CAD & Design

Category Business

Status In Development

Priority High

Potential Impact Big

Feasibility Challenging

Tags Urgent

‫نتعلم السوليد ووركس قبل الديزاين و نتنقتنه ثم نخش علي الديزاين‬

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Milestones
Features Explained

Learn Part Design Through Advanced (Every thing about Part Design)

Exercises 0f 100 CAD exercises (3D)

Scribd Exercises

CAD Drive exercises

3D printing (to get a job)

Make a design without help (make it simple)

Learn a few design fundamentals

After you finish Learning The Path & The exercises Go Check with the list Below
and add what is missing

CAD & Design 1

 Solidprofessor

[Link]
hZa

See solid professor tutorials & apply them on many many projects

See SolidProfessor Exams

Get A licence in SOLIDWORKS & get a certificate & a Badge

SolidProfessor
First Lesson
SOLIDWORKS it is paramertric design tool

CAD & Design 2

 and this also means that the drawings , assemblies , design components are all
associated together

Interface tour

You can get this menu by pressing S button

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 You can drag from search menu to command bar

to drag the Model

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 F or double click mouse wheel does zoom to fit

when pressing space bar a pop up view appears

Sketching

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 Notice here the line is black and the point is blue means the point is under defined

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 if you press the s button it will show this sketching menu

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 the yellow icon shows the incoming relation & the green icon shows the existing one

you can delete a relationship by selecting the relation and press delete

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 The eye icon is for showing & Hiding things like relation (where the cursor is at)

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 Drag the blue segments to specify undefined parts

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 right click to show other features

Notes

Notes
in any situation you want to use less features possible

first thing you ask in design process is what feature you will use

when you choose a plane like this you can sketch outside the blue area on
infinite plane

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 to make an arc you need a sketch segment first (eg a line etc)

To make a hole for this Revolved sketch , you can delete the coincident
relation down there and move the line

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 right click to get the recent commands you have used

Can we make a revolve from circular Pattern of a face and an axis

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 here we make the hole by extrude cut , since it is not perfectly circular

the blue area is always waiting for the input & you can acces the feature tree
manger from the icon next to the property manger window (on the left)

like in the photo the key to a good sketch is good relations & Dimensions

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 You can make a text on your model using the text feature (draw a line and
select text feature then select the line )

to make a series of arc you need a distance and an angle (with all arcs
tangent)

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 to add a feature that doesn't exist in the toolbar (search for it and drag it into
the toolbar)

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 in the sweep command you do not make the cross section sketch cross it self

it is better to write the steps of your design as you go , to organize things

here i made the blade with swept with twist angle (remember profile sketch is
always perpendicular to the path )

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 Through Customize and keyboard you can customize the shortcuts

Features & Part Design

Finish all the Features

Study & Make a model Every Day

After Finishing the CSWA course on solidworks aim for 100 CAD exercises

CAD & Design 18

 the blue area is always waiting for the input & you can acces the feature tree
manger from the icon next to the property manger window (on the left)

solidworks is a history based model notice the extrude cut is made before
mirror so it only affects the first tab (the one originally made )

you can edit the features as you like

if you use the rollback (moving the blue line you will see each stage of the
design )

you can move the features up & down to improve your design

Hole Wizard
Hole Wizard explained

Difference between extrude cut & hole wizard & when to use each one

What are the types of the holes and what are their uses

Fillet

Fillets
see avanced detailed fillet tutorial

you can click a face and fillet all the edges

to remove your selection don't remove it from property manager , just

click on the selection again and it will de select , that's better for

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 complex shapes

make the larger fillet first

Group the fillets that are similar

tangent propagation fillets the tangent edges (the circular edge & the
line edge of the tab are tangent)

You can box select fillets

the fillet of the edges of line with midpoint relation , the geometry (the
sketch moves away ) an automatic response

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 the dimension each fillet box indicates that each fillet will be
independent

keep corners constrained means that they keep their dimensions

full preview allows you to select edges through the model

you can make a fillet asymmetric (2 different radiuses )

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 You can change the profile of the fillet , conic rho is a factor that
determines how round is thee fillet

setback parameters are how fillets merge , yoo can choose different
edges as seen (see the cursor) and change it’s setback indefinitely

The round corner feature vs no round corner (Green)

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 overflow type , either keep edge(yellow) or keep surface(purple)

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 you can make variable fillet , choose variable option and then use the
points to specify thier radius

you can add more control points , and assign each point with fillet
size

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 tangent propagation dosent work properly on variable fillets , you
have to select all edges to have your control points (they are the ones
who control size)

when all edges selected

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 there are face fillets , they are used to cover gaps

there is a gap here

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 also here , if i want to make a fillet until the other edge i can not

so i use face fillets and use the hold line feature , and choose the line
you want your fillet to expand to it

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 the result will look like this , which is impossible to do with normal
fillets

Curvature continuous fillets , are harder to manufacture

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 Full round fillets , are fillets that turn a whole side to a fillet as in the
example

we choose the side face (the face we turn into a fillet) as the second
selection (purple selection )

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 Conic Fillets , are the fillets with non perfect circular profile , how
mmuch of a circle it is is determined by a Rou factor (high Rou ⇒
sharp edges , Low rou ⇒ circular edges )

Fillet Expert , helps you edit multiple fillet edges (Internal & External)
on a corner

Internal ⇒ removes material , external ⇒ add material

so , a corner of just internal or just external fillets wont work

Chamfers

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 see chamfers advanced tutorials

there are lot of types of chamfers different by the parameters and

symmetry

the offset chamfer works like the photo below

you make a lines d1 and d2 away from the faces and parallel to them
(the normal lines) you will chamfer & where they meet you draw
another 2 lines perpindicular to the faces which means they get d1 &
d2 measures (The centerlines) , they form the beginning & end of the
chamfer created

keep features option helps you keep a feature that the chamfer might
remove

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 like in this example if the chamfer is long enough the boss extrude will
hang in air or get removed

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 but since i use the keep feature this happens the boss extrude gets
elongate and connected the chamfer

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 sometimes chamfer can add material instead of removing it like in this
example

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 Extrude

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 see Extrude advanced tutorials

selecting more than contour (closed sketch surface )

we used the up to surface to be a parametric design if we change the

length of the base the tab will elongate automatically

alwyas use through all end condition in extrude cut

CAD & Design 36

 Mirror Feature

Mirror Feature
see Mirror advanced tutorials

you can mirror about face or a plane

you can mirror bodies or features or faces or a sketch in the sketching

process

mirroring features has an advantage of the part being partially

symmetric which mirroring some features and the other not will help
reduce time & effort

Revolve

Revolve
see Revolve advanced tutorials

Patterns

Patterns
see Patterns advanced tutorials

Circular Pattern
You choose the axis of pattern (axis of revolution or an edge or a face
)

you can choose either features from feature tree or faces or bodies

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 you can choose the angle of revolution and how many repeats
(instances) and the angle between them individually

