SolidWorks fully defined sketches

Using fully defined sketches

Have you ever tried to extrude or revolve a sketch but SolidWorks will not let you?  You have probably seen this message pop up.
 

There are a couple of ways you can fix this issue.  First, you can always add all of the dimensions and relations to make this sketch fully defined.  The problem with this is the next time you create a sketch, you will get the same error message.  The best way to handle this issue is to change the setting.  Go to Options, System Options, Sketch and uncheck “use fully defined sketches”

This is the preferred setting for SolidWorks.  The reason for this setting is that you want to have the freedom to work with organic shapes.  You will not use fully defined sketches when dealing with these complex shapes as it would make your modeling extremely difficult.

SolidWorks 2013 Beta is Coming Soon

Today there was an email sent out to the SolidWorks Community announcing that SolidWorks2013 Beta is coming soon (see below for copy) and we wanted to spread the word and also tell you about some of the highlights of the SolidWorks Beta Program.

1. Influence: Reporting bugs & migration issues specific to your environment, data & workflows will help improve your release transition.

2.  On-Premise Testing: The SolidWorks Beta Team is opening their different office worldwide and you can attend the testing events to test your data while working with the SolidWorks Research and Development personnel. The good news is there is an event in the CATI territory in Madison, WI on July 30, 2012 to August 3, 2012. Please visit http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/Beta_2013_on_premise_testing_event for more information.

3. Prizes and Awards: While the Beta site does not have all the details yet you can see all the different prizes that were given out to those who participated in the Beta Program. Last year on top of the overall prizes that were given out there were several special  competitions that were done weekly and on specific design topics.

Please take a few minutes to look over the SolidWorks Beta Site http://www.solidworks.com/beta/default.htm to see all that it has to offer.

If you would like to register for the Beta Program all you need to do is log into the SolidWorks Customer Portal https://login.solidworks.com/nidp/idff/sso?id=cpenglish&sid=0&option=credential&sid=0.

Happy Beta Testing

Josh Altergott

CATI Support Manager

 

Email From SolidWorks Sent out on 5/29/2012

Dear SolidWorks Professional,

The SolidWorks Beta team has been hard at work and is very excited to announce that the 2013 Beta program will be launched in June 2012.

SolidWorks 2013 includes many new user-driven enhancements - along with some entirely new areas of functionality!

Visit the 2013 Beta site and click "Join Now" to keep updated on the latest Beta News and learn about upcoming contests and prizes for Beta participants.

This year's Beta program includes an expanded list of on-premise Beta events at several SolidWorks regional offices worldwide.  Learn more and sign up for these opportunities at: 2013 End User On-Premise Beta Events.

For more information about Beta and upcoming SolidWorks 2013 related events, please contact your Reseller.

We encourage you to participate in the 2013 Beta Program and experiment using copies of your own production data.  This will enable you to learn about the new functionality and how it will work with your data before SolidWorks 2013 is released.  Testing with your data is something only you can do.

Be part of the SolidWorks 2013 Beta program to test and explore all the new and exciting features for SolidWorks Design, SolidWorks Simulation, and SolidWorks Enterprise PDM!

If you have any questions please email us at beta@solidworks.com

The SolidWorks Beta Team.

Simulation – Why Should I Increase the number of elements through the thickness

Every once in a while a question will come in about a simulation result not showing the results that were expected. Well this doesn’t mean the software is wrong or that the user is wrong it just means that the study hasn’t been fully developed. What I mean by this is that the mesh has not been refined enough to allow the software enough movement to obtain the expected result. More specifically there are not enough rows of elements through the thickness of the component. To illustrate this, think of a chain where each link in the chain represents a row of elements through the thickness of a part. Hold just one link and notice that you can’t get any other shape then the shape of a single chain. Now hold three links and this time notice that you can manipulate the three links into several different contours. Now continue to hold more and more links, where each link represents a new row of elements. You will see that the more links or rows of elements you have the more shapes the chain can take. This is how it works with simulation and increase the number of element rows in a part. So the next time you run a study that isn’t given you the results you want, try increasing the number of elements through the thickness by controlling the mesh size or by using mesh control. The smaller the mesh size the more rows can be fit through the thickness.

