Save SOLIDWORKS Simulation Fixtures and Loads to the Design Library

A time saving tip for SOLIDWORKS Simulation Fixtures and Loads (which are defined for a specific simulation case) is to save them to the Design Library so they can be easily reused in other models.

For instance, in the following image a simple cantilever model is shown where one fixture and one load/force are applied to the simulation settings. These types of fixtures and loads are very common in simulation problems. Therefore, we can save them in a folder in our design library to quickly apply them to our future models.

Adding Fixtures or Loads to the Design Library

To copy the settings, just pick them from the Simulation settings list on the left, then drag and drop them into the design library. A simulation folder is created automatically in the design library. Obviously this folder could be renamed as required.

As explained, both fixtures and loads shown here are simple ones while using this technique will be more efficient when you save a special fixture or load type with many details which is commonly used for only your simulation cases.

Drag Fixture or Load Settings to Copy to Design Library

Upon dropping the fixture or load into design library, Add to Library property manager appears asking your confirmation or in case you want to rename them. Proper naming would help for recalling them in future simulation cases.

Rename the Fixture or Load after Dropping into Design Library

Applying Fixtures or Loads from the Design Library

The preset fixture or loads could be easily dragged from the design library and dropped onto the graphics area or a face or region of the model. This is a very similar process to using other types of design library items. In the following image, the same load and fixture setting from above have been added to a new simulation case. The load setting is dragged from design library and dropped on the bolt hole face and the fixture setting is applied to the two bolt holes at the bottom plate.

Bolt Hole Faces Are Preselected and Fixture Setting Is Dragged & Dropped on the Graphics Area

An interesting option in this case is that one can preselect a number of faces and then insert fixture or load settings from the design library. While face or faces are selected on the model, the load or fixture needs to be dragged to the graphics area and dropped on an empty space. This is shown for fixture applied to the two bolt holes. The mouse cursor is also shown which is dropping the fixture setting in the empty space in graphics area while the bolt hole faces are preseleted.

Both Load and Fixtures are Applied from Design Library.