We are teaming up with Hacksmith to show you how they brought Power Armor to life using SOLIDWORKS!
⚙️ Key Highlights:
Using SOLIDWORKS sheet metal tools to streamline Power Armor production
Patterning and boolean operations for precise part design
Efficient configurations for better assembly and mates
Whether you're a SOLIDWORKS pro or just curious about how 3D CAD design software can turn sci-fi into reality, this episode has something for everyone!
🔔Set a reminder today for Friday, October 18 at 12PM ET!
https://www.youtube.com/live/p_S9N4kI56U?si=3kVCF4swm6fE0cCJ
⚙️ Key Highlights:
Using SOLIDWORKS sheet metal tools to streamline Power Armor production
Patterning and boolean operations for precise part design
Efficient configurations for better assembly and mates
Whether you're a SOLIDWORKS pro or just curious about how 3D CAD design software can turn sci-fi into reality, this episode has something for everyone!
🔔Set a reminder today for Friday, October 18 at 12PM ET!
https://www.youtube.com/live/p_S9N4kI56U?si=3kVCF4swm6fE0cCJ
YouTube
From Game to Reality: Designing Power Armor with SOLIDWORKS - SOLIDWORKS LIVE Design
We are teaming up with @hacksmith to show you how they brought Power Armor to life using SOLIDWORKS!
0:00 What is Hacksmith?
2:58 How Hacksmith Designs with Sheet Metal in SOLIDWORKS
34:48 Hacksmith Multi-Body Design in SOLIDWORKS
45:20 How Hacksmith uses…
0:00 What is Hacksmith?
2:58 How Hacksmith Designs with Sheet Metal in SOLIDWORKS
34:48 Hacksmith Multi-Body Design in SOLIDWORKS
45:20 How Hacksmith uses…
How to Run SOLIDWORKS on a Mac
Can you run #SOLIDWORKS on a #Mac? It's one of the most common questions we hear. Find out in this blog post. go.solidworks.com/U6t
Can you run #SOLIDWORKS on a #Mac? It's one of the most common questions we hear. Find out in this blog post. go.solidworks.com/U6t
🔧 5 Effective Ways to Keep Your SOLIDWORKS Projects Organized 🚀
Hello, colleagues! Today, let's talk about how to maintain order and structure in your SOLIDWORKS projects to make your life easier and avoid confusion. Whether you're working on individual parts or large assemblies, these tips will help you streamline your workflow and boost productivity.
1️⃣ Create Clear Folder Structures and Meaningful Names
Store your SOLIDWORKS files in a well-organized folder hierarchy. For example:
- Projects → Project_X → 3D Models, Drawings, Assemblies, Renders
Take the time to give files and assemblies clear, denoscriptive names. It makes searching for the right file much easier and helps you quickly navigate through your project.
2️⃣ Use Consistent Templates
Set up templates for parts, assemblies, and drawings with pre-configured parameters: units of measurement, sheet formats, annotation styles, and so on. Consistent standards simplify collaboration and keep everything uniform.
3️⃣ Leverage Configurations
Configurations let you store multiple variants of the same model (e.g., different sizes or materials) in a single file. Instead of creating multiple similar files, use configurations to keep all versions of a component organized in one place.
4️⃣ Add Comments and Denoscriptions
When creating features and sketches, include brief comments or denoscriptive names that explain their purpose. This makes it easier for you (and your teammates) to understand each feature’s role, even if you revisit the project after a long break.
5️⃣ Use a PDM System
If multiple people in your company work on projects simultaneously, consider implementing a Product Data Management (PDM) system. It helps control file versions, track changes, and prevent conflicts when collaborating on the same project.
💬 In Conclusion
Maintaining order in SOLIDWORKS projects is a simple yet essential part of any engineer’s workflow. Proper file organization, consistent standards, and clear naming conventions can save you time and make the entire process smoother.
How do you keep your projects organized? Share your tips and tricks in the comments!