 

Enjoy,

Nick Jansen, CSWP

CATI

How to create a mirrored assembly in Solidworks

The process is the same as creating a mirrored subassembly.  Once you have created the assembly you would like to mirror, place that assembly into a new assembly file.  This makes it a subassembly now.  Just select a plane to mirror about and the box around the whole assembly file to collect the parts.  Then click the blue arrow to go to the next step in the process.  Select the assembly and click the button for mirror, which is at the bottom of the property manager.

As a side note if you wanted to select multiple parts to have a opposite hand side, the process one would have to follow is same:  select the part and click the button, select the next part and click the button.  To quicken the process you can select the first part and click the button, then hold Ctrl and simply start selecting the parts down the list.

Once you have created the mirrored assembly, dissolve the mirrored assembly.  Then you can open that mirrored assembly in its own file and save it.

Ketul Patel
Computer Aided Technology, Inc. 

 

Composer 2013 Now Available

Come and get it!  Composer 2013 is now available for download.

Looking thru the Dassoult Websites, I was able to find the fact sheet and an listing of the key enhancements for 2013.

3DVIA Composer is the leading solution for creating highly effective product communications across all manufacturing industries. Key new features and enhancements in 3DVIA Composer V6R2013 include:

• Image Library


• Quick Magnetic Line Alignment


• Prevent Actor Deletion


• New Advanced Application Settings


• Disable Document Property and Application Preference Modifications


• DisableMatchingProperties Precedence Change

For more information, download the 3DVIA Composer V6R2013 Fact Sheet.

 

You can check out the entire fact sheet describing all the new features at the link below.

http://www.3ds.com/fileadmin/PRODUCTS/3DVIA/3DVIAComposer/pdf/3DVIAComposer_V6R2013_Fact_Sheet.pdf

Big Changes to the CATI FTP site

Many of you that follow this blog are regular users of CATI support services. It is very common that during a support call our techs will as you to send us a copy of your files. For your securtity we have overhauled our FTP site to provide you with a more secure method of sending us files.

The first thing you will notice is that FTP.CATI.COM no longer exists. You will no longer be able to blindly log in and dump the files on to our ftp site.

The New site is SUPPORT.CATI.COM. The first major difference is that we now have a web portal interface. Most users should find this very eay to navigate. Please contact support for login information.

Once you are logged in you will see a listing of folder that you can navigate thru. This is similar to our old public folder. You will find help files, what's new documents, Installation files, and other general files. Notice that you do not see any of the call files.

Call files is probably the biggest change on our ftp site. Call folders are no longer visible to anyone who logs into the ftp site. All folders are now tied to a specific support call and have a randomly generated password. This password is only good for that support call. If you have multiple support calls with us, each call will have a separate folder and password. When you log a support call with us, we will send you an email with the login infomation for your call. This email contains a direct link to the support folder, and will also give you the instruction to manually log into your support folder.

All uploads and downloads will now be done thru a single call folder, and all files will be deleted from our server 90 days after the call is closed (subject to change).

We hope you like the new changes. If you are experiencing problems with the site, please contact support so we can work with you to resolve the issue. We feel this is a very benificial change and the feedback has been very positive.

We hope this helps you share your files with us so we can trouble shoot any issues you run across.

Enjoy!

Have a Safe and Fun Memorial Day Weekend From CATI...and a Little Help From SolidWorks

For most of us, Memorial Day weekend is a time spent with family and friends relaxing or enjoying outdoor activities.  You may be surprised just how much your weekend is impacted by product designers, engineers, and SolidWorks.  

Are you planning on doing any biking this weekend?  If so, it’s highly likely your bike was designed in SolidWorks.

Maybe you will be taking in an outdoor concert.  Keep an eye on the guitar player.  There's a good chance that guitar was designed in SolidWorks.

Heading to Indianapolis for the Indy 500?  You guessed it, some race teams utilize SolidWorks to design and engineer their cars.

Or, perhaps you are planning a BBQ this Memorial Day weekend.  The grill you are using, that too was designed in SolidWorks. And while you are at the store picking up your favorite BBQ items, keep in mind that the shelves and refrigerated displays are designed in SolidWorks.

