawing Views

The standard drawing views include front, back, left, right, top, bottom, isometric, trimetric, and dimetric. If you create a drawing of a baseplate using these typical drawing views, you end up with a drawing that can be missing information or become more complicated without additional views.

A standard drawing in SOLIDWORKS

None of the standard drawing views are normal to either of the red angled faces, so properly dimensioning those faces is difficult. To properly display the red face, you would either need to create an auxiliary view or reorient the model to create a new view.

How to Create Auxiliary Views

An auxiliary view creates an unfolded view that is normal to the reference edge in a selected view.

To create an auxiliary view:

1. Select the Auxiliary View command from the Drawing tab of the CommandManager.

The Auxiliary View command

2. Select a reference edge to be used for the view. This can be the edge of a part, a silhouette edge, an axis, or a sketched line on your drawing.

Selecting a reference edge

3. A view will automatically be created that is normal to the selected edge.
   

   A newly created auxiliary view

The auxiliary view may not be oriented the way you want, so you will have to reposition it manually. While auxiliary views give you freedom with reference edges, they cannot be created from detail views.

Using the View Palette to Create a Current View

If you prefer to work in a 3D environment rather than the 2D drawing environment, you can use the Current View option in the View Palette.

To use the SOLIDWORKS part to create a new view:

1. Reorient the SOLIDWORKS model so it is normal to the face you need to dimension.

Using Normal To to reorient the SOLIDWORKS model

2. Once the face is normal to the screen in 3D, switch back to the drawing.
3. Open the View Palette from the Task Pane.

View Palette icon

3. If you have multiple components open, select the right model from the drop-down menu.
4. Select Current view from the bottom left of the View Palette.

Selecting the Current view from the View Palette

4. Drag-and-drop that view onto your drawing.
   

   The newly created view in a drawing

If you don’t see any drawing views in the pane when you click on View Palette, click on the small circular green arrows at the top to refresh. This method is useful because it doesn’t rely on projection from another drawing view and can be tailored to each model you need.

Learn More About SOLIDWORKS Drawings

Mastering SOLIDWORKS drawings opens the door to downstream communication and manufacturing applications. Without being able to properly display your models in 2D, you will struggle to communicate key dimensions and callouts.

Live, instructor-led training is a great option for teaching you the ins and outs of working with 2D drawings. Our certified experts will walk you through case studies to explain everything you need to know when going from 3D to 2D.

To register for an upcoming course, click here.

The post How to Create a Non-Standard Drawing View in SOLIDWORKS appeared first on The Javelin Blog.

Knowing how to export Dispatch scripts in SOLIDWORKS PDM is essential to automate tasks such as file movement, property updates, and workflow transitions. The SOLIDWORKS PDM Dispatch tool makes this possible and is incredibly flexible.

What is a Dispatch Script and Why Use It?

Dispatch scripts are sets of instructions created within the SOLIDWORKS PDM Administration tool.

They allow users to automate repetitive tasks such as:

• Renaming files based on metadata
• Moving files between folders
• Updating custom properties
• Triggering actions during workflow transitions

These scripts are stored within the vault and can be edited or executed by users with appropriate permissions.

Exporting Dispatch scripts is useful for several reasons:

• Backup: Safeguard your automation logic in case of vault corruption or accidental deletion.
• Migration: Move scripts from one vault to another during upgrades or restructuring.
• Collaboration: Share scripts with other administrators or teams for reuse or troubleshooting.
• Version Control: Maintain a history of script changes for auditing or rollback purposes.

How to Export Dispatch Scripts in SOLIDWORKS PDM

Exporting Dispatch scripts is essential to back up and restore scripts or when you need to share them with colleagues.

To export Dispatch scripts in SOLIDWORKS PDM:

1. Launch the SOLIDWORKS PDM Administration application.
   

   Dispatch under Add-ins in the SOLIDWORKS PDM Administration tool

2. In the left-hand pane, expand the vault you want to work with and log in as an administrator.
3. Right-click on the Dispatch Add-in and select Administrate Actions.
4. Select the action that you would like to save out/export.
5. Click Save.
   

   Saving the Dispatch script

6. A dialog box will appear prompting you to choose a location to save the .acn script file.
7. Choose a secure and accessible location, such as a shared network drive or version-controlled folder.
8. Click Save to complete the export.

