Disqus - Latest Comments for solidsmack

Re: Integrating with existing comments

solidsmack — Mon, 05 Nov 2007 23:13:56 -0000

HI, I'm going to have to agree with the others. I saw the options and paused. I looked in the FAQ's and didn't find any clarification then came to the forums. I was picturing Disqus as sort of a "skin" for the commenting area. I understand there needs to be a little more with the features you plan to provide, but I think it would be better understood and integrated into more websites if it was seen as "Skin your comments, get these cool features" kinda approach. I'd definitely want to moderate comments from my blog admin as well. Thanks, looking forward to further development.

Re: SolidSmack: Your daily SolidWorks Fix

solidsmack — Thu, 10 May 2007 09:01:37 -0000

Hey Brian! thanks man. looking forward to doing this too

Re: There’s nothing like a little TechNINlogy

solidsmack — Tue, 15 May 2007 17:24:12 -0000

I do admit, ninja is a great source of inspiration. I think it should be required viewing for anyone without a sense of humor.

Re: How to create better sketch patterns

solidsmack — Wed, 16 May 2007 13:31:03 -0000

how about it, was this tip helpful?

Re: Economic Incentive Will Drive CAD Market

solidsmack — Wed, 16 May 2007 15:39:49 -0000

Hey Matt, I do largely agree for the most part. Especially that management should be aware and looking at the business processes to identify the bottlenecks.

What I wanted to reinforce was the idea that the demand for 3D CAD technology could grow because it's becomes more and more expected by the customer, which could be Dave and Linda down on the corner or the guys in the shop.

I've seen this happen in small and large companies. The shop hollers for something to be a certain way. Management says ok, without even looking at the bottom line. Kind of a get it done mentality. Not to say this is right, but it is happening.

When I was with a reseller, we always got the best results starting with the guys doing the work. I just wonder what would happen if marketing targeted the shop guys.

Re: Adobe Acrobat 3D and SolidWorks Revealed

solidsmack — Thu, 24 May 2007 16:02:12 -0000

Hey there Jeff. Yeah, it's suppose to and it generally does until you get into some large assemblies. You can get around this if you export it from SolidWorks as another format like .x_t or .step, but bringing in a large file in every case I did either did not produce anything or was a very large file.

In fact the only way I was able to get a really large file to render is with the large assembly conversion. Of course this is also just in the things I tested, so hopefully someone else will be able to show some different or similar results.

I'll send you some screenshots of the file sizes i got.

Re: Turn your Product Ideas into Income

solidsmack — Thu, 31 May 2007 11:22:08 -0000

Thank you Derek. I really can't wait to see all the possibilities that this will have!

Re: Is Jeff Han’s multi-touch in cahoots with Microsoft Surface?

solidsmack — Tue, 05 Jun 2007 12:51:51 -0000

A table does seemed constrained, but maybe the fluidity of the functionality will overcome that. and it makes sense in how they show it being used with other devices.

Having one slanted like the Han's at TED seems the best compromise, or maybe just having it adjustbale between upright and flat, so you can use it as a TV or as table.

awesome.

Re: Is Jeff Han’s multi-touch in cahoots with Microsoft Surface?

solidsmack — Thu, 07 Jun 2007 08:10:09 -0000

hopefully with some advances in other technology we won't have to work at stuff for hours. wouldn't that be nice :) maybe getting to the point where we're just sitting there thinking or twitching and it's happening, twitch-touch, but that would be kinda lame...no interaction, and no one could tell if your having a siezure.

Re: 4 quick tips for speaking in public

solidsmack — Thu, 07 Jun 2007 08:49:27 -0000

Thanks, I appreciate that. I still get nervous sometimes, but these few tips help the most.

Re: 4 quick tips for speaking in public

solidsmack — Tue, 12 Jun 2007 10:40:33 -0000

Thanks Bill! Glad you liked them!

Re: Fastest street legal car designed in SolidWorks

solidsmack — Thu, 14 Jun 2007 16:19:23 -0000

It’s incredible to see that car and realize the time and thought that goes into producing something of that caliber.

Thanks for the compliment on the site!

Re: What you want to know about SolidWorks 2008: The Interface

solidsmack — Mon, 18 Jun 2007 13:15:25 -0000

Yeah, I actually did measure it. I have 45 more pixels of usable space, which isn't much, but I really like it.

In terms of functionality, do you mean they've added less than they did in 2007?

I think the interface provides better functionality or maybe functioning. I didn't at first, but the more I used it and then went back to 2007 made me wish I was using 2008.

What would be interesting is to compare the speed between version. One person has asked me (kind of sarcastically) if it's faster that 2001.

Re: What you want to know about SolidWorks 2008: The Interface

solidsmack — Mon, 18 Jun 2007 16:15:31 -0000

Yeah, having to buy a new video card is going to be a big disappointment if you’ve just bought one. Were running 6-12 month old systems with nVidia Quadro 1300/1400 and haven’t seen any problems yet, but we don’t use RealView typically.

You would think SolidWorks looks at the curve on this, because they have to stay economic as it pertains to hardware as well. It may be that most of their statistics show users within the threshold of system upgrades. That would be an interesting set of data to look at.

Re: What you want to know about SolidWorks 2008: The Interface

solidsmack — Wed, 20 Jun 2007 07:15:43 -0000

That's a great idea Ulrich. I'll have to try it out. I do not use the Command Manager either. All I have is the top menu bar and 1 row of icons.

I hope they make all the flyouts and the heads-up toolbar more customizable too. Those do really take some getting use to.

Re: SolidWorks 2008 officially released

solidsmack — Wed, 20 Jun 2007 13:02:01 -0000

This is mostly a formality, plus a way to get good PR. It's really released for purchase. The actual product probably won't ship till after summer sometime.

It would kinda be like sending out an announcement that you're gonna have a baby, which I hear some poeple do.

Re: What you want to know about SolidWorks 2008: The Interface

solidsmack — Thu, 21 Jun 2007 22:14:45 -0000

Thanks for leaving that comment Ulrich. That is a really interesting approach to the new interface. I'll try it out.

Re: How to Design Efficient Parts for Greatest Usability

solidsmack — Tue, 26 Jun 2007 12:57:32 -0000

Great additions Bruce! Thanks!

Re: How to Make your Own Custom Background for SolidWorks

solidsmack — Wed, 27 Jun 2007 13:55:01 -0000

Just a note for you demo jocks, I use to create a background image that had the companies logo on it or would put the logo on the product.

With what you can do with graphics now days, you can create some really enticing demos.

Re: What you want to know about SolidWorks 2008: Sketching and Features

solidsmack — Thu, 28 Jun 2007 08:00:05 -0000

Thank you both! I'll be posting some more on 2008 and it's features soon. Let me know if there's something in particular that interests you.

Re: Using Drawing Views as Layers for a Cleaner Drawing

solidsmack — Mon, 02 Jul 2007 17:45:08 -0000

Thanks Ray! glad you liked it.

Re: Using Drawing Views as Layers for a Cleaner Drawing

solidsmack — Tue, 03 Jul 2007 11:21:36 -0000

Hey Brian, I had the same thought of trying an alternate position view, but it was not working the way I needed it to. I use layers in Photoshop and so I tried it out in SolidWorks and have gotten some really cool results! smaller drawings too!

Re: Goonies of the Carribean

solidsmack — Tue, 03 Jul 2007 11:22:52 -0000

Isn't it! people that were not around in 1985 just won't understand :( Long live the goonies.

Re: Comment for a Cure to Cancer

solidsmack — Thu, 05 Jul 2007 12:30:22 -0000

More comments mean more donations for the ride. c'mon now.

Re: SolidWorks Dimensioning Tips

solidsmack — Fri, 06 Jul 2007 21:55:05 -0000

Yeah sure. Say you have a line that you would like centered on a point. Select the line, then the point and give them a Midpoint relation. Then, with the dimension tool, select the line and locate the dimension. When you change the dimension, it will stay centered on that point.

You can also do this with the Symetric relationship. If you have a construction line (centerline) and two other entities, like circles on each side of the construction line. IF you select all three, a Symetric relation will show up in the property manager to the left. This is one of the most useful relations by far.

Let me know if that answers your question!

Re: ColourLovers: Color for design and more

solidsmack — Wed, 11 Jul 2007 08:57:33 -0000

Hi Anna, thanks! That adobe site is really cool. Smooth interface and I like that you can download the color swatches. Another site that I use is http://colorblender.com. Not as slick of an interface, but you can download the colors as Photoshop color tables or Illustrator colors.

Re: Best SolidWorks Dimensioning Tips Contest

solidsmack — Wed, 11 Jul 2007 09:01:15 -0000

Awesome tips guys.

Re: SolidWorks Dimensioning Tips

solidsmack — Wed, 11 Jul 2007 12:43:32 -0000

Right on Kyle. that is a handy little trick. guess what too, in SW 2008 there's a centered rectangle command. After all these years!!

Re: SolidWorks Gets a New CEO

solidsmack — Thu, 12 Jul 2007 13:22:54 -0000

I believe he is getting married and his father has been ill. All the best to him.

Re: Dimension the Snot out of Your Sketch in Two Steps

solidsmack — Thu, 12 Jul 2007 13:28:50 -0000

Thanks, I love those things too. Quick and clean.

Re: Automatic Toilet Paper Dispenser Making Life Eaiser

solidsmack — Thu, 12 Jul 2007 13:32:22 -0000

This just reminded me, my brothers name is Jacob and my grandpa use to say he is "rough as a cob." Of course, the origins of that saying are related to wiping with a corn cob.

Re: Automatic Toilet Paper Dispenser Making Life Eaiser

solidsmack — Thu, 12 Jul 2007 16:44:28 -0000

I think it should be voice activated as well, maybe with grunts. It is kinda cool but would be annoying if you have a gusher of a nose bleed.

Re: Dimension the Snot out of Your Sketch in Two Steps

solidsmack — Fri, 13 Jul 2007 08:50:11 -0000

Drew, Hi. probably the best book out there is the SolidWorks 2007 Bible by Matt Lombard. If you want to see some more tips from others we have a contest running till June 15 at this link.

http://www.solidsmack.com/best-solidworks-dimen...

Re: Best SolidWorks Dimensioning Tips Contest

solidsmack — Mon, 16 Jul 2007 08:00:04 -0000

Well, the drawing has been held and Steve Calvert will now be able to carry 2GB more stuff around with him. Congrats Steve!!

Re: 10 1/2 Tips to Rock Your SolidWorks Assemblies

solidsmack — Mon, 23 Jul 2007 09:02:23 -0000

Thanks! let me know if there's anything else you have question about.

Re: Free CAD Package to Import and View SolidWorks, CATIA, PRO/E and more

solidsmack — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 12:48:18 -0000

yeah, it would be nice to at least get a dumb model out... iges, step, or parasolid. But like you say, free Catia Viewer.

They could almost have a stand-alone viewer that was a little lower on resources to save out a dumb model. That would be huge.

Re: 10 1/2 Tips to Rock Your SolidWorks Assemblies

solidsmack — Wed, 25 Jul 2007 12:23:58 -0000

Thanks Steve. Using folders keeps me from going insane.

Re: AutoDesk Inventor Saved Your 2D Butt

solidsmack — Wed, 25 Jul 2007 16:22:13 -0000

Hey Steve, good thoughts. I started out in Acad myself and evaluated inventor in two different companies against solidworks and solidedge. I’m not sure how many seats of SW were out prior to 99, but I do know that was the most common jobs I came across for 3D when I was looking in 2000. I ended up with a SW reseller where I saw some behind the scenes dealin’ that happened by autodesk resellers that put a bad taste in my mouth and where I probably became very biased :)

In all actuality, I’d probably be the first to try out something new, if it worked better.

Re: Enhance Your 3D skills

solidsmack — Wed, 25 Jul 2007 16:39:02 -0000

man, that's cool. a tv remote. stuff like that will really force you get into more advanced modeling.

Re: SolidWorks Dimensioning Tips

solidsmack — Wed, 25 Jul 2007 17:06:48 -0000

Hi Steve, the centered rectangle tool is definitely a much need addition. On the equation part, you may be using a driven dimension in your equation that is causing you to have to rebuild twice or open and rebuild. An example of this would be if you had a pattern instance based on the length of something. You can try to do this through just using relations and the geometry, but sometimes, depending on the situation, it can not be avoided.

Re: 10 1/2 Tips to Rock Your SolidWorks Assemblies

solidsmack — Tue, 31 Jul 2007 10:18:37 -0000

Hi Jason, Isolate is in 07. If you right click on any component it should show up in the menu.

Re: Does CAD TV Excite You?

solidsmack — Wed, 01 Aug 2007 09:01:17 -0000

Yeah, it was kinda max headroom for me too, they should go with that. 'Max Headroom' meets 'Ask a Ninja' meets CAD. Lethal combo for sure. :)

Re: How to Make a Line Perpendicular to a Tangent in SolidWorks

solidsmack — Wed, 01 Aug 2007 17:34:10 -0000

Thanks Rod! glad it will help!

Re: Does CAD TV Excite You?

solidsmack — Thu, 02 Aug 2007 13:31:02 -0000

Check out http://www.webbalert.com/ It's a similar thing but for web news. Fast paced and interesting.

Just started today aug 2nd and has a much better presentation.

Re: SolidWorks and India… Spicy

solidsmack — Thu, 02 Aug 2007 16:23:21 -0000

bureau of labor statistics show this. Do you have a source for the the unemployment rate you speak of?

Cheap labor wouldn't do any good for SolidWorks directly. It would provide cheaper labor for american companies that use solidworks though. Don't get me wrong. I'd rather have the jobs stay here as well.

Besides all of that, Asia and India are definitely developing markets and should be watched.

Re: Triple-play Tip for Measuring Circles and Arcs in SolidWorks

solidsmack — Fri, 03 Aug 2007 08:38:59 -0000

Hey, no problem. I didn't know about this for who knows how long and then I actually looked at those buttons one day and was like, hmm, a pulldown, looky there!

Re: Triple-play Tip for Measuring Circles and Arcs in SolidWorks

solidsmack — Fri, 03 Aug 2007 12:00:57 -0000

hahaha.. huh..uh...i don't know that...ahhhhhgggg!!! :)

Re: Comment for a Cure to Cancer

solidsmack — Fri, 03 Aug 2007 12:01:57 -0000

Thanks, today was the last day to donate. Thanks for the comment!

