Sheet Metal is a feature in SOLIDWORKS that allows users to create bend and flat patterns simultaneously. When paired with the option to save files as .dxf for easy laser cutting, SOLIDWORKS becomes the preferred choice for industry leaders. SOLIDWORKS also allows users to create templates. These are starting points for your files, saving you even more time. One of the advantages of using templates is that they allow you to preselect various settings, such as units and color selections, so you don't have to change them each time you start a new file. Sheet Metal has its own set of settings. One of which is the gauge table.
One of the most useful features in SOLIDWORKS is the ability to use Microsoft Excel to build various tables. However, an update began producing an error in SOLIDWORKS that left many users unable to open their Excel design tables. Some users could open and edit the table inside SOLIDWORKS, but trying to launch Excel in a new window would produce the error that reads: Failed to connect. Link may be broken.
McMaster-Carr is one of the most popular hardware suppliers known for its extensive catalog and readily available CAD models, which have made both sourcing and design very convenient for engineers. This convenience is further enhanced by the McMaster-Carr add-in for SOLIDWORKS, a free tool that helps users seamlessly add components to their designs. In this blog, we will cover how to use this add-in to save time in design and data management.