Your script is now saved as a standalone file that can be imported into another vault or shared with others. Exporting Dispatch scripts is a simple but powerful way to manage your automation workflows in SOLIDWORKS PDM.

How to Import a SOLIDWORKS PDM Dispatch Script

Importing a Dispatch script is equally as important as exporting one.

To import a previously exported script:

1. Open the SOLIDWORKS PDM Administration Tool and connect to the target vault.
2. Right-click the Dispatch node and select Administrate Actions
3. Click Load.
4. Navigate to the location the file is saved.
5. Browse to the .acn file and click Open.
6. Review the script settings and make any necessary adjustments before saving.

Having a clear process for exporting and importing scripts ensures consistency and reliability. This is especially important for backing up and restoring scripts in the event of a disaster.

Tips for Managing Exported Scripts

Below are a few tips for managing exported scripts:

• Use Descriptive File Names: Include the script’s purpose and version in the filename to make it easier to identify later.
• Document Changes: Keep a changelog or comments within the script to track updates.
• Test Before Importing: Always test scripts in a staging vault before deploying them to production.
• Secure Access: Store exported scripts in a location with restricted access to prevent unauthorized modifications.

If you’re new to Dispatch or looking to expand your automation capabilities, consider building a library of reusable scripts and documenting your processes for future reference.

Protecting Against Disaster with SOLIDWORKS PDM

Exporting Dispatch scripts is only the beginning of protecting your engineering vault from disaster. Keeping accurate database backups, having a storage plan, and a prepared workflow for restoring your SOLIDWORKS PDM vault will get you up and running faster if disaster strikes.

Your engineering data is your most important asset, and it’s important to treat it as such.

To see if your vault is in top shape, schedule a SOLIDWORKS PDM Healthcheck here.

The post How to Export Dispatch Scripts in SOLIDWORKS PDM appeared first on The Javelin Blog.

SOLIDWORKS Electrical introduced the Replace Data function to help bring efficiency to the design process. This tool enables users to easily rearrange project information without completely tearing down what was already completed.

What is the Replace Data function?

The Replace Data function allows users to efficiently swap out key project information such as manufacturer parts, wire styles, title block references, and more across an entire project in just a few clicks. Instead of manually editing each component or symbol, you can apply consistent updates throughout your design, saving significant time and reducing the risk of errors.

The Replace Data function in SOLIDWORKS Electrical is a simple yet incredibly powerful feature that can save hours of manual work. Whether you are managing part substitutions, updating project standards, or ensuring consistency across large assemblies, Replace Data gives you the control needed to keep your designs accurate and up to date.

Why Use Replace Data?

Using the Replace Data function has a few key advantages over other methods.

• Efficiency: Large electrical projects often contain dozens or even hundreds of repeated components. Manually updating each instance is not only tedious but also prone to oversight. Replace Data automates this process, allowing you to update all occurrences of a part or property at once.
• Consistency: Uniformity is critical in electrical design. Replace Data ensures that every instance of the selected data is updated identically, eliminating discrepancies that could lead to confusion during manufacturing or troubleshooting.
• Speed: When deadlines are tight, Replace Data becomes invaluable. What might otherwise take hours can be completed in minutes, allowing you to focus on higher‑value engineering tasks.

How to Use Replace Data in SOLIDWORKS Electrical

Whether you’re responding to part availability issues, implementing design improvements, or adjusting to updated client specifications, changes are simply part of the engineering process. Learning to use Replace Data in SOLIDWORKS Electrical will allow you to make revisions smoothly.

1. Start by launching your SOLIDWORKS Electrical project and activating it.
   

   An open SOLIDWORKS Electrical project

2. Navigate to the Project tab and select Replace Data from the drop-down menu.
3. In the wizard, select the type of data to replace by choosing a category.
4. Define the part to be replaced by navigating to the Search For column.
5. Locate the existing part you want to replace and click the ellipses under the Reference (Replaced by) column to browse for the new part.
   

   Using the Replace Data Wizard

6. Go to the Replace with column to choose the replacement.
7. Click Finish to confirm the replacement.

SOLIDWORKS Electrical will automatically update every instance of the original part throughout the project, including all symbols, references, and associated data. You can also save the replacement configuration to use the replacement rules in the future.

Saving the replacement configuration

By mastering this tool, you’ll streamline your workflow and significantly reduce the risk of manual errors, making your electrical design process faster, cleaner, and more reliable.

