SolidWorks Malaysia Community

Stay competitive in the Flatten world

2012-02-02T11:54:00.000+08:00

Support, upgrades, new versions, special releases, add-on features, webcasts—all designed exclusively for SolidWorks Subscription Service members—improve your performance and productivity, keeping you competitive in the flatten world. Purchasing a subscription gives you these valuable support resources.

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Subscription Services are one or three-year contracts that offer discounts and rock-solid price protection for the term of the contract. Being able to predict your costs let you free up money for other engineering investments.

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Enjoy direct access to a comprehensive library of drawings, parts, assemblies, and features contributed by SolidWorks users around the globe. Drag and drop models directly into your design projects and save yourself hours of design time.

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As a Subscription Services member, you can directly influence the future development of SolidWorks software by requesting specific enhancements. Subscription Services members initiate more than 90 percent of the hundreds of new enhancements in every version of SolidWorks. Not to forget all-access to any seminar or workshop held by IME. Be the first to receive our special invitation.

What are you waiting? Get more information or promotion update with us.

1300-88-CSWP (2797)

sales@cadcam.com.my

“With subscription I have access to information and resources I might not have otherwise. I fully believe I get my money’s worth.”

Wayne Tiffany

Automatic systems

Hardware selection

2012-01-31T11:40:00.000+08:00

New year, new version. Got the new SolidWorks 2012 but hardware is not up to specification since it was bought 5 years ago. Bet it’s time for a new hardware. I did some study and let me share some important information for you to take into consideration when searching for the right hardware for the right (design) job.

Remember these 5 hardware components which dictate SolidWorks Performance: CPU (number of cores, speed), RAM (how much, speed), Hard drives (how many, speed), Graphics Card and OS Selection (32bit or x64). Let’s see how SolidWorks utilize all these components:

CPU

Refer below example of typical command:-

Open file: multithreaded (One core for file one, one core for generating display window)

Rebuild: Single thread

Feature addition: multithreaded

Save file: Single thread

Update drawing view: multithreaded

PhotoView 360 rendering: support multi thread

RAM

Users should evaluate RAM usage subject to their own environment. One way to know the potential of RAM require, is open all the typical applications that use for whole day, open SolidWorks with one of the biggest file size you have. Open task manager and review Available Physical Memory on the Performance Tab. Consider adding more RAM to the PC if it indicate that it running close to out of RAM.

Please note that the 6GB and above recommendation is for 64 bit operating systems only. If using a 32 bit operating system, then the operating system will not recognize more than 4 GB.

Graphic Card

The basic guideline, if it is a larger model, mean it have more triangle, then you need a better graphic card. For this, I would like to recommend you to refer to SolidWorks website and get a certified graphic card that best suit your budget, just that simple.

https://www.solidworks.com/sw/support/videocardtesting.html

Operating system

Window OS is what (and only) you need to consider. For the time being, SolidWorks only run in Window OS. My advice, always goes for the latest OS (currently is Window 7). You want your hardware to support at least few versions of SolidWorks, right? In term of 64-bit or 32-bit, why 32-bit when Windows doesn't add a cost factor, since the 32-bit and 64-bit versions of Windows both cost the same. Chan (our SolidWorks expert) found an interesting sharing about 64-bit Windows. Click below for to understand more about 32 bit and 64 bit.

“Taking the mystery out of 64-bit Windows”

http://windows.microsoft.com/en-US/windows7/taking-the-mystery-out-of-64-bit-windows

Hope my study and web research on the best hardware configuration for your SolidWorks usage helpful. Drop me a comment if have any question and I will try my best to answer you.

Just a quick wrap up, ask yourself, what function would you like to be faster?

Rebuild –Faster CPU

Analysis –More CPU cores, More Ram

Rendering -More CPU cores, More Ram

File Open –Faster Hard drive

Oh, by the way, don’t miss out our hardware promotion as well.

Features: Swept Flange

2012-01-04T17:20:00.000+08:00

Now in SolidWorks 2012, we can perform a swept flange and flatten it to capture the blank size. (Insert> sheet metal> Swept Flange)

Just like the normal swept feature, you need to have a profile and a path. Take note that the profile should not be a close profile. It should be open sketch.

Use flat pattern to unfold your swept flange into a blank size and save directly into .DXF for manufacturing purpose. Give a try.

Merry Christmas

2011-12-25T16:49:00.000+08:00

I wish you a Merry Christmas, I wish you a Merry Christmas, I wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy Dragon Year.

MERRY CHRISTMAS

ALL THE BEST

Happy Winter Solstice

2011-12-22T10:02:00.002+08:00

祝大家冬至快乐!

I wish you all a happy winter ~~Sonata~~ Solstice!

Fellow followers, to-do list for today:

- Punch card on time *evil*

- Gather some close friends and family

Option 1

- visit to the nearest dessert house and order a bowl of rice ball.
- Enjoy the bowl of warm rice ball in your mouth and let the filling warm up your day.

Option 2

- Skip the jam and reach home earlier than usual.

- cook your own frozen rice ball.

- Enjoy the bowl of so called home-made rice ball in your mouth and let it warm up your day.

Option 2 is my choice, how about you?

Happy winter Solstice!

Christmas Gift, anyone?

2011-12-09T15:12:00.001+08:00

Jingle bell, Jingle bell, Jingle all the way.... to shopping mall.

Aiya, same old same old. Nothing special nor unique to buy as Christmas gift for my special one. If only i can have something unique for this year Christmas. Finally, I found it, in SolidWorks official website. Yes, SolidWorks website.

We knew that over millions designers around the world create a new concept and product with SolidWorks. So, this year SolidWorks jingle all the way to introduce us some great inventions and products. A PAGE in SolidWorks shared some nice designs, if you still cracking your head for Christmas gift.

In that page, it featured an iPad 2 casing design that personally I like it a lot. Why? Because during SolidWorks Innovation Day 2011 it was use for 'Feature Freeze" presentation and I was thinking, is this casing for real or just for display purpose. Now, I got the answer. When I drill in further, I found out that it's not just for real. It is also customizable and 3Dprint-able as one of a kind design. Now, that is unique Christmas gift.

You can click below link to enjoy some of the customize design by "jbare design."

http://www.jbaredesign.com/ipad-2-wrap/

"A back wrap for the iPad 2. Engineered to work with Apple's Smart Cover, the wrap protects your iPad 2's corners and back while allowing your fingers to still feel the wonderfully designed & engineered surfaces of your iPad 2. And does so minimally adding only 2mm of thickness."

That's it, all the best for your Christmas shopping.

SolidWorks 2012 Top 10- Motion Optimization

2011-12-01T14:40:00.000+08:00

Part of SolidWorks simulation, we have this optimizaiton feature whereby we can put in design range and SolidWorks will optimize our design base on the given range. Easily we can achieve optimize design that is cost effective and safe to use.

