How Do I Use SolidWorks Routing?

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How Do I Use SolidWorks Routing?

SolidWorks Routing is a powerful tool that enables designers and engineers to create complex electrical, piping, and tubing systems. Whether you’re designing a simple wiring harness or a sophisticated hydraulic system, SolidWorks Routing offers a wide range of features and functionalities to streamline the design process.

Getting Started

To start using SolidWorks Routing, follow these steps:

  1. Create a New Assembly: Open SolidWorks and create a new assembly file. This will serve as the main workspace for your routing project.
  2. Enable Routing: Go to the “Add-Ins” tab in the menu bar and select “Routing” from the drop-down list. This will activate the routing functionality within SolidWorks.

Creating Routes

Once you’ve set up your assembly, it’s time to create routes for your electrical, piping, or tubing systems. Here’s how:

Create Electrical Routes

  1. Select Electrical Components: In the “Routing” tab of the command manager, click on “Electrical.” Choose the desired electrical components from the extensive library available in SolidWorks.
  2. Add Connectors: Place connectors on your components by clicking on their connection points. SolidWorks Routing will automatically position them correctly.
  3. Define Route Path: Sketch a path for your electrical route using lines or splines.

    Ensure that the route follows logical paths and avoids obstacles.

  4. Add Fittings and Accessories: Insert fittings, clamps, brackets, or any other accessories required along the route. SolidWorks Routing offers a wide range of standard and custom fittings.
  5. Finalize the Route: Review the route and make any necessary adjustments. Once satisfied, you can generate a 3D model of the route.

Create Piping and Tubing Routes

  1. Select Piping or Tubing Components: Similar to electrical routes, click on “Piping” or “Tubing” in the “Routing” tab. Choose the appropriate components from the available library.
  2. Add Connectors and Route Path: Place connectors on components and define the route path using sketch entities. Ensure that the path is logical, efficient, and free from obstructions.
  3. Add Fittings and Valves: Insert fittings, valves, flanges, or any other required accessories along the route.

    SolidWorks Routing offers an extensive range of standard fittings for various piping systems.

  4. Validate and Finalize: Validate your piping or tubing route for any errors or clashes. Make necessary adjustments if needed. Once done, generate a 3D model of the route.

Generating Reports

SolidWorks Routing allows you to generate reports that provide valuable information about your routes. These reports can include detailed BOM (Bill of Materials), wire cut lengths, pipe cut lengths, etc. Generating reports is simple:

  1. Navigate to Reports Tab: In SolidWorks Routing, click on the “Reports” tab in the command manager.
  2. Select Report Type: Choose the type of report you want to generate from the available options like BOM or cut length.
  3. Customize the Report: Define the desired parameters, such as including/excluding specific components or accessories.
  4. Generate the Report: Click on “Generate” to create the report. You can save it in various formats like Excel, Word, or PDF.

In Conclusion

SolidWorks Routing is a versatile tool that greatly simplifies the design and documentation of electrical, piping, and tubing systems. By following the steps outlined above, you can leverage its capabilities to create efficient and accurate routes for your projects.

So why wait? Start using SolidWorks Routing today and enhance your design process!