Keeping SOLIDWORKS Electrical Up To Date

Staying on the latest version of SOLIDWORKS Electrical ensures you always have access to the latest enhancements in each Service Pack. While upgrading the software can be done by following the adminstration guide, there are things that could go wrong and jeopardize engineering productivity.

TriMech’s experts regularly upgrade SOLIDWORKS Electrical and are ready to handle any issues that pop up. Why risk downtime for your team when you can lean on ours to keep everything running smoothly?

To learn more about our SOLIDWORKS Electrical upgrade services, contact us here.

The post How to Use Replace Data in SOLIDWORKS Electrical | A Step-by-Step Guide appeared first on The Javelin Blog.

The SOLIDWORKS Toolbox will allow you to add custom sizes to meet all of your company’s specific requirements.

What is the SOLIDWORKS Toolbox?

The SOLIDWORKS Toolbox gives you the ability to quickly insert standard hardware into assemblies without manually creating fasteners from scratch. However, you may need a custom hardware size that is not included in the default SOLIDWORKS Toolbox database.

Using the SOLIDWORKS Toolbox to create fasteners

The standard Toolbox library includes thousands of hardware configurations based on ANSI, ISO, DIN, JIS, and other recognized standards.

Despite its extensive coverage, there are situations where a needed size may not exist:

• Custom screw lengths used by your organization.
• Legacy designs requiring non-standard components.
• Standard sizes omitted from the default Toolbox database.

How to Create New Fastener Sizes

Rather than creating disconnected parts, you can add custom sizes in the SOLIDWORKS Toolbox library to keep hardware management centralized and ensure consistency across projects.

Access the SOLIDWORKS Toolbox Settings

Before making any changes to the SOLIDWORKS Toolbox, understand where the data is stored. In addition, if your organization uses a shared Toolbox, all modifications should be coordinated with your CAD administrator because adding or editing content affects everyone who uses the Toolbox.

Custom-sized hardware is added through the Toolbox settings and can be accessed through the SOLIDWORKS Systems Options or the Windows Start Menu. In SOLIDWORKS, select Tools, Options, Hole Wizard/Toolbox, and click Configure.

Configure the SOLIDWORKS Toolbox

If you prefer Windows Start, browse to All Apps, SOLIDWORKS Tools 20XX, and select SOLIDWORKS Toolbox Settings 20XX. The numbers following the name will change based on your installation year.

Create a Custom Hardware Standard

While you can create custom sizes in the default standards, it can be beneficial to make a copy and provide clear naming of a standard specific to your company.

This will differentiate between the default standards and one that has been customized. You can then deselect the default standards to ensure users only have access to your standard.

With the Toolbox Settings open:

1. Select 2 – Customize Hardware.
2. Right-click on the desired standard and select Copy.
   

   Copying an existing Toolbox standard

3. Right-click on Toolbox Standards and select Paste.
4. Change the description of the new copy to a custom name.
   

   Creating a new SOLIDWORKS Toolbox standard

5. Deselect the original standard.

If you have been using a default standard in existing projects, it will still reference the original standard as the parts/configurations are not deleted. New fasteners inserted will use the custom standard.

Add a Custom Length or Size

One of the most common modifications is adding a custom fastener length to an existing size. Sometimes you may need to add an entirely new size rather than a new length.

To add a length not in the Toolbox:

1. Select the fastener family.
2. Locate Length in the Standard Properties table.
3. Find the size range associated with the thread diameter to confirm the size is missing.
   

   Adding a custom length

4. Click the plus icon to add the new value.
5. Save the changes.

The next time a user inserts that fastener from Toolbox, the new length will appear in the configuration options.

To create a new size:

1. Open the fastener family.
2. Locate Size in the Standard Properties table.
3. Click the plus icon to add a new size.
   

   Adding a custom size

4. Enter all dimension parameters.
   

   Customize the dimensions

5. Define additional properties such as lengths and thread data.
   

   Enter thread-specific data

SOLIDWORKS will generate new hardware configurations based on the information entered. Verify that dimensions and threads match, part numbers generate, and information populates correctly when a new component is inserted.

Updating Existing Assemblies

Adding new custom standards, sizes, or lengths will not affect existing hardware components. The original default sizes are not deleted from the SOLIDWORKS Toolbox database.

Changing existing fasteners to the new standard

New sizes become available for future insertions. Components can be manually changed to newly available sizes by right-clicking on the component in the tree and selecting Edit Toolbox Components.

