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How to use SOLIDWORKS Macros to Automate Drawing Access and Flat Pattern Export?

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SOLIDWORKS Macros are small programs (usually written in VBA, VB.NET, or C#) that automate repetitive tasks inside SOLIDWORKS . They’re a powerful way to save time, reduce errors, and enforce consistency in design processes. Here we can see an example of how to utilize the SOLIDWORKS macros. Download the macro files from the given attachment to work as per the below guidelines. Open Associated Drawings Using the macro, we can open all the associated drawings of a part or assembly. Let’s see the step-by-step process. Open a part\assembly file in SOLIDWOKRS. Go to customize > Commands > Macro > New Macro Button Drag and Drop into the command manager  and it will ask to browse the source file. Browse & add the macro file and click Ok. Now, the macro button “Open Associated  Drawings” added in the command manager. Open the part/assembly file and click the  “Open Associated Drawings” and you just witness the drawings which are all associated with the file wi...

SOLIDWORKS PDM: How to Optimize File Search and Check-In/Out?

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Efficient search and check-in/out practices in SOLIDWORKS PDM help users find files faster and keep workflows smooth. This guide highlights simple techniques to improve search performance and manage file status effectively. Search Card: SOLIDWORKS PDM includes default search result columns, which can be viewed and customized through the SOLIDWORKS PDM Administration tool Columns > New Column Set and  creating a Search Result . Creating a column set with only the needed columns reduces data retrieval overhead and results in a more efficient query. If the default columns don’t include all the required data, adding additional columns can help, but it may slow the search slightly due to the increased data load. A SOLIDWORKS PDM search returns results to the client more quickly when the SQL query runs faster on the SQL server.   When entering the search terms, provide as much detail as possible. For Example: If the folder path is known, then we can enter it directly on...

From PBR to DSPBR in SOLIDWORKS 2026: Understand the Advanced Material Support in SOLIDWORKS

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SOLIDWORKS 2026 introduce a major visual upgrade , modernizing background scenes, lighting, materials, and rendering. These improvements make models look more realistic, but files created in SOLIDWORKS 2025 may appear warning when opened in the SOLIDWORKS 2026. The update introduces a physically based rendering system and enhanced lighting, focusing on: DSPBR (Physically Based Rendering) Appearances Updated Background Scene Library This blog highlights the key visual changes and provides guidance to update your existing projects for consistent, high-quality results. DSPBR (Physically Based Rendering) Appearances SOLIDWORKS 2026 supports DSPBR appearances, creating a seamless transition when you open designs in SOLIDWORKS Visualize to produce high-quality, photo-realistic images. Updated Background Scene Library SOLIDWORKS 2026 introduced a more background scene library , designed to improve lighting accuracy and make models look mor...

SOLIDWORKS Weldments: Design Configuration with Trim/Extend Command

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What is SOLIDWORKS Weldments tool? The SOLIDWORKS Weldments tool can be used to create 3D structures using components with multiple profiles with a variety of end-conditions, within a single multi-body Part file. Since any closed profile can be used, this tool is not limited to welded metal applications. Weldments can be used for anything from machine frames and railings to picnic tables and garden sheds. In this, we'll cover the basics of creating a weldment design in SOLIDWORKS , weldment profiles, and weldment tools.   Step 1: Add SOLIDWORKS Weldment Tab to Command Manager Adding the Weldment tab to the Command Manager provides faster access to create 3D sketches, add and trim weldment members, and add gussets and weld beads. To do so, right-click on the Tabs area in the Command Manager to access this menu and select  Weldments . Step 2: Adding the Structural Members Now that the Weldment tab is added to the Command Manager, we can turn this into a weldment and star...

How to perform effective Drafting using SOLIDWORKS in 10 Stages?

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    This Series of Blogs provides recommendations for both CAD Administrators and drafters related to organizing and managing the CAD Tools, Environment and Techniques for maximizing efficiency when working with SOLIDWORKS  Drafting and   drawings.     Because drawings link parametrically to 3D models, the drawing performance depends greatly on the optimization of those models. Many of the slowdowns that drafters reported are related to the models, system settings or document properties.     When developing a new product, self-taught SOLIDWORKS users who have not optimized their drafting environment estimate that they dedicate 50% of their time to creating part and assembly models and the other 50% of their time detailing those models in drawings.      Users with full training who have optimized the drafting environment can take full advantage of the parametric and associative nature of SOLIDWORKS. This enables them to use less than...

DRAFTSIGHT WHAT’s NEW 2026?

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DraftSight offers a powerful collection of performance boosts, productivity tools, and workflow enhancements designed to make every day drafting faster and smoother. From speed improvements and smarter interface elements to advanced customization options and automation features, these additions aim to elevate the user experience for both casual designers and high-demand professionals Performance Sheet switching is significantly faster: 66% faster to sheets and 78% faster back to the model. Navigation performance improves with up to 55% faster zoom and 38% faster pan. File opening times are reduced by about 10%, minimizing delays and boosting productivity. Start Page Tab (DraftSight Premium Only) The Start Page tab streamlines DraftSight by centralizing key actions like starting new drawings, resuming recent projects, and accessing learning resources. It also provides quick workspace customization and easy tracking of recent wo...