Bare in mind, that's under static condition. How about mechanism? A bit tricky but in SolidWorks 2012, optimization no longer limit to static condition and it allow you to perform motion optimization. We can create sensor and refine machine aspects. Usually the sensor range base on the purchase item such as bearing, actuator, stock motors etc.

To make it easy to understand, 2 videos are prepared for explanation. The basketball explanation is for someone like me to understand, easily! Guest is time for me to play basketball again and win some match, with some technology help of course.

SolidWorks 2012 Top 10- SolidWorks Enterprise PDM Integrated Search

2011-11-25T18:07:00.001+08:00

Happy thanksgiving!~

It's alway good to have a blog to write something when you do not know how to speak it out. Did I share with you all that I'm a member of Toastmaster? I'm good in talking but not really good in writing. But write, still the best way to express yourself.

What I'm going to express now is about something that I missed out a week ago, our top 10 SolidWorks 2012 count down. Yup! Now we are at number 8 spot and we have SolidWorks Enterprise PDM Integrated Search.

"Enterprise PDM Integrated Search gives you the option of searching from within your current Explorer window— no separate dialogs needed. Access favorite searches or open the full search tool for all options." This is the explanation and below is the video about this new enhancement for enterprise PDM.

That all for this week, off for my weekend getaway!~

virtual event is back- DS SolidWorks Innovation Forum

2011-11-15T13:33:00.001+08:00

You saw the BIG image on top of my blog and sure you are wondering what is that? Right?

Every year after SolidWorks Innovation day, DS SolidWorks will held an online virtual event for you to get to know more about SolidWorks latest release. This year, it named "DS SolidWorks Innovation Forum". The benefits? You can access anytime, anywhere (~~provided you have internet access~~)

join now http://www.imetech.com.my/innovationforum2011

"DS SolidWorks Innovation Forum is a series of online events hosted on a virtual conference platform. It provides you with a conducive environment for SolidWorks community to network and interact with each other, irrespective of geographical location. Get the update on the latest trends and technology from industry and product experts. Gain knowledge and enhance your skills to become more productive at what your do best."

DS SolidWorks Innovation forum will go 'live' for three weeks and every week it have a theme:

Winning in Business: 14th November 2011

Winning in Product Innovation: 21st November 2011

Winning in life: 28th November 2011

Detail you can refer to http://imetech.com.my/innovationforum2011/

Join now and bump me in the virtual hall. I will be walking around the conference for whole day. See ya!~

(I can't wait for Michael A. Podolinsky presentation)

SolidWorks 2012 Top 10- 3DVIA Composer™ Enhanced Lifelike

2011-11-09T14:25:00.000+08:00

#9 spot is belong to 3DVIA Composer. Hmm... our brother manage to fight into our number spot of our 'SolidWorks" top 10. Which is a good news. It mean that the usage of 3DVIA Composer playing an important role in an engineering department.

This year, the improvement is more focus on presentation and HTML publishing. Take precise control over your 3DVIA Composer renderings and add a more lifelike appearance to you visualizations.

SolidWorks 2012 Top 10- SolidWorks Sustainability

2011-11-08T14:22:00.002+08:00

SolidWorks 2012 launched in Malaysia. Users are waiting for us to deliver the latest version and install into their workstation.

Relaks!~ We are arranging and soon you will receive a call from us to confirm our delivery appointment.

Meanwhile, let's recap all the top 10 features for SolidWorks 2012.

#10: SolidWorks Sustainability

It's not something new in SolidWorks. SolidWorks Sustainability available in SolidWorks since previous version and the reason being is simple: to design a sustainable future. As the 1st 3D CAD to implement a life cycle assessment, it bring lot of excitement to engineers and designer. We may not have a tight rule to control our carbon index like other countries did but a word of advice: start early better than late. It's for social awareness and our kids.

Well, below video show the new enhancements for our green feature: SolidWorks sustainability.

Happy Deepavali

2011-10-26T11:10:00.000+08:00

IME & SolidWorks Malaysia community wishes you

Happy Deepavali & happy holiday.

Peace!~

SolidWorks 2012- mouse

2011-10-20T18:03:00.001+08:00

Never ever though that my 1st time (SolidWorks 2012) gave to a mouse, in less than 5 minutes.

SolidWorks surfacing just get better and better. It just a screenshoot with photoview 360 integrated preview. Any change of orientation will instantly update with realistic preview. It's nothing new in SolidWorks 2012 but it fun to share this, in case you don't know that we have this 'cool' feature.

BTW, congratulation to all 3 winners again!~

SWID: slogan competition Winner

2011-10-19T21:01:00.035+08:00

Hp notebook is in my hand. The winner name and detail is in my hand. The winning slogan is in my hand. The slogan that gives you a HP notebook is:

"Dream your idea, Design with SolidWorks, Do it with IME"

A big big congratulation to you, Mr. Akmal Khariz B.Ahmad Fuad from Petronas Research.

So, the question: what so special about his slogan? Can you spot the hidden meaning behind this slogan?

3D! 3D! 3D! The answer is 3D (dream, design, do). He manages to use 3 'D' to write a slogan that consists of "IME" and "SolidWorks". Very impressive and that's the reason why he truly the one who deserve to be the champion of the slogan competition in conjunction of IME SolidWorks Innovation Day 201, the launching of SolidWorks 2012.

As I mentioned early, the HP notebook is in my hand. You better contact us ASAP before I install SolidWorks 2012 into it for my own use.

Again, congratulation for all 3 winners!~

For the rest, continue to follow our fan page and blog. I'm planning to give out prizes every week. Detail soon to announce.

Thank you for attended SolidWorks Innovation day (either in Penang, Kuala Lumpur or Johor). Contact us if you would like to have more details about SolidWorks 2012.

SWID: slogan competition 1st runner up

2011-10-18T21:35:00.001+08:00

Congratulation to Mr. Ahmad Hafiz B. Zainudin with your winning slogan:

"Share your needs with IME, realize your dream with SolidWorks"

You just won yourself an iPad 2 after competing over 450 participants who attended SolidWorks Innovation day 2011. It's not easy to filter all the ~~bad~~, good, better and best slogan. It tough for us to choice but finally we decided you, Ahmad is the 2nd runner up winner. Again, please contact us before I keep your iPad in my house.

For the rest who submitted your slogan, good news is that you might be the final winner. Tomorrow, same time, 9,00pm will announce the winner of Hp notebook. Make sure you stay with us for the announcement.

Also, please help me to inform your kawan who attended SWID but haven 'fan' our Facebook fan page to 'fan' us and found out is he or you are the winner.

Click here for more information about VS-i.

SWID: slogan competition 2nd runner up

2011-10-17T21:58:00.001+08:00

In conjunction of the 20th release of SolidWorks, SolidWorks 2012, we organize a slogan writing competition.

