When working in SOLIDWORKS and creating your own symbols for use in Annotations such as Notes, Dimensions and Tables in Drawings, it is important to understand what is controlling these symbols and how to modify those symbols for your own use. Let’s start by taking a look at some common symbols: When adding these symbols in a Dimension, we can see the syntax typed out in the Dimension Text Box. So where is this syntax defined and how do we […]
The Import Database function allows you to import update a TechDB from an older version to a newer version of SOLIDWORKS CAM and CAMWorks. The Import Database function also allows you to bring in changes from another SOLIDWORKS CAM TechDB and CAMWorks TechDB. Please note, in this example, I will be upgrading from 2020 to 2021. The video link below shows the steps to Upgrade Your SOLIDWORKS CAM and CAMWorks Technology Database (TechDB) Here is the default location for the […]
Recently I’ve had several Technical Support questions asking how he would set up this program. Here are the steps to create a program to tread mill profile hole with SOLIDWORKS/CAMWORKS: To get started I have set up a simple model with the SOLIDWORKS Tap hole of 1-8. Select the SOLIDWORKS CAM Operations Tree. Right click on the Mill Part Setup. Select the 2.5 Axis Mill Operations/Thread Mill. Select the Thread Mill Tool. Select the Thread Operation Features tab. Create Features, […]
To Begin, go to SOLIDWORKS 2021, System Options, Hole Wizard/Toolbox, ‘Include data for DELMIA applications’. Feature Recognition in DELMIA recognizes threaded hole data from imported SOLIDWORKS part files with hole wizard data when programming a machining process inside DELMIA. When importing the SOLIDWORKS part file into DELMIA, have the system option checked to Include data for DELMIA applications. When hole wizard holes are created in SOLIDWORKS and converted to the platform using the Derived Format Converter (UES) into DELMIA the […]
CAMWorks 2021 provides a new “Continuous B Axis Functionality” for Turn/Mill-Turn part models and assemblies which allow the toolpath generation by continuously tilting the B axis tool head capability which is best suited for complex geometry parts. Using traditional methods, requires multiple tools and setups to accomplish the machining these types of complex parts. But now in CAMWorks 2021, these types of complex profiles on Turn/Mill-Turn part models can be machined using a single tool and only one operation. The […]
I recently had a customer who asked me a few questions about the Technology Database when using SOLIDWORKS CAM and CAMWorks. Customer Question #1: Can they could use, or share, the same TechDB when they were either using SOLIDWORKS CAM or CAMWorks? Customer Question #2: If question #1 is yes, then how can this be accomplished? Customer Question #3: Can the TechDB be located on their network? My answers to all 3 of their questions… Answer #1: Yes Answer #2: […]
With SOLIDWORKS CAM, all active subscription users get access to 2.5 axis part machining directly inside of SOLIDWORKS. This includes the ability to customize your SOLIDWORKS CAM to work with your Waterjet, Plasma and Laser Cutters. Some things to consider when using SOLIDWORKS CAM for Waterjet/Plasma/Laser Cutting: Tool Setup Stock Material Machining Features Operation Plans Toolpaths Post Processor Tech Tip: Consider this a quick setup guide and not a replacement for training and/or support. If you need help or get […]
When it comes to OEM manufacturers that make a lot of the same parts, keeping features catalogued in SOLIDWORKS for quick application is a very handy tool. You can do the same for toolpaths in SOLIDWORKS CAM too, with the use of Library files. Saving toolpaths allows the user to implement a CNC operation without having to use a SOLIDWORKS feature, sketch, or model entity to calculate from. You can easily recreate any series of toolpaths by inserting a library […]
CAMWorks Licensing Setup – Standalone and Network Licensing The two main types of CAMWorks licenses are Standalone and Network, and both require a Flex LM license file be requested when setting up the CAMWorks License Manager. Tech Tip: A hardware dongle (USB) can be used in place of a standalone license file for additional security, however keep in mind that the USB dongle is effectively your license and a new license will need to be purchased if lost or stolen. […]
SOLIDWORKS CAM installation can be broken down into 2 sections (CAM Standard, CAM Standard TBM) and (CAM Professional). CAM Standard – CAM Standard TBM The installation process is simple with CAM, just run the 2021 SOLIDWORKS installation process CAM will be automatically loaded without searching for check marks to add into the software download. After the installation is complete, open SOLIDWORKS and right click on COMMAND MANAGER Tabs and add a check mark for SOLIDWORKS CAM and SOLIDWORKS CAM TBM. Current user of […]