The SolidWorks computer program is specifically designed to help engineers with the design of sheet metal components. Generally used to close the gap between designers and manufacturers SolidWorks helps keep costs to a minimum, while increasing delivery times. SolidWorks allows designers and engineers to model completed parts, producing 3D images that can then be used by manufacturers to bring the engineer’s vision into being. One of the things that the The SolidWorks computer program allows designers and fabricators to do is identify, for purpose of each product, what exactly they mean by sheet metal. This is done by inputting factors such as how thick the sheet metal is. Engineers can then design sheet metal products virtually before bends are made, and to determine whether particular cuts and folds are indeed practical to produce. Whatsmore, sheet metal panels can be named and labeled so as to avoid confusion about how many of which panels should be fabricated first. Later, this also helps the assembly process because every component will be correctly marked with information like where they fit into the overall sheet metal design. The SolidWorks computer program will also allow engineers to design of layered or multiple extrusions, add form radius and other features after the product has been assembled in the CAD design model. This will help both the designer and the manufacturer to align tabs, perforations or other characteristics that need to line up on a number of complicated sheet metal panels. The SolidWorks computer design application enables the design and manufacture of extremely complicated features. The designer can test tolerances and clearances during the design phase to ensure a problem free assembly of the product. The software enables to designers to create designs using small gaps so as to allow the software to unfold the computer model. This allows design features to stand out, so that they will be seen clearly. This feature will be extremely useful if panels that will be touching in the actual product but need to be seen separately by the manufacturer so that they can be properly made. One of the best aspects of the SolidWorks design program is that it allows designers and engineers to alter design features as needed, such as unfolding a fold, uncutting a cut, etc. It can also help designers to take into consideration that design changes may have an effect on other parts of the design. The clear benefit to this is that any inconsistencies will be found before the beginning of the manufacturing process, likely saving you a great deal of wasted time and money. Engineers find themselves able to move a product from conception and modeling through to a workable design more easily when using the SolidWorks metal design software. If the designer’s plan is clearly laid out and easy to interpret, manufacturers will be able to construct components which will perform exactly as the designer intended, leading to efficiency in the product’s manufacture and production. Efficient production makes for less material being wasted, less man hours, lower production costs, and thus a higher profit margin. Marc Anderes is the Vice President of Operations of Maloya Laser which specializes in Metal Manufacturing and Laser Cutting with advanced laser systems, servicing medical, aerospace, scientific and transportation requirements.
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