Is eDrawings Part of SolidWorks?

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Is eDrawings Part of SolidWorks?

eDrawings is a powerful and versatile tool developed by SolidWorks to facilitate the sharing and collaboration of 3D designs. It is often used in industries such as manufacturing, engineering, and design that rely heavily on CAD (Computer-Aided Design) software. While eDrawings is closely associated with SolidWorks, it is important to understand that it is not an integrated part of the software itself.

eDrawings serves as a standalone application that allows users to view, analyze, and share 3D models and 2D drawings created in various CAD formats. It supports a wide range of file formats including SolidWorks files (SLDPRT, SLDASM, SLDDRW), as well as formats like AutoCAD (DWG, DXF), CATIA V4/V5, PDES, IGES, and many more.

The Benefits of eDrawings

eDrawings offers several advantages for both designers and collaborators:

  • User-Friendly Interface: The application provides an intuitive interface that makes it easy for users to navigate through complex 3D models and drawings.
  • Cross-Platform Compatibility: eDrawings can be installed on both Windows and Mac operating systems, enabling seamless collaboration between different platforms.
  • Markup Tools: Users can add comments, measurements, annotations, and markups directly onto the model or drawing to convey specific instructions or highlight areas of interest.
  • Drawing Comparison: You can compare different versions of drawings side by side to identify changes, ensuring accuracy and eliminating errors.
  • Dynamic Sectioning: eDrawings allows you to dynamically cut through 3D models to inspect internal components and analyze assembly relationships.

Using eDrawings with SolidWorks

While eDrawings is not integrated into SolidWorks, it can be seamlessly used alongside the software. Once you have created a 3D model or drawing in SolidWorks, you can export it as an eDrawings file (.eprt, .easm, .edrw) for easy sharing and collaboration.

To open an eDrawings file within SolidWorks, simply go to the “File” menu and click on “Open.” From here, you can browse for the desired eDrawings file and import it into your SolidWorks environment. This allows you to further modify or enhance the design if necessary.

eDrawings Viewer

If you do not have access to SolidWorks or do not require editing capabilities, you can use the free eDrawings Viewer. The viewer enables anyone to open, view, and print eDrawings files without the need for CAD software. This makes it convenient for clients, suppliers, or team members who may not possess a CAD license but still need to review and provide feedback on designs.

The eDrawings Viewer retains all the essential functionalities of the full version of eDrawings but limits editing capabilities. Users can navigate through models, explore cross-sections, view exploded views (if available), and even play animations if they are included in the design.

In Conclusion

eDrawings is a valuable companion tool for SolidWorks users, allowing them to share and collaborate on 3D designs and 2D drawings with ease. While it is not directly integrated into SolidWorks, it seamlessly works alongside the software, enhancing the overall design workflow. Whether you are a designer, engineer, or simply someone who needs to review CAD files, eDrawings offers a user-friendly and efficient solution.

So next time you need to share your SolidWorks designs with colleagues or clients, consider utilizing the power of eDrawings to enhance collaboration and improve communication.