I could think of plenty more examples of how SolidWorks will impact your holiday weekend, but I think you get the point. Which is, have a safe and fun Memorial Day weekend.  

 

Jim TeDesco
Marketing
Computer Aided Technology, Inc. 

SolidWorks Configuration Publisher: Taking File Configuration to the Next Level

CATI's monthly contribution to the SolidWorks Blog was posted yesterday. This month I chose to write about the overall how to for the Configuration Publisher.

To view the article use the link below.

http://blogs.solidworks.com/solidworksblog/2012/05/solidworks-configuration-publisher-taking-file-configuration-to-the-next-level.html

Included in the article are all of the example files as well as a copy of the presentation that I did with a former CATI colleague Joe Rowesy at SolidWorks World on Configurations, Design Tables and Configuration Publisher.

Thanks for viewing

Josh Altergott

CATI Support Manager

Pro-E Users Move to SolidWorks Accelerating

Saw a recent newsletter from a SolidWorks reseller on the West Coast and it is echoing a trend we are seeing as well: Pro-E users moving to SolidWorks at an increasing rate. The article notes some key drivers behind the switch such as the availability of trained engineers and dominance in file format. Also, the lack of adoption of the Creo product is not helping. Link is below for your review:

http://www.hawkridgesys.com/news/post/hawk-ridge-systems-newsletter-april-2012

SolidWorks videos

Have you ever had one of those moments where you remember using a command in a training class or you’ve seen it somewhere before but just can’t quite remember how to use it?  Then when you go to the help files within SolidWorks, you get a pretty detailed description but it’s still not clear and you wish you could see a video of this?  Many times people have asked me to send them a video of something or commented that they wish SolidWorks would put up videos for everything in the help menu to go along with the descriptions.  Then there is the internet…Many times users look for tips and tricks on YouTube videos but reliability and relevancy (as far as current version) of the source are often questioned.  Well rest easy because SolidWorks does have a YouTube channel.  If you have not visited this before, I have included a link below.  There is also a link on your customer portal.  Happy viewing.

http://www.youtube.com/solidworks

Brian Adika                                                                                                                            Technical Analyst                                                                                                                    Computer Aided Technology, Inc.

Automate Custom Product Creation With DriveWorks Solo

DriveWorks Solo is the quick and easy way to create custom products.

• Reduce the cost of custom designs


• Respond quickly to sales enquiries


• Enhance product quality


• Reduce repetitive tasks

Do you want to learn more about how this tool can help you solve your design challenges?

If so, Try it FREE for 30 Days!  Click Here to Get started with Your Free Trial.  Be sure to list CATI as your Reseller when registering for your Trial Offer.

 

Jim TeDesco
Marketing
Computer Aided Technology, Inc. 

How to change Solidworks from network to standalone on a client machine

First thing to understand is that the only thing telling your computer that Solidworks is networked or standalone is the serial number.  Usually a network serial number starts with 0010 and a standalone might start with 0000 or 9000. 

To change your installation from network to standalone or the other way around, just change the serial number from Add/Remove programs (winxp) or Programs and Features (win7). 

Go to the Control Panel and select either one of the two depending on the OS.  Then select Solidworks from the list and click Change.  The installation manager will start up and you will need to click through all the screens even though nothing is being installed.  When it prompts you for the serial number just change it to the new one.

Ketul Patel
Computer Aided Technology, Inc. 

 

Objet Announces the NEW Objet30 Pro Desktop Professional 3D Printer

As promised last week, Objet announced today the release of the newest addition to their 3D printer line, the Objet30 Pro.  The Objet30 Pro combines the accuracy and versatility of a high-end Rapid Prototyping machine with a small desktop footprint that’s easy to use and maintain. It’s also the world’s only desktop 3D printer to be able to 3D print in clear transparent, high temperature, rigid opaque and polypropylene-like materials.  In total, the Objet30 Pro has the ability to print with seven different materials.  View the video below for a unique first look at the NEW Objet30 Pro Desktop Professional 3D Printer.  Read the full article on the Objet Blog.

Jim TeDesco
Marketing
Computer Aided Technology, Inc. 

