As of today the latest release of 3DVIA Composer is available for customers with subscription. If you logon to the customer portal the download will be available. I just installed it and haven't had a chance to get a handle on all the enhancements yet. A couple highlites I noticed were the ability to Import AutoDesk Inventor, and SolidEdge files. They are using the SolidWorks importer for it, so whatever version of SolidWorks you can import will now be available in Composer. This will be handy for companies still with multiple CAD platforms. I also noticed support for Cut & Paste.
We'll be scheduling Webinars to demonstrate the new functionality soon. Keep an eye out for them.
Gabe
A while back I saw that SolidWorks had published a Self Study Guide on Large Assembly 
design. As this is always a topic of interest to our users I decided we should give it a look. I got the boss to order a copy for each office so if you come in for training some time feel free to peruse a copy. Amazon also has it available to preview online. You can view the Table of Contents, Index and first few pages. They also have a "Surprise Me" button which allows you to view other random sections of the book. If you are thinking about purchasing it this is a good way to check it out first.
Unlike the SolidWorks manuals that accompany our training classes the Step-byStep guides are a series of manuals intended for self paced study. In addition to Large Assembly Design, there are guides for Animations, PhotoRendering with PhotoView 360 and Productivity Tools, available for purchase in the SolidWorks online store.
The large assembly guide is a collection of tips, best practices, and reccomendations that are outlined in various training classes. The book contains information on SolidWorks and System settings that affect assembly performance as well as techniques to consider when working with large assemblies. Having taught the classes where this information is gleaned I did not 
find myself learning a lot of new information. However I do like the idea of having all this information in one location. I also found a few errors and reccomendations that seem to contradict advice I've gleaned from SolidWorks support. We will be redacting the office copies.
One chapter I really like was the hardware chapter. They describe the various pieces of your computer and describe how they affect SolidWorks performance. Hardware technology changes fast so they can't get into specific models motherboards or graphics cards, but the general knowledge gained can help you maximize your hardware purchases.
I was a bit disappointed with the book and planning to write it off as general reccomendations without any real data behind it until I got to the final chapter. This chapter presents the results of some benchmarking that was done using the various settings reccomended. There are actual numbers presented showing how the various techniques affected the times required to complete tasks in SolidWorks. The number 1 time saver based upon the data cited? Use Lightweight mode. We've been telling you that for a few releases now but its nice to see what the setting can do for you.
In conclusion $50 seems a bit steep for this relatively thin book, but it does contain a lot of good information compiled like I have never seen before. I understand its going to be a low volume seller and they may only be covering the printing costs, but why not make it available as an ebook? Also be aware the book is based upon SolidWorks 2011, so it does not cover "Large Design Review" mode which was added in 2012.
Gabe
We know when companies start upgrading to a new release because we get a flurry of cases helping them straighten out their SNL (SolidWorks Network License) activations. We are always happy to help but there are ways to avoid needing to call us. Especially if you are doing this during off hours when we CADD Edge is not open. Here are the two ways:
- Work directly on the physical machine when installing updating and activating your SNL License Manager. Don't use RDP (remote desktop connection)
- If you have already used RDP to install or this is your only option. Make sure you transfer your SNL activation back to the server prior to upgrading your SNL. In fact SolidWorks reccomends transfering the license prior to upgrading between releases whether you are using RDP or not.
The details of why you should avoid using RDP are explained on the Javelin Technologies blog.
Since HSMXpress was announced I decided I should give it a look and see how far I could get on my own. Jeff has been telling us all how easy HSM is to use and this is my chance to prove him right or wrong.
As a little background my last exposure to CNC was writing code in a text editor for a robotics class back at WPI. I believe we made simple puzzle piece out of wax and it was a pain in the butt. Since then I have never used a CAM system, nor operated a machine.
I started by registering for my free copy and was immediately set up with an account for the online forums. That would be where I would look for support if I didn't have Jeff and got stuck. I patiently waited for my registration code and download link. This was over a weekend and when I got back around to looking for it it was waiting for me in my SPAM filter. Just where they warned me it might end up.
Download and install was a snap. I won't go into that. I ran into no difficulties.
