Is eDrawings Same as SolidWorks?
If you are in the field of 3D design and engineering, you might have come across both eDrawings and SolidWorks. While they are related, there are significant differences between the two. In this article, we will delve into the similarities and differences to help you understand their functionality and purpose.
The Basics of SolidWorks
SolidWorks is a powerful computer-aided design (CAD) software widely used in various industries. It offers a comprehensive set of tools for designing and creating 3D models, assemblies, and drawings. With its user-friendly interface and extensive feature set, SolidWorks enables engineers and designers to bring their ideas to life.
Introducing eDrawings
eDrawings, on the other hand, is not a standalone CAD software like SolidWorks. Instead, it is a collaboration tool developed by SolidWorks Corporation that allows users to share and view 3D models in an easily accessible format. eDrawings provides a simplified interface for non-CAD users to explore 3D designs without requiring them to install CAD software on their computers.
Key Similarities
While eDrawings serves as a viewer for SolidWorks files, it is important to note that both eDrawings and SolidWorks share some common characteristics:
- File Compatibility: Both eDrawings and SolidWorks support a wide range of file formats, allowing users to open and work with various types of CAD files.
- Collaboration: Both tools facilitate collaboration between designers, engineers, manufacturers, and clients by providing easy sharing options for 3D models.
Differences Between eDrawings and SolidWorks
Now, let’s explore the key differences between eDrawings and SolidWorks:
Functionality:
SolidWorks offers a comprehensive suite of CAD tools for designing, analyzing, and manufacturing 3D models. It provides advanced features like parametric modeling, simulation, rendering, and animation. SolidWorks is primarily aimed at professionals who need a full-fledged CAD software for their design projects.
eDrawings, on the other hand, focuses on visualization and collaboration. It allows users to view 3D models in an interactive format, perform measurements, markup designs with comments and annotations, and even create cross-sections. eDrawings is designed to be user-friendly and accessible to non-CAD users.
Licensing:
SolidWorks requires a license to be installed on your computer. This license grants access to all the features and functionalities offered by the software. SolidWorks licenses are typically obtained through purchase or subscription plans.
eDrawings, however, is available as a free viewer that can be downloaded from the official SolidWorks website. The free version of eDrawings allows users to open and view 3D models created in SolidWorks without needing a license.
Platform Support:
SolidWorks is a desktop application that runs on Windows operating systems. It offers robust performance and integration with other CAD tools.
eDrawings, on the other hand, is available not only as a desktop application but also as a mobile app for iOS and Android devices. This makes it convenient for users to view 3D models on their smartphones or tablets.
Conclusion
In summary, while eDrawings and SolidWorks are related, they serve different purposes in the world of 3D design and engineering. SolidWorks is a full-featured CAD software with advanced capabilities, whereas eDrawings is a viewer and collaboration tool that allows users to explore 3D models without the need for a CAD license. Understanding their distinctions will help you choose the right tool for your specific needs.
Remember, whether you choose SolidWorks or utilize eDrawings as a viewer, both tools can greatly enhance your design workflow and collaboration process.