Carrosserie Cazaux are a leading manufacturer of custom-made refrigeration units for carrier vehicles of up to 26 tonnes, as well as containers, cold rooms, trailers and custom units.
Based in France, Carrosserie Cazaux was founded in 1983.
Carrosserrie started using DriveWorks Solo in 2019 and used it to develop a configurator inside SOLIDWORKSthat drives dimensions and appearances.
They have also automated the placement of different features on a model.
When describing how DriveWorks has benefitted the company, Guillaume Guerin, design engineer at Carrosserie Cazaux says that “DriveWorks is interactive and fun to use, more flexible, and benefits from the excel syntax in the rules builder.”
Guillaume says that this is particularly beneficial when first learning how to use DriveWorks.
At Carrosserie, DriveWorks is used internally by the engineering team.
Since implementing the software, they have found it much easier to train up new members of the team, owing to the simplicity in writing the rules and in using the software itself.
Guillaume says that Carrosserie have benefitted particularly from using tables in DriveWorks Solo.
The ability to work with tabular data allows the user to import data into static tables, from any existing databases and spreadsheets.
This data can then be queried and used to drive new variations.
Carrosserie Cazaux also uses DriveWorks Solo to automate the creation of manufacturing data and drawings.
The image on the right shows an example of a custom 2D drawing that has been automatically generated by DriveWorks Solo inside SOLIDWORKS.
Each drawing is updated and customized with the company logo, the designer, the date and the client. It is then ready to be sent to the manufacturing floor.
Carroserrie Cazaux have also benefitted from the ability to design their own forms inside DriveWorks Solo.
These then appear in the SOLIDWORKS task pane.
Using decisions, you can also set up a custom navigation.
This allows you to show specific forms and follow a set path based on values entered.
When asked what the most important thing about implementing DriveWorks Solo has been for the company, Guillaume says the speed in getting our products into production.
We look forward to following the progress at Carrosserie Cazaux!
Follow the 3 easy steps below to download the DriveWorks Solo 30 Day Free Trial and see what time savings you can achieve.
Automate SOLIDWORKS Parts, Assemblies and Drawings.
Save time, reduce errors and innovate more.
Explore a range of industry examples, learn how they are set up and see whats possible with DriveWorks Solo.
Our industry sample projects are a great way to get started with DriveWorks design automation and using DriveWorks to create your first configurator.
We have created the sample projects so you can pick them apart and discover how they have been set up, or use them as a source of inspiration for your own projects.
All of ourDriveWorks SoloSample Projects have already been set up so all you need to do is download and run them inside SOLIDWORKS.
Our Technical Team has also created handy walk-through videos for each project.
Theyre a quick and easy way to demonstrate how to set up and run the projects, making it easier than ever for you to get started with DriveWorks.
The DriveWorks Solo Agricultural Silo Configurator Project is a great example of whats possible with DriveWorks Solo.
Configure an Agricultural Silo specific to your requirements. Enter your design requirements and select from options, more options will appear based on the selections you make and the rules behind the project.
Preview the changes youve made to models, drawings and documents before hitting generate when your new parts, assemblies, drawings and documents are created automatically.
Drawings are updated with views, annotations, position and scale changed automatically. Generation reports are created, giving you a complete audit trail of generation reports, allowing you to check status and results.
Youll then see your results – parts and assemblies for manufacture, GA and detailed drawings (DWG, DXF & PDF) and documents including quotes, BOMs and cover notes – all saved with good file management, based on the projects rules.
Run the configurator over and over again to produce different order specific outcomes. New files are generated automatically, saving you time.
Download and explore our DriveWorks Solo Agricultural Silo Configurator Sample Project.
Download and explore ourDriveWorks Solo Sample Projectsto get started quickly and get inspiration for your own DriveWorks Solo projects.
UseDriveWorks Soloto quickly and easilycreate and configure custom productsinside SOLIDWORKS速.
The rules-based design automationeliminates errorsand expensive, time-consuming design changes.
Automate repetitive SOLIDWORKS tasksand free up engineers to focus on product innovation and development.
DriveWorks Solo iseasy to set up, maintain and use. Deliver custom products faster and with greater accuracy, without using complex macros, design tables or code.
We’ve created help and training resources to make sure you get the most from DriveWorks Solo.
Explore our wide range of DriveWorks resources here.
Now is a great time to look at ways to embrace digital transformation andworksmarter.
Save time, reduce errors, improve quality and streamline processes. with DriveWorks.
See what you can achieve with design automation andget started for free with the DriveWorks Solo 30 day free trial.
Many people are using this time in lockdown to learn and research ways they can work smarter. Embracing digital is key for companies to survive and recover from this pandemic. So whilst you have more time on your hands, download DriveWorks Solo free for 30 days and see what you can achieve with Design Automation.
We’re committed to your success and believe in helping others to help themselves. We’ve created help and training resources so you can get the most from DriveWorks Solo and your 30 Day Free Trial.