Re: How to use SolidWorks Templates to Speed Design

solidsmack — Fri, 03 Aug 2007 13:23:42 -0000

This sounds really interesting Michael. So, the CAD 'template' is used to create a full-size template (banner) to layout the components (frames, trusses, windows, doors) so construction is faster? is that correct?

Re: 6 Major Factors Before Upgrading to Vista and SolidWorks 2008

solidsmack — Mon, 06 Aug 2007 10:55:18 -0000

A Cost Analysis of Windows Vista Content Protection

Re: 6 Major Factors Before Upgrading to Vista and SolidWorks 2008

solidsmack — Mon, 06 Aug 2007 10:56:05 -0000

M, yeah, I agree, if your going to buy something that can handle 4GB and up, go for it.

Re: Triple-play Tip for Measuring Circles and Arcs in SolidWorks

solidsmack — Mon, 06 Aug 2007 11:07:21 -0000

Gale, that is an EXCELLENT example of how it doesn't work very well. I hope it is updated to use quadrant locations or take measurements from center to max. One way around this is to put sketch points into the sketches you've shown us. This is the quickest way to get some points to measure to.

These can then be dimesioned on the part or assembly and then "Marked for Drawing" so you don't have to dimension it again in a drawing.

Re: Out of Office Reply: I’m at the PGA!

solidsmack — Wed, 08 Aug 2007 16:47:12 -0000

It was really stinkin' hot in Tulsa today. 100 plus. They didn't need to water because of the sweat pouring off thousands of people.

Re: Out of Office Reply: I’m at the PGA!

solidsmack — Thu, 09 Aug 2007 09:19:09 -0000

It's true. Tiger saw me and shed a tear. (now that i think about it, he could have just been sweating or feeling sorry for me. hmmm.)

Re: Turn 2D Photos into 3D

solidsmack — Thu, 09 Aug 2007 09:30:53 -0000

No dooubt Rod. Seems like something comes along everyday that brings up possibilities of doing things differently. It will be interesting.

Re: 3 Unique Solutions to Modeling in SolidWorks

solidsmack — Mon, 13 Aug 2007 21:31:15 -0000

Richard, thanks for the honest comment. I'm not sure what it all means either sometimes :)

Really, though, I've found these to be helpful in both team and consultant environments. The idea behind the first two is to be able to make changes quickly. The first works well for small assemblies and the second works best for large assemblies (in my opinion)

The idea behind the last one is to not spend a lot of time when there's existing models available. There's been time when I'll take a SolidWorks model that has been created somewhere else that I only need for reference, so I'll save it as a parasolid (.x_t) file so it's easier to use.

I'll try to write some post that explains each of these in more detail. Thanks.

Re: The Killer Video Card for SolidWorks?

solidsmack — Wed, 15 Aug 2007 12:42:27 -0000

I agree Devon. They're gonna have to soup up more than the tech. I'm staying optimistic, but will look for results others are getting before dumping that kind of cash.

Re: Friday Smackdown

solidsmack — Fri, 17 Aug 2007 16:45:33 -0000

Long live the Kirk.

Right on, they probably felt sad no one could see the Friday Smackdown.

Re: How to Make an Isometric Section View in SolidWorks

solidsmack — Fri, 17 Aug 2007 17:48:09 -0000

Thanks Rob. yes, it sometimes feels like coming out of a thick forest into a larger, less thick forest. :)

Re: 3 Unique Solutions to Modeling in SolidWorks

solidsmack — Mon, 20 Aug 2007 13:05:52 -0000

J.D. - thanks. from the comments and emails I've gotten, it seems I threw out a lot all at once. I'm planning on breaking each down a bit in a future post.

SolidWorks sets thier default Large Assembly Mode (Tool, Options, Assemblies) at 500. You can change it, because this may be a lot if your parts are very complex or you're working on an older computer system.

If you have some time before your deadline, we can look at improvements, otherwise I would use what you have for the time being.

I can help you go over your approach and modeling practice. just shoot me an email from the contact page.

Re: The Killer Video Card for SolidWorks?

solidsmack — Wed, 22 Aug 2007 13:43:16 -0000

Nvidia Quaddro FX 4600/5600

Re: The Killer Video Card for SolidWorks?

solidsmack — Wed, 22 Aug 2007 17:00:32 -0000

RIGHT ON. that is a sweet deal. I did a benchmark with quad-cores on SWX 2007 and XP and didn't get any performance gain in solidworks, but depending on your setup you may get some really good results. I'd love to see a benchmark on your machine.

Re: My Hatch Pattern Smells of Rich Mahogany

solidsmack — Wed, 22 Aug 2007 21:52:33 -0000

yeah, it would. Maybe I should just design everything in plastic or mc escher.

Re: The Killer Video Card for SolidWorks?

solidsmack — Thu, 23 Aug 2007 10:51:36 -0000

here

John - There's a standard benchmark created by spec.org for SolidWorks 2007. It's the first one I use. SolidWorks 2007 Benchmark

Rob Rodriguez also just posted about his upgrade to a Nvidia Quadro FX 3500. He does a lot of rendering with PhotoWorks.

The Nvidia Quaddro 4600 and 5600 are pretty high priced for most users/companies so I'm thinking that Nvidia will have something coming out spring/summer '08 to bury ATI mid-range, although it could be argued that they already have. :)

Re: The Killer Video Card for SolidWorks?

solidsmack — Thu, 23 Aug 2007 13:35:25 -0000

Can you look at the APCResults1.txt in the Benchmark folder and look at the overall results. That's what these are below. I've posted three configuration that I've done.

1. FX-60 Dual-Core (2.61 GHz) - 2Gb RAM - XP
2. FX-53 (2.41 GHz) - 2Gb RAM - XP 64
3. Quad-Core AMD Opteron (2.0 GHz) - 2.10Gb RAM - XP

(Total , Graphics, CPU, I/O - in seconds)
1. 161.31, 46.68, 52.68, 61.95
2. 175.23, 43.14, 58.39, 73.70
3. 205.41, 53.91, 72.22, 79.22

Re: The Killer Video Card for SolidWorks?

solidsmack — Thu, 23 Aug 2007 14:39:21 -0000

Oh I see, you downloaded the SPECviewperf® 10 benchmark.

I would just download the "SPECapcSM for SolidWorks 2007™" near the bottom of the page.It will install into a folder like
C:\Program Files\SPECapc\SolidWorks Benchmark 2007\

Sorry for the confusion! :)

Re: How to Suck All the Memory You Can Out of Windows XP

solidsmack — Fri, 24 Aug 2007 15:14:18 -0000

Available switch options for the Windows XP

Re: ‘BoneCrusher’ Is Real Vehicle Developed in SolidWorks

solidsmack — Thu, 30 Aug 2007 09:36:30 -0000

Man, that would be sweet to have one of those. I can't imagine how much they cost though.

Re: There’s nothing better than…

solidsmack — Thu, 30 Aug 2007 11:31:51 -0000

yep, I know how much I can get away with.

Re: 3 Unique Solutions to Modeling in SolidWorks

solidsmack — Thu, 30 Aug 2007 11:36:46 -0000

Gerald, hi. Adding features/sketches to cylidrical or spherical surface is going to depend a little on what you're doing. 3D sketches are an option, but you can also do some features or use surfaces to do some things. What in particular are you trying to do?

Re: SolidWorks BOM: Slap, Rinse, Repeat

solidsmack — Thu, 30 Aug 2007 12:06:45 -0000

Russell - yep, that is part of the pain of it. The cell sizing and padding doesn't work all that well. The best way I've gotten around it is by dragging the corner to where it looks good and if there's a row that is scrunched together, I drag it down a little.

Bruce - I remember the horrors of working with an AS400 system a while back. I'm sure it's gotten better, but that is strange there's nothing to link the two. Sounds like a software product idea. :)

Re: 3 Unique Solutions to Modeling in SolidWorks

solidsmack — Thu, 30 Aug 2007 12:27:43 -0000

sketch and linking the dimensions there. That way I don't have to set use equations or run the risk of creating circular references between parts that could be referencing each others thickness. Sketch layout work real well for this because everything, for the most part, is controlled from a single location.

An example would be a wood box. each side is the same thickness.

-I create a layout sketch in an assembly that defines the size and thickness of each and link the ones I need to.
-I insert new parts into the assembly and use the layout sketch to create the wood panels.

If I need to change the size I go back to the layout sketch. If I need one to be a differeent thickness, I unlink it and change just that one.

Re: What you want to know about SolidWorks 2008: Sketching and Features

solidsmack — Fri, 31 Aug 2007 11:50:34 -0000

Sanjeev, I haven't tested any of the mold tools out thus far. I do know MoldflowXpress is no longer available. I will try to find out some more.

Re: My Hatch Pattern Smells of Rich Mahogany

solidsmack — Tue, 04 Sep 2007 17:23:57 -0000

Hugh, looks like a great resource. I downloaded the free version and it was fairly easy to create a hatch pattern. Thanks for the post!

Re: Bionic Arm, 30 Muscles and Finger Bones?

solidsmack — Thu, 06 Sep 2007 12:24:19 -0000

Hi Kyle, I worked with it briefly. Not too bad, but took longer to get going on it. I like, at the time, how it cached files locally.

Re: How SolidWorks Viral Marketing Ideas Could be More Effective

solidsmack — Fri, 07 Sep 2007 09:11:50 -0000

CuteOverload.com is one of the top blogs on the web.

I'm curious, if you ascribe to the ideas of Ayn Rand and Atlas Shrugged why would you have a problem with what I enjoy doing?

Thanks for the comment. The video seems to be working now.

Re: Bionic Arm, 30 Muscles and Finger Bones?

solidsmack — Fri, 07 Sep 2007 12:37:58 -0000

You are so right Bruce. It's super important to have the process lined out up front. Of course, this tends to change, but you can always update procedures.

It goes back to board drafting even. I wish I saw more students with at least a semester of board drafting experience. It's hard to get away from the discipline and method of laying out a drawing when you have to put it down pencil line by pencil line.

Re: Time-saving Tip for Re-using SolidWorks Drawings

solidsmack — Fri, 07 Sep 2007 12:40:16 -0000

That is a great tip too Bruce! Makes it very easy to add additional configurations.

Re: How SolidWorks Viral Marketing Ideas Could be More Effective

solidsmack — Fri, 07 Sep 2007 12:41:55 -0000

Charles, no problem, no sourness taken. :) I'll look into the red X issue. thanks.

Re: Time-saving Tip for Re-using SolidWorks Drawings

solidsmack — Fri, 07 Sep 2007 15:14:52 -0000

Great point Russell. Make a new config, copy views to a new sheet, and change the configurations. It's really that easy.

Re: Time-saving Tip for Re-using SolidWorks Drawings

solidsmack — Sun, 09 Sep 2007 23:50:26 -0000

That's a great tip Devon. Seems like I always have to do that on large drawings to get the notes and stuff out of them. This would save time for sure. Thanks!

Re: Bionic Arm, 30 Muscles and Finger Bones?

solidsmack — Mon, 10 Sep 2007 13:28:09 -0000

"Staedtler Mars Plastic eraser, an eraser shield and a lot of time"

I miss the smell! ha! thanks Anna :)

Re: Winner of the 4GB Flash Drive

solidsmack — Mon, 10 Sep 2007 21:54:31 -0000

No problem there Shawn. sorry Jeff. maybe next time. :)

Re: Solidworks Settings for Inventor Users

solidsmack — Tue, 11 Sep 2007 13:50:00 -0000

Baker, sorry, I'm not too familiar with Inventor. Usually scroll wheel functions are set up in the mouse settings can be changed in the Windows Control Panel, Mouse. It may also depend on the mouse you have. Some allow you to set up the mouse to be Program specific. Hope this helps.

Re: Time-saving Tip for Re-using SolidWorks Drawings

solidsmack — Tue, 11 Sep 2007 13:54:17 -0000

Jason, thanks. Just wanted to mention also that you can do the same thing with assemblies before opening them up. Makes it really quick to replace parts.

Re: When Are You Upgrading to SolidWorks 2008?

solidsmack — Wed, 12 Sep 2007 13:29:45 -0000

You're right Kevin, so I've updated the poll. It's now multiple choice. :) I realized too that there are different factors driving it. For us, it's largely dependent on when the clients can upgrade, as well as making sure everything else works with it. Thanks for the comment.

Re: When Are You Upgrading to SolidWorks 2008?

solidsmack — Wed, 12 Sep 2007 13:45:33 -0000

I hear ya Shawn. The last company I was with used 2001plus up till 2005 came out. It was mostly because of what you state. I've updated the poll so feel free to vote again. Thanks!

Re: Simple Idea, Simple Design, Cool Product

solidsmack — Thu, 13 Sep 2007 12:21:52 -0000

Dang. that is super simple. It could also be used as a weapon with high water velocity. my eyes!

Re: When Are You Upgrading to SolidWorks 2008?

solidsmack — Fri, 14 Sep 2007 17:05:52 -0000

good point Will. It's easier to upgrade if you're a freelancer or consultant, but then if you have deadline, the excitement of some new features will wear of fast if it has some issues.

Re: Best Out of Office Replies

solidsmack — Tue, 18 Sep 2007 13:38:34 -0000

Those are great guys! I'm feeling better already.

Re: When Are You Upgrading to SolidWorks 2008?

solidsmack — Tue, 18 Sep 2007 13:42:06 -0000

That reminds me of the guy balancing all the spinning plates on those sticks while he stands on the back of a bear. that sounds like an excellent plan to get production up and running first. engineering's customer right. good luck anna.

Re: Finding Clarity in Isolation

solidsmack — Wed, 19 Sep 2007 13:47:31 -0000

Isometric sections which is just great.

Re: How to Get Print Quality Graphics from Solidworks

solidsmack — Fri, 21 Sep 2007 09:16:13 -0000

great point Charles. thanks.

Re: Finding Clarity in Isolation

solidsmack — Fri, 21 Sep 2007 13:54:28 -0000

oh, that's a good one Rod. I've used display states in drawings but haven't done those using the isolate tool. good idea.

