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Omar Koryakin

Welcome to "Quick Solidworks Hands-On Training." This course is all about getting you familiar with the basics of Solidworks modeling in a straightforward and easy-to-follow manner. Solidworks is a powerful tool, and while it can seem daunting at first, with the right guidance, anyone can get the hang of its essential features.

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Welcome to "Quick Solidworks Hands-On Training." This course is all about getting you familiar with the basics of Solidworks modeling in a straightforward and easy-to-follow manner. Solidworks is a powerful tool, and while it can seem daunting at first, with the right guidance, anyone can get the hang of its essential features.

The idea behind this course is simple: short lessons that you can fit into any part of your day. Each lesson is designed to be brief, usually wrapping up in under 10 minutes. This way, even if you have just a little free time, you can learn something new. And before you know it, all those small lessons add up, and you'll find yourself more comfortable with Solidworks modeling.

Who is this course for? Well, anyone really. If you're new to Solidworks and want a gentle introduction, this is for you. If you've dabbled in it before but need a refresher, you'll find this course helpful too. I tried to make the content as accessible as possible, avoiding jargon and focusing on clear, practical examples.

One of the things we believe in is learning by doing. That's why, throughout the course, you'll find hands-on exercises. These aren't just random tasks; they're carefully chosen to reinforce what you've learned. By actively engaging with Solidworks, you'll internalize the concepts much better than just watching or reading about them.

"Feedback is a gift" Over time, many learners have shared their thoughts, questions, and suggestions. This has been invaluable. It's helped shape the course, making it better for everyone. So, if at any point you have something to share, please do. It's a community here, and everyone's input is appreciated.

Lastly, remember that learning is a journey. There might be moments of challenge, but that's okay. Every time you overcome a hurdle, you grow. And with each lesson, you're taking a step forward. So, take your time, enjoy the process, and know that with every lesson, you're building a valuable skill.

Thank you for considering "Quick Solidworks Hands-On Training." I hope to be a part of your learning journey.

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What's inside

Learning objectives

  • Efficiently navigate and use the solidworks interface.
  • Design complex parts, assemblies, and real-life projects using solidworks.
  • Master the essentials of solidworks, including assembly, simulation, sheet metal, structural members, and more.
  • Create a variety of mechanical designs, such as coils, springs, pipes, ducts, turbines, and camshafts.
  • Apply various design approaches and techniques to enhance their solidworks proficiency.
  • Develop the skills needed to become a qualified solidworks associate.
  • Gain the confidence to include solidworks expertise in their résumé and professional portfolio.
  • Use advanced solidworks features, such as lofts, sweeps, and shell commands, to create complex shapes.
  • Develop techniques for creating parametric and adaptable models using design tables, configurations, and equations.
  • Gain a solid foundation for pursuing advanced solidworks certifications, such as the certified solidworks professional (cswp) or expert (cswe) exams.
  • Learn industry-relevant skills that can be applied across various engineering and design disciplines, such as automotive, aerospace, consumer products, and indu
  • Understand and apply best practices for efficient and precise modeling in solidworks.
  • Understand the concept of design for manufacturing (dfm) and how to apply it using solidworks.
  • Master the use of solidworks' in-built drawing tools to create detailed technical documentation of your designs.
  • Gain expertise in using solidworks for rapid prototyping and 3d printing applications.
  • Learn how to use the solidworks pdm (product data management) system for efficient data management
  • Develop an understanding of gd&t (geometric dimensioning and tolerancing) and how to implement it in solidworks
  • Understand how to create and manage large assemblies in solidworks, including the use of lightweight components and speedpak configurations
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Syllabus

Upon completing Section 1: Coils and Springs, students will be adept at designing various types of springs and coils in SolidWorks, including circular springs, spiral coils, double coil springs.
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In this lecture, you'll learn the step-by-step process of creating a circular spring using SolidWorks. We'll explore essential tools and techniques, such as the Helix and Spiral feature, to accurately model the geometry of the spring. You'll also learn how to define and control the key parameters, such as pitch, diameter, and number of revolutions, ensuring a realistic and customizable spring design. By the end of this lecture, you'll have a solid understanding of the fundamental concepts involved in designing springs and will be able to create your own custom circular springs for various applications.

In this lecture, we will delve into the process of designing a spiral coil using SolidWorks. We'll guide you through the essential tools and techniques, such as using the Sweep feature along with the Helix and Spiral command, to accurately model the geometry of the coil. You'll learn how to set and control key parameters, like pitch, diameter, and height, to create a fully customizable spiral coil design. By the end of this lecture, you'll have a clear understanding of the methods involved in designing spiral coils and be able to create your own unique spiral coil designs for various applications.