Linear Pattern
You choose the axis and the instances spraed linearly

You can show the axis from the eye icon next to faces (views) icon

here we are making a circular pattern of the existing feature (linear

pattern)

we choose the axis (temporary) and the instance spread circular not
linear as before since we are making circular pattern

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 Instances to vary
you can increment instances by constant value of dimensions and
distances between them

and you can modify a specific instance by hovering over it and right
clicking

Sketch tools

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 Rectangle Tools
see Sketch tools advanced tutorials

3 point rectangle tools are for the orientation of the rectangle if you
want a sloped rectangle

and there is the parallelogram for its purpose

you can add the construction lines in the rectangle or remove them

Circles & Arcs

you can add perpendicular arcs using the tangent arc feature

You can draw arcs from line tool by moving you mouse back to the
point of drwaing

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 pinned Feature are feature that don't hide once you use them once

Relations
You can show specific type of relations or all relations using
display/delete relations

here you can define with 2 ways either dimension from center of the
blue sketch to the side of the rectangle or using Geomtric relation with
the origin and it is the best option

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 Symmetric is by clicking the 2 objects & the symmetry line

Chamfers

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 first box for first selection (edge) and so is second box for second
selection

offset entities

Convert Entities
It makes a copy of existing sketch to the plane you are sketching on (a
projection)

the on edge relation says that the projection is related to the original
geometry (it changes with the original and doesn't need dimensions )
and that is a very powerful parametric design

CAD & Design 43

 a chain is the perimeter of the original model

inner loops are closed sketch inside the original model

Rapid sketch lets you sketch on multiple faces or planes

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 edit sketch plane

you can edit the plane where your sketch at so you can move a certain
feature

sweep

see Sweep advanced tutorials

you can sweep any sketch that dosent intersect itself

a thin feature makes your profile hollow and you decide the thickness
of the cross section

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 you can also sweep a face of a geometry

By dragging a plane you can create auxillary plane with offset value

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 this options change the direction of the sweep

you can sweep along model edges

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 Guide Curves , are curves that the sweep follows to change the cross
section size , not it’s geometry (circle stays circle and etc)

Here , to make a curve work as a guiding curve you need to do a

piercing relation , just choose a curve and the sketch entities (a line
for example) , this helps attach the curve to the sketch and make it as
a guide sketch

the purpose of the guide curve is to change the dimensions of the

cross section of the sweep , so , putting dimensions and fully
defining the cross section sketch profile is not a good idea , it
actually defies the purpose of the guided curve and the sweep will
get you an error

draw the guided curve and the path before drawing the profile , as it
will give you insight about the shape and relations needed in the

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 sketch profile

Here , i used two guided curves but , since the circle has one radius
and the curves enforce the circle to have a small radius and a big
one at the same time , so from this we conclude that the profile of a
circle is not suitable , and we us the profile of an ellipse (has 2
radiuses)

if there are more than 2 conflicts like above , we use a spline as the
sketch profile

Lofts

Lofts , we use them when trying to make changing cross sectional

shape of body

we can make Lofts using faces , surfaces , sketches and points

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 Selection Manager
this is multi selection option

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 this is closed loop selection option

we can use guide curves in lofts

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 Constraints
Normal Constraints , specify the direction and magnitude of normal
edges of the loft

Direction vector < you choose an edge of any angle or any shape and
specify the magnitude and direction of the shape , normal constraint
is a special case of direction vector (you can choose a normal line
you draw by yourself and get the same result)

this angle is a draft angle , a draft angle is an angle that enforce the
boss to be inclined or have bent faces (helps in plastics manufacturing
)

How to solve this problem

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 in order to solve it , each profile has to have the same number of
sketch segments , if not you need to split a sketch of them to have
more control on the shape

you can add a connector to give you more control on the shape

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 you can control the shape of the loft with Centerline , a more direct
way of controlling than the guide curves

you can add an additional section in a Loft , just right click on the loft
body

a plane will appear you can move and rotate it

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 this option is very helpful if a specific section inside the loft is hard to
do normally , or you just want to edit the feature

Boundary Surface

a Mix between sweep and loft

Boundary when you have 2 guide curves , you have lots of options to
adjust the curvature (curve influence)

Here are different options , experiment with this until you find a good
solution

this shapes are zebra strips that represents the curvature

you can use the boundary in blending different geometries

CAD & Design 55

 Here you can adjust the alignment and tangency of the curves

Rib Feature

Rib
you can draw the rib line without connecting it to any edges

you can extrude parallel to the sketch plane or perpendicular

you can change the way materials are add either to the left or to the
right or evenly on both sides

you can change the direction of the extrusion ( you are to ways
parallel and two ways perpendicular )

in this example we make perpendicular + to the down (to the model)

+ evenly extruded & the sketch doesn't intersect the model

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 Notice here how the rib isn't fully to the edges that's because the
sketch is in an auxiliary plane (plane 1 )

Shell

see Shell advanced tutorials

you can hollow a body or use the shell outward and make the body it
self become the hollow and material around it

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 you can delete a face

and select the thickness of variate it based on your preferences

if i choose the face in the front , shell feature will go perpendicular to that plane
removing anything in its way

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 Hole wizard

see detailed explanation of Hole Wizard

Draft

See detailed Explanation of Draft Feature and what does it do

Reference geometry

a reference might be a line a point or a plane

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 you can manipulate the distance and angle and other relations to the
reference

You have lot of options and what is most interesting is the 2 planes
option (it spawns an axis that is the intersection of the 2 planes )

you can add a reference coordinate system

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 Reference Point

Center of faces

Intersection

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 Projection (project a distant point on a plane )

on point (you select a point from a sketch to make it a reference

point ) point 5

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 multiple reference points

Center of Mass reference point

you can make a driving dimension from it (you make a distance from it
and the distance updates and the center of mass to )

Rollback and freeze bar

Rollback bar separates what's above from what's under it

so you can make changes and it affects what is above it only

that helps reduce the same time

CAD & Design 63

 and
there is
a
freeze
bar
(yellow
bar) it
locks
the
features
above it
making
it
unaffect
by any
changes

if you want to make a shell feature like this after you finished you need
to move the rollback bar to make the extrude 1 above it

if you want to make all extrude features to become shell then move it
down to make all the above it a parent feature

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 all extruded commands are a shell and when you notice the mirror feature , it doesn't
mirror the shell that means that the half the body is a shell and the other half isn't