UseDriveWorks Solo to quickly and easily create and configure custom productsinside SOLIDWORKS速.
The rules-based design automationeliminates errorsand expensive, time-consuming design changes.
Automate repetitive SOLIDWORKS tasksand free up engineers to focus on product innovation and development.
DriveWorks Solo iseasy to set up, maintain and use. Deliver custom products faster and with greater accuracy, without using complex macros, design tables or code.
Get a head start bytrying DriveWorks Solo free for 30 days.
Download a 30 Day Free Trial of DriveWorks Solo to see the functionality for yourself and follow our tips below to help you get the most out of your free trial.
Download the free Training Manual to learn how to use DriveWorks Solo step by step. There is also a training video for each lesson to make it even easier.
Meet other users, share tips and tricks and find solutions in the DriveWorks Community. Get involved with the forums, watch how-to videos and download the training tutorial.
Head to the DriveWorks YouTube channel for an in-depth look at DriveWorks Solo with useful how-to videos and sample project walk through videos.
Join the DriveWorks Solo Getting Started and DriveWorks Solo Online Training webinars to learn more, ask questions and get up and running quickly.
Learn about DriveWorks Solo by downloading the sample projects. Pick them apart to discover how each one is constructed and what it can do. Each project comes with a useful walk through video and a PDF with the key facts.
The DriveWorks Help File is packed with valuable information so you can find answers to your questions and learn what’s possible, following best practices and picking up tips and tricks. The search function makes it really easy to find what you’re looking for.
Calculate ROI for DriveWorks Solo, based on automating one of your own products. It accounts for the cost of the software, the time it will take to implement and the savings that can be made and how soon you will benefit.
Follow the 3 easy steps below to download the DriveWorks Solo 30 Day Free Trial and see the functionality for yourself.
DriveWorks 18 SP2 adds to the new features and enhancements added in DriveWorks 18 and DriveWorks 18 SP1.
In April 2020, we released DriveWorks 18, and presented about the new features and enhancements during Digital DriveWorks World.
Since then, we worked hard to release DriveWorks 18 Service Pack 1 which was released in October 2020.
Now we are pleased to announce we have released DriveWorks 18 Service Pack 2.
Less travel and more time in the office over the past few months has enabled us to dedicate a lot of time to work on adding new enhancements and updates to this service pack release.
DriveWorks 18 Service Pack 2 is now available to download from the brand new DriveWorks Community.
Download the latest version to make the most of the added functionality.
Weve built a brand new DriveWorks Community atmy.driveworks.co.uk.
The DriveWorks Community is ouruser portal, bringing together DriveWorks users from around the world. The community is a place for our resellers, customers and partners to come together and find useful resources.
The DriveWorks Community includes many important downloads including DriveWorks software and PowerPacks, learning and training materials and many other useful resources.
The new MyDriveWorks community includes improvements to the user experience, tomake it easier for you to find the content you need.
Weve personalised each page based on the software you have, so youonly see whats relevant to you.
Weve improved the stability ofdownloads making them quicker and easier.
DriveWorks Resellers and Customers with an Active Subscription Support Contract can download DriveWorks 18 SP2 from the new DriveWorks Community.
Here’s what you’ll need to download the latest release:
You can activate DriveWorks Solo 18 and DriveWorks Pro 18 in the latest version of SOLIDWORKS, SOLIDWORKS 2021.
You can now load compatible applications into your SOLIDWORKS software for the current session, the next startup, or both.
The add-in applications must be installed on your computer.
To activate DriveWorks 18 in SOLIDWORKS 2021, navigate to ‘Tools’ and then select the ‘Add-in’s’ tab and find DriveWorks 18 under ‘Partner Gold Add-ins‘.
Use DriveWorks Solo, to quickly and easily create and configure custom products inside SOLIDWORKS速.
The rules-based design automation eliminates errors and expensive, time-consuming design changes.
Automate repetitive SOLIDWORKS tasks and free up engineers to focus on product innovation and development.
DriveWorks Solo is easy to setup, maintain and use. Deliver custom products faster and with greater accuracy, without using complex macros, design tables or code.
Get a head start by trying DriveWorks Solo free for 30 days.
There are three DriveWorks Certifications, ranging across all three DriveWorks Products, starting from DriveWorksXpress, to DriveWorks Solo and then on to DriveWorks Pro.
Our Certifications, created by our DriveWorks Technical Experts, test your capability and understanding of the training. They are a great way to demonstrate your DriveWorks knowledge and skills.
The DriveWorksXpress and DriveWorks Solo Certifications are open to everyone. You can learn and get certified online anytime.
DriveWorksXpress
DriveWorks Solo
DriveWorks Pro
TheDriveWorks Solo Certificationis available to anyone with a DriveWorks Solo licence, including the 30-day free trial.
The certification isa great way to get off to the best start with your DriveWorks Solodesign automationprojects.
Strengthen your DriveWorks Solo skills and push your DriveWorks projects further.
Complete the exam in less than 3 hours to learn more about design automation and add an extra certification to your CV.