Once installed and the Add-In was loaded I was presented with a CAM tab on my SolidWorks Command Manager. As I said I've never used a CAM system so I wasn't sure where to start. In the CAM dropdown menu I found tutorials with a link to the help file. There are two tutorials specific to HSMXpress and all the tutorials for the products are also available with friendly reminders that they cover functionality not available in Xpress. At least you can see what is available in the nonfree tools.
I started in on the first tutorial. A simple part which covered, Facing, Countouring, Pocket Machining, Drilling, Tapping and Post Processing. It also leads you through the simple process of creating your own custom machine tools in the library. The tutorial was easy to follow and though I didn't time it I can't imagine it took me more than 20 minutes to complete.
Before starting on my own without the tutorials I figured I might as well do the other tutorial as well. Though the part this time was a bit more complex the tutorial was easy to follow and I completed it without any difficulty.
Next up is grabbing a part of my own and trying it out. When I've completed it I'll send it over to Jeff for his critique and we'll see for sure how easy this system is to use.
Overall I find HSMXpress very easy to use. As I have stated this is the only CAM system I have used, so I can't speak to how much easier it is to use than others. I have read critiques of other systems that say they are difficult to use.
More to follow
Gabe
SolidWorks has great tools for analyzing your designs. SolidWorks Simulation has tools for doing Stress Analysis, Thermal, Vibration, and many more. What the different capabilities are and how you can get them is often confusing for many people. Jay recorded a video blog entry going over the different analysis types and what version of Simulation or SolidWorks you need to be able to perform that type of analysis.
We've been generating a lot of video content lately for Simulation so there is now a Simulation Playlist over on our YouTube channel where you can access all of them from one location.
Gabe
With the announcement of the HSMXpress I got to thinking about all the Xpress tools available to SolidWorks users. There are nine of them by my count. Generally an Xpress product is a lite version of an addin tool for SolidWorks. Often they have limitations that allow the user to gain an understanding of the tool and gain some benefit. The hope is they will see the power of the tool and compell them to purchase the full featured version. Since some of them require an independant download from the developer its easy to lose track of them all. Here they are with a little bit about what they do and my thoughts on them.
SimulationXpress (embedded)
The Xpress tool that started it all. Originally CosmosXpress this is the FEA solution from SolidWorks that allows users to get their feet wet with Simulation. A wizard interface guides users through the process of setting up simulation studies that when complete mimic exactly the full SolidWorks Simulation product line. Users are limited in their mesh control, load types and fixtures (aka boundary conditions), as well as post processing analysis. When the study is complete they can even do a simple optimization study similar to the capabilities in Simulation Premium. Simulation Xpress is a great first pass FEA tool for the product designer.
HSMXpress (download)
The newest of the Xpress products. Because Jeff wrote it up yesterday on the blog I won't go into too much detail. The bottom line is HSMXpress is fully functional 2.5 Axis CAM. Prior to its rebranding as an Xpress product it was sold as 2D HSMWorks. Clearly we are excited by this tool.
FloXpress (embedded)
FloXpress is a simlified version of SolidWorks FlowSimulation CFD solution. Users can study how air or water flows through their assemblies. They are limited to a single input and output.
DFMXpress (embedded)
DFMXpress is a tool from GeoMetric Technologies. This tool allows users to analyze there parts for details that make them difficult to machine. It check for things like inside radius and deep holes. I have little knowledge of the full versions of DFMPro. Geometric was the original developer of eDrawings for SolidWorks so they know their way around SolidWorks for sure.
DriveWorksXpress (embedded)
DriveWorksXpress is a basic rules-based design tool based upon the offerings from DriveWorks. If you use a lot of design tables or do design or build-to-order DriveWorksXpress is a way to get started with Design Automation. Integrated into the SolidWorks Task Pane the tool allows you to capture model dimensions, features, and properties to automate with a user defined form. At the end of the process the system will make new versions of your parts assemblies and drawings for each custom job you specify. DriveWorks does a good job of explaining their limitations in their marketing literature for their entry level paid solution DriveWorksSolo.