Objet set to release a NEW Desktop 3D Printer on May 22, 2012

Objet posted on their blog that a NEW Desktop 3D Printer is on its way.  There are still a few unknown details as to the release.  The full announcement will be made on May 22nd.  Until then, enjoy this great video that gives a glimpse of things to come. Head over to the Objet Blog for more info on all things 3D Printing and Rapid Prototyping.

Jim TeDesco
Marketing
Computer Aided Technology, Inc.

Light Weight Patterns

Sometimes the patterning of holes can be to say the least very resource intensive. If you are just looking for the image or illusion of the holes to be there, we have a very lightweight alternative. The feature is called  a Cosmetic Pattern.There are only a couple of rules and the results are excellent.

1.You can only apply it to a planar face. Not a big deal as you are usually using it for something to mimic a perforated panel which is usually a purchased item.

2. Realview graphics has to be on in order to have it shown.

Expand your appearances task pane from the left and dig into appearances, miscellaneous, Real View Only Appearances.

 

 Make Sure Realview is turned on..

 

 

Drag the cosmetic hole pattern on to the face(s) and then configure it using the property manager as shown.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

In the property manager you get all of the options to mimic a perforated panel with all the differnt shapes and options for sizing and layout.

 

 

 

 

Just to give me you an idea of the the resourses required for a Fill pattern vs a Cosmetic pattern see the stats below on a very simple part....

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Enjoy and give it a try..

Todd Werginz Technical Analyst

CATI

What to do when your SNL manager doesn't keep your server name?

More than a few times I have encountered this problem. Say you have had a stroke of luck and you finally get the server upgrade you have been waiting for. Transferring the activation from the old server to the new server goes great except the end users can't get a license. Now what?

On the end user machine you have gone in and switched the server name to the new host but for some reason... it won't stay. The user has local admin permissions and still can't get this to write.

So here is where we have to take things into our own hands. Make sure the SolidNetwork License Manager is closed. Taking advantage of the end user local admin or loging in with admin permissions proceed to the registry editor.

DANGER!! DANGER!! If you are not familiar with editing the registry STOP HERE!!! Let somebody qualified do this step for you...

Go to:
Start>type regedit
navigate to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE
Software, FLEXlm License Manager
Double click SW_D_LICENSE_FILE enter the new sever information example 25734@mynewservername

Open the SolidNetwork License Manager, go to server list. It should now be the new location. Click on license usage tab, it should now show license availability.

If you wish you can deploy the changed registry settings to your other machines by using regedit right click the FLEXlm License Manager and choose export. This will allow you to save a file on the desktop or server location and then it can be e-mailed or direct people to it on the network. A double click of this file will import it into the current machine registry.

Enjoy your Spring!!
John Van Engen
CATI Tech Support

Automating SolidWorks Webcast - May 18th

Are some of the parts and assemblies you work on the same but different? If you have SolidWorks - you have DriveWorksXpress, the Design Automation tool for SolidWorks.

Learn how to Set Up and Run a DriveWorksXpress Project in this FREE online training session.

When:
9am-10am Central Time

>>Register 

 

Jim TeDesco
Computer Aided Technology, Inc. 

Single Line Font

I had a conversation yesterday from a customer looking for a single line font that they could use in SolidWorks while creating text on their model.  This is a common request especially when needing to generate models or drawings for CNC operations such as laser or various other engraving processes that involve cutting text shapes.  The typical font type found in Windows and then of course shared by SolidWorks usually have double line profiles for each character.  

There are a number of forum discussions on the web about this, but I thought it would be beneficial to host this font file for you to download and try for yourself in SolidWorks.  Our customer was able to use this file on their machine by just simply pasting this into their c:\Windows\Fonts folder on their local machine.

You can find this file at the following location: http://go.cati.com/CAM-Font

>>Download the File

Thank you.

Brian Reel
Applications Engineer
Computer Aided Technology, Inc

eDrawings for iPad App

Take your 2D and 3D product designs on the go with the new eDrawings^® for iPad^® app. View, share, and collaborate from anywhere with the easy-to-use, email-enabled software trusted by engineers and non-CAD users worldwide.

Download eDrawings for iPad today.