Child & Parent Relations

Feature Tree

sketched feature
1. Extrude

2. revolve

3. Loft

4. sweep

5. ribs

applied feature
1. fillets

2. chamfers

3. hole wizard

4. draft

after that you get a 3d model part then you may make a

1. reference geometry

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 2. use patterns

3. mirrors

to complete the process

then there are

design changes
1. rollback & Freeze

2. child and parent relations

3. edit sketch planes

4. adding features

5. instant 3D

Troubleshooting Parts

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 What's wrong

Sketch Repair Techniques

1. Since SOLIDWORKS is a history Based Program it is favorable to begin
checking problems from above

2. Use the rollback bar and move it up to first feature and one by one go
down

3. if there is a dangling relation you do not see use the display relation
icon

4. if you cant see the problem of the sketch use check sketch for feature
use

Feature Repair Technique

1. same as sketch techniques use rollback bar and go from top to bottom

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 2. sketch plane is missing ⇒ solve with ⇒ edit sketch plane

3. parametric end condition (like up to surface) when the surface is

missing or deleted in Design changes process

Part Properties

🧰 Measure Tool
Measures anything you select in the Graphics area

🧪 Material
You have lots of Material

You can copy a material and paste it somewhere else

So you can edit its parameters like:

Density

Etc

⚖️ Mass Properties
You can put a reference coordinate system and use it to calculate
the center of mass

You can also, using options:

Increase the level of accuracy of calculating

Press Recalculation to recalculate your mass properties

🏷️ Properties
You can add custom properties to appear in Bill of Material later

From File → Select Properties

Configurations

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 a huge part of Configurations is feature suppression

the suppress feature option suppresses each feature add after the
configurations is made (disconnects it from the other configurations
)

add rebuild on save mark is an option when activated keeps all

configurations data on SOLIDWORKS memory which allow it to
switch faster between configuration but more file size and more
build time , if unchecked you need to load each configuration to
work on it but build time is less

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 to choose how changes affects configurations

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 You can add configurations by configurations menu or
configurations Table

you should save the table and enter a name for it

create a configuration

from feature tree choose a feature and this will be how the
configuration changes

Design Tables

it is used to organize similar configuration with changes in dimensions

or feature instead of excel spread sheet

first, you need to name you sketches and your dimensions to be more
clear

Second , is you insert a design table

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 Third , you choose which parameters you are going to manipulate

in this mode you have the full capabilities of excel in SOLIDWORKS

you can suppress with letter s or the value 1 and unsuppress with the
letter u or the value 0

you can type the dimension name as followed (D1@SHELL1) and then
manipulate it in the design table

Advanced Sketching

Polygon

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 Has 2 ways to construct (inscribed circle , circumscribed circle )

you need to add relations to fully define it

Ellipse
either full or partial ellipse

Conic
has 4 points (1 beginning , 2 end , 3 vertex , 4 the Rou )

💡 in all these sketches a center line between the center and

another point help define the sketch angle (horizontal relation
, vertical relation , angle relation with another defined line )

split entities

you can split a sketch entite into multipule segments

CAD & Design 73

 sketch segment

you can split a sketch into equal segments

doesn't work on ellipses or splines (segments don't remain equal )

there are sketch point instead of segments , and they have an equal
distance relation , whatever you change they stay at equal
distances

derived sketch

you can copy & paste a sketch

select a face

CAD & Design 74

 paste the sketch , the pasted sketch is not related to the original
sketch

a deprived sketch will update with the original sketch

to make a deprived sketch you need to select a face or a plane and

the sketch

choose insert ⇒ a deprived sketch

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 dimension the position of the sketch

the sketch is now related to the original sketch

you can underive it by right clicking on it in the sketch tree and

choose underive

sketch expert

help you with over defined sketches

just press diagnose and it will show the solutions

sketch picture

sketch picture from sketch tools

you can sketch based on a picture

you can use auto trace of the image (sketching the image
automatically)

the image must be of a high contrast and good quality so you can auto
trace it effectively

3D sketch

very versatile tool

with reference plane either the one in 3D sketch or the reference

geometry , it can be very helpful

use the Tab key in your keyboard to manipulate the axis or plane
reference you are using or sketching on

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 Curves

Helix and Spiral

Curve through XYZ (require equations)

Useful for loft (guiding curves )

uses equation

Composite Curve
Joins 2 sketches (aka curves)

can join edges of a body with a sketch , like in below (edge of the
extrusion and sketch of half circle )

Curve through reference points

from my POV i think it is the same as curve through XYZ , because
instead of typing the points of the curve in a table i choose it in the
model

CAD & Design 77

 Projected Curve
project a curve on a plane

sketch on a plane or body face

sketch on a sketch (Note that : circle is sketch2 & half circle is sketch 1
, so it depends on the selection order of the sketches )

Intersection Curve
it is a projected curve but in sketch mode (you can edit the curve as a
sketch )

you can do it in Surface to Surface

select a plane before selecting the intersection curve (ex : Front Plane
)

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 the front plane is the plane perpendicular to this surface and contains
the black line

an entire model and a plane

select a plane

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 launch the feature (Intersecting curve from convert entities )

select the model

click okay

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 Spline

every point in spline has (angle direction, magnitude of the angle )

you can specify how much length is the whole spline

splines has control points

each control point has a tangent vector that has (magnitude ,

direction)

by changing the magnitude & direction of this vector you control the
spline

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 by right clicking on the spline you can show the curvature columns

curvature is the reciprocal of radius (curvature = 1/r)

you have to make the curvature equal and continuous along the curve
to make it a surface

you can control the curvature by control polygon (right click on the
spline)

control the shape with control points

Style spline
they are splines you control with polygons

each point of intersection of imaginary lines are a vertex

you can add or delete vertex

spline of degree 7 has 8 vertices

you can check the local edit option in spline property manager , so
you can edit this specific spline without effecting connected splines

CAD & Design 82

 Spline settings

also you have maintain internal continuity in spline property manager

, keeps the spline from forming sharp edges , if you want a sharp
edge you need to make 2 splines and control their curvatures and
relations

relax spline in spline property manager , is to expand the spline

when it is hard to manage

CAD & Design 83

 proportional spline in spline property manager , makes the spline a
whole block by itself , means that the spline remains proportional

Flex

a flex has 2 parameters , trim planes , triad

Trim Plane
is a box of the selection (2 planes decide what to effect) , what is
between the 2 planes gets effected

you can control how far away from the triad (freely , by distance , or
to snap them at a point (vertex)

you can rotate them (n vector angles with vertical axis)

Triad
it is the reference of the flex feature and the Trim planes

you can (move it freely , move it along a line , or rotate the axis
therefore , the trim planes)

you can control the direction of axis by (choosing an edge , a line ,

principle axis , a plane (where you will go in the direction
perpendicular to the plane ) or any reference geometry )

you can choose a reference point as a triad

you can reset flex properties to its original settings (right click
anywhere and choose reset flex)

CAD & Design 84

 by right clicking on either trim planes or triad you can see bunch of
controlling options

Bending
first , choose the axis of trim planes , then choose where you will
position them

second , choose the location of the triad

third , choose the axis of the bending

Note : you can make the bending go in one direction instead of 2 by

placing the triad on one of the trim planes , so you basically have
one working trim plane