Best Practices for Shared Toolbox Environments

With proper planning, backup procedures, and administrative controls, custom Toolbox sizes can become a valuable extension of your organization’s SOLIDWORKS standards.

Best practices include:

• Store the Toolbox data on a network location or in SOLIDWORKS PDM rather than individual workstations to ensure equal hardware access.
• Limit Toolbox modification privileges to CAD administrators to prevent mistakes.
• Consider enabling the option to automatically refresh the Toolbox folder on login.
• Major version SOLIDWORKS upgrades require the Toolbox database to be updated. Verify custom hardware remains available after migration to a newer version.
• Regular backups can quickly restore custom hardware if corruption or unexpected modifications occur.

Extending Assembly Mastery

Creating custom sizes for SOLIDWORKS Toolbox components is the first step of many to streamline engineering and increase the efficiency of your SOLIDWORKS assemblies. By leveraging standardization rather than relying on third-party suppliers, your team can work smarter and design faster.

We offer a variety of instructor-led training courses to cover best practices and industry insight to enable your team to make smarter design decisions. Use these courses to set the new standard for your organizations SOLIDWORKS training.

To review our upcoming training schedule and register for a course, click here.

The post How to Add Custom Sizes in the SOLIDWORKS Toolbox appeared first on The Javelin Blog.

Commonly referred to as cyclic references, these will often increase SOLIDWORKS rebuild times because simple calculations have to be redone multiple times. For SOLIDWORKS PDM, these circular references can also prevent the check-in process from completing.

What Causes SOLIDWORKS Circular References to Show Up?

A SOLIDWORKS circular reference can present itself with the presence of recurring rebuild symbols. Rebuilding an assembly will cause the rebuild symbol to move from one component to another rather than disappearing completely.

Further rebuilds of the assembly may cause the rebuild symbol to appear on other components or cycle back to the original component. With each subsequent rebuild, the symbol will loop through all affected components, but it will not be present if one of these parts is opened in a separate window.

Using the Performance Evaluation command to find circular references

A SOLIDWORKS cyclic reference can also make its presence known by the appearance of rebuild errors in the components affected by the circular reference. When one part is edited in the context of the assembly, the rebuild errors will appear in some or all other affected components.

Removing Cyclic References in SOLIDWORKS

Removing a circular reference in SOLIDWORKS often involves locking external references for each affected component, then rebuilding the assembly to isolate the components involved in the cyclic reference. Once affected components have been identified, the features and sketches of each component need to be edited to eliminate the cyclic reference.

In most cases, each relationship of a sketch that has an external reference will have to be suppressed to determine which relationship is responsible for the cyclic reference. You can suppress a feature or relationship by right-clicking on it and selecting the Suppress option.

Suppressing relationships from the right-click menu

Best Practices for Avoiding Circular References in SOLIDWORKS

Since identifying the source of the cyclic reference in SOLIDWORKS can be difficult and time-consuming, it is best to avoid circular references altogether.

• Use layout sketches and blocks as the hub for all external references.
• If external references need to be added to components in an assembly, attach external references to key components such as a frame. Key components should not contain features with external references, as this may introduce cyclic references.
• Avoid adding relations from a top-level component to a component in a subassembly.
• Do not add an external reference to a feature that already contains an external reference.
• Prevent addition of external references to time-dependent assembly features such as Hole Wizard holes, component patterns, and assembly cuts.

Fixing Cyclic References in SOLIDWORKS PDM Files

SOLIDWORKS PDM will not allow a check-in of a cyclic reference due to an endless loop of assembly references. In addition, you will not be allowed to disable this warning message as this setting is hard-coded.

This behavior can be resolved by always working with the latest versions of all files. Enabling the Always work with latest version option to allows you to check in files causing cyclic references.

Always working with the latest version of SOLIDWORKS PDM files

When this setting is enabled, the latest file version is always in the cache regardless of the referenced version.

SOLIDWORKS Best Practices

Getting the most out of SOLIDWORKS requires more than finding the first method to throw together an assembly. Following best practices and expert guidance provides a more robust model and reduces the performance strain of large assemblies.

To download our SOLIDWORKS Large Assembly Best Practices white paper, click here.

The post Guide to SOLIDWORKS Circular References and How to Fix Them appeared first on The Javelin Blog.

What is the SOLIDWORKS STEP Import Filter?