SimpoeXpress (download)
SimpoeXpress is a tool for doing mold fill analysis. It came along to fill the void (pun intended) left after AutoDesk discontinued development of MoldFloXpress. The restrictions are the same allowing the user to add a single injection location control and choose from a preset library of materials. When the analysis is complete the tool predicts if your part will fill completely or if you end up with a short shot. I learned about it recently from a customer who was raving about it. I donwloaded it to try it and was quite impressed.
SustainabilityXpress (embedded)
SustainabilityXpress is another tool based upon an offering from SolidWorks. This tool allows you to analyze the environmental impact of a single part at a time. It considers the material and manufacturing of your product as well as where its used and how its transported. The tool then produces a professional report on a number of environmental impact factors. If Green is a goal of your company SustainabilityXpress is a great way to demo it before investing in SolidWorks Sustainability, which works on full assemblies.
CAMWorksXpress (download)
CAMWorksXpress is another CAM tool from Geometric Technologies. This is another 2.5 Axis machining option. Unlike most other Xpress tools it is not free. A free trial can be downloaded, but once the trial is up it lists for $995.
SolidCAM Xpress (download)
Another CAM tool available with an XPress version. SolidCAM Xpress claims to offer 2.5 Axis machining as well as 3 Axis Surface Machining functionality. A free trial is available but it also costs money. The price is not published.
That's quite a list. Let me know if I missed any. Or if you've had any experiences with the tools you'd like to share. I have not used them all and would love to hear your impressions of them.
Gabe
Jeff the CAM MAN just back from Florida and the big announcement shares the lowdown on HSMXpress.
The news is out HSMWorks has released its newest product HSMXpress. The questions that everyone is asking are: What is it? What are the limitations? What does it mean to SolidWorks users? And what does it mean for existing 2D HSMWorks customers?
What is HSMXpress?
HSMXpress is a free, easy-to-use full featured CAM solution that allows all licensed users of SolidWorks 2009 or newer to create high quality toolpaths using the latest in 64-bit and multi-core technology. (32-bit version is also available.) That’s right I said FREE!!! It’s the same full functioning unrestricted 2D mill system that HSMWorks users have come to know and love. There is only one requirement. HSMXpress requires SolidWorks 2010 or newer; and Microsoft® Windows XP®, Windows Vista®, Windows® 7. That’s it if you have SolidWorks 2010 or newer(I know I just said 2009 above, we're checking on it.) They say the proof is in the pudding, so prove it to yourself go to http://www.hsmworks.com/hsmxpress, register, and download HSMXpress, and start cutting your 2D parts for FREE.
What are the limitations? The other SolidWorks Xpress products usually are a limited version of a another product.
The only limitation is that its 2D. Before Friday December 2, 2012, 2D HSMWorks cost money. People bought it, used it, and loved. Today ALL that functionality is in HSMXpress.
What does it mean to existing 2D HSMWorks customers?
Existing 2D HSMWorks users will be upgraded to the full 3D level at no additional cost for the remainder of their maintenance. At the end of their maintenance they will have two choices, continue with the 3D subscription maintenance, or switch over to HSMXpress.
What does it mean to existing SolidWorks Customers?
If you are a licensed SolidWorks user you can download and enjoy all the great features outlined below. Support will be handled through the HSM forums, when you register you will also be signed up for the forum.
HSMXpress Features
HSMXpress was created to show designers, engineers, and even veteran CNC programmers that integrated CAM not only makes sense, but you shouldn't settle for anything less. HSMXpress includes all this:
- 100% HSMWorks Technology – No Compromises Feature Set
- Same 64-bit, Multi-core HSM CAM Kernel as HSMWorks
- Industry leading toolpath quality for Basic Milling Machining including 2D Roughing and Pocketing, Drilling, Facing, Contouring, and more...
- Support for form tools including ability to automatically import SolidWorks Part Files as Form Tools
- Integrated 64-bit, Multi-core Simulation with toolpath/solid forward, reverse material removal
- Incredibly fast 64-bit JavaScript-based Post Processor System including many generic posts
- Industry leading CNC program editor with file compare, math ops, backplotter, and communications
- GOLD PARTNER SolidWorks Product, UI, & Workflow Integration Since Day 1
- All CAM data stored in your Part (.SLDPRT) or Assembly (.SLDASM) files
- Seamless integration with the SolidWorks Command Manager for access to all HSMXpress Tools and Commands
- Seamless integration with the SolidWorks Feature Manager with the HSM CAMManager Tab that organizes all Job Setups and Toolpath Operations
- Seamless integration with the SolidWorks Property Manager including Toolpath Configuration
- Seamlessly integrated Backplot and Simulation commands in the SolidWorks Feature Manager
- All CAM data stored in your Part (.SLDPRT) or Assembly (.SLDASM) files
Register and Download
Disclaimer: This is probably my geekiest post to date. There is a lot of math and my explanation of the theory is not likely to be entirely accurate. You have been warned.
