Creating a Routing in SolidWorks is an essential skill for any mechanical designer or engineer. It allows you to define the paths of tubes, cables, and electrical harnesses within your 3D models. In this tutorial, we will walk through the steps to create a routing in SolidWorks.
Step 1: Setting up the Routing Environment
To start creating a routing, you need to make sure that you have the routing environment enabled in SolidWorks. Follow these steps to set it up:
1. Open SolidWorks
Launch SolidWorks on your computer and open the assembly or part file where you want to create the routing.
2. Enable Routing Add-In
Go to Tools > Add-Ins from the menu bar.
In the Add-Ins window, check the box next to “Routing” and click OK. This will enable the Routing tools and features in SolidWorks.
Step 2: Creating a New Route
Once you have enabled the Routing add-in, you can begin creating a new route within your assembly or part file. Here’s how:
1. Activate Routing Tool
Click on the Routing tab at the top of the SolidWorks window. This will activate all the routing tools and features. Start a New Route
In the Routing tab, click on New Route. This will open up a dialog box where you can specify various parameters for your route.
3. Define Route Parameters
In the New Route dialog box, specify details such as route type (Electrical, Tube/Pipe, or Flexible), diameter or size of your route, and other relevant information based on your project requirements.
Step 3: Adding Path Segments to Your Route
Once you have created a new route, it’s time to add path segments to define the routing path for your cables, tubes, or harnesses. Follow these steps:
1. Select Route Path
Click on the Add Route Path button in the Routing toolbar. This allows you to select the path where you want to add your route segments. Add Segments
Using sketch tools or existing edges in your assembly, draw or select the desired path for your route segments. You can use tools like lines, arcs, splines, and rectangles to create complex paths. Customize Segments
Once you have added a segment, you can customize it using various routing tools and options. For example, you can adjust the size and shape of the segment, specify fittings and connectors at specific points along the path, and define bend radiuses.
Step 4: Adding Fittings and Connectors
To complete your routing design properly, you need to add fittings and connectors at appropriate locations along the route. Activate Fittings Library
Click on Fittings Library in the Routing tab to open up a library of pre-defined fittings and connectors. Browse Fittings Library
In the Fittings Library window, browse through different categories of fittings such as elbows, tees, couplings, etc., based on your project requirements. Add Fittings/Connectors
Drag and drop suitable fittings/connectors from the library onto specific points along your route segments. SolidWorks will automatically position and align them correctly.
Step 5: Finishing Your Route Design
After adding all necessary route segments, fittings, and connectors, it’s time to finalize your design by making any additional adjustments or modifications. Modify Route Properties
Click on the Route Properties button in the Routing toolbar to open up the Route Properties dialog box. Here, you can modify various properties of your route, such as material, color, and other specifications. Validate and Test
Before finalizing your route design, it’s crucial to validate and test it for any errors or conflicts. SolidWorks provides tools like Route Analysis and Collision Detection to help you identify and resolve any issues. Save and Export
Once you are satisfied with your routing design, save your assembly or part file. You can also export the routing data to other formats like STEP or IGES for use in other CAD software or for manufacturing purposes.
In Conclusion
Creating a routing in SolidWorks is a valuable skill that allows you to define the paths of tubes, cables, and electrical harnesses within your 3D models. By following the steps outlined in this tutorial, you can easily create and customize routes, add fittings/connectors, and finalize your design with ease. SolidWorks’ robust routing tools make it efficient to create accurate and detailed routing designs for various engineering projects.