Before 2024, importing a STEP file was a tedious operation, and large assemblies could take a long time to open. Every component had to be imported, performance suffered when working with overbuilt models, and you had to wait until after the import to remove unnecessary geometry.

Using the SOLIDWORKS STEP import filter

STEP files from supplier models, customer designs, and legacy data from other systems can be larger and more complex than needed, so the SOLIDWORKS STEP import filter was introduced to pre-select components before import, reduce model size, improve performance, and streamline working with large assemblies.

What Changed in SOLIDWORKS 2024?

SOLIDWORKS 2024 introduced the ability to filter STEP files before import. When opening a STEP file, you can now enable a filter and review the product structure first.

Key capabilities include:

• View the STEP assembly structure before importing
• Select only the components you want
• Exclude unnecessary parts or subassemblies
• Generate a lightweight 3D preview
• Import only the filtered selection

This happens in a dedicated import filter window with a tree similar to the SOLIDWORKS FeatureManager. You can also right-click components to quickly include or exclude groups.

How to Use the Import Filter

The SOLIDWORKS STEP Import Filter is available through the SOLIDWORKS open window.

To use the STEP filters:

1. Navigate to File and then Open.
2. Select a STEP file in the window.
3. Select Enable Filter to toggle on the STEP filters.
   

   Enabling the SOLIDWORKS STEP filters

4. Select Generate 3D Preview to see a graphics preview that loads quickly.
   

   Step filter Generate Preview

5. Select or deselect components from the PropertyManager to customize the import.
   

   STEP filter with selected components

6. With the selected components filtered, click Import Model.
   

   Finalizing the STEP import

You will now have your STEP file imported into SOLIDWORKS based on additional STEP import settings. If you regularly deal with STEP files, this is a practical workflow you can adopt right away to reduce open times.

When to use the SOLIDWORKS STEP Import Filter

The STEP import filter is a feature that directly addresses a real-world pain point for designers. Instead of importing everything and cleaning it up later, you can decide what you want to bring into SOLIDWORKS.

It becomes very valuable in these scenarios:

• Large supplier assemblies where you don’t require every component
• Quickly previewing a large STEP file
• Customer-provided equipment layouts
• Reference geometry for top-down design
• Migrating from other CAD systems
• Evaluating design concepts without a full import

Time-Saving SOLIDWORKS Enhancements

Each year, SOLIDWORKS adds hundreds of time-saving tools and workflows to the industry-leading CAD ecosystem. With so many new enhancements, it’s tough to stay on top of everything, so you might miss key tools like the STEP import filters.

Rather than digging through the help files or the PDF documentation, let our experts wade through everything and deliver only what matters.

To schedule a complimentary What’s New in SOLIDWORKS session, click here.

The post How to Use the SOLIDWORKS STEP Import Filter appeared first on The Javelin Blog.

By limiting the number of dimensions and instead using sketch relations, you minimize clutter in your model while still fully defining design intent.

What are SOLIDWORKS Sketch Relations?

Sketch relations are used to ensure your design intent is implemented. With them, you can define the size, shape, location, and orientation of any piece of sketch geometry.

Examples of SOLIDWORKS sketch relations

Sketch relations are found in the SOLIDWORKS PropertyManager after selecting multiple entities. The available relations can change depending on the entities you have selected.

Below are the available SOLIDWORKS sketch relations:

• Horizontal: If a line is selected, it becomes horizontal. When two points are selected, they are aligned horizontally.
• Vertical: The selected line becomes vertical. Select two points to align them vertically.
• Collinear: Ensures two or more lines lie on the same infinite line.
• Perpendicular: Reinforces a 90-degree angle between two lines.
• Coincident: Moves a point to lie on another point, line, arc, or ellipse.
• Parallel: Makes two items parallel to each other. Can be used between lines, planes, faces, or a combination of the three.
• Equal: Sets the dimension of the lines or arcs equal to each other.
• Tangent: Used to make a smooth transition between an arc and another arc or line. The line touches the arc and is perfectly perpendicular at exactly one point.
• Concentric: Two or more arcs or a point and an arc will share the same center point.
• Midpoint: Used between two lines or a point and a line. The line will be moved so the point is in the middle.
• Symmetric: Items remain equidistant from the centerline. You must have a centerline and two points, lines, arcs, or ellipses.
• Coradial: Two or more arcs will share the same center point and radius.
• Fix: Locks an entity in its position, size, and rotation.
• Intersection: Used between a point and two lines. The point will move to the intersection of the lines.
• Merge: Connects two distinct points into one. Best for closing a gap or connecting endpoints.