Build on your DriveWorks knowledge and skills and become more successful with your own DriveWorks projects.
Try DriveWorks Solo free for 30 days download the trialand make the most of your 30 days by learning and getting certified.
The certification is a DriveWorks project, created using DriveWorks Pro. It’s available online 24/7 and is easily accessible through the DriveWorks Community.
With access to the DriveWorks help file throughout and template projects ready to download, the certification project contains everything you need.
Some questions are multiple choice and some require you to find information within the projects you will create during the exam.
Once finished, hit submit and find out instantly whether you have passed or failed.
Once you have passed, you’ll receive a CDWS certificate with your name and you’ll have a new certification to add to your CV!
If you don’t pass, we will tell you the areas you need to improve on so you know where to focus your learning. You’ll be able to take the certification again in 24 hours.
The DriveWorks Solo Certification is a timed exam with questions covering multiple aspects of DriveWorks Solo functionality.
The Certification is free to take and can be completed by anyone with a DriveWorks Solo licence, including the 30-day free trial.
Log in to the DriveWorks Community. If you don’t have an account, it’s quick and easy to create one.
If you haven’t already had DriveWorks Solo training, go through the training manual and lessons first.
Take the timed exam with questions covering multiple aspects of DriveWorks Solo functionality.
Find out straight away if you’ve passed and get your CDWS certificate to prove your achievement.
You will have 3 hours to complete the exam. During the exam, you will complete a number of Tasks using DriveWorks Solo Project Templates that you will need to download. Instructions on how to download these are provided in the exam, just make sure you read through Introduction, Information and Template before you begin.
You will need SOLIDWORKS 2017 or later installed to complete the Certification. You will also need the latest version of DriveWorks Solo installed and licensed.
Download a 30 Day Free Trial of DriveWorks Solo to see the functionality for yourself and follow our tips below to help you get the most out of your free trial.
Use the many resources we have available in the DriveWorks Community and online to help you become a CDWS or take your learning further.
Download the free Training Manual to learn how to use DriveWorks Solo step by step. There is also a training video for each lesson to make it even easier.
Meet other users, share tips and tricks and find solutions in the DriveWorks Community. Get involved with the forums, watch how-to videos and download the training tutorial.
Head to the DriveWorks YouTube channel for an in-depth look at DriveWorks Solo with useful how-to videos and sample project walk through videos.
Join the DriveWorks Solo Getting Started and DriveWorks Solo Online Training webinars to learn more, ask questions and get up and running quickly.
Learn about DriveWorks Solo by downloading the sample projects and picking them apart to discover how each one was constructed and what it can do. Each project comes with a useful walk through video and a PDF with the key facts.
The DriveWorks Help File is packed with valuable information so you can find answers to your questions and learn what’s possible, following best practices and picking up tips and tricks. The search function makes it really easy to find what you’re looking for.
Calculate ROI for DriveWorks Solo, based on automating one of your own products. It accounts for the cost of the software, the time it will take to implement and the savings that can be made and how soon you will benefit.
You might want to start your learning by completing the DriveWorksXpress Training & Certification.
DriveWorksXpress is a free design automation tool included in every license of SOLIDWORKS.
The DriveWorksXpress Training and Certification is a free certification for all engineering and design professionals, SOLIDWORKS users and students who have access to SOLIDWORKS.
Become a Certified DriveWorksXpress Associate in just 3 steps, in 3 hours. Gain new skills to add to your CV and start your design automation journey.
HW Ventilation, based in Rescaldina Italy is a leading company in the ventilation and air movement systems industry.
They design, produce and sell axial impellers and ventilators for industrial use. This includes engine cooling systems, compressors, industrial plants and HVAC systems.
Automatically Generated 2D Drawing created using DriveWorks Solo
Before implementing DriveWorks, their lengthy design process required an engineer to draw every new product or variation of an existing product from scratch inside SOLIDWORKS.
Automating this process now enables them to quickly draw 3D models of any type of fan, based on a set of standard variables, such as blade and hub types, fan diameter, material and colour rotation.
The DriveWorks Solo project also automatically generates brand new SOLIDWORKS files and manufacturing data, such as bills of materials and 2D drawings, based on each individual form input.
When describing the time savings achieved with DriveWorks Solo, Ing. Morlacchi, the main DriveWorks user at HW Ventilation says:
Implementing DriveWorks Solo has enabled HW Ventilation to respond to customer demand faster and with more efficiency, as they now spend a lot less time drawing the same but different designs.
Their customers now receive a drawing of the product they require almost instantly, and personalised quotes are sent out much quicker.
Having achieved their target of reducing engineering time spent on repetitive and low value-add activities, HW Ventilation are looking to the future of what they can accomplish with DriveWorks.
Ing. Morlacchi says that their next step will be to scale up their current DriveWorks Solo projects to DriveWorks Pro and implement an online configurator that will enable their customers
AMCA 210 Test Chamber
Follow the 3 easy steps below to download the DriveWorks Solo 30 Day Free Trial and see what time savings you can achieve.