CAD & Design 85

 hard edges option : makes the result of the bending constructed of
analytical shapes (like cylinders)

if you un enable it , you get curves made of splines (no analytical

shapes like cylinders , cones , hyperbolas)

Twisting
twisting happens around the blue trim plane axis

Remember to do the same steps as before which they are

CAD & Design 86

 first , choose the axis of trim planes , then choose where you will
position them

second , choose the location of the triad

third , choose the axis of the Twisting

Tapering
positive & negative values change how the increments goes

same steps as before

Note : you can make tapering go in one direction by snapping the triad
into a plane (you deactivate that plane)

Stretching
same steps

Indent

change the shape of a solid body using another body (tool body)

it can add material (keep selection) or remove material (remove

selection)

it forms a pocket around the tool body

when dealing with lot of tool bodies select the tool bodies first then
the solid body

CAD & Design 87

 you can use the indent with surfaces and it will work

Wrap & Dome

Dome
dome create a cute little poke hole or poke boss in the body

you can prepare points as reference points to specify the top of the
poke

Wrap
it wraps your sketch on a plane or surface (similar to projection) ,
the difference is the distortion and the fact that wrap is a perfect
projection but projection is just projection

the elongated text is projection , the perfect text is wrap

you can add a boss wrap or a cut wrap of the wrapped sketch

Multiple bodies

split tool
it splits a single body into different bodies

CAD & Design 88

 This selection cuts the half cylinder block and make an extrusion inside the cube , all
distinct parts

there is an option called consume , it deletes selected cur bodies

The use of split

if you have a body that you split , you can save every split body as a
part itself referencing to the original part

Auto assign name saves bodies each as a separate part , linked to the main part

After doing that , from insert features , add assembly , you will create
an assembly of a part , making use of assembly properties in a part

CAD & Design 89

 file

also , you can save bodies in a part file independently using insert ⇒
save bodies

Swept cut with multibody part

you can use a body in swept cut , it has to be a revolved body and
convex

the body has to be distinct , when making the tool body un-check the
merge result checkbox so you can have 2 distinct bodies

Move/copy feature
from insert ⇒ features ⇒ move/copy

it is like mating in assembly but the mates do not conflict

Using Bodies
you can use bodies (tool bodies) to do work as cutting or adding
(using combine feature ) to another bodies

you can make use of the parametric design features by editing the
tool bodies and see the changes in the other bodies

Combine Feature

Add
you merge 2 bodies to become one body

CAD & Design 90

 here the fillet did not execute as required , since it always applies to one body (the
body to the right), if i want it to apply to both i need to combine these 2 bodies

since the fillet is made before the add feature (aka combine) the fillet did not change

after i adjust the arrangement of the features the fillet applies to 2 bodies as one body

Subtract

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 like a cut feature

it consumes the body you wish to remove , making the result solid body a single
combine feature

Common

CAD & Design 92

 Intersect

CAD & Design 93

 in this case , i have one region to edit

Create both option makes 2 regions

CAD & Design 94

 here if i uncheck the merge result i get 2 solid bodies

here above you can select the body you need to calculate properties for , if i want the
internal volume i would choose the volume i got from the intersect feature in the
selection box

Certificates

CAD & Design 95

 SOLIDWORKS Certification Program
Earn your SOLIDWORKS Certification and showcase your CAD
expertise. Explore CSWA, CSWP, and CSWE exams, get study
materials, and access exclusive digital badges. Advance your
[Link]

Badges

Dassault Systèmes
Dassault Systèmes, the 3DEXPERIENCE Company, provides
business and people with virtual universes to imagine sustainable
innovations. Dassault Systèmes' Digital Badge Program provides a
[Link]
es

Exam Vouchers

Research
GrabCAD is a Real-World Competitions with big companies like GE Making the
competitions

CAD learning path

🔰 1. Fundamentals (Beginner Level)

🎯 Goal: Understand what CAD is and learn basic 2D drafting
🔍 Topics:
What is CAD? Uses & industries

Understanding coordinate systems (Cartesian, polar)

Basic drawing tools: Line, circle, rectangle, arc

CAD & Design 96

 Editing tools: Move, copy, trim, extend, offset, fillet

Layers, linetypes, and object properties

Annotation: Text, dimensions, leaders

Basic printing & plotting

📘 Tools to Learn:
AutoCAD (2D)

DraftSight (optional alternative)

📚 Resources:
AutoCAD tutorials on Autodesk Learn

Free courses on Coursera, [LinkedIn Learning], or [YouTube – SourceCAD,

CAD in black]

🧱 2. Intermediate Level: 3D CAD Modeling

🎯 Goal: Create solid 3D models and assemblies
🔍 Topics:
Parametric modeling concepts

Sketching (constraints, relations)

3D features: Extrude, revolve, sweep, loft

Modifying features: Fillet, shell, draft, hole wizard

Assembly modeling: Mates, constraints, exploded views

Basic motion simulation (optional)

🧰 Popular Software:
SolidWorks

Fusion 360 (free for students and hobbyists)

PTC Creo, Autodesk Inventor, or CATIA (depending on your industry)

CAD & Design 97

 📚 Resources:
MySolidWorks

Fusion 360 tutorials on [Autodesk Learn]

Udemy courses: "SolidWorks Complete Course," "Fusion 360 Mastery"

🧠 3. Advanced CAD & Industry Applications

🎯surfacing,
Goal: Specialize in fields like mechanical design, sheet metal,
or mold design

🔍 Topics:
Advanced surfacing and freeform modeling

Sheet metal design (bend tables, flat patterns)

Weldments and structural frameworks

Plastic/mold design

Design for Manufacturing (DFM)

File management with PDM systems

Interoperability between CAD tools

Industry-specific standards (GD&T, ISO/ASME)

📦 Software (choose based on field):

SolidWorks – general mechanical design

CATIA – automotive/aerospace surfacing

Siemens NX – high-end engineering design

Rhinoceros (Rhino) – for industrial design/surfacing

Onshape – cloud-based CAD for collaboration

📚 Resources:
Company/industry-specific training (e.g., Dassault Systèmes, Siemens)

Online platforms: LinkedIn Learning, Pluralsight

CAD & Design 98

 Forums: GrabCAD, [Link]

💼 4. Supplementary Skills
✏️ Engineering & Design Principles:
Technical drawing & blueprints

Geometric Dimensioning & Tolerancing (GD&T)

Materials knowledge

Manufacturing processes (CNC, injection molding)

💻 Related Tools:
CAE/Simulation: ANSYS, SolidWorks Simulation, Abaqus

CAM (Manufacturing): Mastercam, Fusion 360 CAM

Rendering: KeyShot, Blender, SolidWorks Visualize

🎓 5. Certifications (Optional but Valuable)

Software Certification Issuer

SolidWorks CSWA / CSWP / CSWE Dassault Systèmes

AutoCAD AutoCAD Certified User / Professional Autodesk

Fusion 360 Autodesk Certified User Autodesk

CATIA Certified Associate / Professional Dassault Systèmes

Onshape Certified Professional PTC

🛠️ 6. Project-Based Learning
Apply your skills by:

Redesigning real-world objects (tools, enclosures, etc.)