 

Jim TeDesco
Marketing
Computer Aided Technology, Inc. 

No One Wants to Buy 2D software

For the past several years, I have been blogging on both our InFlow Technology and CATI pages about my trials and tribulations faced as a PLM sales guy. So get this...last year, SolidWorks and its parent company, Dassault Systemes, announced that they had developed DraftSight, a 2D application that would compete with market leaders in the 2D space. Further, the plan was to give away its 2D solution for free.

Yep, download it for free. No demonstration. No negotiation. No promotion. Free. As a sales guy, free isn't something I was familiar with. I spent about 5 hours on Wikipedia, and I think I am clear on the concept now.

The theory behind DraftSight being free is simple: 2D technology hasn't evolved much since the invention of the bag phone, so why charge people for it? Give it away, allow companies to maintain and edit their library of DWG files, and allow them to invest their money in leading edge technology that will have a true impact on their business.

This poses an interesting question: If Dassault is giving away its new technology for free, it's curious to know that the market leader in 2D technology is threatening to increase prices on its offering in the near future; at least, according to a Midwest reseller: http://links.mkt1141.com/servlet/MailView?ms=NTMyNzA3MgS2&r=NTU1ODk5OTI1NAS2&j=MTk4OTQxOTA5S0&mt=1&rt=0

For those of you that haven't downloaded DraftSight for free (did I mention it's free?), please see the link above. Give it a try. If anyone wants to thank me for saving them a ton of money on their 2D maintenance fees, an iTunes gift card would be fine...or you could buy a seat of SolidWorks Premium for 50% off this month (click for details)?

Your call.

SolidWorks Global Variables and Link Values

They did bring link values back!  However, please be aware that it did not replace global variables.  If you go to the Equation Manager window, you can populate a global variable which can be used to equate dimensions to a single value.

The limitation with global variables is that you still can’t use them in design tables.

 

If you want to be able to configure global variables, one must use Link Variables.  Simply right click on a dimension and you will find the option to create a Link Variable in the drop down menu.  Then just create it as we use to do it in the past versions. As you can see the picture above, when you create a design table, Solidworks does give you the option to configure the linked value.

 

 

Ketul Patel
Computer Aided Technology, Inc.

 

Get a FREE copy of the DriveWorks Little Book of Rules

If you’ve been using DriveWorksXpress to automate your SolidWorks designs, why not give DriveWorks Solo a try and experience all the extra functionality and benefits offered.

Just download the DriveWorks Solo FREE 30 day trial and get your hands on free copy of the Little Book of Rules.

DriveWorksXpress and DriveWorks Solo allow you to use Rules to automate your SolidWorks designs and we are sure you will find this latest edition of the book really useful.

This helpful pocket-sized book is full of examples of how rules can be used by you to automate your repetitive and everyday tasks using DriveWorksXpress and DriveWorks Solo. Get your copy today!

Make sure you enter Computer Aided Technology, Inc as your reseller when prompted; to make sure we can get the book sent without delay!

 

Jim TeDesco
Marketing
Computer Aided Technology, Inc. 

Computer Aided Technology, Inc. (CATI) Celebrates its 20th Anniversary.

Computer Aided Technology, Inc. (CATI), the Nation’s Original Source for SolidWorks, celebrates its 20th year of providing leading product development solutions to engineering and manufacturing clients in the Midwest.

“Our goal is to provide only the best technologies available, be it from DS SolidWorks Corp, Objet Ltd., or one developed by our InFlow Technology group. We don’t create our clients’ products, but our solutions allow them to build them better and faster. Our focus on the long term has allowed us to create a durable, scalable organization that continues to innovate and grow. Without forging valuable, lasting relationships with our customers, CATI would not have been able to reach this important milestone. CATI would like to thank our clients and partners for their tremendous support,” said Rich Werneth, President, Computer Aided Technology, Inc.

CATI has been recognized multiple times as an Industry leader, receiving the Inc. 5000 award four years running as well as accolades from by both SolidWorks and Objet.

In celebration of this milestone, CATI has plans for special events and promotions that will run throughout the year. You can check www.cati.com for information about upcoming events and promotions surrounding the 20th Anniversary of CATI.