Re: Best Out of Office Replies

solidsmack — Fri, 21 Sep 2007 13:55:26 -0000

and in the center ring! :)

Re: Ponoko Featured at TechCrunch40

solidsmack — Mon, 24 Sep 2007 08:48:33 -0000

Congrats for the the success! I can't wait to see what Ponoko does and I'm looking forward to trying it out. All the best to you.

Re: 10 1/2 Tips to Rock Your SolidWorks Assemblies

solidsmack — Mon, 24 Sep 2007 08:54:11 -0000

KD, hi. What you can do in that situation is do an assembly cut. In your assembly start a sketch as you normally would and make your cuts. They will only affect the Assembly. Since these are features you can control them with Configurations as well.

Re: The Killer Video Card for SolidWorks?

solidsmack — Tue, 25 Sep 2007 07:23:24 -0000

That's a pretty good system. You may consider upgrading to a Fx3500. What you have should be able to push pretty good though. It may be the complexity of your parts. With large assemblies I work in, I will typically create simple configurations of parts and open those to save on load times. You may want to make sure that you don't have circular references (parts referencing each other), complicated patterns or a lot of items in the design binder. Those are the three main things I see that slow down assemblies.

That 30" would be nice. I have the 24" and that would just be incredible, although it wouldn't fit under my desk shelf.

Re: The Killer Video Card for SolidWorks?

solidsmack — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 13:59:04 -0000

Are you referring to creating Drawings? If so, it may help to used simplified assemblies in the drawings and split up the assemblies into easier to detail sub-assemblies. Hope this helps.

Re: 10 1/2 Tips to Rock Your SolidWorks Assemblies

solidsmack — Thu, 27 Sep 2007 13:28:37 -0000

yep, they'll open in 2007. you just can't go backwards.

Re: How to Get Print Quality Graphics from Solidworks

solidsmack — Thu, 27 Sep 2007 13:31:53 -0000

Right on Ben. I was going from the bare-bones-can't-afford-photoworks-and-company-won't-buy-it approach. :) 2008 seems like the image is a little crisper but I'm using the same hardware as 2007.

Re: 3 Quick Tip Note Tricks for Your Finger Tips

solidsmack — Thu, 27 Sep 2007 13:32:33 -0000

SolidWorks loves you :)

Re: How to Get Print Quality Graphics from Solidworks

solidsmack — Fri, 28 Sep 2007 13:42:25 -0000

Khoa, when you're in a part, select to save it as a PDF. In options you should have the option for High Quality.

Re: How to Get Print Quality Graphics from Solidworks

solidsmack — Fri, 28 Sep 2007 13:48:10 -0000

Mike, that is AWESOME. Great for High DPI. When I have edges visible though, they are jagged. It may be because I sample the image down when I'm in Photoshop. I'll have to mess with it some more. Thanks a lot for posting that. hadn't even thought of making a drawing.

Re: Joing SolidWorks

solidsmack — Mon, 01 Oct 2007 10:12:45 -0000

Yeah, Greg is great. Post titles don't usually get the spell check the main post does. I'm sure I've done it too. :)

Re: Free CAD Package to Import and View SolidWorks, CATIA, PRO/E and more

solidsmack — Mon, 01 Oct 2007 10:14:03 -0000

cts, did you try this. I think it would work for you. I was able to view catia files.

Re: 10 1/2 Tips to Rock Your SolidWorks Assemblies

solidsmack — Wed, 03 Oct 2007 13:20:45 -0000

you've exceeded the cut limit... just kidding. I have no idea why it would gray out. You may try to make some cuts in other configurations.

Re: Time-saving Tip for Re-using SolidWorks Drawings

solidsmack — Wed, 03 Oct 2007 13:22:22 -0000

Chris, awesome. I'm glad it worked well for you. Thanks!

Re: The Best Site to Download 3D Models Online

solidsmack — Thu, 04 Oct 2007 14:10:59 -0000

Nice, looks like a nice site. would be nice to see a community/social side to it though. thanks.

Re: How to Design Efficient Parts for Greatest Usability

solidsmack — Mon, 08 Oct 2007 12:39:50 -0000

Great addition Earnest, Thanks.

Re: SolidWorks Sheetmetal Tips to Flip

solidsmack — Tue, 09 Oct 2007 12:09:12 -0000

Thanks Alex. Custom Properties are definitely the way to go. Great to use as a check also.

Re: Digital Prototyping: Repackaged Cooking Lard

solidsmack — Tue, 09 Oct 2007 12:45:14 -0000

I'm launching a brand new initiative called Electro-Zap Sculpting (EZS). EZSculpt will revolutionize the way engineers work by allowing them to create products ELECTRONICALLY... on a computer thingy, and allow manufacturing to prod engineering with an electric poker when they see something they don't like.

Re: FREE Certified SolidWorks Professional Exam

solidsmack — Tue, 09 Oct 2007 12:46:28 -0000

yeah, if I ahd just taken it I would feel pretty ripped off. I'm would hope they would give refunds in that case. I think it's to make it a little more attractive and it would be nice to know how many jumped on this.

Re: SolidWorks Sheetmetal Tips to Flip

solidsmack — Wed, 10 Oct 2007 16:23:50 -0000

the site and that zip file (13.4 MB)

Re: Hiring Someone With SolidWorks Experience. What Would You Do?

solidsmack — Mon, 15 Oct 2007 11:03:35 -0000

wow guys, these are all incredible experiences. I think it shows that one or the other isn't always the deciding factor. The ability to learn/take direction is huge. Being able to adapt is important. Those are things that can't be measured, but you get a sense from their experience and attitude. We give our prospects a short test that evaluates solidworks and mech engineering aptitude. It's a simple 5 questions, but helps establish competency.

Re: How to Get Print Quality Graphics from Solidworks

solidsmack — Mon, 15 Oct 2007 11:29:21 -0000

Yeah, you can't use RealView graphics on drawing in 2007. However, You can do this in 2008.

Re: SolidWorks Teams with Google, Co-founds ‘The CAD Academy’

solidsmack — Mon, 15 Oct 2007 15:59:37 -0000

grrr! that spell checker will pay. he's fired. There's nothing like confounding your audience. thanks jeff :)

Re: Hiring Someone With SolidWorks Experience. What Would You Do?

solidsmack — Tue, 16 Oct 2007 08:41:53 -0000

Dustin, I'd have to lean toward the industry experience side too, exactly because of what you say about the "culture" of the business. As long as they are capable, picking up the CAD methodology should be easier. Usually the methodology is different anyway right?

Re: How to Load SolidWorks Files Faster with SyncBack

solidsmack — Tue, 16 Oct 2007 13:49:46 -0000

Dooooooh! Thanks Rod. The link has been added.

Re: How to Get Print Quality Graphics from Solidworks

solidsmack — Tue, 16 Oct 2007 14:20:44 -0000

No problem, if you use RealView alot, you will love SW08, just make sure your graphics card can handle it!

Re: 42″ Flat Screen All-in-One Computer

solidsmack — Tue, 16 Oct 2007 16:07:08 -0000

maan, that set-up sounds NICE. I keep waiting for new technology to upgrade. the only problem is that it's always new. dang! I'd love to see you specs. how did you decide what to get?

Re: Streaming Video Gets High Def

solidsmack — Tue, 16 Oct 2007 16:09:05 -0000

I'm jealous you watch homestarrunner in HD. as you bask in the next episode, think of all of us less fortunate souls. The only thing better will be askaninja.com in HD. sah-weet.

Re: Streaming Video Gets High Def

solidsmack — Wed, 17 Oct 2007 08:36:10 -0000

Tom, awesome. I'm trying to think of how to explain how cool that is. Thanks.

Re: How to Load SolidWorks Files Faster with SyncBack

solidsmack — Wed, 17 Oct 2007 08:54:23 -0000

Divshare? unlimited storage/viewing/uploads/downloads. There's also Amazon S3 which you may be more interested in since your into development. It's pay-per-use. I think Google Drive is still rumors, but if it's like Gmail and increments your storage capacity daily, that would be cool. None offer syncing, as far as I can tell.

Syncing would probably be a premium service for any of them if that feature is ever added. For S3 there is third party S3 backup that has a sync feature, but I haven't tried it.

Re: Hiring Someone With SolidWorks Experience. What Would You Do?

solidsmack — Wed, 17 Oct 2007 09:08:08 -0000

Bruce, man, super good points. A lot of what you say is exactly what I'm against. The "most in-flexible, stuck-in-the-past, closed-minded, resistant-to-change people I’ve ever met." I'm in aircraft completions and for that reason I'd prefer someone with some knowledge of the culture as Dustin stated, but the last 4 people we've hired are fresh to the industry and great at SolidWorks. That's why I think this is such an interesting question. You'll want to go one way and get flooded with talent the other. At the end of the day, if I need a senior engineer I would prefer someone with industry experience. For anything else I'd base it on what you're getting at. you can't beat someone with new ideas with passion and drive.

Thanks for the great rebuttal!

Re: How to Successfully Implement SolidWorks

solidsmack — Thu, 18 Oct 2007 13:41:28 -0000

That's great Dustin. The three things you mention always seem to take the longest, especially in a larger company. Good luck with your implementation.

Re: A CEO, a Professor Emeritus, and Marine Explorer Walk Into a Bar…

solidsmack — Fri, 19 Oct 2007 13:54:01 -0000

Hey Mike, I totally agree with you. I hate crappy lookin' stuff. I have an engineering degree, but I love the design more. Speaking of Picasso, my favorite quote of his is “Some painters transform the sun into a yellow spot; others transform a yellow spot into the sun.” If you apply that to engineering, some turn a beautiful product into a chunk of scrap metal, some turn a chunk of scrap metal into a beautiful product. I'm looking forward to the profs presentation the most and I'm hoping something will snap in anyone who is just engineering for engineering sake.

Re: 3DVia and Virtual Earth Join Hands

solidsmack — Mon, 22 Oct 2007 09:06:06 -0000

Hey Devon, no problem. The map on mine looks about the same i think, it's skewed and gives a bird's eye view. The 3DVia app get really bogged down when I try to Zoom in or after I create some geometry. SketchUp and Google Earth is a lot easier to get going in. I think the disconnect of, what I think, are two divergent technologies/business models, one being Microsoft Virtual Earth and the other being 3DVia, is going to hurt the usability. Just trying it made me frustrated.

I think it would be better if Dessault licensed the technology and allowed Microsoft VE to develop part of it for use within VE or vice versa. Right now it just doesn't feel like they fit each other.

Re: Digital Prototyping: Repackaged Cooking Lard

solidsmack — Mon, 22 Oct 2007 09:09:42 -0000

crazy, you would think teachers would be more aware.

...and the student will become the teacher.

Re: How to Load SolidWorks Files Faster with SyncBack

solidsmack — Mon, 22 Oct 2007 09:14:08 -0000

Hey Jason, that's a great idea. Much cheaper than setting up a DFS (Distributed File Server). I imagine you have to schedule it to sync pretty often if there's a lot of activity.

Re: The Thumb Wrestling Continues

solidsmack — Tue, 23 Oct 2007 12:31:18 -0000

his post.

Re: The Thumb Wrestling Continues

solidsmack — Tue, 23 Oct 2007 14:20:43 -0000

Thanks Devon. I gave a SolidWorks demo one time to a customer, an Inventor demo was right after. The Autodesk reseller was going to give them Inventor free. The customer still chose SolidWorks.

I'm not sure what it's like now, but I got a bad taste in my mouth when I used it in 2000. From what I hear it's not any better, but SolidWorks has come a long way since 2000 as well.

Re: The Thumb Wrestling Continues

solidsmack — Tue, 23 Oct 2007 14:23:46 -0000

Hey Bruce, I know what you mean. I think paper will always have a place. It is fun and interesting to speculate about it though, like what technology would actually have to change instead of the practices changing. There's still nothing like getting a letter in the mail, but we still mostly use email now.

Re: Free CAD Package to Import and View SolidWorks, CATIA, PRO/E and more

solidsmack — Tue, 23 Oct 2007 14:40:09 -0000

That's pretty much a no on that one. SolidWorks would send the law after you. There's two option for ya. get a student version or get a job at a place that has it and use it there.

Re: The Thumb Wrestling Continues

solidsmack — Tue, 23 Oct 2007 15:11:36 -0000

Ultrathin full-color e-paper

Re: The Thumb Wrestling Continues

solidsmack — Tue, 23 Oct 2007 18:03:29 -0000

Hey Matt, thanks for commenting. missing points is something I do often :) I hope I wasn't arguing either. I'm thinking that, in addition to possibly adding nurb-ification to SolidWorks, they will bring the capabilities online.

I'm proposing that what they seem to be doing (in conjucntion with the Icem/CBModelPro/VE and hopefully Google/MOI/Rhino relationships) is moving their products into an online atmosphere. Hopefully it's online/offline sort of deal, with the browser as the platform, instead of the web app as a platform. Really the whole programmable web debate.

Dessault seems to be moving this direction with 3DVia, 3dXML, Delmia, and some of the SolidWorks Labs experiments. I have other opinions about this and what it can become, but, I admit, they are probably a little idealistic. whichever way it goes, it's gonna be interesting don't ya think?

Re: Buy SolidWorks. Get $500

solidsmack — Wed, 24 Oct 2007 14:24:32 -0000

contact the reseller in your area. you'll be able to find them through www.solidworks.com

Re: Why Smart Numbers are Dumb: SolidWorks Guidelines for File Names

solidsmack — Wed, 24 Oct 2007 17:38:54 -0000

Thanks guys. It's hard to change numbering when you already have another system going. I get asked about this a lot, so I thought a good explanation would be good.

Rod, I remember the days of trying to integrate with an AS400 system. We ended up not using it and had an internal PDM system. I hope you get the graphical version soon, but at least some of what you do is automated.

Chris, you're so right. smart number and what I talk about below make it handy to find in a folder system. When you're using a well indexed database system, file names are not as important. The number on the drawing is important though and that is where it's a good idea to keep the part number dumb.

