SolidWorks 2008

SWIFT Instant3D lets you create and modify 3D model features simply by manipulating drag handles directly on the model. That means there are a lot less dialog boxes and extensive data input to deal with. You can even use “live cross-sections” to make edits by dragging edges while looking at a slice of the model. You can automatically set geometric dimensions and tolerances on parts. SWIFT DimXpert provides visual feedback on whether the model has been properly described and is ready for manufacturing. DimXpert adheres to the ASME Y14.41-2003 3D specification and automatically creates views, dimensions, and tolerances in 2D drawings for complete design documentation.

What about existing designs?
The Design Clipart capability lets you search your file system for sketches, tables, images, features, views, or DWG blocks that are inside existing designs. Once the item is located, Design Clipart dissects target files, allowing you to simply drag the item to incorporate it in new designs. The Design Clipart feature really cuts down the time spent looking for already finished designs. Design Clipart also allows quick access to any portion of an AutoCAD DWG file without the need for translation. SolidWorks 2008 supports native DWG blocks, alerting you when a referenced DWG block has been changed. You can natively edit these DWG blocks in the DWGeditor by simply right-clicking the block.

For the first time you can manage all of your 2D files from the SolidWorks desktop using a new capability called the DWGnavigator, which allows you to perform powerful DWG-specific searches, find references, view, and package up files for sharing. You can also save their files in the format of any version of AutoCAD or AutoCAD LT.

DriveWorksXpress automatically creates custom parts, assemblies, and drawings based on pre-defined design rules, enabling companies to quickly and economically respond to the unique needs of every customer.

Powerful New Tools
COSMOSWorks® Design Insight displays the portions of CAD models that carry applied loads, making it easy to decide whether to add material for strength or subtract it to avoid costly over-engineering. DFMXpress helps “design for manufacturability” by automatically flagging elements that are difficult, expensive, or impossible to machine, such as 90-degree milled corners. TolAnalyst is an automated tolerance stack-up tool that helps avoid the hidden potential fit and function problems that can result from variations in manufacturing tolerances in an assembly.