How Do I Run a SolidWorks Inspection?

Running a SolidWorks Inspection can be a complex process, but with the right guidance, you can easily navigate through it. In this tutorial, we will guide you step-by-step on how to run a SolidWorks Inspection effectively.

Step 1: Prepare the Drawing

Before you begin running SolidWorks Inspection, make sure you have a properly prepared drawing file. This includes all the necessary dimensions and tolerances that need to be inspected.

1.1 Create a New Project

To start running SolidWorks Inspection, open the software and create a new project. You can do this by clicking on “New Project” in the File tab or by using the keyboard shortcut Ctrl + N.2 Import the Drawing

Once you have created a new project, import your drawing into SolidWorks Inspection. To import the drawing, go to the Insert tab and click on “Import Drawings”. Select your drawing file from your computer and click “Open”.

Step 2: Define Characteristics

In this step, you will define the characteristics that need to be inspected in your drawing. These characteristics include dimensions, tolerances, and other geometric features.

2.1 Add Balloons

To define characteristics in SolidWorks Inspection, start by adding balloons to your drawing. Balloons are used to identify specific dimensions or features that need to be inspected.

  • Bold Text: To add balloons, go to the Balloons tab and click on “Add Balloons”. A dialog box will appear where you can select the dimension or feature you want to add a balloon for.
  • Underlined Text: Once you have selected the dimension or feature, click on the location where you want to place the balloon on your drawing. SolidWorks Inspection will automatically generate a balloon number for you.

2.2 Define Tolerances

After adding balloons, it’s time to define the tolerances for each characteristic. To define tolerances, double-click on a balloon to open the characteristics dialog box.

  • Bold Text: In the characteristics dialog box, you can specify the tolerance values for each dimension or feature. Use the provided fields to enter the upper and lower limits of tolerance.
  • Underlined Text: Additionally, you can also specify other properties such as material requirements or inspection method in this dialog box.

Step 3: Generate Inspection Report

Once you have defined all the necessary characteristics and their tolerances, it’s time to generate an inspection report in SolidWorks Inspection.

3.1 Set Inspection Options

Prior to generating an inspection report, make sure to set your desired inspection options. These options include selecting units of measurement, choosing report templates, and specifying other preferences.

  • Bold Text: To set inspection options, go to the Options tab in SolidWorks Inspection and click on “Inspection Options”. In this dialog box, you can customize various settings according to your requirements.
  • Underlined Text: It is important to carefully review and adjust these options as they directly impact how your inspection report will be generated.

3.2 Generate Report

To generate an inspection report in SolidWorks Inspection, go to the Reports tab and click on “Generate Report”. Select your preferred report template and specify the desired output location for your report.

  • Bold Text: Once you have chosen all the necessary options, click on “Generate” to create the inspection report.
  • Underlined Text: SolidWorks Inspection will now generate a comprehensive and visually engaging inspection report that includes all the defined characteristics, their tolerances, and any additional information you have specified.

By following these steps, you can successfully run a SolidWorks Inspection. Remember to always review your inspection report thoroughly before sharing it with others or proceeding with further manufacturing processes. SolidWorks Inspection is an invaluable tool that helps ensure accuracy and quality in your designs.

Now that you have learned how to run a SolidWorks Inspection, you can efficiently carry out inspections for your drawings. Practice using SolidWorks Inspection regularly to enhance your skills and improve efficiency in quality control processes.