Recreating parts from engineering drawings

Joining challenges on GrabCAD, [Link]

Uploading models to Thingiverse or MyMiniFactory

CAD & Design 99

 📍 Learning Path Summary
Level Key Focus Tools

Beginner 2D Drafting AutoCAD

Intermediate 3D Modeling, Assemblies SolidWorks, Fusion 360

Advanced Specializations, Surfacing, DFM CATIA, NX, Rhino

Extra CAM, Rendering, Simulation Mastercam, KeyShot, ANSYS

Additive Manufacturing (3D Printing)

🧩 What is Additive Manufacturing (AM)?

Additive Manufacturing builds parts layer by layer from a digital 3D model. Unlike
traditional methods like machining (removing material) or casting (shaping molten
material), AM adds material only where needed.

🛠️ What Does Additive Manufacturing Need?

1. 3D CAD Model
Designed using tools like SolidWorks, Fusion 360, CATIA, Rhino, or Blender.

Must be watertight (no open surfaces), often saved as .STL, .3MF, or .OBJ
files.

2. Slicing Software
Converts 3D models into printable layers (G-code).

Examples: Cura, PrusaSlicer, Simplify3D, Autodesk Netfabb

You control:

Layer height

Infill percentage

Supports

Print orientation

Print temperature and speed

CAD & Design 100

 3. 3D Printer
Different technologies serve different materials and applications:

Tech Description Common Materials Use

Melts plastic
FDM PLA, ABS, PETG Prototyping, education
filament

Cures resin with Dental, jewelry, detailed

SLA/DLP Photopolymer resin
light models

Laser sinters Nylon, Titanium, Aerospace, functional

SLS/DMLS
powder Aluminum parts

Glues powder
Binder Jetting Sand, metal Molds, metal parts
layers

Material
Sprays droplets Polymers, wax Full-color, fine models
Jetting

4. Post-Processing Tools
Cleaning (resin wash, support removal)

Curing (for resins)

Sanding, Polishing

Heat treatment (for metal prints)

Painting or coating

🔍 Key Skills to Learn for AM:

Category Skills

Design CAD modeling for printability, topology optimization

Materials Polymer vs. metal properties, support requirements

Manufacturing Slicing, print parameter tuning, maintenance

Post-processing Surface finishing, curing, assembly

Analysis Structural testing, failure modes, lattice structures

CAD & Design 101

 📚 Learning Resources:
🎓 Online Courses:
Coursera: "Digital Manufacturing & Design"

MITx: Additive Manufacturing for Innovative Design

LinkedIn Learning: 3D Printing Foundations

Udemy: 3D printing with Fusion 360, practical FDM/SLA courses

🧠 Books:
Additive Manufacturing Technologies by Ian Gibson

Fabricated by Hod Lipson

Design for Additive Manufacturing by Martin Leary

⚙️ How It Differs from Traditional Manufacturing

Feature Traditional Manufacturing Additive Manufacturing

Material Use Subtractive (wasteful) Additive (efficient)

Complexity Limited by tooling Can print complex geometries

Setup Cost High (molds, dies) Low (one printer, many designs)

Customization Difficult Easy (mass customization)

Speed Fast for mass production Slower per part

Strength Superior (especially metals) Still catching up in some cases

🧪 Additive-Specific Design Principles (DfAM)

Optimize for lattice structures to save material.

Minimize support structures by smart orientation.

Combine multiple parts into single-print assemblies.

Use generative design tools (Fusion 360, nTopology) for organic, efficient
forms.

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 🚀 Bonus: Careers in Additive Manufacturing
Roles:
AM Design Engineer

AM Process Technician

Materials Specialist

Quality Engineer (Additive Focus)

Post-processing Technician

R&D for AM Materials or Methods

Companies:
Stratasys, EOS, 3D Systems, HP, Markforged, Desktop Metal

Aerospace: GE Additive, Boeing, Airbus

Automotive: BMW, Ford, Bugatti

Medical: Stryker, Align Technology (Invisalign)

Topics Cover in each Exam / License

🥇 1. CSWA – Certified SOLIDWORKS Associate

Level: Beginner

Focus: Basic part and assembly modeling

📚 Topics:
Basic sketching (lines, circles, constraints, dimensions)

Extrude, revolve, cut, fillet, and chamfer

Mass properties (volume, mass, center of gravity)

Part modification and editing

Basic assemblies (mates: coincident, concentric, etc.)

Basic drawing view creation and dimensioning

CAD & Design 103

 🥈 2. CSWP – Certified SOLIDWORKS Professional
Level: Intermediate to Advanced

Structure: Divided into 3 segments

🧩 Segment 1: Part Modeling

Complex sketching with constraints

Boss/Base and Cut features (extrude, revolve, sweep, loft)

Design intent and parametric modeling

Mass properties & equations

Configurations and linked dimensions

🧩 Segment 2: Configurations & Equations

Creating multiple configurations of a part

Suppressing/unsuppressing features

Using design tables (optional)

Driving dimensions with global variables & equations

🧩 Segment 3: Assembly Modeling

Insert and mate components (standard mates)

Modify assembly geometry

Evaluate assembly mass properties

Interference detection and collision

Replacing and editing components in assemblies

🏗️Advanced
3. CSWPA – Certified SOLIDWORKS Professional

Level: Advanced

Focus: Domain-Specific Expertise

CAD & Design 104

 Each CSWPA exam is standalone and focuses on a specific topic.

🛠️ CSWPA – Sheet Metal

Base flange/tab, edge flange, miter flange

Rip, hem, jog, closed corner, tab

Flattened views and bend tables

K-factor and bend deduction

🧰 CSWPA – Weldments
Structural member creation

Custom profiles

Trim/extend, end caps, gussets

Cut list and drawing generation

⚙️ CSWPA – Surfacing
Boundary and lofted surfaces

Surface trims, extend, knit

Filled and planar surfaces

Replace face and thickening surfaces

🏭 CSWPA – Mold Tools

Core and cavity creation

Parting lines and shut-off surfaces

Tooling split

Mold folders and features

🧠 4. CSWE – Certified SOLIDWORKS Expert

Level: Expert

CAD & Design 105

 Focus: Complex modeling, tools mastery

Prerequisite: CSWP + 4 CSWPA exams

📚 Topics:
Advanced part and assembly modeling

Complex surfaces and feature combinations

Multi-body modeling

In-context assembly design

Advanced mates and motion simulation basics

Design tables and equations

Performance optimization and troubleshooting

🧪 5. Simulation Certifications
🔍 CSWSA-FEA – Certified SOLIDWORKS Simulation Associate
Static studies

Fixtures and loads

Mesh control

Material assignment

Result interpretation (stress, displacement, factor of safety)