Pretty simple, blend some creativity into "IME" & "SolidWorks" to write a less than 20 words slogan, and you stand a chance to win:

1. Hp notebook

2. iPad 2 (sponsored by DS SolidWorks)

3. Dell notebook

As agreed, today is the day to announce the ~~winners~~ winner. Yup, we decided to announce one by one.

Today, at our facebook fan page, we announced the winner for the Dell notebook. The winner for Dell notebook is Mr. Hang Chit Yong, Laird Technologies (Penang), with his winning slogan:

" Dream our future, SolidWorks visualize it, IME deliver it"

Bravo! Bravo!

Mr. Hang, please contact us for your Dell notebook ~~before i keep it for myself~~.

Tomorrow, we shall announce the winner for the iPad 2 at our facebook fan page.

Stay tuned!~

Click here to find out more about Laird Technologies.

SolidWorks Innovation Day 2011: Winning in Business

2011-09-13T22:23:00.001+08:00

It's time! It's back! this is the event I so wish it comes earlier, SolidWorks Innovation Day 2011. This year, we have a very serious topic: Winning in Business.

www.imetech.com.my/SWID2011

Well, I can't disclose much on the details, but what I can say, this year the topics are more focusing on how a CAD system play an important element to help you win in you business.

As usual, we going to have this "HUGE" event in 3 places; Penang, Kuala Lumpur and Johor. Details as below:

Penang:

Date: 4th October 2011

Venue: Easten Hotel

Time: 9.00am-4.00pm

Kuala Lumpur:

Date: 5th October 2011

Venue: Technology Park Malaysia (TPM), Bukit Jalil

Time: 9.00am-4.00pm

Johor Bharu:

Date: 11th October 2011

Venue: T.B.C

Time: 9.00am-1.00pm

Well, this blog will totally lack of attractiveness if I didn't mention anything about prizes. As a give back to you who attend our event this year, you stand a chance to win BIG prizes. I'm referring to HP notebook, Ipad 2 & Dell notebook. A simple, very simple step you need to do and you are one of them who can win the prize.

For more detail, Log on to www.imetech.com.my/SWID2011 to register and find out more.

Keep follow up with my blog for time to time update about the event.

See you there.

Selamat Hari Raya Merdeka

2011-08-31T23:24:00.001+08:00

Hope I'm not too late to wish all of you who visits our blog and big big

SELAMAT HARI RAYA AIDILFITRI

MERDEKA! MERDEKA! MERDEKA!

Remember to drive safe and please, consume less sugar and fat. *evil*

Holiday!~ I'm off to Cameron Highland, the weather is too hot~

Green Design Contest - Winner

2011-08-18T11:53:00.000+08:00

Great news folk. For you who had joined the SolidWorks Green Design Contest, the results are out.

You can get the winner list HERE.

A screenshot of the winner page

You are right, my name is not in the list.

In the list, I saw a lot of winners who bringing back an Apple Ipad 2 and the 1st place winner for commercial are packing his luggage and preparing to fly to Chaa Creek Rainforest Eco Lodge in Belize for a 4 nights vacation.

Now I'm really, really jealous because my submission didn't win any prize, even runner up. Below is my submission.

simple 1 piece sheet metal that can be arrangement in different methods

Guess my design is not sustainable enough by selecting the wrong material.Any comments on my design? If you are the interior designer for an airport, will you consider my design?

Comments.

PERODUA ECO CHALLENGE 2011 – PART II

2011-08-18T09:20:00.000+08:00

Wonder how UTM can convince the judges about the engineering ability of the car? Here is the answer!

1. Versatility of 3D modeling

UTM visualize the car from the conceptual modeling to 3D modeling. Waht the best thing when talk about 3D modeling is you might find that your design and actual product will looks the same!

speaking of Engineering Drawing 101- SolidWorks 3D Modeling software will easily create most curves that is hard to be drawn in 2D drawing. the curve that had been made in 3D will then read out as Drawing with exact parameter as what the 3D modeling have.

2. Intergration of FEA analysis with 3D modeling

Providing the proof on bending analysis of the car frame definitely helps the team in term of fabricating the lightest frame as possible. With the result of bending analysis using SolidWorks simulation software, the entire structure was calculated and the best design for framework with highest safety factor and lightest weight had been produced.

3. Post processing of Aerodynamics analysis

Using SolidWorks Flow Simulation, the team had been able to provide evidence on the ability of the 3D modeling design to achieve desired coefficient of drag where at the same time the analysis will help the team to construct a model that produce lowest vortex as possible.

Feature: Variable Fillet

2011-08-16T12:23:00.000+08:00

Hi there! This month I will show you how to create a variable fillet. Ok, let’s take example I want to create a glass like this.

What you need to do:

1. Create the glass shape. As you can see, the bottom area is smaller than the top area. Thus, The fastest way to create this profile is by using loft technique.

2. Create the sketch on the top plane. Then, create another sketch at the offset plane 100mm from the top plane. Sketch rectangle on both plane start from the origin. Use center rectangle type.

3. A good loft technique will bear in mind the location of the connector. Make sure that the connectors resume a straight line when you try to loft the shape. Shown below is the connector connection between one to the other.

4. Now, i want to create a variable fillet at the edge of the lofted feature. What is variable fillet? Variable fillet is one of the fillets inside SolidWorks. Using variable fillet, it allow you to use control points to define the fillet. Take example, this edge; I use variable fillets to define its radius at certain points.

5. The result would be like this.

6. Next, I want to copy the variable fillet so that is looks like this.

Okay, let the tutorial end here. I would like you to think how we can copy this variable fillet and put it at the other edges. When we are done with the brainstorming, we are going to finish the glass. Let's try this out.

Warhamni (warhamni@cadcam.com.my) a.k.a 我爱你 (i love you)，she is the trainer for CADCAM training centre, SolidWorks Authorized training centre. Although she join the team late but trust me, she's good in 'playing' SolidWorks and a fast learner. She can easily answer you in no time, with her lighting speed Kawasaki.

Tips & Tricks: Sketch extend

2011-08-08T11:36:00.001+08:00

Hi, Have you ever found that we can extend the line by using trim entities command in sketch?

Have you ever tried?

For example on the sketch above I would like close the gap by extending the line with command “Trim Entities” instead of “Extend Entities”. Can it be done? Let’s try on it.

I use Trim to closest type of trim and click on the line and drag it to the vertical line until the colour highlight (green in this case) and release your mouse.

And the result showed as above. Have a try!

Suhaila (suhaila@cadcam.com.my) beside a great singer, she is the trainer for CADCAM training centre, SolidWorks Authorized training centre. Her experiences in SolidWorks help to explore a lot of great tips and tricks to allow us to design faster.

tips & tricks: G2 fillet

2011-07-04T10:14:00.002+08:00

G2 surfaces (in SolidWorks, we call it C2) are very common use on aerospace and automotive design. Or can say that they need 1001 of G2 on their design. It determines how smooth the surfaces connect to another surface.

