What SolidWorks DoesĪs the name suggests, SolidWorks is a solid modeling program. Other improvements include more automated assembly management, faster assembly workflows, multi-body modeling improvements and the extensive use of coordinate systems, and more. In the past, SolidWorks 20 brought about the integration of CAM tools, the ability to make use of touch screen devices in the design process and the incorporation of AR/VR applications to virtually explore models.Īnd now, SolidWorks 2023, the latest version has added automation, enabling users to produce more precise drawings (create drawings that represent designs more accurately), build and modify complex structures, and better communicate sheet metal designs. These were later developed to include aspects like Finite Element Analysis. Catering fully to the needs of engineers and designers, Dassault incorporated simulation capabilities in 2001. Whilst SolidWorks started out solely as a solid modeling software, it has since grown into a full CAD and CAE program. It’s estimated that, by 2013, over 2 million engineers and designers were using SolidWorks. Whilst they already had specialist software CATIA up their sleeve, SolidWorks marked the beginning of Dassault’s dominance in the CAD industry.

Needless to say, it was a smart move on Dassault’s end. Recognize the name? That’s because he later went on to co-found cloud-based CAD software Onshape.Īfter a mere 2 years, SolidWorks was acquired by Dassault Systèmes for an eye-watering $310 million in stocks. And the minds behind it? A team of engineers led by Jon Hirschtick. It ended up being a huge milestone in the evolution of CAD. It was created by SolidWorks Corporation, who had been working on it since 1993, and was finally released as the first significant 3D modeler for Windows in 1995. Known as the flagship product of Dassault Systèmes, SolidWorks’ creation actually started life outside of Dassault. If you’re a CAD enthusiast and haven’t heard of SolidWorks, you must have been living under a rock. What is SolidWorks? History of SolidWorks System Requirements: SolidWorks vs Autodesk Inventor.Compatibility: SolidWorks vs Autodesk Inventor.Collaboration: SolidWorks vs Autodesk Inventor.

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