Javelin / TriMech Author
Scott Durksen, CSWE
SOLIDWORKS 2021 Lock Rotation for Slot Mates
By Scott Durksen, CSWE on January 8, 2021
SOLIDWORKS 2021 adds functionality to lock rotation of slot mates, similar to lock rotation of concentric mates which has been available since SOLIDWORKS 2014. The Lock Rotation option can be found in the mate PropertyManager or by right-clicking on the Slot mate in the FeatureManager…
SOLIDWORKS 2021 Update frequently asked questions
By Scott Durksen, CSWE on October 29, 2020
Get your SOLIDWORKS 2020 Update installation and configuration frequently asked questions answered by reading this tech tip article.
SOLIDWORKS 2021 Hardware Recommendations
By Scott Durksen, CSWE on October 29, 2020
Here is an overview of our current recommended SOLIDWORKS 2021 hardware / computer specs. The following gives details on specific hardware components. However the entire system should be designed and assembled for optimal performance. Custom machines can be a cheaper option, however selecting components individually…
SOLIDWORKS Simulation 2021 Enhanced Blended Curvature-Based Mesher
By Scott Durksen, CSWE on October 21, 2020
SOLIDWORKS Simulation provides three different types of meshers. The Standard and Curvature-Based meshers have been available for a long time. The Blended Curvature-Based mesher was introduced in Simulation 2016 with improved algorithms that can assist where the other two meshers may fail. SOLIDWORKS Simulation 2021…
SOLIDWORKS Simulation 2021 Improved Bonded Formulation
By Scott Durksen, CSWE on October 8, 2020
SOLIDWORKS Simulation 2021 has made changes to algorithms related to bonded interactions to improve the accuracy and stability of static, frequency and buckling studies. There may be small gaps between the physical geometry that were not noticed. In some cases the geometry may have no…
SOLIDWORKS Simulation 2021 Interaction Improvements and Stabilization
By Scott Durksen, CSWE on October 5, 2020
Simulation studies require proper geometry setup to ensure that the solver can run. The most common source of studies that fail to solve is from missing bonded or contact definitions. There are techniques, as shown in our troubleshooting unstable models blog article, to help determine…
SOLIDWORKS Simulation 2021 Terminology Changes
By Scott Durksen, CSWE on September 28, 2020
There are some amazing enhancements coming with SOLIDWORKS Simulation 2021. Although SOLIDWORKS Simulation 2021 Terminology may not be a significant enhancement, it will be noticed immediately. Here is an explanation of the changes. The naming conventions for contacts have been updated to better match conventional…
SOLIDWORKS Mass Overrides with Simulation
By Scott Durksen, CSWE on August 21, 2020
In some situations, the mass of a component may not match the real world value. This would be caused by either an improper mass density of the material assigned, or the volumetric geometry is not identical to the physical component. The most common source is…
Parametric Flat Pattern of Bent Rod/Tube in SOLIDWORKS
By Scott Durksen, CSWE on July 15, 2020
SOLIDWORKS Sheet Metal tools provide the ability to obtain the flat shape from a bent part. The flat length of each bend is based on defined parameters. This can be defined with K-factors, Bend Allowance or Bend Deduction. For more information on Sheet Metal calculations,…
Material Favourites for easy access in SOLIDWORKS
By Scott Durksen, CSWE on July 8, 2020
Adding materials to all of your SOLIDWORKS parts is important. Not only is this useful for reference in Bill of Materials or Title Blocks, but you must have the proper density values applied to the model for accurate mass properties. Learn how using a SOLIDWORKS…
How to Locate Virtual Components within a SOLIDWORKS Assembly
By Scott Durksen, CSWE on May 18, 2020
SOLIDWORKS Virtual Components in an assembly stores the information internally within the assembly file. There is no external file (.sldprt or .sldasm) that is referenced. These components are typically used when generating models using the top-down modeling method. For more information on this modeling practice…
DraftSight is a feature-rich 2D and 3D CAD solution for architects, engineers and construction service providers, as well as professional CAD users, designers, educators and hobbyists. There are various levels of DraftSight licenses available. For companies with multiple users, DraftSight Enterprise provides network-based licensing for…
Working with SOLIDWORKS at Home through COVID-19 Shutdowns
By Scott Durksen, CSWE on March 17, 2020
The continuing spread of the COVID-19 virus (Coronavirus) is causing significant impact around the globe. While health is always of primary importance, this pandemic also affects business productivity. As shutdowns and quarantines are rapidly expanding, more and more employees are being asked to work from…
Using your SOLIDWORKS Network Licenses Away from the Office
By Scott Durksen, CSWE on March 17, 2020
As SOLIDWORKS network licenses are hosted on a server connected to your network, clients must also be connected to the same network to obtain a license. In some situations it may be required to use a license away from your office, such as working from…
SOLIDWORKS Certified Graphics Drivers
By Scott Durksen, CSWE on January 29, 2020
SOLIDWORKS works closely with graphics card manufacturers to ensure compatibility and certification. Having a proper graphics card and driver is essential for best performance and stability of the software. It is crucial to have a professional grade 3D graphics card installed. SOLIDWORKS supports the…