A question came up on the support line recently from a customer who was looking to model an
Epicycloid Curve. We first had to learn what one was. Wikipedia of course was there with the answer. Basically its the curve produced when a point on one circle rolls along another circle. Think Spirograph.
The next challenge is creating the curve in SolidWorks. Modelling a curve driven by an equation is actually quite easy. Just start a new sketch and insert an equation driven curve.
I chose to use the form of the equation.
Which looked something like this where r =2 and k =1. And we solve for the parameter t from 0 to 6.25 (approximately 2Pi)
So that was easy now lets make some of the other cool shapes described on the wiki page. I'd rather not dig through the equation each time I want to change a parameter and find each location, I'd rather make it parametric. Currently it isn't possible to link an equation to a SolidWorks global variable, but I can link the variable to a sketch dimension. So I added a couple sketch points and dimensioned between them and then linked them to my equation.
I have two dimensions in my sketch now, one called r, and the other called k. By swapping "r@sketch1" and "k@sketch1" for the numbers representing those parameters I can now control the equation by modifying them or even linking them to SolidWorks Global Variables.
Its time to change k to 4 hit rebuild and get a cool shape like this one
. My geometry didn't update at this point, how come? The reason is that SolidWorks creates Equation Driven curves as splines. A spline has to be continuous and smooth and the cusps or sharp corners cannot be drawn as a spline. That is why I in my first exampe I stopped short of evaluating T all the way to 2Pi, I was cheating. If we zoom in on my curve you'd see the shape isn't complete. If I want to depict the entire shape I can copy the curve four times and evaluate it for a segment representing each node. Which looks like this. (Download here in 2011 format.)
What about all the other crazy ones? Like this? 
Can we do them? Yes but we'll need Simulation Motion, Sketch Blocks, and Trace Paths. I'll show you that in a future post. For now here is a teaser video.
Gabe
Being down at Foxwoods Casino for our User Conference must have inspired Jon S. from the New York office. He created a great video showing you how to create an animation of a Roulette wheel using SolidWorks Simulation Motion. Check it out, it shows how you can apply friction, motors and contacts using Simulation Motion which is part of SolidWorks Premium.
Lisa checks in with an overview of local views in EPDM.
SolidWorks Enterprise PDM Local File Vault View Overview
In order for any of the Windows Explorer-based SolidWorks Enterprise PDM clients to have access to a vault, the very first thing that must be done after the client installation is the creation of a local view of the vault or file vault view. The file vault view is directly connected to the archive server, which stores the physical files in a file vault archive, and the file vault database, which stores the information about files and activities in the file vault.
It is recommended that this file vault view, often referred to as "the blueberry" for the blue Enterprise PDM icon displayed for each file vault view, be located in the root of the local hard drive to make it easily accessible. See below for an example of a local file vault view:
The name of this vault, EPDM_Demo, is right next to the "blueberry". Notice that when the Folders option is used with Windows Explorer I can easily navigate through the file vault view on the left while seeing my file information on the right. The Windows Explorer view has the file information in the right top half with the columns having very useful PDM information such as Checked Out By, Description, Revision, State, etc. instead of the usual information in Windows Explorer like size of file and last modified date. The columns are configurable as to which properties are listed. The bottom right half displays the information about the file currently selected, a SolidWorks part, Arm.SldPrt, in this case.
As you can see from the example above, the data card for the SolidWorks part file has been modified to use the SolidWorks logo. It is very easy to use your own company's logo instead, giving you a feeling of “ownership” to the software as it is implemented to work with your particular PDM needs.
Speaking of data cards, stay tuned for the next SolidWorks Enterprise PDM Tech Tip!
Lisa