Re: The Thumb Wrestling Continues

solidsmack — Thu, 25 Oct 2007 08:57:06 -0000

I probably didn't take enough time to explain my thought process above. I'm looking at this stuff going on in the wide world of CAD and thinking, yeah, Autodesk is a competitor and they are thinking of mixing high-end with low-end. And then I'm wondering, is doing the same thing really what Dassault would do to be competitive? Well, maybe, but (here's the jump!) what would they do to keep innovating? It may be a separate topic, but if being competitive is the focus, there's gotta be more than copying what others are doing. But who knows, Microsoft added tabbed browsing to IE7 to match Firefox. (I still use firefox though)

I don’t think I’d ever use Inventor again, but if it had Alias features at the same price, I may take a second look. I don’t do too much surfacing in SolidWorks; it’s too time consuming for what I typically do. Being able to do mechanical design and easily add organic surfaces for constraints, interaction and other variables is something that would appeal to me though. I think that is where SolidWorks needs to grow and where they could gain even more users across different industries.

Ya know, what I'm really tryin' to get at is that, I don’t think Dassault has to completely match what Autodesk is doing in order to stay competitive. I imagine the same would apply for SolidWorks. SolidWorks started with a different approach and made 3D CAD affordable. Just seeing the speed at which technology is changing lately, it’s going to be interesting to see what happens next.

Re: When Are You Upgrading to SolidWorks 2008?

solidsmack — Thu, 25 Oct 2007 09:08:56 -0000

another post. What surface modeler do you use?

Re: Why Smart Numbers are Dumb: SolidWorks Guidelines for File Names

solidsmack — Thu, 25 Oct 2007 12:18:27 -0000

Devon, man, you're awesome. This is exactly the example I was looking for.

I really hope what you’re describing becomes the exception to the above. A lot of company planning and certification departments are still driven by BOMs. What a pain! I’d love to have the model build and conform everything, but we’re all still putting stamps and signatures on paper.

Ok,ok, here’s the example I use. a gear. If you give it a part number that has (your example) Year, Make, Model, etc., it can only be used for that year, make model, right? It’s great to handle inventory, but not so great for reusability. If I want to use that gear on another model, I need another number, even though it’s the same thing.

A great way to have both is to use a dumb number for the paper and a property for the part, then ya got a reusable document and an easy to find part. That shiny gear can now be used here, here and here. I add a configuration to change the property and now I can use it there, there and there. Paper is documented; Shop guy can find the part. I think this goes toward like ya say, getting rid of BOMs, to the point the dumb number is just a unique identifier and data builds the part/assembly. Crazy talk?!

Re: Why Smart Numbers are Dumb: SolidWorks Guidelines for File Names

solidsmack — Thu, 25 Oct 2007 17:18:43 -0000

It is definitely a plus to see big guys like that using them. It would be nice to see all the different types of numbering system around and what commonality there is (if any) between them.

I think we can all agree though that either way, the purpose of each is to have a unique number and an automated system to make it nice and easy. :)

Re: 16 Solutions to Manage Projects and Get Organized Online

solidsmack — Fri, 26 Oct 2007 12:03:42 -0000

Thanks Jeff and Anna. I think the most intersting/different is FormatPixel.com. That is so different and just cool. I had no idea about it until a little while ago, but it's a content creators dream.

Re: 16 Solutions to Manage Projects and Get Organized Online

solidsmack — Fri, 26 Oct 2007 14:19:40 -0000

Hi Net harry, this is by no means a comprehensive list. Thanks for the additional product. It looks like it has a great interface and the timeline is a nice addition I haven't seen in some others.

Re: 16 Solutions to Manage Projects and Get Organized Online

solidsmack — Fri, 26 Oct 2007 14:59:25 -0000

Projectizer and has a lot of info on some of the ones I mention above as well as some others. They also have categories for Calendar, Tasks, and Groupware along with a feed for the site. It hasn't been updated since August which makes me wonder, but it's a good start.

Re: 16 Solutions to Manage Projects and Get Organized Online

solidsmack — Mon, 29 Oct 2007 12:47:37 -0000

LifeHacker is excellent. That is one of my top 5 blogs for sure. one of my others is mashable.com

Re: SolidWorks Sheetmetal Tips to Flip

solidsmack — Mon, 29 Oct 2007 14:47:42 -0000

C:\Program Files\SolidWorks\lang\english\Sheet Metal Gauge Tables and \Sheetmetal Bend Tables. You can take one of those and modify it to what your shop uses. To use these, In the Sheet Metal Properties, select the gauge table in the Sheet Metal Parameters, and select Bend Table in the Bend Allowance pulldown. Your shop may have these values set up already, so check with them first.

Re: FREE Certified SolidWorks Professional Exam

solidsmack — Tue, 30 Oct 2007 14:50:29 -0000

Kyle, that is AWESOME. Glad to help and thanks so much for letting me know.

Re: Why Smart Numbers are Dumb: SolidWorks Guidelines for File Names

solidsmack — Wed, 31 Oct 2007 08:54:57 -0000

Hi Gale, good point. I just give it another dash number. Whenever a new part is created it is automatically given the next dash number. So, if my last part is 000A001-510, the mirrored part I make is 000A001-511 and so on. When I need to detail a mirrored part in a drawing, I will usually only detail the original and reference the other as an opposite. So my drawing view title looks like this:

ANGLE -510 (SHOWN)
ANGLE -511 (OPPOSITE)

Hope this helps!

Re: Tips to Tame SolidWorks Library Features

solidsmack — Wed, 31 Oct 2007 08:56:51 -0000

Very true Gale. It takes a little bit to set the Library Feature up sometimes, but when it's done, it's so much quicker. It would be interesting to see all the types of Library Features people use.

Re: Should SolidWorks Make an iPhone App?

solidsmack — Wed, 31 Oct 2007 13:27:54 -0000

I'd love to give away some iPhones on here. Maybe someone knows something about that and can hook us up.

Re: Tips to Tame SolidWorks Library Features

solidsmack — Wed, 31 Oct 2007 13:33:13 -0000

Bruce, that's one thing I hadn't thought of using it for. Great idea.

Re: PTC Goes History-Free, Buys CoCreate

solidsmack — Wed, 31 Oct 2007 15:50:43 -0000

SpaceClaim, MoI, or SketchUp. MoI is pretty amazing. I don't even look for a list of features, structure or layers.

What's going to be interesting is to see if that type of modeling can make it into the nut and bolt mechanical engineering environment that is use to a history-based approach. SpaceClaim has come the closest to addressing legacy data which is important, but it's going to be more than just being able to import stuff. There's library, processes, and modeling methodology that has been developed over the years. Solve that problem or provide a way to ease into it and you could have a winner.

Re: Tips to Tame SolidWorks Library Features

solidsmack — Thu, 01 Nov 2007 08:37:14 -0000

Albert, Hi. Are you talking about the dissect functionality added to the search feature that allows you to search down to the feature level of parts? I think that's going to be useful, but think it's still important to have a library of commonly used features that you can use throughout an organization.

Re: PTC Goes History-Free, Buys CoCreate

solidsmack — Thu, 01 Nov 2007 12:41:33 -0000

Michael Payne, but he was also a big dog at Pro/E. So maybe PTC buys up all the history-free modelers? Maybe Mike wants to do with SpaceClaim what was done with Pro/E and SolidWorks? who knows.

Re: Acrobat 3D: Your PDF on Crack

solidsmack — Fri, 02 Nov 2007 09:30:10 -0000

arrr! you got me Bruce. spelling corrected. 10MB is big, but for some of the models I work with, that is a lifesaver. It's more than a pretty picture to. It's a real 3D model. you can measure it, rotate it, section it, and export parasolids. huge improvement and has really helped workflow.

Re: PTC Goes History-Free, Buys CoCreate

solidsmack — Fri, 02 Nov 2007 11:22:10 -0000

Al, you’re right on the money. I’m not familiar with CoCreate’s market and was wondering if anyone would bring up points about that. While the tech is attractive, the user-base is even more from a business perspective and CoCreate probably had the right combination of market penetration and modeling technology. It would be interesting to see an overlay map of CAD systems and market sectors.

I think with the emerging markets there’s going to be a lot of potential in turning concept into engineering quickly. If think some of the best competition will materialize as a system that allows an open environment of conceptualization that can quickly make the conversion to engineering and manufacturing data. The tools out there aren’t there yet in my opinion, but if you have the largest user base, you can introduce and build it quickly.

Thanks again Al, great insight.

Re: Acrobat 3D: Your PDF on Crack

solidsmack — Fri, 02 Nov 2007 11:24:02 -0000

Mike, that's what I had done initially as well. Even on smaller assemblies I was getting surfaces showing up that were not suppose to and parts coming in at the wrong locations. It's definitely been improved.

Re: Acrobat 3D: Your PDF on Crack

solidsmack — Fri, 02 Nov 2007 11:58:59 -0000

Tie-rod.pdf

Re: MCAD Brings the Noise

solidsmack — Fri, 02 Nov 2007 17:35:00 -0000

Al, that is so cool you picked that up! Turn it up, man, turn it up.

Re: 8 Absolutely Odd Facts About SolidWorks 2008

solidsmack — Mon, 05 Nov 2007 23:17:44 -0000

hmmm... it shows huh Jeff. actually, if I had more time I would have come up with 127 absolutely odd facts. I had to stack some paper though. my back :(

Re: 8 Absolutely Odd Facts About SolidWorks 2008

solidsmack — Wed, 07 Nov 2007 08:45:46 -0000

now, now Alberto, there'll be no moving around comas... Actually, could I give you my salary number to do the same thing to? :)

Re: 5 Fresh Backgrounds for SolidWorks

solidsmack — Thu, 08 Nov 2007 08:49:08 -0000

Hey Ricky, thanks. Definitely, if you ever have some graphics questions let me know!

Re: Yeti Cycles: Built to Race with SolidWorks

solidsmack — Thu, 08 Nov 2007 08:54:53 -0000

Hey JD. That's a good idea for a design project in school. doing something you're interested in, familiar with. I think that would be one of the most satisfying jobs, modeling something you use for recreation or sport. you get passionate people doing that and no doubt you'll have a spectacular product.

Re: 10 New Backgrounds for SolidWorks 2008 Drawings

solidsmack — Thu, 08 Nov 2007 22:26:50 -0000

oops, sorry bout that. The zip file should be good to download now. Thanks by the way. :)

Re: Yeti Cycles: Built to Race with SolidWorks

solidsmack — Fri, 09 Nov 2007 08:42:30 -0000

you like the seven huh? I haven't even been on a yeti, but I imagine they are pretty nice. They have such a range of sizes too. I would hope the bike industry isn't like the car industry. That would be so fun, pay cut might almost be worth it :)

Re: 10 New Backgrounds for SolidWorks 2008 Drawings

solidsmack — Mon, 12 Nov 2007 15:08:47 -0000

That's a great idea Mike. People love backgrounds. These posts get a lot of hit for those looking for backgrounds, either for solidworks or their desktop. Solidmentor would be a good place to put them.

Re: How to use SolidWorks Templates to Speed Design

solidsmack — Mon, 12 Nov 2007 15:13:45 -0000

There's a couple ways to solve this. The best is to use custom properties and have it automatically fill in the paper size, designer, etc.

If you have way to pull this info from a database, even better. We have one template and run a program that pulls the info from a database.

Re: 18th century LCD Flat Panel Mod

solidsmack — Mon, 12 Nov 2007 15:19:27 -0000

ahh yes. captain Nemo would be proud. :)

Re: How to use SolidWorks Templates to Speed Design

solidsmack — Mon, 12 Nov 2007 16:58:15 -0000

here that may help. It's probably going to help to have somebody that know the SolidWorks API. This will make it possible to add much more functionality to how you do things at your organization. If it just yourself, you can pick up some basic knowledge of how macros work by looking at examples. Commercial programs like PDMWorks and Conisio can also help with this.

Re: Friday Smackdown

solidsmack — Tue, 13 Nov 2007 08:15:14 -0000

Gracias Al! Michel Thomas is the best. I've tried a bunch for Spanish, but his and Rosetta Stone are the best by far.

Re: PTC Goes History-Free, Buys CoCreate

solidsmack — Tue, 13 Nov 2007 08:43:24 -0000

whoa! dang. Canon. that's huge. Always makes me wonder about stuff that goes on behind the scenes; the stuff you don't hear about. That's gotta sting a little for PTC. They buy Cocreate, Canon says "Run away! run away!" I guess it's a little quick after PTC's buy so maybe not because of that, but still, gotta sting. looks like it hit the PMTC share price spike a little too. man. Thanks Al.

Re: Where’s my comment?

solidsmack — Wed, 14 Nov 2007 08:11:17 -0000

thanks Charles. This catches a lot more spam. I think Typepad is the same as Movable Type so Akismet or Defensio have plugins for that blogging platform.

Re: 25% Upgrade to SolidWorks 2008. The Rest?

solidsmack — Wed, 14 Nov 2007 08:41:14 -0000

Hi, yes, I'm using 91.36. It's mostly on the 1300. The 1400 is better, less frequent anyway. are you using the default settings?

Re: 5 ways to increase your efficiency by 50%

solidsmack — Wed, 14 Nov 2007 12:38:57 -0000

That's a good idea Mike. How are you assigning the windows key to the program?

Re: Dimension the Snot out of Your Sketch in Two Steps

solidsmack — Wed, 14 Nov 2007 12:49:03 -0000

Hi Andrew. Fully Define Sketch doesn't work with 3D sketches. Try to lock down points with relations or dimensions. Sometimes it helps to add dimensions and relations before you add raddii or more complex geometry. Using construction lines can also help keep dimensions and regular lines where you want them.

If you're using splines, construction lines definitely help, especially when you're lining tubes up with fittings.

Re: ColourLovers: Color for design and more

solidsmack — Thu, 15 Nov 2007 00:33:16 -0000

AL, that thing is wild! I haven't seen that before and I definitely could have used it. One more gadget to add to my list. thanks!

Re: 5 ways to increase your efficiency by 50%

solidsmack — Thu, 15 Nov 2007 00:39:54 -0000

Mike, that is one of the best tricks. I thought the windows key was what you were talking about, but when I tried it on my work computer the start menu wasn't popping up. works great here at home though. love it!

I use the shortcut bar on my task bar too. that's where all my common programs sit. Thanks for the tips!

Re: Make Your SolidWorks Model Stop Rebuilding

solidsmack — Thu, 15 Nov 2007 14:02:58 -0000

The guy that controls the spreadsheet all the enhancement request go on is very powerful. :)

Re: Designing the Engineer

solidsmack — Fri, 16 Nov 2007 08:29:42 -0000

Hey Brian, thanks. I know a lot of engineers could care less about this kind of stuff and there's opinion and contention about each discipline on both sides. I like engineering, but I'd probably call myself more of a designer, even though I have an engineering degree. I say, so what, I like good design and like coming up with the ideas and drawing them out.