#SOLIDWORKS #ProjectOrganization #Engineering #Order #Productivity
Hello, colleagues! Today, let's talk about how to maintain order and structure in your SOLIDWORKS projects to make your life easier and avoid confusion. Whether you're working on individual parts or large assemblies, these tips will help you streamline your workflow and boost productivity.
1️⃣ Create Clear Folder Structures and Meaningful Names
Store your SOLIDWORKS files in a well-organized folder hierarchy. For example:
- Projects → Project_X → 3D Models, Drawings, Assemblies, Renders
Take the time to give files and assemblies clear, denoscriptive names. It makes searching for the right file much easier and helps you quickly navigate through your project.
2️⃣ Use Consistent Templates
Set up templates for parts, assemblies, and drawings with pre-configured parameters: units of measurement, sheet formats, annotation styles, and so on. Consistent standards simplify collaboration and keep everything uniform.
3️⃣ Leverage Configurations
Configurations let you store multiple variants of the same model (e.g., different sizes or materials) in a single file. Instead of creating multiple similar files, use configurations to keep all versions of a component organized in one place.
4️⃣ Add Comments and Denoscriptions
When creating features and sketches, include brief comments or denoscriptive names that explain their purpose. This makes it easier for you (and your teammates) to understand each feature’s role, even if you revisit the project after a long break.
5️⃣ Use a PDM System
If multiple people in your company work on projects simultaneously, consider implementing a Product Data Management (PDM) system. It helps control file versions, track changes, and prevent conflicts when collaborating on the same project.
💬 In Conclusion
Maintaining order in SOLIDWORKS projects is a simple yet essential part of any engineer’s workflow. Proper file organization, consistent standards, and clear naming conventions can save you time and make the entire process smoother.
How do you keep your projects organized? Share your tips and tricks in the comments!
#SOLIDWORKS #ProjectOrganization #Engineering #Order #Productivity
🔧 5 SOLIDWORKS Tips You Might Not Know 🚀
Hello, colleagues! Today, I'd like to share some lesser-known yet highly useful tricks that can simplify your work in SOLIDWORKS. If you're already familiar with the basic features, these tips might help you take your efficiency to the next level.
1️⃣ Holding "Shift" While Rotating the Model
When rotating your model (by pressing the middle mouse button), also hold Shift. SOLIDWORKS will restrict rotation to horizontal and vertical axes, making it easier to align or orient your model precisely.
2️⃣ "Select Other" Function
When you need to select an element hidden behind another object, right-click and choose "Select Other." A list of all objects under your cursor will appear, allowing you to pick the one you need without extra hassle.
3️⃣ Locking Annotations (Lock Annotation View)
If your annotations "jump" or shift when changing views, you can lock them. In the annotation's context menu, select "Lock Annotation View." This is particularly helpful on drawings with a large number of notes.
4️⃣ Quick Copying Components in an Assembly
When moving a component in an assembly, hold down Ctrl. SOLIDWORKS will automatically create a copy of that component. This is handy if you have multiple identical parts in an assembly and don't want to insert them again.
5️⃣ Using Parent/Child Dependencies
To understand which features depend on each other, right-click any feature in the tree and select "Parent/Child." A window will appear showing which elements this feature depends on and which features depend on it. This helps you grasp the model's structure quickly and avoid errors when editing.
💬 Share in the comments: What hidden SOLIDWORKS features did you discover that you can’t live without now?
#SOLIDWORKS #Tips #Engineering #Productivity #Advice
Hello, colleagues! Today, I'd like to share some lesser-known yet highly useful tricks that can simplify your work in SOLIDWORKS. If you're already familiar with the basic features, these tips might help you take your efficiency to the next level.
1️⃣ Holding "Shift" While Rotating the Model
When rotating your model (by pressing the middle mouse button), also hold Shift. SOLIDWORKS will restrict rotation to horizontal and vertical axes, making it easier to align or orient your model precisely.
