SOLIDWORKS MBD

No. While 3D PDF is a popular output, SOLIDWORKS MBD is a semantic definition tool. It adds 3D product manufacturing infromation, 3D PMI, directly to the Model. Allowing the user to organize Dimensions, Tolerances, Notes, Datums, and other annotations clearly in a SOLIDWORKS Part or Assembly Model. This 3D PMI is readable downstream for other applications like SOLIDWORKS CAM, Inspection, and TolAnalyst.

No. Most companies "phase in" 3D PMI usage with SOLIDWORKS MBD. Some companies prioritize switching complex models where 3D visualization reduces scrap. Others adopt 3D PMI as projects are created or updated. SOLIDWORKS MBD allows you to transition at your own pace, rather than forcing a company-wide "hard change".

No. SOLIDWORKS MBD is a separate Add-In that must be purchased independently. However, 3D PDF and eDrawings files generated from SOLIDWORKS MBD can be opened with the free version of Adobe Acrobat Reader or eDrawings respectively. Meaning suppliers do not need to purchase software to review the files created by MBD.

No. The 3D PMI created using SOLIDWORKS MBD can be imported into SOLIDWORKS Drawings. If a client or supplier requires a 2D print, the 3D Views created can be dragged and dropped onto a drawing sheet with the corresponding DimXpert Dimensions. Saving you from doing double work.

Generally, MBD Data is robust. Testing with the latest versions of SOLIDWORKS Design have shown great retention of 3D PMI when saving to previous versions. However, it is possible in specific situations that some 3D PMI may be lost as part of this process. It is recommended that all collaborators stay on the same major release of SOLIDWORKS Design or publish STEP AP242 files which preserves the 3D PMI regardless of CAD version.

Yes. SOLIDWORKS MBD works with both Assemblies and Parts. Allowing companies to add assembly level dimensions, weld symbols, bills of material, and other annotations. These can be published to 3D PDF or eDrawings format and provide assembly technicians the exact information needed without searching through multiple drawing sheets.

Yes. However, it depends on the file format and how "old" is the software. If using SOLIDWORKS Models, the CAM system would have to be compatible with that version of files. SOLIDWORKS MBD can export STEP AP242 files, the industry standard for interoperabilty using 3D PMI. Most modern CAM systems can import STEP AP242 and still recognize the needed model information for holes, pockets, and tolerances.

Viewing of 3D PDF files require the free Adobe Acrobat Reader App, not a browser based viewer. If the hardware is restricted, we recommend using the eDrawings desktop or mobile app or the Web2 Viewer if SOLIDWORKS PDM is implemented at the organization. These offer faster performance and better controls for machinists than PDF readers.

Manual ballooning is not needed. SOLIDWORKS MBD integrates with SOLIDWORKS Inspection Professional and can read the 3D PMI directly. Allowing the user to automatically create balloons along with capturing the needed manufacturing crtiteria. Once captured the information can be exported to multiple formats including 3D PDF for balloons, Excel for inspection lists, or other formats like Net-Inspect. Significantly reducing the time needed to create QA documentation.

Yes. However, this is not tied directly to SOLIDWORKS MBD. There are ISO and ASME standards that apply to digital product definitions and MBD is built to comply with these standards. Since more and more standards are requiring 3D PMI for a "single source of truth", a variety of digital signature methods are available for approving designs.

Minimal impact. DimXpert Annotations are lightweight data. The file size increase is small compared to the model geometry itself. Published outputs, 3D PDF and STEP AP242, however will be larger than any 2D formats like DXF, DWG, or 2D PDF files.

We recommend using STEP AP242 for long-term digital file retention. This file type is recommended in the LOTAR (Long Term Archiving and Retrieval) initiative. SOLIDWORKS MBD supports STEP AP242. Since it is a neutral file format, the geometry and manufacturing data will remain readable even if SOLIDWORKS Design changes significantly in 10 years.

Yes. When 3D Interconnect is enabled, 3D PMI from a variety of CAD formats will import into SOLIDWORKS Design as semantic 3D PMI. See the list below for the specific native CAD Formats.
PTC Pro/Engineer or Creo (.prt, .asm, .prt.*, .asm.*)
Unigraphics/NX Files (.prt)
CATIA V5 (.CATpart and .CATProduct) Requires SOLDIWORKS Design Premium.

All three published Editions. The most recent versions of SOLIDWORKS MBD allows the import and export of STEP AP242 Edition 1, 2, and 3. Allowing you and your collaborators to work with the correct 3D format.