🎨 6. Other Certifications
🖨️ CSWA – Additive Manufacturing
3D printing principles

File formats (STL, 3MF)

Slicing, supports, infill

Material types and tolerancing for 3D printing

CAD & Design 106

 📝 CSWA/CSWP – Drawing Tools
Orthographic views, sections, details

Dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T basics)

BOMs and annotations

Title blocks and templates

🧾 Summary Table
Exam Focus Key Skills

CSWA Basics Parts, assemblies, properties

CSWP Intermediate Configurations, equations, assemblies

CSWPA-Sheet Metal Niche Flanges, bends, flat patterns

CSWPA-Weldments Niche Structural members, cut list

CSWPA-Surfacing Niche Loft, knit, fill, surface trim

CSWPA-Mold Tools Niche Mold split, shut-off surfaces

CSWE Expert Advanced modeling, performance

CSWSA-FEA Analysis Simulation setup and interpretation

CSWA-AM 3D Printing Additive manufacturing concepts

Drawing Tools Drafting Views, GD&T, title blocks

How to transfer & sell 3D CAD models

🏭 How 3D Design Is Used in Industry

CAD models are central to almost every modern engineering and product
development process. Here's how they're used:

1. Product Design & Prototyping

Design engineers use 3D CAD to create digital prototypes.

These models help visualize form, fit, and function before making a physical
product.

Tools like SolidWorks, CATIA, and Creo are used to iterate designs quickly.

CAD & Design 107

 2. Simulation & Analysis
CAD models are imported into simulation software (FEA/CFD).

Engineers test stress, thermal, fluid flow, and vibration performance virtually.

Software used: ANSYS, Abaqus, SolidWorks Simulation, COMSOL.

3. Manufacturing (CAM & CNC)

CAD models are converted to CAM (Computer-Aided Manufacturing)
instructions.

Machinists use these models for CNC milling, turning, and EDM processes.

File types: STEP, IGES, STL (neutral formats), and native files (SLDPRT, IPT,
etc.)

4. 3D Printing / Additive Manufacturing

CAD models are exported to STL or 3MF files for slicing.

Printed directly for prototyping or end-use parts (esp. in aerospace, medical,

automotive).

5. Assembly Instructions & Drawings

Engineers generate 2D drawings from CAD models for:

Technical documentation

Inspection and quality control

Legal and contractual standards (ISO, ASME)

6. PDM/PLM Systems
CAD data is managed using Product Data Management (PDM) or Product
Lifecycle Management (PLM) tools.

Ensures version control, revision tracking, and collaboration across

departments.

💰 How You Can Sell a CAD Model

CAD & Design 108
 Selling CAD models is a valid business model, especially for freelance engineers,
designers, and makers.

✅ Who Buys Them?

Product companies (for prototyping or OEM parts)

3D printing service providers

Hobbyists & makers

Architecture and interior design studios

Game developers and visualizers (for 3D renders)

🛒 Where to Sell:
1. Marketplaces:

TurboSquid

CGTrader

Cults3D

MyMiniFactory

Sketchfab

Shapeways (includes printing services)

2. Freelancing:

Fiverr, Upwork, Freelancer – offering CAD modeling services

Custom model commissions (e.g., product enclosures, furniture, jewelry)

3. Licensing:

Sell model licenses to companies under commercial use terms (e.g.,

royalty-free or one-time fee)

📦 In What Form Can You Sell CAD Models?

You don’t have to sell technical drawings unless it's required by the client.
Common formats:

Purpose File Format Notes

CAD & Design 109

 3D Modeling .STEP , .IGES , .STL , .OBJ , .3MF Neutral, widely accepted

Native CAD .SLDPRT , .SLDASM , .IPT , .F3D Editable, software-specific

Drawing .DWG , .DXF , .SLDDRW , .PDF Technical drawings

Rendering .FBX , .GLB , .OBJ , .BLEND For visualization only

CAM .NC , .GCODE Post-processing for CNC (optional)

📌 Key Notes:
No, a drawing is not always required, but:

Engineering drawings are essential for manufacturing, QA/QC, and

compliance.

For hobbyists or 3D printers, STL/OBJ is enough.

When working with companies, they might require a 3D model + 2D drawing

package for prototyping and documentation.

Selling models commercially may require disclaimers or rights agreements,

especially if selling designs for printing or use in production.

🛠️ Example Use Cases

Industry Use of CAD Deliverables

Component design, 3D model (STEP), 2D drawing (PDF), FEA

Automotive
testing report

Consumer CAD (SLDPRT), render (PNG), 3D print

Enclosure & aesthetics
Products (STL)

Architecture Fixtures/furniture 3D Model (OBJ/FBX), Render, BOM

3D Printing Miniatures, toys, tools STL, usage license

CAD (F3D/SolidWorks), PDF drawing, STL

Freelancing Client-specific modeling
if needed

Would you like help preparing your own CAD model for sale, or finding the best
platform for your niche?

‫أنت قلت‬:

CAD & Design 110

 what disclaimers & rights for selling CAD model

‫ قال‬ChatGPT:
Svg Vector Icons : [Link]

Svg Vector Icons : [Link]

When selling a CAD model, you must clearly define the legal and usage rights to
protect yourself and the buyer. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the most important
disclaimers, licenses, and intellectual property considerations:

🔐 1. Copyright & Ownership

✅ If it's your original work:
You own the full copyright automatically (no need to register in most countries).

You can:

Sell it

License it (multiple times or exclusively)

Modify or revoke access if terms are violated

🚫 If it's inspired by or based on:

A company’s proprietary design (e.g., iPhone casing): You cannot legally sell
it without permission.

A pop culture item (e.g., Iron Man helmet): You must label it fan art and
typically cannot sell it commercially unless licensed.

📄 2. Common Licensing Models

When you sell or distribute a CAD model, you are granting a license to use, not
full ownership. Here are the common types:

🔸 Personal Use License

Buyer can use it for private projects only.

No redistribution, resale, or commercial use.

CAD & Design 111

 🔸 Commercial Use License
Buyer can use it to create and sell physical products (e.g., 3D printing).

Often more expensive.

You may allow one-time use or multiple uses.

🔸 Exclusive License
You grant sole rights to the buyer (you can't sell it to others).

Higher cost; often used in freelance or commissioned work.

🔸 Royalty-Free
Buyer pays once and can use it without ongoing payments.

But they cannot resell or re-license the model.

✅ Always specify:
What is allowed (print, modify, resell physical prints, use in games, etc.)

What is not allowed (resell model, share files, rebrand as their own)

⚠️ 3. Essential Disclaimers to Include

These can be added in a “[Link]” file or in the product description on a
marketplace:

📝 Example Disclaimer Template:

© [Your Name or Brand]. This 3D model is licensed for
[personal/commercial] use. Redistribution, resale of the digital
files, or inclusion in any downloadable collection is strictly
prohibited.