Automate SOLIDWORKS Parts, Assemblies and Drawings.
Save time, reduce errors and innovate more.
At the start of my placement at DriveWorks I was tasked with creating a configurator for a custom agricultural silo, using DriveWorks Solo inside SOLIDWORKS.
The main thing I learnt from this project is that research and planning is key. The time I spent researching and drawing out my project at the beginning, made it easy to stay on track and create a clear, easy to use configurator.
Ive summarized what I did and how I did it in this blog post.
Product Design Placement Student at DriveWorks.
Before getting stuck into my project, I knew it was important to plan out how I would achieve my end goal. This involved research to determine what factors of the silo would need to be configurable.
Of course, I started online by googling custom silo and looked at several websites that showed lots of agricultural equipment. I wanted to get an insight on the use, shapes, functionality, terminology and what people look for when buying a silo.
I discovered there were several features to include when specifying a silo.
These were filler styles, dispenser styles and the overall silo volume requirements – all of which depended on what would be stored in the silo.
Once I knew what features and options I wanted to include in my configurator, it was then important to think about how I would design it, and how I would set it up in SOLIDWORKS.
I had used SOLIDWORKS on my product design course and come across configurations and design tables when using SOLIDWORKS. However, when Id been through my DriveWorks Solo training, Id learnt that using rules to drive the design, and drive the SOLIDWORKS outputs, means you can create something that is scalable and automate the design process.
Thanks to the training, I knew how important it was to model for design reuse and change. Before creating anything in SOLIDWORKS I thought about how DriveWorks would automate the models, to ensure that when I started creating the models, they would easily be driven by DriveWorks.
Having completed the DriveWorks Solo training and knowing the best techniques for driving SOLIDWORKS models efficiently, I could narrow down my design scope so I was able to produce effective, realistic models that could be easily automated with DriveWorks.
Using my gained DriveWorks knowledge, it was logical to split my SOLIDWORKS models into 3 sections, top (filler), mid-section and bottom (dispenser) and then swap the top and bottom in as instances.
To drive the volume of the silo I decided to capture the height of the mid-section and create a rule in DriveWorks using different mathematical formulas to say that at the specified volume chosen, the height of the mid-section would change by X mm.
This chosen method proved a lot easier than trying to drive the volume of the cylindrical sections themselves.
I also created a support structure that would stay constant throughout, to make automation easier.
With all this insight and a plan laid out, I was able to move on to creating the parts in SOLIDWORKS.
After going through Sheet Metal and Weldment SOLIDWORKS Manuals and working with the more experienced members in our Technical Team, I was able to create a realistic master model and the individual parts that would be driven in and out of the assembly.
I then started planning the flow for the configurator and what I would show on each form.
I started sketching out ideas and began designing the forms using the DriveWorks Solo form designer so that they would be clear, engaging and easy to navigate.
I took inspiration from some of the other sample configurators on the DriveWorks Live website.
Within DriveWorks Solo I then created a start form, central forms for configuring the silo and then a summary and order form to show the details that the user has chosen.
Less is often more with UI, so by combining checkboxes and pictures and by keeping a consistent layout throughout, I made the user experience more obvious and quicker to click through.
I added small descriptions highlighting available options or showing error messages and these made the configurator more intuitive.
As DriveWorks Solo includes a powerful rules engine (based on excel style syntax), I then linked all the checkboxes and other controls to the relevant captured SOLIDWORKS models using rules.
Finally, I created a mathematical rule to link the volume textbox/slider to the silo mid-section height and used a dropdown linked to a table to drive the silo colour.
In addition to this configurator project, I had several other projects I needed to work on during my internship, but I would say that overall it took me 2 months of elapsed time to get from planning the project to the finished goal.
I spent a week planning, 3 weeks creating all the models, 2 weeks creating the DriveWorks project and another 2 weeks enhancing it and finalising it based on testing and feedback.
Im really pleased with the end result and super happy that its now featured on the DriveWorks Solo website for anyone to download and try for themselves whilst Im back at university.
There are many other DriveWorks Solo sample projects on the website too, showing lots of different ways DriveWorks Solo can be set up and used.
I also created a video showing the features of the Agricultural Silo project and you can find many more like it on the DriveWorks YouTube channel.
Download and use DriveWorks Solo free for 30 days with the DriveWorks Solo 30 Day Free Trial.
Available to anyone with SOLIDWORKS.
Many people are using this time in lockdown to learn and research ways they can work smarter. Embracing digital is key for companies to survive and recover from this pandemic. So whilst you have more time on your hands, download DriveWorks Solo free for 30 days and see what you can achieve with Design Automation.
We’re committed to your success and believe in helping others to help themselves. We’ve created help and training resources so you can get the most from DriveWorks Solo and your 30 Day Free Trial.
UseDriveWorks Solo to quickly and easily create and configure custom productsinside SOLIDWORKS速.
The rules-based design automationeliminates errorsand expensive, time-consuming design changes.
