SOLIDWORKS enables you to automatically develop multiple versions of a part and assembly configuration using simple table-driven functionality. Creating variations of a design within the same file streamlines “what if” scenarios, as well as planning for different applications.

With the SOLIDWORKS part and assembly configuration tool, you can:

• Quickly create “derived” versions of a design to speed creation of a different version
• Create part configurations by including, excluding, and varying features, dimensions, and display information, based on simple entries in a table
• Create assembly configurations by including, excluding, and varying parts, features, dimensions, and display information in your assembly, based on simple entries in a table
• Create simplified or detailed versions of your part design in the same file
• Create a configuration for each step that a part passes through during manufacturing (for example, cast, then machined, then welded, etc.)
• Create exploded versions of your assemblies to help explain your design
• Use Configuration Publisher to prepare assemblies with multiple versions for use by others

SOLIDWORKS 3D CAD tools automate repetitive design tasks, benefiting companies making custom products for bid/RFP, as well as high volume manufacturers. SOLIDWORKS design automation tools include:

• DriveWorksXpress—Automate your design process, and generate infinite variations of a model using a rules-based project that you set up once and run again and again
  • Capture and re-use design knowledge to save time and money
  • Incorporate design rules to minimize errors and cost from manual mistakes
  • Automate repetitive tasks to dramatically reduce design time when specifying new variants
  • Free design engineers from doing repetitive tasks to concentrate on new and special designs
  • Generate variations quickly and easily based on rules you create
• Hotkeys—Automate many simple tasks with only a few mouse clicks
• SOLIDWORKS Macros—Automate and streamline tasks with only a few steps
• Task Scheduler—Schedule and automatically drive off-peak batch processing activities
• Links to Microsoft® VBA—Generate custom automation using standard industry automation tools
• Built-in Application Programming Interface (API)—Automate specific functions in SOLIDWORKS

Quickly find CAD files and information on your computer network, in libraries, in SOLIDWORKS PDM, or on the Internet using the search capabilities in SOLIDWORKS 3D CAD software. You’ll save time when searching for CAD files and models, looking for CAD commands, or seeking help and advice about using SOLIDWORKS more productively to accelerate your design process.

CAD Search Overview

Quickly locating the files you need helps streamline product development. SOLIDWORKS search filters in the SOLIDWORKS FeatureManager—and in Help Search and Command Search in the user interface—provide quick answers and avoid duplication. With SOLIDWORKS CAD Search, you can:

• Search for individual files, products, or like-items (for example, all the “pumps”)
• Leverage the power of Windows® Desktop Search
• View and search directories from inside SOLIDWORKS File Explorer
• Search for Commands that you would like to learn about or use
• Search the Help system—including related online knowledge-based articles and community forums