The seller makes no warranties regarding the model’s fitness

for a specific purpose. Use at your own risk.

CAD & Design 112

 This model is an original design. Any resemblance to
copyrighted characters or designs is purely coincidental.

🧾 4. What You May Want to Include Legally

Especially for platforms like TurboSquid or CGTrader:

License file ( [Link] ) included with download

File naming that reflects license: MyModel_CommercialUseOnly.zip

Metadata and terms box filled on the marketplace

A simple terms of use section on your website (if applicable)

🛑 5. Things to Avoid
Don’t sell models made from scanned real-world products (e.g., a scan of a
car or sneaker).

Don’t use brand logos (e.g., Mercedes, Apple) unless it’s fair use and clearly
non-commercial.

Avoid using CAD models from your previous employer or client work unless
you have permission.

📚 6. Resources for Free Licensing Templates

Creative Commons Licenses

Open Source Hardware Association (OSHWA)

Custom license generator tools (Fiverr freelancers or online tools)

🔧 Summary: Best Practice When Selling a CAD Model

Item Recommendation

Ownership Must be 100% your original work

License Choose: personal, commercial, exclusive, royalty-free

Disclaimers Include limitations, usage rights, warranty

CAD & Design 113

 Format Include a [Link] in ZIP with your CAD files

Platform Match terms with the rules of the marketplace you’re using

Granting license

🧾 How to Grant a License for a CAD Model

There are 3 main ways to grant a license, depending on how formal or scalable
you want it to be:

✅ 1. Include a License Agreement File with the Download

Best for: Selling on marketplaces (CGTrader, Cults3D, etc.)

📄 What to do:
Create a [Link] or Terms_of_Use.txt file.

Include this with your ZIP or folder of the CAD model.

Clearly state:

Who owns the copyright (you)

What the buyer can and cannot do

Whether it’s for personal, commercial, or exclusive use

Any disclaimers or limitations

📌 Example excerpt:
kotlin
‫نسختحرير‬
LICENSE AGREEMENT

This 3D CAD model is the intellectual property of John Doe (© 2025).

By purchasing or downloading this model, the buyer is granted a non-exclusiv

e, non-transferable license to use this file for [personal/commercial] use.

You MAY:
- Use this model for personal projects or commercial production (as allowed)
- Modify the model for your own use

CAD & Design 114

 You MAY NOT:
- Resell or redistribute the 3D model files
- Claim the model as your own

No warranties are expressed or implied. Use at your own risk.

✅ 2. Include License Terms in the Online Product Description

Best for: Selling through online stores or marketplaces (e.g., Etsy, Gumroad,
Sketchfab)

📄 What to do:
Add a “License” or “Usage Terms” section in the product description.

Example:

License:

This model is licensed for personal use only. Commercial use,

redistribution, or resale of the 3D files is prohibited. For
commercial rights, please contact the seller.

This creates a binding agreement as long as the customer agrees to the terms
before purchase/download.

✅Licensing)
3. Use a Written Contract (for Freelance or Exclusive

Best for: Freelancing, exclusive licenses, or large commercial clients.

📑 This is a formal legal document signed by both parties. It includes:

Names and addresses of both parties

Definition of the CAD model

Type of license (non-exclusive, exclusive)

Scope of use (e.g., manufacturing, printing, use in advertising, etc.)

CAD & Design 115

 Time limits (if any)

Payment terms

Restrictions (e.g., no resale)

Liability and disclaimers

📝 You can create this yourself or use a template (e.g., from sites like Docracy,
LegalZoom, or freelance platforms).

🧠 Licensing Types You Can Grant (Choose One):

License Type Buyer Can Buyer Cannot

Personal Use Print, view, modify privately Resell, use commercially

Commercial Use Sell physical products Resell digital model

Exclusive License Use and profit exclusively You can’t resell to others

Royalty-Free Unlimited commercial use Modify or resell digital file

🛠️ How to Make It Work Practically

1. Always include a license file in the download folder.

2. Match your license type to what the buyer is paying for.

3. State the license clearly on the product page or invoice.

4. If freelancing: use a signed agreement that specifies usage rights.

✍️ Want a Ready-Made License File?

If you tell me:

Your name or brand

What kind of license you want to grant (e.g., personal, commercial)

Any limits (like "cannot resell", or "valid for 1 year")

where to grant license (Discounts for students )

SOLIDWORKS exams vouchers

CAD & Design 116

 ‫ أسعار ال‬vouchers ‫ مقدمة من أكاديمية الهيئة العربية للتصنيع لدخول اختبارات‬Solidworks
‫ للخريجين وأسعار رمزية للطالب‬% 50 ‫بخصم‬

‫ ال‬vouchers 5 ‫سارية حتى نهاية شهر‬

01275806660 ‫ برجاء ارسال التالي على رقم‬:

‫ اسم الاختبار الذي ترغب في الحصول على ال‬voucher )‫الخاص به (للتأكيد‬

)‫كارنيه الجامعه ( للطلبة فقط‬

١٧ ‫يمكن الدفع بمقر أكاديمية الهيئة العربية للتصنيع طريق مصر السويس الكيلو‬

[Link]
‫ أو الدفع عن طريق‬Instapay

CAD Competitions & Exercises

100 CAD exercises

solve CAD exercises by not seeing the sketch and making room for thinking
how to do it and how to imagine it and imagine its inside to do its purpose

Scribed Exercises

Turbo Engine Exercises (learn About The design of Turbo Engines)

Scribed Exercises

[Link]

Pinterest

[Link]

SolidProfessor Website

CAD & Design 117

 [Link]

GrabCAD community

Free CAD Designs, Files & 3D Models | The GrabCAD Community Library
The GrabCAD Library offers millions of free CAD designs, CAD files, and 3D models. Join the GrabCAD
Community today to gain access and download!
[Link]

CAD Finals

[Link]

🏆 Top International CAD Competitions

1. Dassault Systèmes' SOLIDWORKS Competitions
Sponsor: Dassault Systèmes (creators of SOLIDWORKS)

Examples:

Model Mania (at 3DEXPERIENCE World)

SOLIDWORKS Student Design Contest

Focus: Speed modeling, design innovation, product modeling

Eligibility: Students, professionals (depending on the event)

Website: [Link]

2. Autodesk Design for Industry Challenges

Sponsor: Autodesk (makers of Fusion 360, Inventor)

Examples:

Autodesk Design & Make Contest

CAD & Design 118

 Autodesk Fusion 360 Challenge

Focus: Mechanical design, product design, sustainability

Eligibility: Students, makers, and professionals

Website: [Link]/education

3. WorldSkills (Mechanical Engineering CAD)

Organizer: WorldSkills International

Event: Biennial global skills competition (like the Olympics for trades)

CAD Focus: Mechanical Engineering CAD, 3D Modeling

Tools: Typically SOLIDWORKS, Inventor, or AutoCAD

Eligibility: Age 16–25, must qualify through national competitions

Website: [Link]