Relations alone can rarely define a sketch. In most cases, you will still need to use Smart Dimension a few times either for positioning or distances.

How to Access and Use Relations

Sketch relations can be added in a few different ways. The first is to navigate to the Display/Delete Relations drop-down in the CommandManager and select Add Relations.

However, the preferred way is to use the control key, select the entities, and then use the PropertyManager to define the relation.

To constrain geometry using Add Relations:

1. Select the entities you want to constrain. In this case, a line and arc will become tangent.
   

   Adding relations between a line and arc

2. Select the Tangent option.
3. The line and arc will be constrained accordingly.
   

   Tangent icon showing the relation between the line and arc

4. Clear the selected entities to make another relation.

If you choose to use the control key to select entities, you can follow the same process, and the relations will pop up in the same spot. However, if you use Add Relations, you do not have to hold down the control key for selecting entities.

SOLIDWORKS Foundation for Design Efficiency

Fundamental skills help you build more robust models, lock down design intent, and future-proof yourself from unwanted model changes. While some clients rely on dimensions, sketch relations are the real backbone of any SOLIDWORKS model.

With our help, you can stop wasting time on inefficient techniques and start making impactful changes to your engineering workflow.

To get similar SOLIDWORKS Tips delivered to your inbox, sign up for our bi-weekly Tech Tip newsletter here.

The post Complete Guide to SOLIDWORKS Sketch Relations appeared first on The Javelin Blog.

Instead of editing individual dimensions, the Scale command resizes the complete part while maintaining its overall shape.

Why Scale a Part in SOLIDWORKS?

Scaling is particularly useful when working with imported models, creating prototypes, compensating for manufacturing processes such as casting or 3D printing shrinkage, or generating different-sized versions of the same design.

Being able to scale a model allows you to:

• Resize imported CAD geometry quickly.
• Compensate for material shrinkage during casting or molding.
• Create larger or smaller design variants.
• Prepare models for 3D printing.
• Adjust models received from suppliers.
• Save time by avoiding manual dimension edits.

Whether you’re modifying an imported component or preparing a model for manufacture, the Scale feature provides a quick and efficient solution.

When to Use the Scale Command

The Scale command is commonly used when creating prototype models, casting and molding components, 3D printed parts, product size variations, imported CAD models, and reverse engineering products.

If only certain features need resizing, editing the original sketches or dimensions is usually the better option. The Scale command is best used when the entire model needs to change size proportionally.

How to Use the Scale Command on an Entire Part

The Scale command is the quickest way to resize a complete solid or surface body.

Begin by opening the part and following these steps:

1. Open the Scale command by navigating to Insert, Features, and selecting Scale.
   

   The Scale command in the Features menu

2. In the Scale PropertyManager, define the Scale Parameters.
   

   The Scale PropertyManager

3. Enter the scale factor and click Ok to apply the scale.
   

   A Scale feature visible in the FeatureManager design tree

Any scale factors below 1.0 will reduce the model, and above 1.0 will increase the size. For example, 0.5 will reduce the model size to 50% while 2.0 will double the model size.

How to Apply Non-Uniform Scaling

SOLIDWORKS also allows you to scale independently along the X, Y, and Z axes.

To apply non-uniform scaling:

1. Open the Scale command by navigating to Insert, Features, and selecting Scale.
2. Clear the Uniform Scaling option to enable separate input boxes for the X, Y, and Z directions.
   

   Non-uniform scaling boxes

3. Enter the individual scale factors. This stretches or compresses the model differently in each direction.

This method is useful for design concepts, product styling, correcting imported geometry, and special manufacturing requirements. Keep in mind that non-uniform scaling changes proportions and may affect the fit of mating components.

How to Scale Imported Geometry

Imported STEP, IGES, and Parasolid files can also be resized using the Scale command.

To do this:

1. Open the imported model.
2. Open the Scale command by navigating to Insert, Features, and selecting Scale.
3. Enter the desired scale factor.
4. Click Ok.

This is useful when imported models have incorrect units or need resizing before further editing.

Common Issues and Best Practices

Scaling should be the final modeling step when possible.

If scaling doesn’t produce the expected results, check the following:

• Ensure the model contains a solid or surface body.
• Scaling changes the entire model, including holes, fillets, and threads.
• Very large-scale factors may cause rebuild errors or create invalid geometry.
• If assemblies use the scaled part, mates may require updating.

