What Language Are SolidWorks Macros Written In?

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When it comes to automating tasks in SolidWorks, macros are an invaluable tool. Macros allow users to record a series of actions and play them back at a later time, saving time and effort.

But have you ever wondered what language is used to write SolidWorks macros? Let’s dive in and find out!

The Language of SolidWorks Macros

SolidWorks macros are written in Visual Basic for Applications (VBA). VBA is a programming language that is integrated into many Microsoft applications, including SolidWorks. It provides the necessary tools and functionality to create powerful macros.

VBA is based on the Visual Basic programming language, which was developed by Microsoft in the 1990s. Visual Basic is known for its simplicity and ease of use, making it an ideal choice for creating macros in SolidWorks.

Getting Started with VBA

If you’re new to VBA or programming in general, don’t worry! SolidWorks offers a comprehensive set of resources to help you get started.

To access the VBA editor in SolidWorks, simply go to the “Tools” menu, select “Macro,” and then click on “Edit.” This will open up the VBA editor where you can begin writing your macros.

Note: It’s important to mention that if you don’t see the “Macro” option under the “Tools” menu, you may need to enable it first. To do so, go to “Tools,” then “Add-Ins,” and check the box next to “SolidWorks API.”

The Structure of a SolidWorks Macro

A SolidWorks macro consists of several key elements:

  • Subroutines: A subroutine is a block of code that performs a specific task. It is the main building block of a macro.
  • Variables: Variables are used to store data that can be manipulated and used throughout the macro.
  • Conditional Statements: Conditional statements, such as “if” and “else,” allow you to control the flow of your macro based on certain conditions.
  • Loops: Loops, such as “for” and “while,” enable you to repeat a block of code multiple times.

An Example SolidWorks Macro

Let’s take a look at a simple example of a SolidWorks macro written in VBA. This macro creates a new part document, adds a sketch, and draws a rectangle in the sketch:

Sub Main()
    Dim swApp As SldWorks.SldWorks
    Dim swModel As SldWorks.ModelDoc2
    Dim swPart As SldWorks.PartDoc
    Dim swSketchMgr As SldWorks.SketchManager
    Dim swSketch As SldWorks.Sketch

    ' Create new part document
    Set swApp = Application.SldWorks
    Set swModel = swApp.NewDocument("C:\ProgramData\SolidWorks\SolidWorks 2022\templates\Part.prtdot", 0, 0, 0)
    Set swPart = swModel

    ' Activate sketching environment
    Set swSketchMgr = swPart.SketchManager
    Set swSketch = swSketchMgr.InsertSketch2(True)

    ' Draw rectangle in sketch
    swSketch.CreateCenterRectangle 0, 0, 0, 0.1, 0.1, 0

    ' Exit sketching environment
    swModel.ClearSelection2 True
    swModel.EditRebuild3
    swModel.ViewZoomtofit2

End Sub

This example demonstrates a basic SolidWorks macro that utilizes the various elements mentioned earlier. It creates a new part document, activates the sketching environment, draws a rectangle in the sketch, and finally exits the sketching environment.

Conclusion

VBA is the language of choice for writing SolidWorks macros. With its simplicity and integration with SolidWorks, it provides an excellent platform for automating tasks and increasing productivity. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced programmer, VBA allows you to unleash the full potential of SolidWorks macros.

So go ahead, dive into the world of VBA and start creating your own powerful SolidWorks macros!