4. GrabCAD Challenges
Platform: [Link]

Sponsor: Varies (often by companies like Stratasys, NASA, GE)

Focus: Real-world problems, mechanical design, 3D printing

Rewards: Cash prizes, hardware, internships

Eligibility: Open to everyone

Used by: Engineering professionals and students

5. NASA TechRise / Design Challenges

Organizer: NASA

Focus: Aerospace design, CAD prototyping, microgravity projects

Eligibility: Students and educators

Tools Used: Fusion 360, Onshape, Tinkercad (for students)

Website: [Link]/stem

CAD & Design 119

 6. Formula SAE / Formula Student
Organizer: SAE International

Focus: Engineering and CAD design of a formula-style race car

CAD Role: Major — entire car is designed using CAD/CAE tools

Tools Used: SolidWorks, CATIA, ANSYS, Fusion 360

Eligibility: University students (global)

Website: [Link]

7. Siemens Digital Industries Competitions

Tool: Siemens NX / Solid Edge

Examples:

Solid Edge Student Design Competition

Xcelerator Academy Student Challenges

Website: [Link]

8. Hackaday Prize (CAD & Engineering Design)

Sponsor: Hackaday + Supplyframe

Focus: Engineering and prototyping projects (CAD integrated)

Eligibility: Open globally

Website: [Link]/prize

🧠Practice
Platforms with Continuous CAD Exercises &

These aren’t competitions per se, but offer continuous CAD skill-building via
practice problems, challenges, or community showdowns.

🌐 GrabCAD Community Library

Thousands of user-created models to reverse-engineer or study

Many "Challenge of the Week" type activities

CAD & Design 120

 🌐 MyMiniFactory & Cults3D
Occasionally run 3D model design contests (especially for 3D printing)

🌐 CGTrader Challenges
Focus: CAD for 3D printing, rendering, VR

Categories include: gadgets, architecture, characters, mechanical parts

🌐 Onshape Learning Center

Offers certification prep and CAD mini-challenges

Hosted by PTC

🏁 Specialized/Niche Competitions
Name Focus Audience

Eco-car design (heavy University

Shell Eco-Marathon
CAD use) students

High school
FIRST Robotics / FRC CAD Awards Robot design via CAD
teams

RE-Design Engineering Challenges Creative redesign of

Open
([Link]) tools/products

MakerBot Student Design Challenge 3D printable CAD models Students

🛠 Example Types of Challenges You’ll Encounter

Reverse engineering (e.g., “model this part from photo/reference”)

Speed modeling (e.g., “30-minute challenge”)

Design for function (e.g., brackets, gears, containers)

Assembly modeling and mates

Parametric and sheet metal modeling

Simulation-ready models (FEA or CFD)

Rendered product design (including photorealism)

CAD & Design 121

 ✅ Final Tip: Where to Watch for Competitions
[Link]/challenges

[Link] (search “CAD”)

[Link]/education

Social media of SOLIDWORKS, Fusion 360, Siemens NX

Discord/Reddit communities like r/cad, r/engineeringstudents

Mechanical Components Listing

Know what each Component do what they look like and design it once

⚙️ 1. Fasteners & Connectors

Bolts (hex, carriage, flange, etc.)

Nuts (hex, lock, wing, etc.)

Screws (machine, wood, set, etc.)

Washers (flat, spring, lock)

Rivets (solid, blind, tubular)

Pins (dowel, taper, clevis, cotter)

Clamps

Retaining rings (snap rings, circlips)

Threaded inserts

Studs

CAD & Design 122

CAD & Design 123
 🛞 2. Bearings
Ball bearings

Roller bearings

Needle bearings

Tapered roller bearings

Thrust bearings

Plain bearings (bushings)

Linear bearings

Spherical bearings

Fluid (hydrodynamic/hydrostatic) bearings

Magnetic bearings

⚙️ 3. Gears & Gear Mechanisms

Spur gears

Helical gears

Bevel gears

Worm gears

Rack and pinion

Planetary gears

Internal gears

Crown gears

🔩 4. Shafts & Couplings

Solid shafts

Hollow shafts

Splined shafts

Flexible couplings

CAD & Design 124

 Rigid couplings

Universal joints (U-joints)

Oldham couplings

Disc couplings

🌀 5. Springs
Compression springs

Tension (extension) springs

Torsion springs

Leaf springs

Belleville washers (disc springs)

Constant force springs

Gas springs

🔧 6. Seals & Gaskets

O-rings

Oil seals

Shaft seals

Mechanical seals

Gaskets (paper, rubber, metal, etc.)

Labyrinth seals

Packing rings

🛢️ 7. Fluid Power Components

Hydraulic

Hydraulic pumps (gear, vane, piston)

Hydraulic cylinders

Valves (directional, pressure, flow control)

CAD & Design 125

 Reservoirs

Hoses & fittings

Pneumatic

Air compressors

Pneumatic cylinders

Pneumatic valves

Regulators

Actuators

⚖️ 8. Structural & Frame Elements

Beams (I-beams, C-channels)

Plates

Brackets

Tubing (round, square, rectangular)

Gussets

Weldments

Frames and housings

⛓️ 9. Power Transmission Components

Chains (roller chains, leaf chains)

Sprockets

Belts (V-belts, timing belts, flat belts)

Pulleys

Flywheels

Clutches

Brakes (disc, drum, electromagnetic)

Torque limiters

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 🔁 10. Motion & Actuation
Linear actuators (electric, hydraulic, pneumatic)

Rotary actuators

Ball screws

Lead screws

Rack and pinion

Cam mechanisms

Crankshafts

Cams and followers

Geneva mechanism

🔩 11. Support and Alignment Components

Bushings

Spacers

Guide rails

Alignment pins

Shims

🌡️ 12. Thermal Components

Heat sinks

Radiators

Heat exchangers

Thermal insulation

Fans & blowers

Thermocouples and temperature sensors

📐 13. Measurement & Feedback Devices

Encoders (rotary, linear)

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 Load cells

Strain gauges

Pressure sensors

Dial indicators

Micrometers

LVDTs (Linear Variable Differential Transformers)

⚡ 14. Electro-Mechanical Components

Solenoids

Electric motors (AC/DC, stepper, servo)

Gear motors

Rotary encoders

Limit switches

🧰 15. Miscellaneous
Keys (woodruff, square, taper)

Keyways

Cam locks

Lubrication systems (grease fittings, oilers)

Vibration dampers

Shock absorbers

Hinges

Bearings blocks / pillow blocks

Safety guards & covers

Gallery

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 What is the design intent

Q&A
how to sketch on a surface

what is the difference between the sweep & loft and the boundary

Lofts
a bunch of continuously changing cross sections , you can add a cross
section and edit it

it is more precise

Boundary
a bunch of curves bounded between them material

you have a lot more control over the curvature and the tangency of the curves

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