When we apply a fillet on the geometry, is it a G2 condition? Erm... nope!~ I try to explain the different with below image.

So, how can we apply a curvature continuity fillet (G2) fillet? Very simple.

1. apply a normal fillet onto the geometry.

2. Use delete face to remove the fillet face.

3. Use Boundary Surface with curvature condition to fill the surface. Now you are able to get a G2 fillet.

I say so, very simple.

Jackson (jacksonlim@cadcam.com.my) is part of the team member who good in sufacing skill in SolidWorks. You won't believe it until you see some of the exotic cars he modeled with SolidWorks

PERODUA ECO CHALLENGE 2011

2011-07-01T14:07:00.002+08:00

On 25 June 2011, the third installment of Perodua Eco-Challenge (PEC) 2011 had taken place at Melaka International Motorsports Circuit. This year, PEC had brought a new challenge to thirteen selected higher learning institutional when they have to construct their own design and engineered their own car while engine and transmission were provided by Perodua.

The main objective of the PEC 2011 is to provide a training ground for undergraduates to challenge their engineering prowess and to promote innovativeness among local students. The challenge is to build a car powered by a 660cc 3 cylinder engine. A transmission and an ECU were also provided. In addition, Perodua also gave RM17 500 development fund to all the participating teams.

The PEC 2011 falls into 3 categories. The main category is Longest Distance where the cars have to be driven on circuit until it completely stop. 0.5liter fuel was provided to run each car. The winner of this challenge was selected based on the longest distance a car can be move with the least amount of penalties. The other two categories are Engineering and Design where the winner was selected based on the booth presentation on the engineering and design aspects such as framework, aerodynamics, visual and etc.

As can be seen in the pictures below, there are a lot of creative car designs produced by our local undergraduates in this challenge. All of this team has come out with a unique car design with different engineering capabilities. A great effort had been shown by all the participating team members while the supporters of every team also play into roles to make the event more exciting and memorable.

Now, let’s take a look at one of the participating team in this PEC 2011, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM). It is an honor for our company and SolidWorks when we are able to sponsor one of the PEC team (UTM team) which consists of young future engineers and inventors in order to accomplish our social responsibility for the nation. It is in line with our company vision which to provide the best CAD/CAM/CAE solutions throughout this region. Our Product Manager, CW Lau went to Melaka to give moral support to the team on the event day and see by himself the car produced by the UTM team.

This is the Calamaro designed by the UTM team where had fully utilize SolidWorks in its design and development. The mechanical structure of the car chassis was designed using 3D CAD software, SolidWorks and not only that; UTM had also make use of CAE in SolidWorks by coming out with the bending analysis of the structure using SolidWorks Simulations. UTM team realizing the workability of the car in term of engineering and design by providing flow analysis results which also using the SolidWorks Flow Simulations. Using SolidWorks as the backbone of CAD and CAE for this car engineering and design, UTM can proudly claim themselves as the winner of Engineering category and second runner up of Design category.

SolidWorks is not only can be used for mechanical design purposes. As you can see in the PEC 2011, UTM had provided us with a very good example of how we can extend our design a step further. By using SolidWorks 3D modeling software as a platform, UTM had use the SolidWorks Simulations to perform Finite Element Analysis to analyze the impact of the force load to the structure of this car. Taking the bend analysis result of the car frame as the medium to interpret the strength of the car to withstand the gravity, engine weight, suspensions and the human weight body; it can be said that the main objective of UTM team on making a car with lightest frame without sacrificing the strength of the frame had successfully achieved.

UTM also put the car design concept into serious consideration when the team came out with four different concepts of design. In order to select which design is the best design to be produced, the team had tested all the conceptual design using SolidWorks Flow Simulations. This way, the team has early prediction on the dynamicity of the car’s design which contributes to the lower production cost as the team just need to fabricate the real car based on the best calculated prediction provided by the aerodynamics analysis of SolidWorks Flow Simulations.

With the help of this two amazing CAE tools provide by SolidWorks Corporation which fully integrated with SolidWorks 3D CAD software itself, time had been save a lot when there is no need to transfer the model into other CAE software. The cost of unnecessary modification is also being reduced as all the results of the car engineering had been predicted earlier which also contribute on reducing the time of fabrication. In total, this Calamaro produced by UTM undergraduate team had shown SolidWorks can be a total solution provider for your design purposes. The simplicity and highly user friendly software succeed in moving the team a step forward.

It is indeed a fair competition for UTM when the team is able to convince the judges of how they engineered the car. Huge efforts had been done by these undergraduate students and a 200% commitment should be given praise. In general, the PEC 2011 teams which consist of 20 undergraduate students work in a team lead by two lecturers as advisors had succeed in proving to Malaysia that our local universities can be as creative and as motivated as the global undergraduates. All needed is a pump of adrenaline by the local companies in Malaysia to support them into realizing their dreams. It is hope that in future, more companies will be hand in hand in organizing other competitions to create more local experts in technical area within various industries.

Warhamni (warhamni@cadcam.com.my) a.k.a 我爱你 (i love you)，she is the trainer for CADCAM training centre, SolidWorks Authorized training centre. Although she join the team late but trust me, she's good in 'playing' SolidWorks and a fast learner. She can easily answer you in no time, with her lighting speed Kawasaki.

Let's go design!~

How to model a softball

2011-06-29T15:52:00.001+08:00

Remember I promise to teach you how to create the softball? Now, here are the steps:

1. Create a semi-circle that looks like this. You can create at any plane you like because a semi-circle will result to a round shape object when you apply the Revolve feature. I dimension this semi-circle with diameter 30.5mm. Don’t forget to pin your geometry to the origin.

2. Revolve the geometric 360 degree using the Center Line on the semi-circle. The result will appear as a round shape object.

3. Now, a plane is need in certain angle so that the thread can be created at the surface of the ball. In order to create a plane with an angle, an edge or a reference line is needed. Thus, I create a construction line at the Front Plane.

4. Confirm the sketch. Then, go to Features tab and expand Reference Geometry. Select the Plane tool. In Property Manager Tab, select the Front Plane as the First Reference and then select the center line that created earlier to be the Second Reference. For the First Reference, assign the angle 35 degrees while for the Second Reference assigns the coincident.

5. Make this sketch at Plane 1 that had been created earlier. Start from origin.

6. Confirm the sketch. From isometric view, clearly the sketch was made at the origin. (It means the sketch is inside the round object!) Now, extrude the sketch so that it would be at the surface of the ball. Go to the Features Tab, Extrude Boss the sketch. Use Offset From Surface end condition for Direction 1 and select the round surface. Then, set the offset dimension to be 0.2mm.