If I had my choice I would have gone to the art institute in Chicago, but my parents were footing the bill and engineering school was a more "solid" option (ha, no pun intended.) Glad it happened that way though, cause I think it's a much richer experience looking at design through the lens of engineering instead of the other way around.

Re: Make Your SolidWorks Model Stop Rebuilding

solidsmack — Fri, 16 Nov 2007 08:46:27 -0000

yeah, but you can't see your features (in parts) and can't rollback over parts in assemblies. It's like inserting a part with load references option turned off, but adding a sort of toggle you can switch on and off for components you do have loaded. make sense?

Re: Make Your SolidWorks Model Stop Rebuilding

solidsmack — Mon, 19 Nov 2007 12:39:40 -0000

Hey Lloyd, sorry about that, I was trying to make it super easy. I've updated the post to reflect your comments and I've resubmitted an enhancement request. Let's hope the people going through those know know the difference too. :) thanks.

Re: Designing the Engineer

solidsmack — Mon, 19 Nov 2007 12:53:33 -0000

That is a great forum topic Daniel. I had to respond to it. Glad this one has helped to. I'm always interested to hear what engineers are doing out there to supplement their thirst for design. Let me know what you end up doing! thanks.

Re: Designing the Engineer

solidsmack — Tue, 20 Nov 2007 09:27:30 -0000

Coroflot.com and look at the design portfolios and the job listings. See what's out there and sparks your interest. Now ask yourself, do you have everything you need to get one of those positions? I'm thinking probably not right now. I would then do the following.

-find out what is required (portfolio, references, experience, etc.)
-Sketch out your ideas (sketchpad, models, renderings, etc.)
-bookmark site that inspire you (I use faves.com)
-talk to people that know the industry your interested in (they're out there, interior/ industrial designers, professors, etc.)
-call up design firms, ask for interviews (no one else is taking the initiative, but you can)
-be willing to work and start low (a reality, but if your learning stuff you want to do, it's worth it)

I ended up hunting down a job myself. I called, went in, talked to the manager and started very low. It was all worth it.

If I was doing it all over again I would still do engineering and still pursue my interest in design doing my own stuff or going for a masters in design. It depends all on what you're interested in, but keep that piece of paper up where you can see it everyday.

Also check out Freelanceswitch.com. It has a lot of articles and interviews that have to do what people look for and how to work with people. highly recommended.

Re: Designing the Engineer

solidsmack — Tue, 20 Nov 2007 09:41:35 -0000

Chris, thanks. I've been interested in talking with someone just like you that went back for a MA in ID. Would be nice to know more about your experience. Where did you end up going to school?

Re: SolidWorks User Group Myths Smashed to Tiny Bits

solidsmack — Tue, 20 Nov 2007 09:43:10 -0000

Thanks Kyle, Solidworks helps out a lot. Richard Doyle at SolidWorks is the guy to talk to. Email me if you have questions.

Re: SolidWorks User Group Myths Smashed to Tiny Bits

solidsmack — Tue, 20 Nov 2007 12:27:15 -0000

how stinkin' cool would that be! talk about dangerous though, solidworks users stompin' and pittin'. Maybe Richard can put some User Group mixtapes together.

Re: Open Source Hardware for Engineers

solidsmack — Wed, 21 Nov 2007 09:33:12 -0000

hands-on post for the hardware.

Re: Apple Ads Make Good Fun of Vista

solidsmack — Wed, 21 Nov 2007 12:50:49 -0000

Hey John, pretty cool. I wonder about that from time to time. With Leopard out and a new Macstore in town it's even more tempting. Thanks for the info.

Re: Thanksgiving

solidsmack — Wed, 21 Nov 2007 13:30:36 -0000

definite shout out to the troops. Thanks JD.

Re: My Baby Needs a Dell XPS

solidsmack — Wed, 21 Nov 2007 17:05:28 -0000

hahaha :) yeah, it was a tough decision. I'll have to talk to him too.

Re: How to Make your Own Custom Background for SolidWorks

solidsmack — Mon, 26 Nov 2007 16:12:22 -0000

Lin, hi. You'll get some more resources being used, but I haven't had it interfere with my work. If you get some lagging or notice performance issue, you may want to try a different file format. I'd stick to .jpg or .png. tif and .bmp are usually a lot bigger in size. I'm not sure how SolidWorks is using these behind the scenes, but you will notice a RAM spike when you try different backgrounds out. If you have 2GB or up of RAM you should be ok.

Re: 8 Absolutely Odd Facts About SolidWorks 2008

solidsmack — Mon, 26 Nov 2007 16:13:34 -0000

Thanks, I'd love to hear if you've found anything you think is unusual. got any?

Re: Make Your SolidWorks Model Stop Rebuilding

solidsmack — Mon, 26 Nov 2007 16:26:45 -0000

yeah Al. I've been thinking more about how this would be done. If your using a lot of top-down design, locking geometry will almost be irritating, at least in the initial design phase. you will both prevent changes top-down and within the part itself. not sure how they would get around that. simply, i guess, it just would not allow you to make that change. Seems it would lock up the entire external reference though. I need to make a change to this part, it's geometry is locked, it's driven by another part, but that part is locked because the other part has locked geometry referencing it.

If it's handled like suppression states, maybe you could make changes, but have to unlock the affected parts/assemblies in order to rebuild.

Re: My Baby Needs a Dell XPS

solidsmack — Mon, 26 Nov 2007 16:34:00 -0000

yep Rob, that comment got ya in the Spam box real quick. :)

Re: Free Camtasia Screen Recording Video Software

solidsmack — Wed, 28 Nov 2007 12:33:34 -0000

Good point Jeff. I've been using that. I'm going to try this out and see if the extra functionality is useful. I like being able to pan and zoom, especially when showing things in SolidWorks.

Re: 5 Gentle Steps to Team Collaboration in SolidWorks

solidsmack — Wed, 28 Nov 2007 12:36:15 -0000

Hey Ed. you're not kidding about communication are ya :) It's true though. I think we practice mis-communication more than communication sometimes. not to efficient. maybe more hugs??

Re: 5 Gentle Steps to Team Collaboration in SolidWorks

solidsmack — Wed, 28 Nov 2007 14:57:55 -0000

http://www.solidsmack.com/wp-admin/post.php?action=edit=519 rel="nofollow">using Syncback

Re: 5 Gentle Steps to Team Collaboration in SolidWorks

solidsmack — Thu, 29 Nov 2007 08:19:25 -0000

Daen, Hi. If your network traffic is an issue, you could Sync to your local drives. I'm not sure how PDMWorks handles this though. Jeff would know more about it. Personally, I use Syncback to get my files locally and reduce network traffic. You may also want to make sure that mail and print servers are separate from your Vault and Share Server.

If hardcore team collaboration is needed, I would suggest having a server specifically with that. Again, easy to do with something like Syncback, but may have to approach it differently with a Vault-based PDM system like PDMWorks.

Any tips Jeff?

Re: Fastest BioFuel Car Designed in SolidWorks

solidsmack — Thu, 29 Nov 2007 08:30:18 -0000

Yeah, they do look rendered huh. They're offering a $100,000 conversion for your CCX Bruce. :)

Re: SolidWorks 2008 SP 1.0, Go and Get It

solidsmack — Fri, 30 Nov 2007 08:24:51 -0000

I give up. what is it?

Re: SolidWorks 2008 Pre-Release 1 available

solidsmack — Fri, 30 Nov 2007 08:39:18 -0000

Hi Richard. I'm with you. Some things take getting use to. Virtual Parts has been a big one for me, but I like it the more I use it. I hope we're all 'always learning about the program' or trying different way to use it. Cause I know I don't everything about it, but can see some great possibilities.

Re: 5 Gentle Steps to Team Collaboration in SolidWorks

solidsmack — Fri, 30 Nov 2007 10:22:30 -0000

I would say anytime you are having to move files across servers, its going to reduce your performance. The companies I've worked at with vault systems and one's I've set up with Smarteam have just used one server for the vault. No shared server unless there's a satellite office where a replicated server would be set up. Your shared server seems to be acting kind of like that and seems unnecessary since you're all in one location. I don't see why that share couldn't be on the vault server as well, since you're still working locally.

Do you handle your own IT or contract it? You may want to discuss a more robust system for handling large data transfers. speed, distributed file systems (DFS), defragmentation and maintenance, local file sync, battery back-ups, sql database are just some of the things we've had to discuss with when using SolidWorks.

Re: My Hatch Pattern Smells of Rich Mahogany

solidsmack — Fri, 30 Nov 2007 11:19:20 -0000

HatchMaker Lisp Download (via Cadalyst)
Extract the HTH2065.zip. Load the lisp (type APPLOAD). Then type DRAWHATCH to start the command and create a hatch pattern. Type SAVEHATCH to save the hatch as a .pat file. If you're using DWGEditor, you may have to just copy the string produced, but you have to do this anyway if you create a .pat file.

That's the quickest way I know to make your own. you can open a .pat file in a text editor and grab the hatch pattern coordinates from there and then add it to your sldwks.ptn file.

If you have an .SLD file you can open and save it as a .dxf with a trial version program like CadSlide from etecad.com.

I added some more hatch patterns to the Sldwks.ptn file. You can download it here.

Hope this helps!

Re: You Can Never Be Too Careful

solidsmack — Fri, 30 Nov 2007 11:22:01 -0000

I like it already better than the Canon S3 IS we have. The indoor low light shots are incredible. The depth of field you get with it is just amazing and you can see it in the viewfinder. It's going to take getting use to looking through a viewfinder (like riding a bicycle?) but I'm excited about this camera.

Re: SolidWorks 2008 SP 1.0, Go and Get It

solidsmack — Fri, 30 Nov 2007 12:45:18 -0000

you've got an eye for detail Kyle. you must be an engineer. :)

Re: You Can Never Be Too Careful

solidsmack — Mon, 03 Dec 2007 08:31:47 -0000

Thanks Bruce. I should have talked to you before buying probably! We were pretty set on the Nikon, which was a big switch cause I've always been partial to Canon. Couldn't beat the quality/price thing from what we saw. The liveview would be cool, but I don't mind looking through the viewfinder so much. Reminds me of the old days.

I will be using the camera of course, but really, no lie, it's for her. :)

btw Bruce, wish I could make some comments on your site, those pics are great. The aquarium shots are great. That 'ninja' pic is funny! I think the dancing guy on Yarborough and I-10 should be in his Santa costume about now!

What settings do you use for low light? Your colors look amazing.

Re: SpaceClaim Turns On the Charm

solidsmack — Mon, 03 Dec 2007 12:24:53 -0000

SpaceClaim also just announced a new 'perpetual' license for those more incline to not pay yearly subscriptions to use a program. It's 50% off so you can walk away with it for $1700 *with 1 year maintenance included.

Re: 5 Gentle Steps to Team Collaboration in SolidWorks

solidsmack — Mon, 03 Dec 2007 17:26:53 -0000

Hey MikeO. If you have the 'open reference...read only...' option checked. you won't be able edit it until you right-click, select Get Write Access.

It's a good idea to have all your controlled files on a protected network location. It's not a good idea to read a lot of file data across the network. That's what's gonna slow stuff down. I think you would definitely benefit from SyncBack or equivalent to get a copy of your files on your local drive so your models load faster. We have it set up to sync every night and we can sync manually whenever we need to.

Disk space on my local drive hasn't been a problem. (Only 40GB of SolidWorks files on a 100GB drive in the past 4 years) and you can archive when necessary. It does require regular defragmentation, but that should be a regular activity anyway.

Re: Fastest BioFuel Car Designed in SolidWorks

solidsmack — Tue, 04 Dec 2007 07:25:46 -0000

Al knows and sees all. :) thanks so much Al. It's always interesting to see ALL the tools a company uses to get to the actual product.

Re: 5 Gentle Steps to Team Collaboration in SolidWorks

solidsmack — Tue, 04 Dec 2007 16:57:15 -0000

seems like it may be loosing the reference. I'm not sure why it would not find the file otherwise. I'll usually mirror the files on my local drive with the network drive, so if I loose a reference all I have to do is change to drive letter.

hope this helps!

Re: 3 Key Methods to Successful SolidWorks Training

solidsmack — Tue, 04 Dec 2007 16:57:56 -0000

Hey Al, no problem. Thanks for writing it up.

Re: Cheoptics 360 Free Floating 3D Hologram

solidsmack — Thu, 06 Dec 2007 06:55:51 -0000

I'm not sure how they do it. I think I watched that video a dozen times trying to figure it out. I came across this on the Ramboll site

"This is done through surface mirroring and reflections. The pyramid itself is used as a kind of prism that assembles light from four video projections into a solid image.

“We simply use physical space to create a three dimensional feeling of reality as though the object was actually present in the space. In future, using this technique physical space itself will create 3D depth,” says Peter Simonsen.

which make it seem similar to that other holographic display that has the spinning mirror, but you can't see anything spinning in this one.

Re: Change the Way You Mouse About

solidsmack — Fri, 07 Dec 2007 10:31:41 -0000

No doubt. I'm looking for that version of the felt slider.

Re: SolidWorks Line to Part in 60 Seconds

solidsmack — Fri, 07 Dec 2007 10:36:34 -0000

MUCHO cool Bruce. Do you use Sketch layouts to create your stuff? Cause it looks an awful lot like the sketches I layout for things I create. That rendering is nice and smooth looking. you have fun don't you?

Re: What you want to know about SolidWorks 2008: Sketching and Features

solidsmack — Fri, 07 Dec 2007 11:16:54 -0000

Hi there Andy. I think the feeling on the look of quality are going to differ a bit. I'm more familiar with the Catia interface as a comparison, but think the intuitive nature of solidworks 08 stands up pretty well against the others.

It's taking a little different approach to how commands are accessed and I think it's a good move. It's a switch for those who have used it, but much easier for new users. mostly because it's getting away from a dependence on th right-click context menu. I'd be interested to what you think about that.

Re: Time-saving Tip for Re-using SolidWorks Drawings

solidsmack — Mon, 10 Dec 2007 11:16:53 -0000

Hey Jim, glad the tip helped!