In this lecture, we'll explore the process of designing a double coil spring using SolidWorks. You'll learn how to utilize essential features such as the Helix and Spiral command along with the Sweep feature to create two intertwined coils with precise geometry. We'll also cover the importance of setting and controlling key parameters like pitch, diameter, and number of revolutions to achieve a fully customizable and functional double coil spring design. By the end of this lecture, you'll have gained a thorough understanding of the techniques involved in creating double coil springs and be equipped to develop your own intricate spring designs for various applications.

In this lecture, we will demonstrate how to design a ball spring using SolidWorks. You'll discover how to combine essential features such as the Revolve and Sweep commands with the Helix and Spiral tool to accurately model the unique geometry of a ball spring. We'll guide you through setting and controlling critical parameters like pitch, diameter, and spring length to ensure a customizable and functional ball spring design. By the end of this lecture, you'll have a comprehensive understanding of the methods involved in creating ball springs and be prepared to develop your own custom ball spring designs for a variety of applications.

Upon completing Section 2: Hollow Parts, students will have the expertise to design various types of hollow parts in SolidWorks, including pipe tees, elbow ducts, nuts, and flanges.

In this lecture, we'll dive into the process of designing a pipe tee using SolidWorks. You'll learn how to use essential tools like the Extrude and Revolve commands, along with the Shell feature, to accurately create the hollow structure of a pipe tee. We'll also explore how to define and control key parameters such as diameter, wall thickness, and branch angle to achieve a fully customizable and functional pipe tee design. By the end of this lecture, you'll have a thorough understanding of the techniques involved in designing hollow parts like pipe tees and be able to create your own custom designs for various piping applications.

In this lecture, we will demonstrate the process of designing an elbow duct using SolidWorks. You'll learn how to use important tools such as the Sweep and Loft commands, along with the Shell feature, to accurately create the curved, hollow structure of an elbow duct. We'll guide you through defining and controlling essential parameters like diameter, wall thickness, and bend angle to ensure a fully customizable and functional elbow duct design. By the end of this lecture, you'll have gained a deep understanding of the techniques involved in designing hollow parts like elbow ducts and be prepared to develop your own custom designs for a wide range of ductwork applications.

In this lecture, we will guide you through the process of designing a nut using SolidWorks. You'll learn how to use essential tools such as the Revolve command for the main body and the Polygon sketch tool to create the internal threads accurately. We'll also explore the Extrude Cut feature to create the threaded hole and show you how to define and control key parameters like diameter, thread pitch, and thickness to achieve a fully customizable and functional nut design. By the end of this lecture, you'll have a thorough understanding of the techniques involved in designing hollow parts like nuts and be able to create your own custom nut designs for various fastening applications.

In this lecture, we'll demonstrate the process of designing a flange using SolidWorks. You'll learn how to utilize essential tools such as the Extrude and Revolve commands to accurately create the main body of the flange. We'll also explore the use of the Circular Pattern tool to create bolt holes and show you how to define and control key parameters like diameter, thickness, and bolt hole spacing to achieve a fully customizable and functional flange design. By the end of this lecture, you'll have a comprehensive understanding of the techniques involved in designing hollow parts like flanges and be prepared to develop your own custom flange designs for various piping and mechanical applications.

Upon completing Section 3: Miscellaneous Items, students will possess the skills to design a variety of everyday objects in SolidWorks, including glass bowls, fidget toys, and simple tables.

In this lecture, we will guide you through the process of designing a glass bowl using SolidWorks. You'll learn how to use essential tools such as the Revolve command to create the main body of the bowl and the Shell feature to achieve a thin-walled, hollow structure. We'll also explore how to apply and control appearance settings to give the bowl a realistic glass material finish. Throughout the process, we'll focus on defining and controlling key parameters like diameter, wall thickness, and curvature to create a fully customizable and functional glass bowl design. By the end of this lecture, you'll have a deep understanding of the techniques involved in designing miscellaneous items like glass bowls and be able to create your own custom designs for various household and decorative applications.