2️⃣ "Select Other" Function
When you need to select an element hidden behind another object, right-click and choose "Select Other." A list of all objects under your cursor will appear, allowing you to pick the one you need without extra hassle.
3️⃣ Locking Annotations (Lock Annotation View)
If your annotations "jump" or shift when changing views, you can lock them. In the annotation's context menu, select "Lock Annotation View." This is particularly helpful on drawings with a large number of notes.
4️⃣ Quick Copying Components in an Assembly
When moving a component in an assembly, hold down Ctrl. SOLIDWORKS will automatically create a copy of that component. This is handy if you have multiple identical parts in an assembly and don't want to insert them again.
5️⃣ Using Parent/Child Dependencies
To understand which features depend on each other, right-click any feature in the tree and select "Parent/Child." A window will appear showing which elements this feature depends on and which features depend on it. This helps you grasp the model's structure quickly and avoid errors when editing.
💬 Share in the comments: What hidden SOLIDWORKS features did you discover that you can’t live without now?
#SOLIDWORKS #Tips #Engineering #Productivity #Advice
🔧 3 Simple Tips to Work Faster with Assemblies in SOLIDWORKS ⚙️
Hi, engineers! Working with large or complex assemblies often requires a good balance between precision and speed. Here are three practical tips to help you work more efficiently in SOLIDWORKS assemblies:
1️⃣ Use Flexible Subassemblies
If a subassembly contains moving parts (like a hinge or mechanism), set it to Flexible so it can move freely inside the top-level assembly. This gives you a more realistic view of how everything works together — without over-constraining.
2️⃣ Insert Components with Preview
When using Insert Components, enable the preview window to quickly browse and select parts without opening them. A real time-saver if you're using many similar components.
3️⃣ Fix Components Intentionally
The first inserted component is usually fixed by default. But if it gets floated by accident, just right-click → Fix to anchor it again. This keeps your assembly stable and prevents parts from shifting unexpectedly.
💬 What tricks do you use in assemblies to save time or avoid issues? Share your go-to methods — let’s build a smarter workflow together!
#SOLIDWORKS #Assemblies #EngineeringTips #Productivity #CAD #DesignEfficiency
Hi, engineers! Working with large or complex assemblies often requires a good balance between precision and speed. Here are three practical tips to help you work more efficiently in SOLIDWORKS assemblies:
1️⃣ Use Flexible Subassemblies
If a subassembly contains moving parts (like a hinge or mechanism), set it to Flexible so it can move freely inside the top-level assembly. This gives you a more realistic view of how everything works together — without over-constraining.
2️⃣ Insert Components with Preview
When using Insert Components, enable the preview window to quickly browse and select parts without opening them. A real time-saver if you're using many similar components.
3️⃣ Fix Components Intentionally
The first inserted component is usually fixed by default. But if it gets floated by accident, just right-click → Fix to anchor it again. This keeps your assembly stable and prevents parts from shifting unexpectedly.
💬 What tricks do you use in assemblies to save time or avoid issues? Share your go-to methods — let’s build a smarter workflow together!
#SOLIDWORKS #Assemblies #EngineeringTips #Productivity #CAD #DesignEfficiency
🔧 How to Know When It’s Time to Optimize Your 3D Model in SOLIDWORKS ⚠️
Hey engineers! We all love detailed models — but sometimes, too much detail can hurt more than it helps. Here are a few signs that your model could use some optimization:
1️⃣ Long rebuild times
If each edit takes 10+ seconds to rebuild, review heavy features like large patterns, complex fillets, or lofts with intricate profiles.
2️⃣ Slow assembly loading
If your top-level assembly takes forever to open, you might be using overly detailed parts. Try switching to simplified components or SpeedPak configurations.
3️⃣ Tiny details that don’t impact function
Threads, engravings, and decorative features look nice — but they can bog down your model. Suppress them when preparing files for analysis or production.
4️⃣ Imported STEP/SAT files feel sluggish
These often contain messy geometry. Use the Simplify tool or manually clean up bodies to improve performance.