Additional tips for using the Scale command include using the centroid to keep the model balanced, having a copy of the model before applying large scale changes, and using the manufacturer’s recommended shrinkage factor.

Alternative Methods to Resize a Model

The Scale command isn’t the only way to resize geometry in SOLIDWORKS.

Depending on your design, you can also:

• Edit the original sketch dimensions for fully parametric changes.
• Use Move/Copy Bodies when repositioning geometry without resizing.
• Save configurations with different dimensions instead of scaling.
• Use Direct Editing tools to modify imported models without affecting the entire part.

Choosing the appropriate method depends on whether you need to resize the complete model or only specific features.

Master SOLIDWORKS Design Features

Experience hands-on learning through the SOLIDWORKS Essentials training course. Throughout the 14 lessons, acquire the skills you need to comfortably and confidently model and design in SOLIDWORKS.

Instructors will guide you through case studies and examples, ensuring your learning is cemented every step of the way.

To see the upcoming training schedule and register for a class, click here.

The post How to Scale a Part in SOLIDWORKS appeared first on The Javelin Blog.

Rather than using sketch tools to manually create it, SOLIDWORKS uses system fonts and workflows much like a word processor works.

When Should You Use Sketch Text?

Sketch text is commonly used when creating part numbers, nameplates, identification marks, or decorative texts. In situations where you want to apply a company logo, it is best to use a Sketch Block instead since it can include more than just text elements.

Text rotated 90 degrees

If the text needs to become part of the model, using the text sketch tools is the best option because it can later be extruded, cut, wrapped, or patterned. Decals and appearances can be used to add warnings to a model but can not be easily extruded, if at all.

Why Rotate Text in SOLIDWORKS?

While text is inserted horizontally by default, many designs require it to follow a specific orientation or align with part geometry.

Being able to rotate text allows you to:

• Create professional-looking engravings and embossed features.
• Align text with angled faces or features.
• Add logos and branding to parts.
• Position text correctly before using features, such as Extruded Cut or Boss Extrude.
• Improve the appearance and readability of drawings and models.

Whether you’re designing consumer products, fixtures, or machined components, knowing how to control text orientation can save time and reduce unnecessary sketch edits.

How to Rotate Text in SOLIDWORKS

Text in SOLIDWORKS can be rotated several ways. Choose the best option depending on your comfort level with the workflows.

Rotate Sketch Text with Construction Lines

This method is commonly used when the text is going to remain in a straight line but needs to be rotated as a single unit. The individual letters will stay aligned with each other.

To rotate text in SOLIDWORKS:

1. Create a new sketch on a face or plane.
2. Open the text tools by navigating to Tools > Sketch Entities > Text or from the Sketch tab of the CommandManager.
3. Using the Sketch Text PropertyManager, enter your text.
   

   Creating text in SOLIDWORKS

4. Create a new construction line in the sketch and select it in the Curves section.
   

   Selecting a curve for SOLIDWORKS text

5. Accept and close the Sketch Text PropertyManager.
6. Navigate to Tools > Sketch Tools > Rotate.
7. Select the construction line and enter the desired rotation angle.
   

   The Rotate PropertyManager

8. Accept and close the Rotate PropertyManager.

Rotating Text on a Circular Path

This method is commonly used when text needs to wrap around a circular feature. Typically, it is reserved for badges, stamps, coins, or other decorative engravings.

To place text on a circular path:

1. Create a new sketch on a face or plane.
2. Sketch a circle, arc, or spline.
3. Open the text tools by navigating to Tools > Sketch Entities > Text or from the Sketch tab of the CommandManager.
4. Using the Sketch Text PropertyManager, enter your text.
5. Select the circle, arc, or spline so it goes in the Curves section.
6. Adjust the options in the Sketch Text PropertyManager to reverse direction, flip text, and customize the text alignment.
   

   Creating text on a curve in SOLIDWORKS

7. Accept and close the Sketch Text PropertyManager.

Alternative Methods

Rotating sketch text isn’t the only way to position text in SOLIDWORKS.

Depending on your design, you can also:

• Use the Wrap command to place text onto cylindrical or curved faces.
• Create text in a separate sketch and use Move Entities or Rotate Entities to reposition it.
• Use Decals or Appearances if the text is only needed for visual presentation and won’t be manufactured into the part.