Re: SolidWorks Line to Part in 60 Seconds

solidsmack — Mon, 10 Dec 2007 11:18:49 -0000

yeah, you got it, sketch layouts for top-down assemblies. That is an interesting story. I understand how you did the model now. very cool.

Re: SolidSmack.com is Mobile Friendly

solidsmack — Tue, 11 Dec 2007 23:38:17 -0000

Mike. sweet. Thanks for checking that out. I'll never understand Apple decision making process.

Re: Why Smart Numbers are Dumb: SolidWorks Guidelines for File Names

solidsmack — Wed, 12 Dec 2007 13:16:31 -0000

Example:
I use Picasa to manage my photos (it's like a PDM for photos) My camera gives the photo an automatic sequential number. I download the photos into Picasa and add meta-data (tags, captions, etc.) that i need. I use Picas to search and find my photos. If there's something that references that photo (Re-uses it) I don't have to worry about the description not being relevant. I can add a tag or something to the caption. This is the most basic example I can give, but becomes even more important when thousands of documents potentially reference each other.

Now I don't totally disagree with using smart numbers/descriptions. Things in the feature manager should be renamed. This definitely helps those picking up the work of others. And if you look at my documents folder at home, every folder has a description so I can find things easily. But it's only because I have no automated way of organizing it, like my photos.

My number one suggestion, is to create that smart number as an attribute (property) instead of making it something that fully defines the component.

Just to finish, the only time I think smart numbers or descriptions should be used is if you have no way to manage the data or if you have to find things in a wooden file cabinet. :) Then it makes more sense to use smart number so you can go to them quickly.

Re: Buy SolidWorks, Get a nVidia Quadro FX 4600 Cheap-er

solidsmack — Wed, 12 Dec 2007 13:19:19 -0000

Now that would be sweet. Water boarding is a popular coercion technique these days. :)

Re: The Future of Interface Design

solidsmack — Wed, 12 Dec 2007 13:23:00 -0000

hey, no doubt. I actually did a post on Jeff's multi-touch a little while ago. It would be sweet to use for digital prototyping, although you may get tired after a hour of stand. I bet we would all have really developed upper torsos though.

Re: FREE Certified SolidWorks Professional Exam

solidsmack — Thu, 13 Dec 2007 21:23:10 -0000

You may want to contact your VAR and see if it's still available or see if they can work something out. Otherwise, you'll have an opportunity at SOlidWorks World if you're able to go.

Re: SolidSmack.com is Mobile Friendly

solidsmack — Thu, 13 Dec 2007 22:36:16 -0000

Hey Viktor. Thanks for asking. I started looking into it and found a plugin I thought would work but it ended up looking awful. I'm gonna see what is needed to provide wap access too. thanks!!

Re: 8 Absolutely Odd Facts About SolidWorks 2008

solidsmack — Thu, 13 Dec 2007 22:37:30 -0000

I hear ya Viktor. I don't use toolbars in 2008, but the shortcut bar (and icons) come in handy.

Re: The Importance of a Good Back-up System

solidsmack — Thu, 13 Dec 2007 22:41:41 -0000

Thanks everyone. I just got word late today that the power is back on, so tomorrow it's back to the office to clean things up and probably have a long weekend... unless we get more ice and snow that they are predicting!

I'm going to have a talk with IT and see what options they suggest for these types of emergencies.

Re: Friday Smackdown

solidsmack — Fri, 14 Dec 2007 16:29:00 -0000

Very rockin indeed.

Re: How To Explode A SolidWorks Part

solidsmack — Tue, 18 Dec 2007 10:57:27 -0000

Hi Justin. Thanks for mentioning that! I like using that feature but find it quicker to build the context into the part, instead of adding all the mates to the bodies. For more complicated part-assemblies it would for sure be better to use the Move/Copy Bodies command. Thanks!

To others reading this, if you're interested in what Justin brings up, you can just draw a bunch of parts out in space, or in context, and then use Insert, Feature, Move/Copy... to mate the bodies to each other. This would help if you have a particularly complicated body or something you don't want created in context to something else. Try it out! and thanks again Justin!

Re: 3D IR Tracking Future of CAD?

solidsmack — Wed, 19 Dec 2007 07:26:25 -0000

Blocks of clay sitting around instead of computer peripherals! I like it.

I totally agree with you about the interaction Bruce. I can't imagine using CAD in the air, but everytime I say that I wonder if I'm thinking like the guy that said, the internet is a fad or all anyone will ever need is 640k of memory. I'm like the hands-on approach though, even though I would like to get rid of the piles of paper.

Re: Possibly the Coolest Car Ever Designed

solidsmack — Wed, 19 Dec 2007 07:30:23 -0000

Too True and I don't mind it one bit. Like the Mustang, it's finally starting to look tough again. The honda prelude was the first I remember going toward this in 97 but it looked small and feeble. THere's definitely a right and wrong way to use those edges, just like the bubbly. The new Cadillacs are great looking, but IMO all the angles and proportions on this thing are just perfect.

Re: Engineers of the Future

solidsmack — Wed, 19 Dec 2007 07:33:56 -0000

Hey Roger, I believe it's the browser. I would suggest Mozilla Firefox. I think it has something to do with the video format and how the browser renders it. I'll start pasting the hard links. Here are the links for the two videos above.

Hydro Train Video
Hydro Car Video

Re: Possibly the Coolest Car Ever Designed

solidsmack — Thu, 20 Dec 2007 08:49:27 -0000

you can check out the TopGear feature of the Reventon right here at YouTube.

Wait till you see the Cockpit.

Re: Possibly the Coolest Car Ever Designed

solidsmack — Thu, 20 Dec 2007 09:53:24 -0000

Hi Mohamed. nope not with SolidWorks, but with ICEM if you read Al's comment above. However, they are owned by Dassault who also owns SolidWorks.

Re: SolidWorks World FREE Exhibitor Hall Passes

solidsmack — Thu, 20 Dec 2007 12:45:59 -0000

Thanks J-Raak. Hey that's a good ghetto rapper name. you could be famous. Merry Christmas to you too.

Re: Possibly the Coolest Car Ever Designed

solidsmack — Thu, 20 Dec 2007 12:52:25 -0000

I imagine you could make a good go at it. There's definitely going to be some advanced surfacing elements that makes ICEM a better choice. They're not the same kind of modeling programs. While SolidWorks surfacing has gotten better, I'd still rather create something like this using a free-form surface modeler. Just seems much easier to get the right proportions.

Re: Possibly the Coolest Car Ever Designed

solidsmack — Wed, 26 Dec 2007 12:43:23 -0000

Indeed, you read the press release and automatically come away thinking the entire car was done in SolidWorks. I did. No doubt, you could go through the same steps Al mentions and push solidworks to the limit with the surfacing. (furniture is tough enough, i can't imagine a car.) But still, shouldn't stop you from trying. Maybe you'll be the one with the PR that is factual with the "designed in SolidWorks" statement. ;)

Re: SolidWorks Dimensioning Tips

solidsmack — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 12:42:53 -0000

HI Tim, I'm running SP 2.0 EV and am not having problems locating the ordinate. what SP are you on? The command for the auto-dim, is called Fully Define Sketch and is located in the Dimension/Relations section on the toolbars. You can get the button from there.

Re: SolidWorks Dimensioning Tips

solidsmack — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 18:04:40 -0000

Hey Tim, sorry, misunderstood there. I checked out AutoDimension and it worked fine on everything I had. There's no toolbar command for it though. I imagine that's because it's part of the Dimension command. The closest you'll get is setting up a keyboard shortcut for a Smart Dimension and then switching to the autodimension tab. sounds like an enhancement request.

Re: Diesel-Electric Hybrid Kit Car Modeled with SolidWorks

solidsmack — Fri, 28 Dec 2007 13:30:55 -0000

Yep, your right. I agree, a bit misleading huh. Although, if you have the eDrawing model files you can export them as .stl file you can then import into SolidWorks. Still though, would be nice to actually have files with the features you could edit. It's a start I guess.

Re: FREE Certified SolidWorks Professional Exam

solidsmack — Fri, 28 Dec 2007 14:19:21 -0000

A VAR is a "Vallue Added Reseller" for SolidWorks. The sell the software. SolidWorks World is the yearly conference, beginning of each year that has a bunch of technical sessions and get-togethers along an exhibit hall of Program Partners that work with SolidWorks and Keynote addresses from interesting people.

Re: Diesel-Electric Hybrid Kit Car Modeled with SolidWorks

solidsmack — Wed, 02 Jan 2008 08:50:31 -0000

yeah, pretty lame, native files would be the best, but still kinda cool. I'd rather it be a four-wheeler, even though it would lower the MPG.

Re: 16 Solutions to Manage Projects and Get Organized Online

solidsmack — Wed, 02 Jan 2008 08:54:38 -0000

Hi Benny, They all have to do with organizing or managing projects and I've use these here at least a little. I prefer the free ones, even though they have fewer features sometimes. I think at least having a free version open up more imaginative ways of creating revenue for the company. no doubt, if the product is good enough people will pay, activecollab, seems to have done well, they were once "the free version of Basecamp" but since have such a large user base they were able to expand into commercial versions. anyway, thanks for the comment. I'll look into that site you mention.

Re: SolidSmack 2007 Shoutouts

solidsmack — Wed, 02 Jan 2008 08:55:27 -0000

Thanks Devon, I enjoy yours also and I'll be at SW08 so I'm sure we'll see each other. later!

Re: Predictions? Resolutions? Bah! SolidWorks Tips for 2008

solidsmack — Wed, 02 Jan 2008 16:28:59 -0000

Tip #2 - Derived Sketches - Don't use 'em. :) just kiddin' Charles. That's a good one. Thanks!

Re: Diesel-Electric Hybrid Kit Car Modeled with SolidWorks

solidsmack — Wed, 02 Jan 2008 17:29:28 -0000

I've always heard it was market politics and limiting the technology to the minimum required limits to build dominance and backlog. Ya know, adding a little more each version instead of all at once so the consumer keeps consuming. I doubt that wouldn't be beyond them.

I'm sure they've developed better technology than this guy, but they may send their engineering hitmen after him, just make sure. :)

Re: The Greatest SolidWorks Tips for Derived Sketches

solidsmack — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 16:38:16 -0000

Thanks Charles, SuperNintendo Chalmers would be proud huh.

Re: Man-handle Windows Vista with Vista4Experts

solidsmack — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 16:40:50 -0000

:D no kiddin' huh. stuff that's functional and looks cool is too much to ask for. I hope it gets better.

Re: The Greatest SolidWorks Tips for Derived Sketches

solidsmack — Thu, 03 Jan 2008 17:00:30 -0000

oh-ho-ho! Kyle is a sharp cookie. That is called Super-Mega-Rebuild and is our top secret way of doing a super force rebuild. keeps ya from having to open up parts and rebuild or edit sketches and features that are not rebuilding. I'll have to see if it sharable.

Re: SolidWorks Feature Tip to Improve Design

solidsmack — Fri, 04 Jan 2008 13:37:29 -0000

Hey John. That Professor knows what is uP.

I was hoping someone would mention the option for this. It a great reminder to add a name and really doesn't take that much time. Right on.

Re: SolidWorks Feature Tip to Improve Design

solidsmack — Mon, 07 Jan 2008 14:08:07 -0000

I also name the features after I've create them, instead of using the option. Helps me see where improvements can be made easier and doesn't slow down the momentum.

An embedded metric add-in would be incredible. Not only to keep track of your things, but also keep track of learning curves. You would think SolidWorks would like to know some of this info also. Thanks Bruce.

Re: How to Mate To A Spline in SolidWorks

solidsmack — Mon, 07 Jan 2008 14:11:22 -0000

Indeed, I did, great point Bruce. Everyone should heed that advice for sure. Using the default planes whenever possible will help avoid errors when/if geometry changes.

Re: Flexible E-Paper Display Hits CES

solidsmack — Mon, 07 Jan 2008 14:14:08 -0000

no kidding, can you imagine... screens could be resized dynamically to fit/be used in different areas. You may be carrying your laptop in a tube in the near future. Man, it's great to see how technology is changing.

Re: How To Get Windows Alt Codes Into SolidWorks

solidsmack — Mon, 07 Jan 2008 14:15:23 -0000

Thanks Jason! glad it helps. I always hated having to go to the Character Map program to get the special character I wanted. Hopefully this will help in many situations.

Re: The Greatest SolidWorks Tips for Derived Sketches

solidsmack — Thu, 10 Jan 2008 12:01:12 -0000

I think I'm gonna change this site to a Macro button logo design blog. ;)

Re: How to Mate To A Spline in SolidWorks

solidsmack — Thu, 10 Jan 2008 12:02:46 -0000

Hey Al, True... unless your mating to a spline, then those points come in handy right. :)

Re: Create 3D Models From Video

solidsmack — Thu, 10 Jan 2008 12:20:38 -0000

It's interesting to think that this is moving toward extracting 3D data from video.

As it is now, the traced model is a static part, but add some object recognition with extrapolating kinematics and you could bring in working assemblies, moving people, etc. Definitely cool stuff.

Re: Rock Productivity With the Xobni Outlook Plugin

solidsmack — Thu, 10 Jan 2008 21:44:35 -0000

It helps organize it, but the more I use it, the more it replaces how I usually use Outlook. I do all my searches through Xobni. I start emails from it. Grab attachments. If the Outlook interface was gone, I wouldn't mind at all. One thing they need to work on is being able to set up new tasks and to-do items. you can search and open them, but not create any.

Re: How to boost your productivity immediately

solidsmack — Mon, 14 Jan 2008 07:21:54 -0000

I would definitely recommend that book. Talk about simplifying, man.

Re: Surprise Guest At SolidWorks World Leaked?

solidsmack — Mon, 14 Jan 2008 07:24:03 -0000

oh man, please. Columbia University was more than enough.

Re: SolidWorks 2008 SP2.0 Approved for Consumption

solidsmack — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 12:19:06 -0000

This mostly seems local to my machine, at least the particular kind of crashes I'm having, and from what I've read on the forums. Just remember to test on one before installing on others.

Re: 5 Tricks To Tackle SolidWorks “Failed To Save Document”

solidsmack — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 12:21:08 -0000

Thanks guys, That's also a good one Ricky. I came across another one as well. Make sure the file you're trying to save is not read-only.

I'm running an optimized windows them called CrystalXP. It looks nice but also reduces RAM consumption.