5️⃣ Simulations or drawings freeze up
Over-detailed parts can slow down analysis or drawing generation. Reduce complexity where possible — simplify holes, remove small fillets, and limit configurations.
💡 Remember: your model doesn’t have to look perfect — it needs to be effective for the task.
💬 Do you often optimize your models? What techniques do you use — defeature, configurations, SpeedPak? Share your tips in the comments!
#SOLIDWORKS #Optimization #3DModeling #EngineeringTips #Performance #CADWorkflow
Hey engineers! We all love detailed models — but sometimes, too much detail can hurt more than it helps. Here are a few signs that your model could use some optimization:
1️⃣ Long rebuild times
If each edit takes 10+ seconds to rebuild, review heavy features like large patterns, complex fillets, or lofts with intricate profiles.
2️⃣ Slow assembly loading
If your top-level assembly takes forever to open, you might be using overly detailed parts. Try switching to simplified components or SpeedPak configurations.
3️⃣ Tiny details that don’t impact function
Threads, engravings, and decorative features look nice — but they can bog down your model. Suppress them when preparing files for analysis or production.
4️⃣ Imported STEP/SAT files feel sluggish
These often contain messy geometry. Use the Simplify tool or manually clean up bodies to improve performance.
5️⃣ Simulations or drawings freeze up
Over-detailed parts can slow down analysis or drawing generation. Reduce complexity where possible — simplify holes, remove small fillets, and limit configurations.
💡 Remember: your model doesn’t have to look perfect — it needs to be effective for the task.
💬 Do you often optimize your models? What techniques do you use — defeature, configurations, SpeedPak? Share your tips in the comments!
#SOLIDWORKS #Optimization #3DModeling #EngineeringTips #Performance #CADWorkflow
🔧 Introducing the DIY Artcade: Build Your Own Arcade Cabinet with SOLIDWORKS Skills! 🚀
Hello, makers and engineers! Exciting news from the SOLIDWORKS Tech Blog—Brent Bushnell and Strange Outfit have introduced the DIY Artcade, an open‑source arcade cabinet designed for education, experimentation, and entrepreneurship using SOLIDWORKS and maker skills ([blogs.solidworks.com][1]).
---
### 🛠 What is DIY Artcade?
* A full‑sized arcade cabinet made from plywood, commodity hardware, and open‑source software—for under \$500, parts included.
* Designed to be built in a day by a team, or up to a month by motivated learners.
* Perfect for hands-on experience in CAD, CNC, electronics, operating systems, game programming, art, music, and even cloud services and business models ([blogs.solidworks.com][1]).
---
### 🎓 Why It Matters for SOLIDWORKS Users
1. Real CAD Project – Use SOLIDWORKS for full‑scale cabinet design, CNC integration, and component fitting.
2. STEAM Education – A powerful, cross-disciplinary tool that combines engineering with creativity and practical application.
3. Entrepreneurial Experience – Build and install cabinets in public spaces (cafes, laundromats) and share revenue 50/50**—classic passive income ([blogs.solidworks.com][1]).
4. **Customization Ready – Open‑source SolidWorks‑for‑Makers files empower you to modify games, artwork, controls, and more.
---
### 🚀 Want to Try It?
* All CAD files are available on GitHub for free download and modification ([blogs.solidworks.com][1], [reddit.com][2]).
* Supported configuration includes electronics via Intel Mini Compute Module and cloud payments via Stripe + AWS.
* The DIY Artcade plays Ikemen Go, a two-player fighting game that supports customization and community noscripting ([marketscale.com][3], [blogs.solidworks.com][1]).
---
### 💬 Join the Conversation!
* Would you build one? What custom features would *you* add—RGB lighting, unique controls, 3D‑printed parts?
* Have experience installing ANYTHING in public venues? Share your insights on logistics, permissions, and community engagement.
* Interested in educator use? How could this be integrated into your classroom or workshop?
