How Do I Enable MBD in SolidWorks?

by

How Do I Enable MBD in SolidWorks?

MBD, or Model-Based Definition, is a powerful tool in SolidWorks that allows you to define and communicate product manufacturing information directly within the 3D model. By enabling MBD, you can eliminate the need for 2D drawings and improve communication among designers, engineers, and manufacturers. In this tutorial, we will walk you through the steps to enable MBD in SolidWorks.

Step 1: Open your part or assembly file

To enable MBD, first, open your part or assembly file in SolidWorks. You can do this by going to File > Open, or simply by double-clicking on the file.

Step 2: Go to the FeatureManager Design Tree

In the FeatureManager Design Tree on the left-hand side of your screen, locate the SolidWorks MBD tab. Click on it to expand the options.

Step 3: Enable MBD

In the SolidWorks MBD tab, you will find an option called ‘Enable Model-Based Definition’. Check this box to enable MBD in your part or assembly.

Note:

The ‘Enable Model-Based Definition’ option might not be available if you are using an older version of SolidWorks or if you don’t have access to certain licenses. Make sure you have the necessary permissions and updated software version.

Step 4: Define Product Manufacturing Information (PMI)

Once you have enabled MBD, you can start defining Product Manufacturing Information (PMI) directly on your 3D model. This includes annotations, dimensions, geometric tolerances, surface finishes, and much more.

To add annotations or dimensions, simply select the desired tool from the Annotations tab in the SolidWorks MBD panel. Click on the appropriate locations on your model to place them.

To add geometric tolerances or surface finishes, go to the Tolerances tab and select the relevant options. Again, click on your model to position them correctly.

Step 5: Save your changes

After defining all the necessary PMI, make sure to save your changes by going to File > Save, or by using the keyboard shortcut Ctrl+S.

Step 6: Share your MBD-enabled model

Once you have enabled MBD and defined all the necessary PMI, you can share your MBD-enabled model with others. This can be done by sending them the SolidWorks file or by exporting it to a neutral format such as STEP or 3D PDF that retains all the MBD information.

Note:

To export your MBD-enabled model to a neutral format like STEP or 3D PDF, go to File > Save As, select the desired format, and follow the prompts.

In conclusion,

Enabling MBD in SolidWorks allows you to define and communicate product manufacturing information directly within your 3D model. By following these simple steps, you can unleash the power of MBD and streamline your design and manufacturing processes.

  • Action Points:
    • Step 1: Open your part or assembly file.
    • Step 2: Go to the FeatureManager Design Tree.
    • Step 3: Enable MBD.
    • Step 4: Define Product Manufacturing Information (PMI).
    • Step 5: Save your changes.
    • Step 6: Share your MBD-enabled model.

To learn more about MBD and its advanced features, refer to the SolidWorks documentation or explore online resources and tutorials.

Happy modeling with SolidWorks!