7. The result will appear like this.

8. Then, pattern the features. Expand the linear pattern from Features Tab and select circular pattern. Then, use the center line that you make to set the angle plane to be the axis of revolution for the pattern. Set the angle to be 360 degrees and pattern the features 51 times. Use equal spacing.

9. The result would be like this. Add different color to the thread features. (Extrude Boss and Circ Pattern)

10. Mirror the thread to the other side of the part. Use the Right Plane as Mirror Face/Plane. Select the thread features as the Features to Mirror. This is the end result after I put some rendering to this part. Well, it looks like a real ball to me! Got the ball? Got to try! Have FUN!!

Tutorial: 3D Curve III

2011-06-27T09:00:00.004+08:00

My final post on 3D curve- 3D sketch.

3D Sketch is a powerful tool to create a 3D curve. But if you don’t know how to use it, this powerful tool will become difficult to use. Here I’m going to show you the way I use this tool.

How are we going to create a nice 3D sketch in this 3D environment, when we actually only viewing in 2D? Without rotating the view, all sketches we created are creating on any of the 3 standard views.

If you cannot imagine what I’m mention above, you can open a 3D sketch; press Crtl + 7 to change to Isometric view and sketch a curve. Then press Crtl + 5 to change to top view, you can found that the sketch in created in the front plane.

To create a 3D curve, sometimes we need some imagination. It is better if we can imagine what the curve look like in the front, top and right view.

What I’ll do to create a 3D curve with 3D sketch is create the sketch on a standard view (Front, Top or Right) first. Then I’ll change the view to Top View to drag the point of the sketch which I create just now until I get what I want it to be on the right view.

If the curve view from top not same as what you like, you can adjust it until you feel it is perfect. Hope this tips help you on your future design.

Happy design!

Jackson (jacksonlim@cadcam.com.my) is part of the team member who good in surfacing skill in SolidWorks. You won't believe it until you see some of the exotic cars he modeled with SolidWorks.

Tutorial: 3D curve II

2011-06-20T09:01:00.001+08:00

I'm back with the second method to draw a 3D curve in SolidWorks.

Refer back to the 1st 3D curve tutorial, use back the same sketch. Now extrude it with Extruded Surface , and then you will get this:

Now, open a 3D Sketch then select Intersection Curve. On the Select Entities, Select both surface and click OK.

Then you’ll get the black color 3D curve.

This curve can be edit by editing the 3D sketch created just now. The length can be edit by dragging the end point of the curve. If you want to edit the shape of the curve, delete the relation.

there we go, the second method to create a 3D curve. The last method, next week.

Jackson (jacksonlim@cadcam.com.my) is part of the team member who good in sufacing skill in SolidWorks. You won't believe it until you see some of the exotic cars he modeled with SolidWorks.

Softball in SolidWorks

2011-06-15T10:32:00.003+08:00

YEAAAYY!! SUKMA GOT SOFTBALL!

Hi there! It had been a very looooooong silence from me. I think my schedule had been very pack lately and making my life busy as a bee. (Caution! I will stink! ZZzZZzZZ).

I am so excited about SUKMA now offering Softball as one of the game into the list! (FYI, this is the game I fall in love with!) But too bad, I could not see them playing for SUKMA due to duty (I will miss the MASUM also L).

Now leave the game and SUKMA behind, the important thing is that I am here to make your life easier by giving you helpful tips on SolidWorks. But today, I won’t give any tips or tutorial to make this and that. I would like you to think by yourself; using the feature that I already teach you on the previous tutorials to come out with this ball.

Well, it is pretty easy actually, but you have to do some math to get the pattern at the right angle. (Now, I already gave you the clue: ANGLE + PATTERN) Give it a try! You can email me your ball after some touching of rendering and I will put it in my next post. I will also show you how to create this profile in the next post.

For the LOVE of the game, Let’s Go Design!

tutorial: 3D curve I

2011-06-13T14:45:00.002+08:00

Do you know how to create a 3D curve in SolidWorks? In SolidWorks, there are many ways for us to create a 3D curve. There are Project Curve, 3D Sketch and Intersection Curve. Here I’m going to show you how to use this 3 feature to create a 3D curve.

First of all, all 3 features have the similarity to create a 3D curve. It use the standard 3 views as a guide.

Let's start with the 1st method, Projected curve

Choose 2 planes and sketch a curve in each plane.

then select "project curve" feature, which drop under curves.

Select "sketch on sketch" in the property manager.

Then select the 2 sketches and click OK. What you get next is a blue colour 3D curve. This blue colour 3D curve cannot edit directly. What you can do is edit the 2 original sketch.

Do give a try. Next week I shall share with you all on the 2nd method.

Jackson (jacksonlim@cadcam.com.my) is part of the team member who good in sufacing skill in SolidWorks. You won't believe it until you see some of the exotic cars he model with SolidWorks.

Tips & Tricks: The Different of Smart Dimension & Hole-Callout

2011-06-10T11:10:00.006+08:00

I create some holes using hole wizard and linear patterns it.

Then I make a new drawing from this part. When come to dimensioning, do you know that there is a different between smart dimension and hole-callout?

If I use smart dimension:

Only able to display the diameter of the hole.

If I use hole-callout:

I able to callout the number of instances (due to linear pattern), diameter and the depths of the holes.

Now you know the different. Don't make this mistake ya!~

Ken (skfoong@cadcam.com.my) is the Application Engineer (AE), specialist in SolidWorks and SolidWorks enterprise PDM for IME group of companies. He may not have a good fighting skill but he is good in providing solution to manage your company data.

Challenge 2 Answer

2011-06-09T23:59:00.001+08:00

Manage to spot the different on my previous post: Imported Scanned data?

The answer is here. the main different is an additional list of scanned data file extension, which include mesh files (*.nzip, *.nxm, *.scn, *.3ds, *.obj) and PointCould files (*.xyz, *.txt, *.asc, *.vda, *.igs).

You just need to turn on ScanTo3D add-ins (tools>add-ins) in SolidWorks Premium. With this feature, you can utilize the scanned data for remodeling or reference.

Let's Analyze- It all end well

2011-06-09T15:02:00.004+08:00

We just held our annual Design Validation Day 2011. The attendances were more than we expected. Luckily we have extra chair and banana cakes to serve them.

Well, it was a jam pack morning for a half day event (9.30am - 1.00pm). It started by having Product Manager (SolidWorks), Mr. Lau to talk about "Idea to Innovation", giving ideas on the direction of our industry and important of sustainable future.

right after the sharing, Chan, our young simulation specialist (also one of our blogger) took the 1 session of SolidWorks simulation and demonstration. Switching between PowerPoint and SolidWorks, he explained how easy to handle SolidWorks simulation products to improve overall design in term of reducing cost and tedious of doing prototyping.