Choosing the appropriate method depends on whether the text is cosmetic or part of the model geometry.

Common Troubleshooting Steps for SOLIDWORKS Text

If text in SOLIDWORKS does not behave as expected, there are a few simple troubleshooting steps to diagnose the issue.

• Make sure the text is still part of the active sketch.
• Verify that the selected curve is not broken or made of multiple disconnected entities.
• If rotating the sketch moves the text to an unexpected location, check the sketch origin or select a different centre of rotation.
• Ensure the text isn’t fully defined by dimensions or relations that prevent movement.

Improving SOLIDWORKS Models With Text

Rotating text in SOLIDWORKS is straightforward once you know where the appropriate tools are located. Creating engraved parts, embossed logos, identification marks, or decorative features makes rotating text and using curve-based text a significant improvement in the appearance of your model.

For simple text placement, rotating the sketch provides a quick solution. When working with circular or complex geometry, placing text along a curve offers greater flexibility and a more professional result.

To learn more time-saving SOLIDWORKS tips, sign up for our bi-weekly Tech Tip newsletter here.

The post How to Rotate Text in SOLIDWORKS appeared first on The Javelin Blog.

To extend this further, they can be connected to data cards in SOLIDWORKS PDM to make that information visible outside of SOLIDWORKS.

Understanding Metadata

You can customize a part, assembly, and drawing templates to automatically include any custom property. There are additional properties, like weight and configuration names, that SOLIDWORKS can automatically pull from the file.

Linking drawing notes to custom properties

Custom properties in SOLIDWORKS should be set up in your templates and will contain different inputs depending on the configuration of your parts or assemblies. Depending on your templates, this data can be used to have part files automatically fill in title blocks in drawing files and keep the information in one spot.

What is a SOLIDWORKS PDM Variable?

A SOLIDWORKS PDM variable is similar to a custom property in SOLIDWORKS. They can have any name or purpose you require but need to be kept track of.

The list of variables can be found in the SOLIDWORKS PDM Administration tool under the Variables section. If you right-click on the drop-down menu and open it, you can get more information and options to create a new variable.

The Variables section in the SOLIDWORKS PDM Administration tool

SOLIDWORKS PDM variable data can be:

• Text
• Dates
• Yes or no
• Decimal numbers
• Integer numbers

One way to overcomplicate your vault is creating too many variables for the same piece of data. Additionally, be sure to keep naming schemes consistent across variables.

Variable Attributes

To use a SOLIDWORKS PDM variable, you need to add attributes to it. Attributes enable you to add a block for custom properties to read the SOLIDWORKS templates.

To get a variable to be able to read from your SOLIDWORKS custom property, use the block name CustomProperty. The Attribute name dialog box must match the custom property in SOLIDWORKS exactly.

Adding a SOLIDWORKS PDM variable

If you have special SOLIDWORKS properties attached to your drawing templates, $PRPSHEET attributes can be used. Additionally, multiple attributes can be added to a variable.

How to Add a Variable to the Data Card

Now that the SOLIDWORKS PDM Variable is created, use the Cards section of the SOLIDWORKS PDM Administration tool to insert the information in the data card.

1. Open the file card you want to add the variable to.
2. Add an Edit-box to the data card.
3. In the Edit-box properties, use the drop-down to select the newly created variable. If one doesn’t exist, you can also create a new variable here.
   

   Open a card and select a variable

4. Save the card, and it will be ready to read from your vaulted SOLIDWORKS files.

Using SOLIDWORKS Templates to Standardize Data Flow

With variables linked to your custom properties, SOLIDWORKS PDM will automatically read information saved in your SOLIDWORKS files. However, the information read comes from the specific named custom property defined when setting up the variable.

Custom properties sharing information with data cards

To ensure data consistency across the organization, you can use file templates. These templates will prepopulate the custom properties window with standard properties to be filled in by the engineering team or by SOLIDWORKS PDM.

Extending SOLIDWORKS PDM

While variable mapping is available in SOLIDWORKS PDM Standard, there are additional features that SOLIDWORKS PDM Professional brings to the table. Upgrading to SOLIDWORKS PDM Professional takes your vault from a place that is used to store CAD documents to a robust, organization-wide data management system.

To schedule a complimentary demonstration of SOLIDWORKS PDM Professional functionality, contact us here.

The post How to Connect Custom Properties to SOLIDWORKS PDM Data Cards appeared first on The Javelin Blog.