It’s that time of year again when SOLIDWORKS launches its newest version and this year, SOLIDWORKS 2018 does not disappoint. Why? Because they listened to their users and therefore made enhancements and introduced new features based on real user requests and needs. No fluff, solid improvements proving that SOLIDWORKS continues to change the way design and manufacturing is done.
Here’s 10 reasons YOU can get excited about SOLIDWORKS 2018:
1. Innovative User Experience Improvements
Including…
Freehand sketching with pen or touch on compatible devices
Touch and stylus support for many design tasks
Enhanced mouse gestures and user interface customization
BENEFIT TO YOU… makes SOLIDWORKS easier and more intuitive to use.
2. Simulation Topology Study for Optimization of Part Geometry
Examples…
Automatically optimizes the shape of a design
Considers weight, function, and manufacturing criteria
BENEFIT TO YOU…fast, easy design optimization.
3. SOLIDWORKS CAM for CNC Machining
Details…
Rules-based machining results in easy-to-learn, yet fast and powerful CAM
Powered by CAMWorks: production-proven, integrated CAM for SOLIDWORKS
BENEFIT TO YOU …seamlessly integrate design and manufacturing.
4. SOLIDWORKS Inspection Support for MBD
Including…
Support for SOLIDWORKS MBD and non-native 3D CAD formats
Automatically interprets SOLIDWORKS MBD models for inspection documentation
SOLIDWORKS Inspection now integrated with SOLIDWORKS PDM
BENEFIT TO YOU …create inspection documentation directly from 3D models with Product and Manufacturing Information (PMI).
5. Sheet Metal Features that Improve Manufacturability
Examples…
A tab and slot feature for self-fixturing of parts for welding
Normal cut feature ensures clearance included for manufacturing
Corners that include three bends can be easily created and flattened
BENEFIT TO YOU …innovative new features improve sheet metal manufacturing process.
6. SOLIDWORKS Manage for Project and Process Management
Details…
SOLIDWORKS PDM Professional plus powerful project, process, and item management
Dashboards and reports to manage project stages, timelines, and milestones
Create, edit and compare Bills of Materials (BOMs)
BENEFIT TO YOU …data management, project management and process management all in one system.
7. Cloud Connected SOLIDWORKS
Examples…
SOLDWORKS Online Licensing allows easier use of your license on multiple machines
SOLIDWORKS Login automatically moves customized content and settings to any machine on which SOLIDWORKS is installed
SOLIDWORKS Admin Portal allows easier management of SOLIDWORKS products and services
BENEFIT TO YOU …the power of desktop with the convenience of the cloud.
8. Work Directly with Mesh Data
Including…
Perform operations directly on mesh such as Cut, Cut with Surface, Interference Check, Combine, Intersect, Split, Move/Copy, and others
Convert solid or surface geometry to mesh
Quickly fit surface bodies to regions of mesh models for reverse engineering
BENEFIT TO YOU …work directly with mesh data with no need to convert to surfaces.
9. Work Faster and More Efficiently with Assemblies
Examples…
“Alt” key hides faces while mating
Ghost mode to turn all parts transparent
Allow mating of parts with misaligned holes
BENEFIT TO YOU …work faster without having to prepare the assembly or use special techniques.
10. Collaborate More Efficiently for Model Based Enterprise
Details…
Import and export STEP 242 including PMI
Import 3D models along with PMI from all major CAD formats
Display all SOLIDWORKS MBD created 3D Views in eDrawings
BENEFIT TO YOU…speed design detailing and communication.
You demanded better ways to bring your ideas to life, and SOLIDWORKS delivered. For more information and details about all that SOLIDWORKS 2018 has to offer, click here.
Looking to make your company dollars go further? Want something free (who doesn’t?)? Check out our end of year savings opportunities here.
To speak with one of our experts about how SOLIDWORKS 2018 can help you design and manufacture better, smarter and faster, click here and someone from The SolidExperts will be in contact with you very soon.
SUBMIT YOUR COMMENT