2nd session started after a tea break, serving home-made sandwiches and delicious banana cakes (my favorite) from a nearby bakery shop. The presenter? Me, drill more detail into motion study in a 3D CAD. How helpful is it if you can simulation your machine movement in a LCD screen before actual testing. I end my long-winded presentation with the 1st Life cycle assessment (LCA) in CAD. YES! Now you can actually know how 'green' is your products during the design stage.

This event end with a 'marriage talk' by our customer, Malift Sdn Bhd. As the only skylift builder in Malaysia, he share how the "marriage" between IME and Malift can help to ensure safety our the skylift users and gain a good night sleep. Audiences amaze with the design he did and how simulation help to make it smaller, lighter and the same time remain the safety level. Thank you Mr. Norazman for a great sharing.

For all who attended, they are invited to for free 1/2 day workshop to experience the software by themselves. the date as below:

15 June- Electronic

17 June- Automotive

22 June- Simple machinery

24 June- Heavy equipment

29 June- Machinery

By the way, do not forget to submit your GREEN DESIGN before the due date!

Design Validation Day 2011- Let's Analyze

2011-06-03T14:05:00.000+08:00

“Does F.E.A provide me in the right information about my design”? A very common question pops out in your mind when we talking about how F.E.A can help us to save development cost and time. It’s time to clear the doubt.

An experience technical Manager and a young F.E.A specialist of IME technology Sdn Bhd will join force to tell you how SolidWorks Simulation work in various industry and how is the result can be achieve. It all happens on 7 June (Tuesday) 9.00 am – 1.00pm, in CADCAM Training Centre PJ.

This time, IME Technology Sdn Bhd is really grateful and is our honour to invite our customer- Mr. Norazman (Managing Director for Malift Sdn. Bhd.) to spend precious moment with us to share how Malift actually gain the ultimate benefit of the SolidWorks Simulation as a sky lift builder where human lift involve.

Let’s Analyze, join us in our Design Validation Day 2011, we shall take you to the virtual simulation world and analyze every parts of your design to lead you to realistic your design now.

Just CLICK HERE and join us now!!!

About Malift Sdn Bhd

The Malaysia first Sky Lift builder.From design, testing, casting, fabrication and installation, all is done in Malaysia.

Green Design contest

2011-05-17T23:08:00.001+08:00

Happy Wesak Day~

Sorry for my M.I.A for more than 20days after my last post. It's been a busy month for me, work and personal life.

After a short period of MIA and Wesak holiday, I would like bring you all an exciting news. A wealthy entrepreneur "Sir Richard Doylson" has decided to launch a new airline powered solely by algae-derived biofuels, called Greenair. (the story) & you (with you full of imagination mind) would need to help to design a 'green' chair for to be use in the airport. Now, can you design a lower-impact chair?

The detail I will not mention here, just feel free to drop by to THIS LINK to understand more. What I can say is that the prizes are really, really, really seducing. (four nights at Chaa Creek Rainforest Eco Lodge in Belize, Ipad 2 with wifi, free entrance ticket to SolidWorks World 2012 San Diego etc. For me, the most important is there is a possibility that the design will be manufacture and use in the airport.

It's time to stick to the chair and start to think a 'green' chair for an airport. Don't be surprize if you saw my submittion in the contest as it also open for reseller to participate. See you there!~ *evil*

The contest is open from now through midnight Eastern on June 30, 2011. The submissions page will go live on April 29, 2011.

Tips & Tricks: Star with freeform

2011-04-27T11:08:00.000+08:00

This ‘star’ is easily created with a very useful feature in SolidWorks.

All the horns are very smooth and organic. This feature helps us to create a shape that is very organic. This useful feature no other than freeform. Freeform allow us to create those shapes are very organic which is difficilt to model using sketch feature such as sweeps or loft.

The steps:

1. Split it to get the highlighted face.

2. Delete the others, left the highlighted face.

3. Use freeform. Add a curve in the middle of the face and add a point at the center of the curve.

4. Change the view to top view, select the point.

5. Drag the point through Z axis (green color arrow)

6. Pattern it using circular pattern.

7. Fill all the gaps using filled surface.

8. Finally, knit it up and form it as a solid. As simple as that.

Win an IPAD & AR.DRONE

2011-04-25T13:48:00.001+08:00

All you need to do is to hold a SolidWorks® Customer Portal account by May 22 to stand a chance to win an IPad and AR.Drone.

Once you have a Customer Portal account, you just need to participate in the annual customer survey, giving you a voice to provide valuable feedback. After completing a simple, very simple quiz, you are eligible to be the lucky winner to take home an IPad and AR.Drone.

To find out more, click below link:

http://solidworkslaunch.com/customer_portal/

Challenge 2: Import scanned data

2011-04-21T09:33:00.008+08:00

Let's continue with our monthly challenge.

Spot the different and tell us how to have this different appear.

Answer in next post.

Amirul (azmi@cadcam.com.my), application engineer for IME Technology, one of our dedicated technical engineer to solve your SolidWorks and 3DVia problem.

Tips & Tricks: SolidWorks with matweb

2011-04-19T09:16:00.017+08:00

Do you know that there is website out there inside World Wide Web which offering you the peace of mind of creating your own material properties?

Well, introduce to you www.matweb.com. Here you have tones and tones of material properties to be choose without having the headache of flipping through your materials handbook! The best thing is it can be associated with your SolidWorks programme! Of course there would be charges, but if you wish to have it free.. well, just have to type all the data on your own as I teach you yesterday.Give it a try!

Customize your materials properties

2011-04-18T13:55:00.025+08:00

Are you aware that you can actually customize your material properties inside SolidWorks? As known, SolidWorks already has a library of standard materials. Now, let say you also have your own property library that you get from your customer/vendor, thus you want to use it as the material properties for your modeling. This is not a problem, you can always customize your library to fulfill this need. Now, I will show you how to make this, it is really simple!

1. Open SolidWorks, then open a new Part. Right click At the Material and select Edit Material.

2. Now, you select the type of materials that you want to customize. In my example over here, I want to customize the ABS inside the SolidWorks Materials (folder)> Plastic (folder)> ABS. Copy the selected materials using Right Click> Copy.

3. Close the Window and now select the Custom Material (folder). Expand the folder. Paste the ABS material inside the Plastic Category.

4. Click on the ABS and rename to ABS Molded. You can now change the properties of your material. Shown below are the screen shot of how I changed the Yield Stress values and make my custom specific properties.

Warhamni (warhamni@cadcam.com.my) a.k.a 我爱你 (i love you)，she is the trainer for CADCAM training centre, SolidWorks Authorized training centre. Although she join the team late but trust me, she's good in 'playing' SolidWorks and a fast learner. She can easily answer you in no time, with her lighting speed Kawasaki.