Automate repetitive SOLIDWORKS tasksand free up engineers to focus on product innovation and development.
DriveWorks Solo iseasy to set up, maintain and use. Deliver custom products faster and with greater accuracy, without using complex macros, design tables or code.
Get a head start bytrying DriveWorks Solo free for 30 days.
Download a 30 Day Free Trial of DriveWorks Solo to see the functionality for yourself and follow our tips below to help you get the most out of your free trial.
Download the free Training Manual to learn how to use DriveWorks Solo step by step. There is also a training video for each lesson to make it even easier.
Meet other users, share tips and tricks and find solutions in the DriveWorks Community. Get involved with the forums, watch how-to videos and download the training tutorial.
Head to the DriveWorks YouTube channel for an in-depth look at DriveWorks Solo with useful how-to videos and sample project walk through videos.
Join the DriveWorks Solo Getting Started and DriveWorks Solo Online Training webinars to learn more, ask questions and get up and running quickly.
Learn about DriveWorks Solo by downloading the sample projects. Pick them apart to discover how each one is constructed and what it can do. Each project comes with a useful walk through video and a PDF with the key facts.
The DriveWorks Help File is packed with valuable information so you can find answers to your questions and learn what’s possible, following best practices and picking up tips and tricks. The search function makes it really easy to find what you’re looking for.
Calculate ROI for DriveWorks Solo, based on automating one of your own products. It accounts for the cost of the software, the time it will take to implement and the savings that can be made and how soon you will benefit.
Follow the 3 easy steps below to download the DriveWorks Solo 30 Day Free Trial and see the functionality for yourself.
Now is a great time to look at ways to embrace digital transformation andworksmarter.
With DriveWorks, you cansave time, reduce errors, improve quality and streamline processes.
See what you can achieve with design automation and get started for free with the DriveWorks Solo 30 day free trial.
DriveWorks Solo is powerful SOLIDWORKS automation for parts, assemblies and drawings with intelligent rules and logic.
DriveWorks Solo software allows you to create and configure custom products inside SOLIDWORKS.
From one simple input form, DriveWorks Solo can quickly generate 3D models, 2D drawings, Bills of Materials, sales quotes, cover letters and more, automatically. Saving you time, reducing errors and improving quality.
A DriveWorks Solo design automation project is easy to set up, easy to manage, and easy to use.
Once set up, you can run a project as many times as you like, fill out the form with your customers specifications, and quickly generate multiple new versions of your designs, along with manufacturing and sales documentation.
Free up design engineers giving them time to focus on improving product quality and designing new products. Create sales proposals quickly, win more business, and increase profit margins.
DriveWorks rules based SOLIDWORKS速 automation eliminates errors and expensive, time-consuming design changes.
Automate repetitive SOLIDWORKS tasks and free up engineers to focus on product innovation and development.
Deliver custom products faster and with greater accuracy, without using complex macros, design tables or code.
Follow the 3 easy steps below to download the DriveWorks Solo 30 Day Free Trial and see the functionality for yourself.
We have released a brand new DriveWorks Solo Certification. It’savailable to anyone with DriveWorks Solo, including the 30 day free trial.
The certification is a great way to get off to the best start with your DriveWorks Solodesign automation project.
The DriveWorks Solo Certification takes just 3 hours to complete, get certified and get the most from your 30-day free trial.
It’s completely free to complete the certification and take yourknowledge further.
Build on your DriveWorksknowledge and skillsand becomemore successfulwith your own DriveWorks projects.
Add an extra qualification to your resume and reduce repetitive tasks with DriveWorks Solo.
Use the many resources we have available to help you get the most from your 30 day free trial.
Download the free Training Manual to learn how to use DriveWorks Solo step by step. There is also a training video for each lesson to make it even easier.
Meet other users, share tips and tricks and find solutions in the DriveWorks Community. Get involved with the forums, watch how-to videos and download the training tutorial.
Head to the DriveWorks YouTube channel for an in-depth look at DriveWorks Solo with useful how-to videos and sample project walk through videos.
Join the DriveWorks Solo Getting Started and DriveWorks Solo Online Training webinars to learn more, ask questions and get up and running quickly.
Learn about DriveWorks Solo by downloading the sample projects and picking them apart to discover how each one was constructed and what it can do. Each project comes with a useful walk through video and a PDF with the key facts.
The DriveWorks Help File is packed with valuable information so you can find answers to your questions and learn what’s possible, following best practices and picking up tips and tricks. The search function makes it really easy to find what you’re looking for.
Calculate ROI for DriveWorks Solo, based on automating one of your own products. It accounts for the cost of the software, the time it will take to implement and the savings that can be made and how soon you will benefit.
Download and explore our DriveWorks Solo Sample Projects to get started quickly and get inspiration for your own DriveWorks Solo projects.
We are excited to introduce the new DriveWorks Solo Certification.
Previously, the DriveWorks Solo Certification was only available to our resellers.