In this lecture, we will walk you through the process of designing a fidget toy using SolidWorks. You'll learn how to use essential tools like the Extrude, Revolve, and Loft commands to create the various components and shapes that make up a fidget toy. We'll also explore the use of the Assembly feature to bring the individual parts together and ensure proper functionality and movement. Throughout the process, we'll focus on defining and controlling key parameters like size, clearances, and aesthetics to create a fully customizable and engaging fidget toy design. By the end of this lecture, you'll have a thorough understanding of the techniques involved in designing miscellaneous items like fidget toys and be prepared to develop your own custom designs for various recreational and stress-relief applications.

In this lecture, we will demonstrate the process of designing a simple table using SolidWorks. You'll learn how to use essential tools like the Extrude and Revolve commands to create the tabletop and legs, as well as the Linear Pattern tool to position the legs accurately. We'll also explore the use of the Assembly feature to bring all the components together, ensuring a sturdy and functional table design. Throughout the process, we'll focus on defining and controlling key parameters like dimensions, materials, and aesthetics to create a fully customizable and practical table design. By the end of this lecture, you'll have a comprehensive understanding of the techniques involved in designing miscellaneous items like tables and be prepared to develop your own custom designs for various furniture and home applications.

Upon completing Section 4: Sheet Metal and Weldments, students will have acquired the expertise to design sheet metal parts and weldment structures in SolidWorks.

In this lecture, we will introduce you to the process of folding and unfolding a sheet metal part using SolidWorks. You'll learn how to use essential tools like the Sheet Metal and Sketched Bend features to create precise bends in your sheet metal parts. We'll also explore how to utilize the Unfold and Fold commands to flatten your part, allowing you to visualize and analyze it in both its folded and unfolded states. Throughout the process, we'll focus on defining and controlling key parameters like bend radius, bend angle, and material thickness to create a fully customizable and accurate sheet metal design. By the end of this lecture, you'll have a deep understanding of the techniques involved in working with sheet metal in SolidWorks and be prepared to develop your own custom designs for various manufacturing and industrial applications.

How to create a weldment steel structure
Upon completing Section 5: Automotive Parts, students will have gained the expertise to design various automotive components in SolidWorks, such as camshafts, pistons, and turbine blades.

In this lecture, we will demonstrate the process of designing a camshaft using SolidWorks. You'll learn how to use essential tools like the Extrude and Revolve commands to create the main shaft and bearing journals, as well as the Loft command to accurately model the cam lobes. We'll also explore the use of the Circular Pattern tool to position and replicate the lobes along the shaft, ensuring proper timing and spacing. Throughout the process, we'll focus on defining and controlling key parameters like dimensions, profile shape, and material properties to create a fully customizable and functional camshaft design. By the end of this lecture, you'll have a thorough understanding of the techniques involved in designing automotive parts like camshafts and be prepared to develop your own custom designs for various engine and performance applications.

In this first part of a two-part lecture, we will guide you through the process of designing a piston using SolidWorks. You'll learn how to use essential tools like the Extrude and Revolve commands to create the main body of the piston, including the crown and skirt. We'll also explore the use of the Extrude Cut feature to create the piston pin bore and ring grooves. Throughout the process, we'll focus on defining and controlling key parameters like dimensions, material properties, and groove specifications to create a fully customizable and functional piston design. By the end of this first lecture, you'll have a strong foundation in designing automotive parts like pistons and be prepared to continue with Part 2, where we will delve deeper into the design process and cover more advanced features.

Building upon the foundation laid in Part 1, this second part of the two-part lecture on designing a piston using SolidWorks will guide you through more advanced features and techniques. You'll learn how to use essential tools like the Fillet and Chamfer commands to refine the piston's edges, ensuring smooth transitions and improved performance. We'll also explore the use of the Shell feature to create the proper wall thickness for the piston skirt, improving its strength and durability.

In this lecture, we will guide you through the process of designing a turbine blade using SolidWorks. You'll learn how to use essential tools like the Loft and Boundary commands to create the complex aerodynamic shape of the blade, ensuring optimal performance and efficiency. We'll also explore the use of guide curves and profiles to control the twist and curvature of the blade surfaces.

In addition, we'll demonstrate how to create the blade's root, which is essential for attaching the blade to the turbine disk, and how to utilize the Circular Pattern tool to position and replicate the blades around the disk accurately. Throughout the process, we'll focus on defining and controlling key parameters like dimensions, material properties, and aerodynamic considerations to create a fully customizable and functional turbine blade design. By the end of this lecture, you'll have a comprehensive understanding of the techniques involved in designing automotive parts like turbine blades and be prepared to develop your own custom designs for various engine and performance applications.