Tips & Tricks: Customize your own command manager tab

2011-04-08T10:26:00.006+08:00

In SolidWorks command manager, there are many existing tabs for you to use, like Features, Sketch, Surfaces … and so on. It allows us to find our feature easily.

Sometimes, I found that it still take my time to find the feature which I want to use especially those I often use. For example, I use Solid-Surface Hybrid modeling all the time. So, those tabs I often use are feature, sketch and Surface. When I want to sketch, I had to go to Sketch tab. When I want to use Extrude, I had to go to Features tab. When I want to use offset surface, I had to go to the Surface tab. It became not so user friendly to me.

To make my work easy, I customize my own command manager tab. Without editing the existing tabs, I create a new tab and put in all the features that I often use.

To customize your own command manager tab, right click on any tab select Customize:

Click on the add new tab and select Empty Tab. Then go to command and you can start to drag the feature into the new tab you just created.

At last, below is the command Manager Tab that I customized for myself. :)

Jackson (jacksonlim@cadcam.com.my) is part of the team member who good in sufacing skill in SolidWorks. You won't believe it until you see some of the exotic cars he model with SolidWorks.

Tips & Tricks: Automatic Symmetric Split

2011-04-07T11:08:00.005+08:00

One day, you receive an imported part model as below.

Most of the time, we are require to do some modification on the model; it could be the model shape, dimensions of the model or even add some features on the model. Say if the model/part is symmetry, the best practice is to

“Reduce a Part to its Smallest Repeatable Symmetrical Body”

How can SolidWorks help you to do this in the fastest way? By using the SolidWorks Utilities add-on, launch the Symmetry Check tool (Tools > Symmetry Check…).

Then, use the Automatic symmetric split,

The model will be split instantly with split lines.

It doesn’t care the orientation of the part and therefore this is great to be used for imported file or use for simplified the part for simulation purpose.

Ken (skfoong@cadcam.com.my) is the Application Engineer (AE), specialist in SolidWorks and SolidWorks enterprise PDM for IME group of companies. He may not have a good fighting skill but he is good in providing solution to manage your company data.

Tutorial: Curtain hook

2011-03-22T14:09:00.010+08:00

When helping you mother to change the curtain, have you ever come across this thing?

Yes, it is a curtain hook. This is the most popular type in the market and of course, you would find several of other design out there. But that is not the point; have you ever wonder how to create this curtain hook in 3D modeling? Well, it is pretty simple actually. All you need is a little imagination and the right tools to work on it!

Before making this part, let see what sketch tool or feature that might be necessary is. I’ve done my analysis (no need Simulations for this one, just need to figure out what is the best feature to be select and how to do it the fastest way) and this is my result.

Now, basically I need 3 features over here. A few Sweeps feature would do the main body and Extrude Boss together with Dome features will complete this part! Sounds simple and yet great! Dare to give it a try?

Here, I show you the steps by making it into a video.

Your end product will look like this. A bit of rendering might help you to visualize this part in more attractive way!

Warhamni (warhamni@cadcam.com.my) a.k.a 我爱你 (i love you)，she is the trainer for CADCAM training centre, SolidWorks Authorized training centre. Although she join the team late but trust me, she's good in 'playing' SolidWorks and a fast learner. She can easily answer you in no time, with her lighting speed Kawasaki.

IME support task pane- Local support in your SolidWorks

2011-03-21T09:44:00.000+08:00

Design is not something can be done in just a minute, not to mention on amendment work after the design is done. Most of the time you are required to change or hide the parts/components in specific area. Sometimes you might have forgotten what is the best method & still insist on this because it can save you 10 to 20 percent of design time. You are in a situation to think of someone that can help you out.

Remember during our 30^th anniversary celebration, we announce that we put in an in-house program to reduce our communication and support boundary? Now, it is convenient to use a tool in Solidworks task pane, the "1 Click Instant Support" from IME support to ease your pain.

This instant support will send the issue straight to IME support server where we have engineers to check it daily in weekdays. With this tool, you are able to mount your files in Solidworks or snap photo of an error message and send to IME support. Just a simple click on the Red Button will brings you to next window.

Serial number : will be shown automatically in here

Subject : title for the issue

Attachment : Select the options "Opened Files, SnapShot, Attachfiles"

Description : Description how the issue occurs

Opened Files - current files opened in Solidworks will store in a zip file in assembly together with all the parts.

SnapShot - Print Screen for current view

AttachFiles - Attach the files manually

Please take note on below setup to make sure your support we can recieve it.

Before send please ensure "settings" have to be filled up.

Email Address : user email (email@mail.com)

Server : IP mail server (exp: 192.168.0.1)

Port : port for outgoing server (SMTP). default will be port "25"

User name : Leave it blank. Key in only if requires Authentication

Password : Leave it blank. Key in only if requires Authentication

Hit on the "Save" button & Send the issue.

Ivan (wbtoo@cadcam.com.my), application engineer for IME Technology, a part time trainer and one of our dedicated technical engineer to solve your SolidWorks problem. Looking for singing partner? You may consider drop him a email ~~(bill on you!)~~

SolidWorks Apps

2011-03-19T10:30:00.005+08:00

For smartphone users, more specific, Iphone users, you now can download SolidWorks app to learn about the new features in the 2011 SolidWorks product line.

What you get in it?

1. Check the new features and functionality for 2011.
2. Get the latest news on vision for the future
3. Tips and tricks
4. Register to virtual event
5. and MORE

The price? FREE~ Now search your App Store and download SolidWorks AP now.

p/s: Download the 3DVia Mobile as well if you want. :)

Challenge 1 Answer

2011-03-18T14:47:00.019+08:00

Hi everybody, have you figure out the answer?

Congratulation to those got the answer, for those still thinking the answer, please try this.

Apply Extrude feature for 3D sketch. 3D sketch allow you to put multiple sketch entities at different layer at a time.

Draw a well defined 3D sketch, then apply the Extrude feature. Define the direction of extrution (going up), and using Selected Contour to define the sketch.

Now you have your answer. Let’s try this. (~~same method~~)

Shu Yi (sychan@cadcam.com.my), application engineer for IME Technology, team up with Suhaila to find and figure out great tips and tricks to help you to save your time. She also in charge of providing best-in-class customer support services to all our customer.

Workshop: Achieving cost-effectiveness with SolidWorks Simulation

2011-03-17T14:40:00.001+08:00

We are pleased to invite you to attend a hand on workshop “Achieving cost-effectiveness with SolidWorks Simulation”.

The workshop will focus on the use of Computer-Aided Design to experience the complete suite of SolidWorks structural,functional and flow analysis applications in the product development process. Design better products and predict the performance of product design under real world conditions with a complete simulation tool.

The event details are as below for your kind reference.