Re: Best of CES 2008 CAD Related Products

solidsmack — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 12:25:57 -0000

Hey Ricky, no kidding. Alienware = not cheap.

Re: 5 Tricks To Tackle SolidWorks “Failed To Save Document”

solidsmack — Wed, 16 Jan 2008 13:46:30 -0000

Neil, Hi, you're right, that sometimes works too. But like you say, with references, If you have a lot of top-down assemblies, your features will go out of context, so best to try the Find References (or Pack and Go to rename) first. Thanks!

Re: Destroy This Site, Reduce Some Stress

solidsmack — Wed, 16 Jan 2008 13:47:10 -0000

Yes, exactly :) don't worry, I heal quickly.

Re: San Diego Sites and Sounds, Oh and SolidWorks World 2008

solidsmack — Thu, 17 Jan 2008 14:21:06 -0000

I'm thinking I'm going to have to take another trip to San Diego just to see some of this stuff. see ya guys there.

Re: SolidWorks World 2008 Escalates

solidsmack — Mon, 21 Jan 2008 10:29:16 -0000

Yeah Charles, I know. It's depressing huh. Cheer up though, the regular sessions start today. But first... breakfast.

Re: SolidWorks Gets Super Ipod-ified. Site Needs Help.

solidsmack — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 23:00:24 -0000

Yeah Bruce, wish you could have gone too. Will be nice to meet you someday. I'm so tired and sore, it was a crazy time for sure.

Re: SolidWorks Has a New Club

solidsmack — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 23:13:34 -0000

Hey Rick, thanks. There'll be some more on this. Rick was out at SolidWorks World and this was discussed a little bit.

Re: The Press Didn’t Play Hopscotch at SolidWorks World 2008

solidsmack — Sat, 26 Jan 2008 16:45:04 -0000

Thanks Brian, it was really good to meet you man.

Re: SolidWorks World 2008 Fin

solidsmack — Sat, 26 Jan 2008 16:57:26 -0000

Hey guys, all great stuff. I'll cover as much as possible. The weather was nice, but colder at night than I would have liked. ok, back to it!

Re: SolidWorks World Top Ramen Enhancement Requests. Which Implemented?

solidsmack — Sat, 26 Jan 2008 17:17:01 -0000

Ya know, it made me think too, cause I see these topics, but haven't been to World in a while. The topics seem so familiar, I'm thinking, is it rigged? I'm sure some are still requested, but I thought dual monitor support would happen 5 years ago when, imo, it was most important.

What would be incredible is if SolidWorks had complete transparencies on this. A list is too abstract. Instead of a list at the last session, I was hoping to see actual graphs or stats of where users were suggesting enhancements and then actual data that showed the most requested.

If there's a top one they can't do, just tell us, the technology isn't there yet, but we're gonna do this, this and this in the next version, and that one by 2010. Much easier to trust that.

Re: Pure Inspiration: Interview with John ‘Muggs’ Ferguson

solidsmack — Sat, 26 Jan 2008 17:34:32 -0000

Tutorials and freelance business resources are both big areas that never get enough attention for sure. I'd suggest inspirtech for training and tutorials and FreelanceSwitch for general-not-really-related-to-cad-freelance info.

Matt - it was loads of fun meeting you too, wish we had more chance to talk. almost need an interview with everyone you want a chance to really talk with.

Re: Lego Bricks Inspiring Kids For 50 years

solidsmack — Wed, 30 Jan 2008 07:21:00 -0000

ah yes, harsh times call for harsh measures.

Any of the Lego Technic sets were awesome. I never got the big ones though :(

Re: SolidWorks 2009: Decimate the Weak

solidsmack — Wed, 30 Jan 2008 07:23:13 -0000

Someone reminded me of another feature. If I remember correctly, Dual units on the measure command will be in 2009. no more switching back and forth in options. It's little things like that make all the difference.

Re: Why Smart Numbers are Dumb: SolidWorks Guidelines for File Names

solidsmack — Wed, 30 Jan 2008 07:37:25 -0000

Hey Rollin, when I go over numbering systems with people, it always comes to one deciding factor. where's the component used. The first thing a lot of people want to do is put location or purpose in a number. suddenly it's used somewhere else and the number is now useless. it inherently becomes dumb as it's used for a different situation. Some make a duplicate part with a new number, but that's just bad practice, in my opinion.

When you're finding things through a database, it doesn't matter so much how or where they are stored. Hence vault type systems. In a manual system folders are better and it's definitely possible to combine the two.

Currently, we store each drawing and it's native files in their own folder. It was set up like this from the "file cabinet' mentality even though we find everything through a database search. It does help sort when working with a lot of different customers that you need to send documents to.

Hope you find somethig that works well for your situation.

Re: The Art of Creating Creatures

solidsmack — Wed, 30 Jan 2008 08:00:28 -0000

By the way, this presentation is almost exactly the same as the one at SolidWorks World 08.

Re: SolidWorks 2008 SP2.1: Cause Every 2 Needs a Big Fat .1

solidsmack — Thu, 31 Jan 2008 12:29:43 -0000

The Internet? what is that? :) I tend to find that rocks and open windows work well for getting around those things.

Re: How to Bring SolidWorks Models Into Adobe Flash

solidsmack — Fri, 01 Feb 2008 10:50:10 -0000

hey Charles good point. Use 3ds to get a 3ds. :) The new version of Swift3d is much better, smaller files, easier to use, may be a bit pricey if you don't use it all the time, but still lots of fun to mess with. do you do web stuff?

Re: How to Bring SolidWorks Models Into Adobe Flash

solidsmack — Mon, 04 Feb 2008 13:22:11 -0000

Hey Keith, there's a quick example at the bottom of the post. thanks.

Re: Friday Smackdown

solidsmack — Mon, 04 Feb 2008 13:22:43 -0000

No problem man, give me a hollar if you ever have any questions. I love that stuff.

Re: Friday Smackdown

solidsmack — Mon, 04 Feb 2008 13:32:16 -0000

Matt, you win the one-up reward. That is super cool. I like being able to disable single element of the CSS and the layout tab shows a great graphical representation of each element too. thanks man.

Re: SolidWorks BOM: Slap, Rinse, Repeat

solidsmack — Thu, 07 Feb 2008 08:37:01 -0000

Cristian, hi. a design table is basically an excel table. If you're trying to create a table in excel and want to import it you can do that when you first create design table and even link to that file. It's the first set of options after you select insert, design table.

Re: SolidSmack is Back to Rockin’ the Joint

solidsmack — Thu, 07 Feb 2008 14:06:17 -0000

Man, maybe I shouldn't have said anything. Ya'll are gonna raise the expectations and it will be totally boring. :)

Re: David Lee Roth Is the Essence of 2D CAD

solidsmack — Thu, 07 Feb 2008 16:55:39 -0000

no doubt devon.

Re: Touchless Interface To Navigate Your 3D… and Prevent Disease

solidsmack — Thu, 07 Feb 2008 17:00:48 -0000

yeah, same thing man, but i end up putting a lot more than a hand through it... he had it comin'

Re: 5 Best Interrogation Methods for SolidWorks Models

solidsmack — Thu, 07 Feb 2008 17:03:05 -0000

I'm telling you man, the models know... THEY KNOW. shh! here they come.

Re: Clickless Interface: Would You Miss the Click?

solidsmack — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 10:39:50 -0000

I hear ya Kyle. I can feel the carpal tunnel melting away.

Re: Friday Smackdown

solidsmack — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 12:33:46 -0000

I like that band from Sweden called Blindside. They're tall and also very nice.

Re: Clickless Interface: Would You Miss the Click?

solidsmack — Wed, 13 Feb 2008 10:23:57 -0000

good point Bruce. maybe in the future we won't have to go back to the previous screen. :) I have seen this done with hotspots around edges of a windowed area, but that adds a lot of movement. Maybe something like the SolidWorks pop-up context menu?

Re: Microsoft Should Wash Hands Before Touching Photos

solidsmack — Wed, 13 Feb 2008 12:35:47 -0000

true Pete. Photosynth is an interesting project and I've talked about using it to get 3D data. There was a presentation on Ted.com I believe that showed them already pulling photos from Flickr to build the models, but you won't see anything about it on the Photosynth website...yet. Thanks for mentioning that.

Re: Gardening With A 3D Geometric Twist

solidsmack — Wed, 13 Feb 2008 12:39:51 -0000

hmmm, plants in solidworks. That would be interesting. Maybe if there's more interest in using SolidWorks for architectural work, plants would soon follow. Sounds like an open market to me.

Re: 3D Visible Body is Creepy But Fun and Educational

solidsmack — Wed, 13 Feb 2008 12:43:06 -0000

You may also be interested in the CAVE - digital patient. Now that is an incredible application to aid hospitals and doctors.

Re: How to Fix Out of Context Parts in SolidWorks

solidsmack — Wed, 13 Feb 2008 12:45:22 -0000

Thanks Devon, I feel an overwhelming sense of accomplishment. I love breaking references on other peoples models. good training method that build endurance. break, redo, break, redo, FASTER!!

Re: Gardening With A 3D Geometric Twist

solidsmack — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 07:47:02 -0000

Your friend is so right. We're not concerned about what people think about our family huh? Just if our yard has weeds. what is that all about. I'm not mowing this summer.

My mom is a horticulturalist and landscape designer. I grew up in a house full of plants and gardens so I've always been interested in that stuff.

Re: How to Fix Out of Context Parts in SolidWorks

solidsmack — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 07:51:54 -0000

Don't worry herman, external references are just too tempting for little Eddie.

Re: How To Avoid Being a SolidWorks Ass…embly

solidsmack — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 07:58:14 -0000

actually Bruce, you're right. I wouldn't give anybody free reign to destroy a lot of hard work. It's really important to show them the 'how', otherwise their mistake is my fault too.

Now that wasn't to rough huh? Glad it made you laugh too :)

Re: FireFox 3 Out For Beta

solidsmack — Fri, 15 Feb 2008 11:55:50 -0000

Bruce, I hear ya, I use Thunderbird but still like Outlook a bit more cause of the calendar. You may want to check out Songbird for open-source music goodness.

Rod, the portable version is incredible. I'm not sure very many people realize that, when everything they do can be done from a browser this is going to be the only program they use. The power of that on a thumb drive, or who knows by the time more web apps are being created. If you look at it, the big graphics and cad programs are the last types of heavy apps to be integrated into a browser, but even the graphic/photo editing web apps have made huge advances in the past year and the thinking about the possibilities of CAD on the web are changing. exciting stuff huh.

Re: Best Music To Model and Groove To

solidsmack — Fri, 15 Feb 2008 12:29:34 -0000

Hi T. I checked out the site. That's definitely a unique instrument. did you design that using SolidWorks? It's got a great sound too. some of it reminds me of how Les Claypool from Primus plays. He's probably a purist though huh. Anyway, thanks for the comment.

Re: Why Smart Numbers are Dumb: SolidWorks Guidelines for File Names

solidsmack — Fri, 15 Feb 2008 12:37:47 -0000

Hi Bill, file cabinet organization is a nightmare huh. One company I worked with used binders instead. We had shelves of binders. 1 HUGE binder for each projects, (with a smart number of course so you could tell what it was by looking at it.) but then we had to use one part from one binder in another... oh man.

Re: Microsoft Should Wash Hands Before Touching Photos

solidsmack — Fri, 15 Feb 2008 12:48:12 -0000

I agree Pete. A lot of the fear is from long time users that don't trust M$crosoft. It was a lot of the same fears when yahoo bought flickr. personally I not sure about the integration of microsoft live and yahoo service, email, business, groups, pipes. we will see.

Re: SolidSmack Loves You

solidsmack — Fri, 15 Feb 2008 12:51:46 -0000

Charles, that is supa cool! looks great with ambient occlusion on. When I have some more time I'm gonna try a new version with surfaces. I wanted to get that crease to look a little better.

Al, not a bad promo idea for the peeps at zcorp. maybe Jon will see this and let them know for next year. :)

Re: How To Avoid Being a SolidWorks Ass…embly

solidsmack — Fri, 15 Feb 2008 12:54:14 -0000

I'd play it by ear Kyle. you know, test it out with a little shove into the water fountain in the hall... see the reaction. watch for hidden razors and such.

Re: What you need to run SolidWorks on Vista

solidsmack — Fri, 15 Feb 2008 12:56:16 -0000

MikesCADBlog has some info on this. SolidWorks does work on Vista. You'll just need to make sure some things on your laptop are compatible.

Re: If You Can Model Something Like This…

solidsmack — Mon, 18 Feb 2008 08:51:17 -0000

wouldn't that be fun Mike? I've seen some good renderings, but never any architecture stuff like this in SolidWorks. architecture was what I wanted to do originally but all the codes!! dang!

I could do a model maybe, but getting a rendering? I'd have to hire Rob!

Glad you fond that link, it was really inspiring to look at all those designs.

Re: Burton Car Design Competition Using SolidWorks

solidsmack — Mon, 18 Feb 2008 08:51:48 -0000

ya know, I have no idea. you may be able to contact them and find a US distributor.

Re: Gardening With A 3D Geometric Twist

solidsmack — Mon, 18 Feb 2008 08:53:26 -0000

I imagine it could be used out or in. If you have plants spread all over the place like me, this saves a lot of space. granted you can't have very large ones though.

Re: Win a Dell Precision M4300 Laptop

solidsmack — Tue, 19 Feb 2008 07:45:50 -0000

Hey Bruce. As far as I know it is. The contest ended Jan 31 though. The Acrobat 3D blog isn't updated too often, but they're suppose to announce the winners on there.

Re: Microsoft Makes Grown Men Cry and Bicker. Why? Could be 3D.

solidsmack — Tue, 19 Feb 2008 13:47:14 -0000

Thanks Pete. I was watching for this, but you got to it first! right on man. sounds cool huh? can't wait to see it.

Re: Warning: Baby is Imminent

solidsmack — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 18:25:15 -0000

Hey everyone, thanks. ya'll are awEsOME. WE HAD A BABY GIRL! here's the details.

Name: Isabella Grace
Born: Thursday, February 21st, 9:31 am
Weight: 8 lbs 3.5 oz
Length: 20.5 in
Head: 13.5"

Thanks again foryour prayers and thoughts and all. that is just super cool. now... some sleep.