Following the success of the DriveWorksXpress Certification, we have revamped the DriveWorks Solo Certification and made it available to anyone with DriveWorks Solo, including the 30-day trial.
With DriveWorks Solo, you can automate even more.
Take your knowledge further with the free DriveWorks Solo Certification. Complete the exam in less than 3 hours to learn more about design automation and add an extra certification to your CV.
Build on your DriveWorks knowledge and skills and become more successful with your own DriveWorks projects.
The certification is a DriveWorks project, created using DriveWorks Pro. It’s available online 24/7 and is easily accessible through the DriveWorks Community.
With access to the DriveWorks help file throughout and template projects ready to download, the certification project contains everything you need.
Some questions are multiple choice and some require you to find information within the projects you will create during the exam.
Once finished, hit submit and find out instantly whether you have passed or failed.
Once you have passed, you’ll receive a CDWS certificate with your name and you’ll have a new certification to add to your CV!
If you don’t pass, we will tell you the areas you need to improve on so you know where to focus your learning. You’ll be able to take the certification again in 24 hours.
The DriveWorks Solo Certification is a timed exam with questions covering multiple aspects of DriveWorks Solo functionality.
The Certification is free to take and can be completed by anyone with a DriveWorks Solo licence, including the 30-day free trial.
Log in to the DriveWorks Community. If you don’t have an account, it’s quick and easy to create one.
If you haven’t already had DriveWorks Solo training, go through the training manual and lessons first.
Take the timed exam with questions covering multiple aspects of DriveWorks Solo functionality.
Find out straight away if you’ve passed and get your CDWS certificate to prove your achievement.
You will have 3 hours to complete the exam. During the exam, you will complete a number of Tasks using DriveWorks Solo Project Templates that you will need to download. Instructions on how to download these are provided in the exam, just make sure you read through Introduction, Information and Template before you begin.
You will need SOLIDWORKS 2017 or later installed to complete the Certification. You will also need the latest version of DriveWorks Solo installed and licensed.
Use DriveWorks Solo, to quickly and easily create and configure custom products inside SOLIDWORKS速.
The rules-based design automation eliminates errors and expensive, time-consuming design changes.
Automate repetitive SOLIDWORKS tasks and free up engineers to focus on product innovation and development.
DriveWorks Solo is easy to setup, maintain and use. Deliver custom products faster and with greater accuracy, without using complex macros, design tables or code.
Get a head start by trying DriveWorks Solo free for 30 days.
Download a 30 Day Free Trial of DriveWorks Solo to see the functionality for yourself and follow our tips below to help you get the most out of your free trial.
Use the many resources we have available in the DriveWorks Community and online to help you become a CDWS or take your learning further.
Download the free Training Manual to learn how to use DriveWorks Solo step by step. There is also a training video for each lesson to make it even easier.
Meet other users, share tips and tricks and find solutions in the DriveWorks Community. Get involved with the forums, watch how-to videos and download the training tutorial.
Head to the DriveWorks YouTube channel for an in-depth look at DriveWorks Solo with useful how-to videos and sample project walk through videos.
Join the DriveWorks Solo Getting Started and DriveWorks Solo Online Training webinars to learn more, ask questions and get up and running quickly.
Learn about DriveWorks Solo by downloading the sample projects and picking them apart to discover how each one was constructed and what it can do. Each project comes with a useful walk through video and a PDF with the key facts.
The DriveWorks Help File is packed with valuable information so you can find answers to your questions and learn what’s possible, following best practices and picking up tips and tricks. The search function makes it really easy to find what you’re looking for.
Calculate ROI for DriveWorks Solo, based on automating one of your own products. It accounts for the cost of the software, the time it will take to implement and the savings that can be made and how soon you will benefit.
You might want to start your learning by completing the DriveWorksXpress Training & Certification.
DriveWorksXpress is a free design automation tool included in every license of SOLIDWORKS.
The DriveWorksXpress Training and Certification is a free certification for all engineering and design professionals, SOLIDWORKS users and students who have access to SOLIDWORKS.
Become a Certified DriveWorksXpress Associate in just 3 steps, in 3 hours. Gain new skills to add to your CV and start your design automation journey.
DriveWorks Solo includes tools to help you quickly position your Form Controls.
Grouping Controls are great for controls that you want to keep together on your forms, like a set of dimension controls (Height, Width, Depth).
To Group Controls:
To Ungroup Controls
Aligning Form Controls makes your controls snap to a grid and helps you to quickly make sure they are all placed neatly.
To align two or more form controls, either box select (by click-dragging the form design surface), or control-select each control you wish to align, and then press the relevant alignment button.
The following alignment tools are available:
Control Guides
Control guides allow quick and accurate alignment of controls when designing user forms.
Control guides appear when controls are moved on the user form.
Control Guides align to other controls in two ways:
Accurate Positioning allows you to position your Form Controls graphically to the pixel.
For fine tuning of control positions the keyboard arrow keys can be used to move the selected control one pixel at a time.
Use each Form Controls Layout Properties to ensure consistent positioning
In this example the property that defines a Form Controls Left position has been linked to a Variable.