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Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Solidworks: Learn by Following and Doing Short Projects with these activities:
Review Basic Engineering Principles
Reinforce your understanding of fundamental engineering concepts to better grasp SolidWorks' underlying principles.
Browse courses on Engineering Drawing
Show steps
  • Review notes on geometric dimensioning and tolerancing.
  • Practice sketching basic shapes and orthographic projections.
  • Solve simple problems related to stress and strain.
Exploring SolidWorks
Enhance your practical skills with a tutorial-based guide to SolidWorks.
Show steps
  • Work through the tutorials in the book, focusing on areas covered in the course.
  • Experiment with different settings and options to deepen your understanding.
  • Try to apply the techniques learned to your own design projects.
Read 'SolidWorks Bible'
Supplement your learning with a comprehensive guide to SolidWorks.
Show steps
  • Read the chapters relevant to the course syllabus.
  • Try out the examples provided in the book within SolidWorks.
  • Take notes on key concepts and techniques.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Recreate Models from Images
Improve your modeling skills by recreating existing designs from images or drawings.
Show steps
  • Find images of mechanical parts or assemblies online.
  • Attempt to recreate the models in SolidWorks based on the images.
  • Compare your models to the original images and identify areas for improvement.
Design a Simple Mechanical Assembly
Apply your knowledge by designing a mechanical assembly, such as a gear system or a simple machine.
Show steps
  • Choose a mechanical assembly to design.
  • Create individual parts in SolidWorks.
  • Assemble the parts and ensure proper functionality.
  • Create drawings for manufacturing.
3D Print a Designed Part
Solidify your understanding of SolidWorks by designing a part and then 3D printing it.
Show steps
  • Design a part suitable for 3D printing in SolidWorks.
  • Export the part as an STL file.
  • Prepare the file for 3D printing using slicing software.
  • 3D print the part and evaluate the results.
Follow Advanced SolidWorks Tutorials
Expand your knowledge by following advanced tutorials on specific SolidWorks features.
Show steps
  • Search for tutorials on advanced topics like surfacing or simulation.
  • Follow the tutorials step-by-step, paying attention to the techniques used.
  • Apply the techniques learned to your own design challenges.

