For one, users can now make section views of long machines, say 3 ft at a time. In addition, the DWG editor lets users edit legacy drawings without translating them into another CAD file format. And the DWG gateway allows reading and writing any version of a DWG drawing. There are also spell checkers for drawings, spreadsheet-like functions for tables, and smart components that the developer says make it easier to build assemblies than in past versions. When building assemblies, users can, for example, slide a pillow block bearing onto a stepped shaft, and the bearing orients and sizes itself to the shaft diameter. If the shaft is to be parallel with the mounting plate, the software also sizes spacers along with nuts and bolts for fastening the components. Also, a design checker automates searching for company-preferred styles and the required information on drawings. And Macintosh users can now open eDrawings.
SolidWorks Corp., 300 Baker Ave., Concord, MA 01742, (508) 371-2910, solidworks.com