This Variable can be used in multiple Form Controls Left position property. Updating the Variables value will update the Left position of all the Form Controls it has been applied to.
Find out more about the DriveWorks Solo Form Designer in the DriveWorks Solo Online Help File.
Complete the design stage quicker, start building sooner and get a head start on other teams!
Quickly and easily make changes to your design to try out new ideas and suggestions.
Save time and free up your team members to focus on quality robot design.
FRC 4905 Andromeda One are using DriveWorks Solo to configure and design the initial drive train for their competition robot.
Andromeda One have created a DriveWorks Solo configurator that allows them to choose from a set of parameters including length, depth, height, gearbox, gear ratios and wheel types.
The FRC team make the selections and DriveWorks Solo creates the models based on the options selected.
The CAD models are completed sooner, meaning the hardware team can get started on building the drive train earlier in the build season giving Andromeda One a head start on other teams.
If you already useSOLIDWORKS速 to design your robot, you already have design automation.
DriveWorksXpress is included free inside every seat of SOLIDWORKS. Find it under the tools menu to automate parts of your robot design, save time and reduce errors.
Getting started with DriveWorksXpress is easy and there are many resources available online to help you and your team learn more.
As part of the FIRST速 Robotics Supplier Sponsorship, FIRST速 Robotics Competition Teams can now request a free 12-month license of DriveWorks Solo.
Use DriveWorks Solo to automate your repetitive SOLIDWORKS tasks and free up your team and your mentors to focus on quality robot design.
In addition to the software, you will also have access to resources to support your learning, including DriveWorks Solo Technical Webinars, Online Training, How to Videos, Extensive Online Help Files and more.
Not only will you improve your robot and the team’s performance, you will also add to your CAD skills.
Working with FRC is part of our commitment to give even more students extra skills that will help them in future STEM careers.
Investing in the future and supporting STEM is very important to us. We launched our DriveWorksXpress Training & Certification Program to help students gain the design automation skills they need and gain a certification to prove their knowledge and skills.
Two students from Ayer Shirley FIRST速 Robotics Team (Andromeda One) were the first high school students in the world to become Certified DriveWorksXpress Associates.
We are excited to be part of the FIRST速 Robotics Competition, supporting teams with useful resources, learning opportunities and new skills.
Activate DriveWorksXpress inside SOLIDWORKS today.
If you want to take design automation even further, request your free license of DriveWorks Solo from our team.
We continue to actively promote and support STEM. The DriveWorksXpress Training & Certification is available completely free to anyone who has access to SOLIDWORKS. Students and professionals can learn DriveWorksXpress and get certified in 3 easy steps.
Our team also attend events to teach students about DriveWorksXpress and to inspire them to follow STEM careers.
Investing in our own team and their future is also hugely important to us. We have an Investors in People Silver Award and every year we take on placement students and graduates across multiple disciplines. Many of our students continue their careers with us and most of our team started their careers here as a student.
The charity designs accessible, innovative programs that motivate young people to pursue education and career opportunities in science, technology, engineering, and math, while building self-confidence, knowledge, and life skills.
It inspires them to become leaders and innovators, and enhance their 21st-century work-life skills.
The exciting mentor-based programs foster well-rounded life capabilities including self-confidence, communication, and leadership.
One of the programs run by FIRST速 is the FIRST速 Robotics Competition. Combining the excitement of sport with the rigours of science and technology. The FIRST速 Robotics Competition is the ultimate Sport for the Mind. High-school student participants call it the hardest fun youll ever have”.
Under strict rules, limited time and resources, teams of students are challenged to raise funds, design a team “brand,” hone teamwork skills, and build and program industrial-size robots to play a difficult field game against like-minded competitors.
Its as close to real-world engineering as a student can get. Volunteer professional mentors lend their time and talents to guide each team. Each season ends with an exciting FIRST速 Championship.
To create their robots, teams can request a variety of resources from the network of FIRST速 sponsors.
SOLIDWORKS速 are a sponsor of the program, providing access to a dozen SOLIDWORKS速 products, tutorials and a Kit of Parts, which they can use to create quick assemblies and models of their robots.
With their SOLIDWORKS速 licenses, FIRST速 Robotics Competition teams also had access to DriveWorksXpress, included free inside every seat of SOLIDWORKS.
By using DriveWorksXpress, students are able to automate parts of their robot design to save time and reduce errors.
Not only are they improving their robot and the team’s performance, they’re also adding to their CAD skills.
Investing in the future and supporting STEM is very important to us. We launched our DriveWorksXpress Training & Certification Program to help students gain the design automation skills they need and gain a certification to prove their knowledge and skills.
Two students from Ayer Shirley FIRST速 Robotics Team (Andromeda One) were the first high school students in the world to become Certified DriveWorksXpress Associates.
We want to help even more students learn extra skills that will help them in future STEM careers. We are now a FIRST速 Robotics Competition Sponsor.