About CATI
Computer Aided Technology, Inc. (CATI), founded in 1992 by engineering and manufacturing professionals, is a one stop, full-service provider of scalable design and manufacturing solutions. CATI creates competitive advantage for clients by leveraging an industry-experienced team and leading technology solutions. From 3D Solid Modeling and Analysis to Mold Design to Enterprise-wide Data Management and Rapid Prototyping, CATI has the tools, the experience, the knowledge and the dedication to bring your business vision to reality. CATI is the Nation's Original Resource for SolidWorks with the Midwest's Leading Support & Services Team and is a leading provider of a number of other best-in-class engineering technologies. CATI has two wholly-owned subsidiaries; Inflow Technology and Strategic Technology Solutionsserving customers world-wide. To see the company profile, visit www.cati.com.

Things you probably didn't look at in the Solidworks File Menu

Good Afternoon Everybody,

I thought I'd take a little time to share with you some "things you probably didn't look at" in Solidworks. Today, I'm focusing on the FILE MENU! I hope you enjoy.

Command #1 Print3D

If you office network has a 3d Printing device you can send models directly to it.

Command #2 Publish to 3DVia.com

This will allow you to create and publish your SolidWorks content to your very own person little cloud of Solidworks data to display on the 3dVia app available on IPAD. Great for showing your customers just how tech savvy you are.

Command #3 Derive Component Part...

This command only appears if you are in an assembly in the file menu. I'd never used it until today. It's greyed out unless you have a part selected. But when one is,you'll be able to created a drived part straight away from the assembly, without going back to the part level.

Solidworks Maze Walk-through with path

Below is a video of how to create a Walk-through path based on a simple spline sketch.

 

Enjoy

Nick Jansen, CSWP

CATI

Can you create a drawing of a virtual part in SolidWorks

I just had this question the other day. "My vendor is sending me assemblies with virtual parts in them But I need to do some drawings of the individual pieces for mounting location and what not. How can I create drawings of this parts.

Solution #1. I went to SolidWorks Knowledge Base.

Knowledge base Article S-056442

How can a drawing be created with a Virtual component?

Drawings cannot be made directly from virtual assembly components.  Drawing view by design require a file to reference.  To create a drawing view of a virtual component, right mouse button on the component in the assembly FeatureManager® and choose “Save Part (In External file)”  after completing the save operation , add a drawing view of this part or create a new drawing with this part.

In there we find A, and I mean A solution

Solution #2 Drawing View Properties

Trying the option of Hide/Show Components for the view can work. But, I would not recommend it you'd have to select from the viewport or the tree. It might take too much time. Let's try something different.

Solution #3 Create Configurations

By creating configurations you can easy in the assembly pair down what you need, but one big drawback configurations add to file size of your assemblies. I'd rather not give my assemblies any bloat if I don't need to. Let's look elsewhere.

Solution #4 Display states

Display states are just a easy to create as a configuration, but instead of suppressing the components you would hide them. Displays states can be used in a drawing view the same as a configuration so we are in good shape. Quickly you can select the virtual part you want a detail of right mouse button click and invert your selection. Then hit hide you display stat is complete. Best of all no added file size because it's not saving the tessellated model ( ask me that one later).

Cheers,

Bob McGaughey, CSWE

CATI

Register for the SolidWorks Workflow Performance Seminar

Join the CATI and SolidWorks Teams at the Chicago Botanic Garden in Glencoe to learn from our technical experts how the SolidWorks product portfolio seamlessly integrates to manage the complete design process – from concept to production. We'll take an in depth look at how SolidWorks, SolidWorks Simulation, SolidWorks Enterprise PDM, 3DVIA Composer and SolidWorks Sustainability allow different team members to work together in real-time.

>>Register Here!

When and Where:
DATE: Thursday, May 24th, 2012 
TIME: 8:00AM - 1:00PM 

Chicago Botanic Garden
1000 Lake Cook Road
Glencoe, IL 60022

Breakfast & Lunch served

Contact marketing@cati.com if you have any questions.

>>Register Here!

We look forward to seeing you there.

 

Jim TeDesco
Marketing
Computer Aided Technology, Inc. 