The DIY Artcade is about more than gaming—it's about using SOLIDWORKS to learn, create, and connect with your community. Let’s build together!
#SOLIDWORKS #DIYArtcade #STEAM #MakerCulture #CADEducation #Entrepreneurship
[1]: https://blogs.solidworks.com/tech/2025/06/introducing-the-diy-artcade.html?utm_source=chatgpt.com "Introducing the DIY Artcade - The SOLIDWORKS Blog -"
[2]: https://www.reddit.com/r/RetroPie/comments/nccmix/i_built_a_fullsize_arcade_machine_from_scratch/?utm_source=chatgpt.com "I built a full-size arcade machine from scratch and open-sourced all ..."
[3]: https://marketscale.com/industries/software-and-technology/reviving-arcade-culture-for-stem-education-with-diy-artcades/?utm_source=chatgpt.com "Reviving Arcade Culture for STEM Education with DIY Artcades"
Hello, makers and engineers! Exciting news from the SOLIDWORKS Tech Blog—Brent Bushnell and Strange Outfit have introduced the DIY Artcade, an open‑source arcade cabinet designed for education, experimentation, and entrepreneurship using SOLIDWORKS and maker skills ([blogs.solidworks.com][1]).
---
### 🛠 What is DIY Artcade?
* A full‑sized arcade cabinet made from plywood, commodity hardware, and open‑source software—for under \$500, parts included.
* Designed to be built in a day by a team, or up to a month by motivated learners.
* Perfect for hands-on experience in CAD, CNC, electronics, operating systems, game programming, art, music, and even cloud services and business models ([blogs.solidworks.com][1]).
---
### 🎓 Why It Matters for SOLIDWORKS Users
1. Real CAD Project – Use SOLIDWORKS for full‑scale cabinet design, CNC integration, and component fitting.
2. STEAM Education – A powerful, cross-disciplinary tool that combines engineering with creativity and practical application.
3. Entrepreneurial Experience – Build and install cabinets in public spaces (cafes, laundromats) and share revenue 50/50**—classic passive income ([blogs.solidworks.com][1]).
4. **Customization Ready – Open‑source SolidWorks‑for‑Makers files empower you to modify games, artwork, controls, and more.
---
### 🚀 Want to Try It?
* All CAD files are available on GitHub for free download and modification ([blogs.solidworks.com][1], [reddit.com][2]).
* Supported configuration includes electronics via Intel Mini Compute Module and cloud payments via Stripe + AWS.
* The DIY Artcade plays Ikemen Go, a two-player fighting game that supports customization and community noscripting ([marketscale.com][3], [blogs.solidworks.com][1]).
---
### 💬 Join the Conversation!
* Would you build one? What custom features would *you* add—RGB lighting, unique controls, 3D‑printed parts?
* Have experience installing ANYTHING in public venues? Share your insights on logistics, permissions, and community engagement.
* Interested in educator use? How could this be integrated into your classroom or workshop?
The DIY Artcade is about more than gaming—it's about using SOLIDWORKS to learn, create, and connect with your community. Let’s build together!
#SOLIDWORKS #DIYArtcade #STEAM #MakerCulture #CADEducation #Entrepreneurship
[1]: https://blogs.solidworks.com/tech/2025/06/introducing-the-diy-artcade.html?utm_source=chatgpt.com "Introducing the DIY Artcade - The SOLIDWORKS Blog -"
[2]: https://www.reddit.com/r/RetroPie/comments/nccmix/i_built_a_fullsize_arcade_machine_from_scratch/?utm_source=chatgpt.com "I built a full-size arcade machine from scratch and open-sourced all ..."