As part of the FIRST速 Robotics Supplier Sponsorship, FIRST速 Robotics Competition Teams can now request a free 12-month license of DriveWorks Solo.
Using DriveWorks Solo will help teams automate their repetitive SOLIDWORKS tasks and free up students and mentors to focus on quality robot design.
In addition to the software, students have access to resources to support their learning, including DriveWorks Solo Technical Webinars, Online Training, How to Videos, Extensive Online Help Files and much more.
We are excited to be part of the FIRST速 Robotics Competition, supporting teams with useful resources, learning opportunities and new skills.
FIRST速 Robotics Competition Teams can request a license of DriveWorks Solo Design Automation Software for a period of one year.
Get in touch with our team to Request Your License.
We continue to actively promote and support STEM. The DriveWorksXpress Training & Certification is available completely free to anyone who has access to SOLIDWORKS. Students and professionals can learn DriveWorksXpress and get certified in 3 easy steps.
Our team also attend events to teach students about DriveWorksXpress and to inspire them to follow STEM careers.
Investing in our own team and their future is also hugely important to us. We have an Investors in People Silver Award and every year we take on placement students and graduates across multiple disciplines. Many of our students continue their careers with us and most of our team started their careers here as a student.
DriveWorks Solo offers the ability to take complete control over the naming and location of your generated files.
File naming is an important consideration when planning an implementation, and DriveWorks provides complete flexibility in how files are named.
Your file names can be as simple or as complex as you require, with the ability to suffix, prefix or even ignore a files original name.
In this case we are going to use intelligent file naming to allow DriveWorks to re-use a file that has been previously created.
The top-level assembly will still require a unique name, if not, nothing at all could be generated. But all sub-assemblies and parts can be assigned an intelligent naming convention.
Intelligent file names combine parameters within your Project that impact the outcome of the model into the file name. For example, the length or color of a component.
For this to work, a components file name rule will need to include the values of all the parameters being driven within the component.
Every time DriveWorks is used to generate new files, the file name rule will be evaluated and if the file name has already been generated, DriveWorks will re-use the existing component. This reduces the number of components being generated and improves model generation time.
Lets look at an example to see how this works in practice.
In this DriveWorks Solo Conveyor Project we use intelligent file naming to re-use parts within the conveyor assembly.
As previously mentioned, this improves generation time but also allows us to create a library of parts for this assembly. This also helps easily identify files without having to open them in SOLIDWORKS.
Within Model Rules the rule shown below determines whether the file name of the Conveyor Assembly uses Intelligent File Naming. This is controlled by a Check Box Control on the form.
If intelligent file naming returns TRUE, then this rule will use the return of numerous Form Controls along with text strings to identify each value to create a unique file name.
In this example the parameters being used are the Length, Width, Height and whether side rails are required.
If I enter the values 600, 870 and 680 for Length Width and Height, the resulting file name is:
CONVEYOR FRAME ASSEMBLY-600L X 870W X 680H.SLDASM
You can see the result of the generated file names below.
Learn more about Intelligent File Naming in the DriveWorks Solo Online Help File
Before capturing your Master Models Assembly Structure inside DriveWorks, you need to decide which components need to be captured, and how to capture them.
The first question you should ask is, do any new models need to be created based on this component?
If they do, and Dimensions or Features need driving, they should be captured as a component. This will allow you to go on and capture Dimensions, Features, Custom Properties and Drawings against the component.
You can then build rules for these captured elements inside your projects Model Rules.
The next question to consider is, does the component need to be swapped for another or have its configurations changed in the generated Assembly?
If the answer is yes, capturing the component as an Instance will mean you can build Rules that allow the component to be swapped, and have its configuration driven.
If a component doesnt change, you dont need to capture it at all. The component that exists in the master assembly will continue to be referenced by any generated assemblies.
Inside SOLIDWORKS we have an Assembly called DoorAssembly with the Assembly Structure below:
If we capture this Assembly inside DriveWorks Solo, the Captured Assembly Structure tab opens, and we need to decide what to capture inside the Assembly.
We want to be able to drive the Door Parts dimensions and generate new files based on a Master Part. This means we need to capture it as a component by checking the associated checkbox.
In any new DoorAssembly files that we create using DriveWorks, we dont want new Handle Parts to be created. However, we do want to be able to swap in existing Parts from a library.
To do this, we can choose to capture the Handle Part as an Instance.
With the DoorAssembly open, clicking on the Instances tab will show all the components that can be captured as Instances, clicking on the checkbox next to the Handle component will capture it as an Instance.
The final component to consider is the Hinge. We can leave this uncaptured as the component cant change.
The Hinge Part being referenced by the Master DoorAssembly will continue to be referenced by any generated DoorAssembly Models.
You wont need to build any Rules for the Hinge Part and running the Project wont generate any new Hinge Parts.
Inside your Projects Model Rules, swap the Handle Part for a different SOLIDWORKS Model and reference the existing Hinge Part in any generated models. This will allow you to create a new version of the DoorAssembly and Door Part.