Date : 25^th March 2011 (Friday)

Time : 9am – 1pm

Venue : IME CTSP Center, Petaling Jaya

Should you have further enquiry about this event, please feel free to contact MR. Pete at 03 – 7783 6866 or write in via e-mail: slsin@cadcam.com.my

Tips & Tricks: Hole wizard/ Toolbox

2011-03-15T11:55:00.003+08:00

Have you ever facing a problem that your own custom parts or parts saved out of Toolbox folder are still replaced with the standard Toolbox parts What is the problem? What could be the reason?

The answer is the New Option in SolidWorks 2011.

'Make this folder the default search location for toolbox components'

When this option is checked, if you open any assembly that contains some custom parts or some Toolbox copied parts (even though the parts are located in the same folder of assembly), SolidWorks will look for the files only in the Toolbox location that has been defined under the HoleWizard/Toolbox path. The parts will be replaced with native Toolbox parts from the Toolbox folder.

Prior to introducing this option, Toolbox files would be inserted from the Toolbox file location when added to an assembly, but did not always open from the same location later. This caused confusion in some environments. The new option ensures that files always open from the specified Toolbox location.

If you frequently use copied Toolbox parts that exist outside of the Toolbox folders, then this option may be interfering with your setup. Uncheck the option to restore the SolidWorks 2010 behavior.

Ken (skfoong@cadcam.com.my) is the Application Engineer (AE), specialist in SolidWorks and SolidWorks enterprise PDM for IME group of companies. He may not have a good fighting skill but he is good in providing solution to manage your company data.

Tips & Tricks: Quick Dimension Changes

2011-03-14T12:01:00.002+08:00

This time I would like to share something which may helps some of you who usually use mouse wheel to change the dimensions.

Making changes to the dimensions by scrolling the mouse wheel is actually moving the “Thumb Wheel” or some recognised “Spin Box” on the modify window. As you scroll the mouse wheel or you click on the Spin Box, the dimension will be changed gradually by the specified increments.

The increment is actually you can set it under >Options>System Options>Spin Box Increments. By default they are 10mm. This means that when you click the spin box the value changes by 10mm.

Here you can set you own increment units to be to ease you to quickly change the dimensions value.

Performance: Why is the Windows® 7 x64 operating system recommended?

2011-03-11T16:33:00.003+08:00

I just read an interesting explaination on why Window 7 for SolidWorks 2011. Below are the reason:-

- Windows 7 x64 is a true 64-bit implementation (Windows XP was originally introduced as a 32-bit operating system)

- Microsoft® removed a crucial threading lock, which allows up to a (approximately) 30% increase in performance on some hardware.

- You'll see 20% - 30% improved battery life on laptops with Windows 7.

- Windows 7 is smarter about memory handling, and paging is more efficient- SolidWorks development work is done on Windows 7

- XP is no longer supported by Microsoft

Between Vista and Windows 7, Windows 7 has a smaller memory footprint, and has improved graphics resource handling with multiple windows. Both of these improvements have a positive impact on SolidWorks.

If you are looking forward to upgrade your hardware and OS, i bet you have no reason not to buy Window 7.

Challenge 1: multibody with 1 extrude?

2011-03-11T10:40:00.003+08:00

Time to challenge your mind. Try to create this model only using 1 feature. Yes, one and it must be extrude, not revolve. *evil*

It will help you more familiar with the feature in SolidWorks. Let me know the answer. ^.^

Shu Yi (sychan@cadcam.com.my), application engineer for IME Technology, team up with Suhaila to find and figure out great tips and tricks to help you to save your time. She also in charge of providing best in class customer support services to all our customer.

Tips & Tricks: Closed Corner for sheet metal

2011-03-10T09:21:00.004+08:00

Let’s talk about a feature in sheet metal, closed corner. I had created a part using sheet metal.

But I have a situation here, after I flatten it, there is a gap (Highlighted in red circle).

But I don’t want the gap, so I decided to remove the unwanted material; to make it became the same like the image on the right hand side. How can I do so? Yes, with the help of closed corner.

First, we measure the gap (show in the picture below). Say, the gap is about 2.82843mm.

Now, we can start to remove the unwanted area. Go to Insert – sheet metal – closed corner. Select the according to the picture below. Select Butt for Corner type, fill in the gap value as we measured just now and uncheck the Narrow corner.

Click okay and there you go; you’ll get what you want. Give a try.

Jackson (jacksonlim@cadcam.com.my) is part of the team member who good in sufacing skill in SolidWorks. You won't believe it until you see some of the exotic cars he model with SolidWorks.

Performance: Is Your Graphic Card Certified? (part 2)

2011-03-08T15:12:00.010+08:00

Do you have a graphic card installed in your machine (~~what a lame question~~)? If yes, wondering is the graphic card in used is supported by SolidWorks? If you are not sure the answer, I can guide you how to get the answer.

Go to Start Menu > All Program > SolidWorks 2011 > SolidWorks Tools > SolidWorks Rx.

In SolidWorks Rx window, select the Diagnostics tab.

The highlighted column will show you the graphic card model that installed in your machine. The diagnostics result will also let you know either is your graphic or the driver for the graphic card is supported by SolidWorks application.

If you are looking for a graphic card, you can always go to the following link to look for the certified graphic card as well as the certified graphic card driver.

http://www.solidworks.com/sw/support/videocardtesting.html

You may do the selection of the graphic card based on your SolidWorks Version; Operating System or preferable graphic card vendor.

Too many models for you? Choose the right one based on your budget. ^.^

Chan (wlchan@cadcam.com.my) is the Application Engineer (AE), specialist in SolidWorks and SolidWorks simulation for IME group of companies. His analytical skill solve a lot of customers' stress and fatigue.

Seeding a better tomorrow

2011-03-07T15:11:00.004+08:00

To meet the concerns of the environment, IME Technology Sdn Bhd as the frontline of solution provider of industry’s most ubiquitous MCAD software application SolidWorks, take seriously their responsibility to educate and convey the message to everyone involved in product design.

In an informative event to share how SolidWorks Sustainability can help determine how much carbon footprint release throughout a product life cycle. It all begins from the product design stage, where one can create the optimum design for minimum impact to our precious earth.

We showed two different ways to create the optimum product design.

First method is the choice of material. SolidWorks Sustainability provides the best sources of different materials take can apply in any kind of product and generate the Life Cycle Assesment report of product design with the material choosen with just few click away.

Second method showed how to reduce material usage which will result in carbon footprint reduction.

Participants from varies industries were impressed and understood better after the event how easily it is to use SolidWorks Sustainability to design products with reduced carbon footprint before they even begin to manufacture the actual product. “It is a cost-effective way for us to determine how our product prototype will impact the environment.” said one of the participants Mr. Arif

Mr. Sew, IME’s assistant product manager said” We look forward to encouraging more business owners and product designers to consider the environment right from product design stage. This will actually minimize environmental impact and will also be a big cost saving for the business in the long run.”