 

How to change custom properties of multiple Solidworks parts in one step.

Afternoon everyone,

I was in a session with a great group of engineers in Northbrook, IL yesterday. I was giving a what's new from SolidWorks 2007-2012. And I got a really good question in the middle of a Bill of Material demo. "Bob, can I change the material of five parts in this assembly without opening each on up in its own window?" After a half a second pause I almost said no, and moved on. When I realized, "Yes Robert, you can do that." Here's how.

Property Tab Builder

Property Tab Builder is a stand-alone utility you use to create a customized interface for entering properties into SolidWorks files.

The tabs you create with Property Tab Builder appear in the SolidWorks interface on the Custom Properties tab in the Task Pane. You create different tab templates for parts, assemblies, and drawings.

You can also enter properties on the Custom and Configuration Specific tabs in the Summary Information dialog box in SolidWorks.

In companies with multiple SolidWorks users, typically one person, such as the lead user or administrator, creates the customized tabs for everyone to use. In this help file, the administrator is referred to as "you"; people who use the tabs in the SolidWorks interface to enter properties are referred to as "users".

Once you build your custom property tab for your files you add the location under Tools/ Options/ System Options/ File Locations/ Custom Property Files. Once you have these installed you can then select multiple parts at the same time and set they description, revision, and even material. Thanks for the great questions

Bob McGaughey, CSWE

CATI

Ed Honda, 40 years in Plastics engineering and more

Ed Honda is the owner of Honda Design LLC. Ed has been involved in plastic product development with various Chicago-area manufacturers for over 40 years. He has developed a comprehensive knowleadge base of plastics related design. This comes from development and implementation of hundreds of plastic components, and active participation in dozens of design related projects in consumer, commercial and military applications. Ed was kind enough to take some time and sit down with me, to share his vast knowledge.

What difference do you see over the years in the plastics industry?

3D CAD and injection molding simulation have taken a lot of the speculation and guesswork out of the design and development of plastic components and assemblies.  Being able to validate the part design, the fundamental tooling approach, and processing for the shop floor before allocating any resources to 3D printing or SLAs, prototype and/or production tooling, and molding trials- empowers the designer with significant abilities to get a product to market quicker and more cost-effectively.

What do you think a mold maker or part manufacturer ideally should be doing, to optimize their designs?

Since mold makers and custom molders are providing manufacturing services, as well as quality components and assemblies, it’s important for them to bring human experience and knowledge to the table. However, with all the engineering simulation tools now available, being literate and competent with injection molding simulation software is like adding another experienced member to the design team.  

Are you excited about SolidWorks Plastics?

I’ve been using SimpoeWorks, the full-featured predecessor to SolidWorks Plastics, for three years now. It has been an integral tool in validating and refining my plastic component designs by allowing me to include tooling and processing requirements into the component design as well. The ability to be able to work with both design and simulation-based refinements within the native SolidWorks environment at a mouse-click is smooth, efficient and, well, great! 

What services do you offer through Honda Design LLC.?

I offer forty years’ experience in the plastic product development and manufacturing industries. I work with companies in the Midwest and both coasts, developing products for the consumer, commercial, and military markets. I’m also well-versed in secondary processes such as decorating, painting, and assembly of plastics.

 Injection molding simulation services has become a large part of my business. Using SimpoeWorks for component design troubleshooting- before and after a production mold has been built, has helped my company grow the last two years. 

How do we get hold of you?

Email: ed@hondadesignllc.com

Phone: 312.391.0500

Website: www.hondadesignllc.com

Thanks Ed for your time. And good luck with all future endeavors.

Rajat Trehan

Product Manager 

Computer Aided Technology Inc.

Pinning Your Recently Open Documents in 2012

SolidWorks has added a new function inside of your File menu. If you hold your cursor over one of you recently opened documents you will see a thumb tack on the right side. This allows you to keep your own favorites list of recently opened documents. Next to the thumb tack you will also see a folder. This will allow you to open the directory where this file is located. Making it super easy to get deep into your project folders without having to manually map to the folder. This is just another way of putting tools at your fingertips. When you have a minute check out this feature and the many other improvements ing 2012.