Career center

Learners who complete Solidworks: Learn by Following and Doing Short Projects will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
CAD Technician
CAD Technicians use computer-aided design (CAD) software to create technical drawings and models. This course focuses on Solidworks providing specific training in creating parts, assemblies, and drawings. The concise nature of the lessons, and the focus on hands-on learning, should greatly assist a CAD technician in enhancing their skills and efficiency in using Solidworks. The course's emphasis on practical examples and its coverage of essential Solidworks features makes it an excellent resource for CAD technicians looking to expand their capabilities.
Design Engineer
Design Engineers research and develop ideas and processes for new products, and they improve the performance and design of existing products. This course helps build a strong base in Solidworks, helping them design complex parts, assemblies, and projects. A design engineer will benefit from the hands-on exercises, each carefully chosen. By actively working with Solidworks, concepts will become internalized better than just reading alone. The exercises in this course will help design engineers to create parametric and adaptable models.
Mechanical Engineer
Mechanical Engineers design, develop, and test mechanical and thermal devices, including tools, engines, machines, and other mechanical devices. This course helps build a foundation in Solidworks, which is widely used in the field for creating 3D models and simulations. A mechanical engineer will find the hands-on exercises particularly helpful in solidifying their understanding and in applying their knowledge to the design of parts and assemblies. Mastering Solidworks through this course enhances a mechanical engineer's ability to create and analyze designs, helping in the optimization and validation of product designs.
Automotive Engineer
Automotive Engineers are involved in the design, development, manufacture and testing of vehicles and components. This course helps automotive engineers build a strong foundation in Solidworks, which is used for designing parts like camshafts, pistons, and turbine blades. The course’s emphasis on hands-on learning and its coverage of essential Solidworks features makes it an excellent resource for automotive engineers looking to expand their capabilities. The skills gained in this course are directly applicable to the design and analysis of automotive components.
Industrial Designer
Industrial Designers combine art, business, and engineering to design the products people use every day. This course helps industrial designers get familiar with Solidworks, which is used to create detailed 3D models of product designs. The course's hands-on approach, with its emphasis on learning by doing, is particularly beneficial for industrial designers. By actively engaging with Solidworks, industrial designers will develop the skills needed to bring their design concepts to life.
Tool and Die Maker
Tool and Die Makers are skilled machinists who create precision tools, dies, and molds used in manufacturing. This course helps tool and die makers build a base in Solidworks, which is used extensively in tool and die design. A tool and die maker may find value in the hands-on exercises, which reinforce learning and give them practical design experience. The acquired skills will help tool and die makers create and optimize designs for tools, dies, and molds.
Manufacturing Engineer
Manufacturing Engineers develop and optimize manufacturing processes to ensure efficient and cost-effective production. This course helps manufacturing engineers learn Solidworks, which is used for designing tooling, fixtures, and manufacturing aids. A manufacturing engineer may find this course useful, as it teaches industry relevant skills that are applicable in engineering and design disciplines like automotive, aerospace, and consumer products. The modular structure of the course, with each lesson under ten minutes, provides flexibility for busy manufacturing engineers to learn at their own pace.
Simulation Specialist
Simulation Specialists use computer software to model and simulate the behavior of physical systems. Often, this role requires an advanced degree such as a Master's or PhD. This course helps simulation specialists get familiar with Solidworks to create accurate 3D models for simulations. A simulation specialist will find the hands-on exercises useful in learning how to model complex parts and assemblies. Mastering Solidworks through this course will make simulation specialists more effective creating models for various engineering applications.
Aerospace Engineer
Aerospace Engineers design, test, and supervise the manufacture of aircraft and spacecraft. As Solidworks is used in aerospace engineering for designing components and systems, this course may come in handy. The course's hands-on approach helps aerospace engineers solidify their understanding of Solidworks, which is crucial for creating reliable and efficient designs. The course’s focus on practical exercises and projects is helpful for aerospace engineers looking to enhance their modeling skills.
Product Designer
Product Designers are responsible for the form and function of manufactured products, and often use CAD software to visualize prototypes and production models. This course may be useful to help product designers get familiar with Solidworks modeling in an easy-to-follow manner. Product designers may find value in the hands-on exercises, which reinforce learning and give them practical experience with Solidworks. The skills gained will help product designers bring their ideas to life improving efficiency and precision when using digital design tools.
Robotics Engineer
Robotics Engineers design, build, and program robots and robotic systems for various applications. This course may be useful to robotics engineers who need to design mechanical components and assemblies for robots. The course’s hands-on approach ensures robotics engineers gain practical experience in using Solidworks. The skills acquired in this course will help robotics engineers to design robots and automate manufacturing processes with Solidworks.
Architectural Drafter
Architectural Drafters create technical drawings and plans for buildings and structures, often using CAD software. This course helps architectural drafters utilize Solidworks to create detailed models of architectural components and systems. The course’s focus on hands-on exercises ensures that drafters gain practical experience in using Solidworks. This may be useful for architectural drafters looking to learn a new skill.
Civil Engineer
Civil Engineers design, construct, and maintain infrastructure projects such as roads, bridges, and buildings. While civil engineering typically focuses on large-scale structures, Solidworks can be useful for designing smaller components and systems within these projects. This course may be useful to civil engineers who need to create detailed models of specific elements. The skills gained can be applied to the design of structural components and systems, improving their efficiency and accuracy.
HVAC Designer
HVAC Designers plan and design heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems for buildings. While specialized HVAC software exists, Solidworks can be useful for designing custom components and ductwork. This course helps HVAC designers use Solidworks to create detailed models of HVAC components and systems. The course’s focus on hands-on exercises ensures that HVAC designers will gain practical experience. This may be useful for HVAC designers looking to learn a new skill.
Structural Engineer
Structural Engineers analyze, design, and oversee the construction of structural components and systems of buildings and other structures. This course may be useful to structural engineers who need to create detailed 3D models of structural elements. The course's emphasis on hands-on learning and practical examples makes it a helpful resource for structural engineers looking to enhance their modeling skills. The knowledge will aid in creating and analyzing structural designs.

Reading list

We've selected two books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Solidworks: Learn by Following and Doing Short Projects.
The 'SolidWorks Bible' comprehensive guide covering all aspects of SolidWorks, from basic modeling to advanced techniques. It serves as an excellent reference for understanding SolidWorks features in depth. is particularly useful for those aiming to master SolidWorks beyond the introductory level. It is commonly used by both students and professionals.
'Exploring SolidWorks' hands-on tutorial-based book that guides users through the software's features with practical examples. It is well-suited for beginners and those who prefer a learn-by-doing approach. provides a solid foundation for understanding SolidWorks' core functionalities. It is often used as a textbook in introductory SolidWorks courses.

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