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SOLIDWORKS

SOLIDWORKS is a 3D CAD software used for modeling and designing products and parts. It provides tools for sketching, 3D part and assembly modeling, generating 2D drawings, simulation and analysis, data management, and manufacturing. SOLIDWORKS aims to increase productivity and easy of use.

What is SOLIDWORKS?

SOLIDWORKS is a 3D CAD (computer-aided design) software application used by over 5 million engineers and designers across industries worldwide. First released in 1995 by Dassault Systèmes, SOLIDWORKS provides an integrated and user-friendly suite of tools for product design, simulation, visualization, data management, and manufacturing.

At its core, SOLIDWORKS lets users create 3D part and assembly models using sketching and solid/surface modeling capabilities. Its intuitive drag-and-drop interface makes it easy for new users to get started, while also providing advanced functionality for complex projects. Key SOLIDWORKS modules and features include:

  • Part and Assembly modeling tools like extrude, revolve, loft, sweep
  • Powerful surfacing tools
  • Parametric modeling capabilities
  • Detailed 2D drawings automatically generated from 3D models
  • Motion, structural, thermal and flow simulation
  • Photorealistic rendering and animation
  • Version control, data management and collaboration tools
  • Tools for manufacturing preparation like CNC machining, nesting, CAM programming

SOLIDWORKS aims to accelerate product development times while delivering innovations. With its user-friendly interface engineers can maximize design productivity. The software strives to help users easily transition ideas and concepts into virtual 3D models and bring competitive products to market faster.

The Best SOLIDWORKS Alternatives

Top Apps like SOLIDWORKS

SketchUp, FreeCAD, Shapr3D, Autodesk AutoCAD, Autodesk Fusion 360, Microsoft 3D Builder, LibreCAD, Autodesk Inventor, Catia, Rhinoceros, Vectorworks, ZWCAD, TurboCAD, Plasticity, Designspark Mechanical, nanoCAD, Onshape, QCAD, Autodesk 123D Design, OpenSCAD, SALOME, DoubleCAD XT, VARKON, TopSolid, Sketchup Automation Tools, Medusa4, BeckerCAD, ZW3D, 3D Orchard, Assetforge, progeCAD Smart, GstarCAD, Draft it, BRL-CAD, BricsCAD, ANSYS Workbench, AutoQ3D CAD, SolveSpace, Dune 3D, gCAD3D, BricsCAD Shape, Abaqus Unified FEA, MacDraft, LiteCAD, PUPPICAD, ar-cad freeCAD, DesignFreeQ, NaroCAD, LandCAD, IronCAD, TouchCAD, Cimatron, 3DVIA Shape, Xenon™, KeyCreator, Punch! ViaCAD Pro, MegaCAD 2D/3D, CoffeeSCAD, Precision Plan Pro, AutoQ3D Community, midas NFX, Pocket Plans, AllyCAD, Cycas, Argon™, Punch! ViaCAD 2D/3D, SolidFace, ANSYS AIM, COSMOSWorks, Mapsoft miniCAD, Simulia are some alternatives to SOLIDWORKS.

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