[3]: https://marketscale.com/industries/software-and-technology/reviving-arcade-culture-for-stem-education-with-diy-artcades/?utm_source=chatgpt.com "Reviving Arcade Culture for STEM Education with DIY Artcades"
SOLIDWORKS Tech Blog
Introducing the DIY Artcade
This is a hands-on project ecosystem to facilitate STEAM and entrepreneurship learning. Free and open source materials to build your own arcade cabinet including operating system, game and mobile payments. Extend it by modifying the game, the cabinet, the…
🔧 5 Practical SOLIDWORKS Tips That Actually Save Time 🚀
Hey engineers! Today let’s focus on real, hands-on tips that you can apply right now to speed up your workflow in SOLIDWORKS. No theory—just things that work.
1️⃣ Use Sketch Blocks for Repeated Elements
If you frequently use the same features (holes, mounts, patterns), create sketch blocks. Blocks are easy to insert, rotate, scale, and update globally when changes are needed.
2️⃣ Organize Your Feature Tree with Folders
Group your features into folders: fasteners, fillets, cuts, core geometry, etc. This makes it easier to navigate large parts or assemblies and find what you need faster.
3️⃣ Auto-Fill BOMs with Custom Properties
Fill in part properties like "Denoscription," "Material," "Mass" directly in the model. These will automatically populate your BOMs in drawings—no need for manual edits later.
4️⃣ Use the "D" Key Shortcut
Press D to instantly move confirmation dialogs and context toolbars to your mouse cursor. It sounds simple, but this trick can save you hundreds of clicks per day.
5️⃣ Turn On Rebuild Time Display
Enable the Feature Statistics option to see rebuild times for each feature. This helps you identify performance bottlenecks and optimize heavy operations.
💡 These simple tricks will help you work faster and more efficiently—without sacrificing model quality.
💬 What SOLIDWORKS hacks do you use to save time? Share your tips in the comments—we’ll gather the best ones into a follow-up post!
#SOLIDWORKS #Productivity #EngineeringTips #3DModeling #Efficiency #Workflow
Hey engineers! Today let’s focus on real, hands-on tips that you can apply right now to speed up your workflow in SOLIDWORKS. No theory—just things that work.
1️⃣ Use Sketch Blocks for Repeated Elements
If you frequently use the same features (holes, mounts, patterns), create sketch blocks. Blocks are easy to insert, rotate, scale, and update globally when changes are needed.
2️⃣ Organize Your Feature Tree with Folders
Group your features into folders: fasteners, fillets, cuts, core geometry, etc. This makes it easier to navigate large parts or assemblies and find what you need faster.
3️⃣ Auto-Fill BOMs with Custom Properties
Fill in part properties like "Denoscription," "Material," "Mass" directly in the model. These will automatically populate your BOMs in drawings—no need for manual edits later.
4️⃣ Use the "D" Key Shortcut
Press D to instantly move confirmation dialogs and context toolbars to your mouse cursor. It sounds simple, but this trick can save you hundreds of clicks per day.
5️⃣ Turn On Rebuild Time Display
Enable the Feature Statistics option to see rebuild times for each feature. This helps you identify performance bottlenecks and optimize heavy operations.
💡 These simple tricks will help you work faster and more efficiently—without sacrificing model quality.
💬 What SOLIDWORKS hacks do you use to save time? Share your tips in the comments—we’ll gather the best ones into a follow-up post!
#SOLIDWORKS #Productivity #EngineeringTips #3DModeling #Efficiency #Workflow
To celebrate 30 years of innovation, SOLIDWORKS is inviting you to showcase your creativity and design expertise.
https://discover.solidworks.com/solidworks-30th-anniversary-competition?utm_source=LINKEDIN&utm_medium=Social_Networks&utm_content=20250918%2020250918090000&utm_campaign=N/A&linkId=861018671
https://discover.solidworks.com/solidworks-30th-anniversary-competition?utm_source=LINKEDIN&utm_medium=Social_Networks&utm_content=20250918%2020250918090000&utm_campaign=N/A&linkId=861018671
Dassault Systèmes
SOLIDWORKS 30th Anniversary Competition - SOLIDWORKS®
Show your design skills and win a trip to the 3DEXPERIENCE World 2026 in Houston!