Re: Isabella Baby on SolidSmack

solidsmack — Tue, 26 Feb 2008 12:26:58 -0000

Thanks everyone. I think I'd be fine if I didn't have cold. I still can't believe I have a little girl. It's still freaking me out... I'll probably still be saying the same thing when she's my age :)

Re: 5 Slick Ways To Improve SolidWorks Large Assembly Performance

solidsmack — Tue, 26 Feb 2008 12:43:58 -0000

Good Tip on the Task Scheduler. I haven't tried doing that one because I use a macro that does that and matches up all the configs. requires a walk as well.

I actually abhor working in lightweight, maybe I don't do it right. Part of why I do the above is because I work in large assemblies so often it makes it easier when there's a good structure and process to the assembly.

Working in lightweight can be used additionally, I do use it sometimes when I don't want things loading, but when you have to open that top assembly that show everything and spit out a BOM, lightweight won't be an option.

Re: Day and Dean Wrap It Up at MCAD

solidsmack — Thu, 28 Feb 2008 13:05:39 -0000

Hey Al, sorry I had you go from feeling famous back down to semi-famous :)

Re: 5 ways to increase your efficiency by 50%

solidsmack — Thu, 28 Feb 2008 14:21:08 -0000

Hey Robin, that ActiveWords looks great, it would save some time on entering html tags on post which would be so nice. Thanks.

Re: 5 Slick Ways To Improve SolidWorks Large Assembly Performance

solidsmack — Thu, 28 Feb 2008 14:23:22 -0000

Rod, weldments... are so nice. Once you know how to use them, which isn't hard, it opens a lot of possibilities for how you model things. definitely check it out.

Re: How It’s Made: Plastic Injection Mold

solidsmack — Thu, 28 Feb 2008 14:25:51 -0000

Isn't it? I wonder sometimes about the process, especially trying to determine the best way to have something made. Process and Materials are something I forgot right after college since I never had to think about it too much. Videos like this help me remember and add a little more.

Re: SolidWorks ScanTo3D vs. NextEngine’s RapidWorks: Which Is Better?

solidsmack — Thu, 28 Feb 2008 14:40:26 -0000

Devon, I hear ya man. And as I was hoping, this post brought some users experiences out. Ricky's comment is gold. Just what clarification is needed. Now, just an up-close review is needed.

Re: SolidWorks ScanTo3D vs. NextEngine’s RapidWorks: Which Is Better?

solidsmack — Thu, 28 Feb 2008 14:41:38 -0000

By the way, thanks Ricky and Tom for the added clarity. May your scans be filled with accuracy and usable data.

Re: Solidworks Settings for Inventor Users

solidsmack — Mon, 03 Mar 2008 12:42:29 -0000

Hey Timmi, thanks for your views. I mostly agree. I'm a snowboarder, I don't mind skiers. I'm a mountain biker, don't mind roadies... I'm torn on the mac vs. PC.

anyway, it is childish huh. My CAD is better than yours. bottom line though, I've use Inventor, tried to re-use it. It was painful. Not fun. just like skiing and road biking are not fun for me. A lot of what I say is meant to be a tad sarcastic also. I know some enjoy Inventor... that's fine, but I'm also going to give my opinion about things. I'd also be the first to say if there's something better than SolidWorks, but for now I haven't seen anything as... here's that word... robust.

by the way, I'm in Aerospace too. VIP Interiors. Have you checked out V6. Now there's something that may change CAD.

Re: Burton Car Design Competition Using SolidWorks

solidsmack — Mon, 03 Mar 2008 12:44:41 -0000

Yeah Karl, sometimes it's time too just sit back and watch (blog about) other people doing it :) Thanks!

Re: Who’s In Charge of The SolidWorks Real Logo?

solidsmack — Thu, 06 Mar 2008 08:02:04 -0000

yeah, this was definitely not meant to be offensive. I was going to use a photo of sea otters, but a good sea otter photo is hard to come by.

Re: How To Learn More About SolidWorks In Less Time

solidsmack — Fri, 07 Mar 2008 12:30:17 -0000

Hey Johnathan, you probably need to know a little about SolidWorks to do these. After some initial training, I'll have some guys look at some examples to rollback through. It's a fun challenge to try and do something the system can't handle, although it's not that hard really.

I definitely agree though, having someone show you something is by far one of the quickest way to learn something. I think that's probably how I've learned just about anything.

Re: Product Design: Clarifying SolidWorks PR

solidsmack — Fri, 07 Mar 2008 12:32:03 -0000

PR can be a tricky biz for sure. I just think it provides more substance and more validity to the design process when you include all the aspects, even if other programs are involved.

Re: Microsoft Office Live Workspace Launches Beta, Could Be Better

solidsmack — Fri, 07 Mar 2008 18:15:13 -0000

Hi Barry, I definitely think it would be appealing.

Storage price isn't so much an issue any more. Amazon S3 is only $0.15 per GB-month/$0.10 per GB transfer. That's cheap.

I'm looking at a Firefox add-on called Amazon S3 Organizer that allows multiple uploads and syncing capabilities. The nice thing is that it's browser based. The lame thing is that it's separate from the service and doesn't allow me to share.

Security could be a concern as well. While you would like to have it encrypted, it's nice to access anywhere online and if user authentication bypasses file encryption it doesn't matter to much anyway.

The pipes (bandwidth) is the big problem, but with HD content being used more and storage needs increasing, I think large model data will fall into place just fine.

It's going to be interesting to see how CAD develops on the Web. It's one of the last things to get there. What options do you think there are?

Re: 5 Temptations of a Hardcore SolidWorks User

solidsmack — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 00:17:44 -0000

I'll agree on the color usage. although I like things to look realistic, when you're working on a model that has 57 pieces of the same material, it's nice to be able to tell where they start, stop and overlap. We even have a random color generator when a new part is created. Strange that this is one of the key aspect to a design being created huh.

Re: Make your Own 3D Printer

solidsmack — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 00:21:38 -0000

You might want to do a search on creating molds at home. I believe there's a kit that can be purchased but I haven't been able to find it recently. It's going to take a bit of precaution because of the material you will have to melt down can produce harmful fumes if heated to high. I'll post the site if I'm able to find it again.

Re: Can Flavored Coffee Make you Work Faster?

solidsmack — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 00:25:29 -0000

Yeah, for real, coffee is fine without adding junk to it. I can't wait till morning to make my regular stuff.

Re: Parkour and SolidWorks: Aware of Your Suroundings

solidsmack — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 00:32:10 -0000

ha, man guys, that is so funny (and scary), you have some very resilient children there.

Bruce, as soon as I can do some cool stuff I'll post a video. That might be a little while! This stuff is fun, but I'm still sore from Saturday!

Re: 8 Absolutely Odd Facts About SolidWorks 2008

solidsmack — Tue, 11 Mar 2008 17:06:10 -0000

Hi, yeah, i understand your frustration. It's kind of hard to use something that's not documented very clearly. It's in the help file, but hard to understand. If you go to Tools, Options in the Colors section under System Options there's three checkboxes down below. If you check the first one, it will turn off the wrinkly paper graphic.

If you have some specific questions let me know. You can get all your setting over to 2008 and even get it to function similarly.

Re: Cool 3D Wall to Keep That Space Looking Sharp

solidsmack — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 12:57:56 -0000

Here's a video that is also kind of interesting, using cardboard to make furniture.

Gomi Style - DIY Cardboard Furniture Reuse Design

Re: SolidWorks 2009: Decimate the Weak

solidsmack — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 15:58:54 -0000

Hey there Aspen, from what it looked like on the screen, the solid was used to define the inner faces of the sheet metal. It was quick, but the solid looked like it was inside the sheet metal that was 'wrapped' around it. I'm not sure how bends and open edges are determined quite yet. Beta Testing will begin shortly (April or May) so you may want to sign up to test things out.

Re: WebShop RoundUp: The Top 3 StoreFronts to Get Your Product Online Fast

solidsmack — Fri, 14 Mar 2008 08:19:10 -0000

Yep Bruce. 60 bucks. but what I like is that you can have as many as you want and the 7% is based on your sales.

Re: SolidWorks Fires Up The 2009 Beta Furnace

solidsmack — Fri, 14 Mar 2008 08:23:09 -0000

I hear ya guys. I think having actual users test it is the best way though. I don't really do it for the prizes. I like to see the new stuff and I test it when I'm checking through models so I can use the new functionality, test it against how I work in the previous version and see if there's benefits for moving forward.

Not everyone needs to test, although it would probably help, but I think a CAD Manager should at least be involved.

Re: SolidWorks 2009: Decimate the Weak

solidsmack — Fri, 14 Mar 2008 08:26:31 -0000

Hey Aspen, sorry if I wasn't too clear. The wrap sheetmetal feature will be in the next version of SolidWorks, 2009. It will probably release around September of 08.

Sheet metal can be challenging. I've done some post on it and if you want specific sheet metal training, your reseller should offer that course. You can start here to find out about certification.

Hope this helps you!

Re: SolidWorks Fires Up The 2009 Beta Furnace

solidsmack — Fri, 14 Mar 2008 08:27:42 -0000

If you go to beta.solidworks.com there will be a link to sign up.

Re: 3 Easy Lovin’ Tips for Tiny SolidWorks Assemblies

solidsmack — Tue, 18 Mar 2008 10:48:02 -0000

Wow Bruce. I missed this comment. sorry.

Occasionally, I'll come across parts that are called out as assemblies. I see it happen with some beginners or done as a shortcut to avoid having to create an assembly.

For example, in my line of work, rivet are commonly not shown, so I may see a bracket that is called BRACKET ASSY, but it's a part. If another bracket or some hardware needs to be added to this "assembly" it takes a bit longer to update and becomes a pain if it's been used in a lot of assemblies.

Does that make more sense?

Re: 5 Best Interrogation Methods for SolidWorks Models

solidsmack — Tue, 18 Mar 2008 11:21:51 -0000

haha! you're right Rollin. pretty sneaky huh. I think file properties are the most unappreciated items in solidworks. so many ways to customize and use them for each need.

Re: My Top 10 SolidWorks Wish List

solidsmack — Tue, 18 Mar 2008 17:27:16 -0000

ahahaha. you got it man! I've been waiting to see more. Martyn's review on it was pretty good. If it lives up that freakin' trailer, it will indeed rock. If it cost a lot it will suck, but for those feature...hmmm. maybe what I should ask (another post maybe?) is why are we not seeing this stuff in other CAD systems? what is the apprehension to web-based usage when HD content is already being delivered? If they can use system resources to run a program off a thumb drive why not from a browser?

Well, no matter. Dassault is doing it with V6. It gonna be cool to see some demos for once.

Re: 3 Quick Tip Note Tricks for Your Finger Tips

solidsmack — Wed, 19 Mar 2008 09:44:33 -0000

Edit Text in Window if you ever need to do that.

Re: Cool 3D Wall to Keep That Space Looking Sharp

solidsmack — Wed, 19 Mar 2008 09:54:11 -0000

oh DANG. no kidding. They need to coat those things with insecticide. On the positive side, if one of the walls caught fire, all those roaches would instantly be doomed.

Re: My Top 10 SolidWorks Wish List

solidsmack — Wed, 19 Mar 2008 10:08:27 -0000

as long as there's not too many creepy virtual avatar people. That just makes me think Lawnmower Man all over again. :)

Re: How To Make A Custom Color Swatch in SolidWorks

solidsmack — Wed, 19 Mar 2008 10:10:48 -0000

Hey! very cool, good call on the RAL palette. Makes me want to go through the pantone colors and create those which would have probably been more helpful than some random colors from some tattoo art :)

Re: SolidSmack and Twitter: Get Tips, Win Stuff

solidsmack — Wed, 19 Mar 2008 16:19:21 -0000

by the way, for those already joining, I use an app called Twhirl, a Twitter client that keeps everything together. very convenient.

Re: Bookshelf Design: Death of the Book?

solidsmack — Wed, 19 Mar 2008 17:09:42 -0000

I see what ya'll are saying. I definitely love all the cool new tech, but there's something about a bookshelf though that is just... i dunno, timeless? It's a place to put more than just books too, toys, photos, wine...small mammals.

Re: Bookshelf Design: Death of the Book?

solidsmack — Thu, 20 Mar 2008 11:43:01 -0000

oh man. no way Charles! I know you're not sitting in your study with doilies and ornate lamps smoking a pipe! :) I hate the DRM thing too, but I think it's dying, or dead. The Kindle was hacked (of course) and I know Amazon knows the woes of DRM dealing with the music side of things. They'll come around... again.

Re: 8 Absolutely Odd Facts About SolidWorks 2008

solidsmack — Thu, 20 Mar 2008 11:46:33 -0000

Hey Donal, that's a good one. I've counted 9 different ones.

Re: WebShop RoundUp: The Top 3 StoreFronts to Get Your Product Online Fast

solidsmack — Mon, 24 Mar 2008 12:22:37 -0000

Hey Matt, excellent suggestion. It was a real close call between Amazon Webshop and Shopify. I probably like Shopify better in ease of use, but like the visibility of Amazon (even though you can do fulfillment through Amazon on Shopify) a bit more. I haven't tried SHopfiy out completely, but didn't notice any up-selling or cross-selling features. That would be great.

It also depends on what you're selling I suppose. Like for t-shirts I would suggest printmojo.com. They are the store and fulfillment so you have more time to do what you enjoy, instead of handling shipments. I did a cost comparison and when I checked, you could make better margins using them rather than setting up shop and getting a printer yourself.

Thanks for suggesting that!

Re: All About SolidWorks Tags Plus 2 Quick Ways To Add Them

solidsmack — Mon, 24 Mar 2008 12:35:01 -0000

:) horrible! good stuff man. you're right though. the tags need to be modifiable or be able to be linked. I definitely would not add tags that would risk needing to change, granted, the one you pick and think will not change would probably end up being the one that did. There's for sure some meta-data in there already that needs to be utilized. The two you mention are great. Could add display state props, color/finish attributes, part/feature/assembly attributes, etc. that are in the model. Thanks man!

Re: Installing SolidWorks On Vista Must Read

solidsmack — Mon, 24 Mar 2008 12:38:11 -0000

So true Mike. its like, what was I worried about? Sure there's some issues every once in a while, but nothing more than what I already have to deal with, actually probably a little less. I'd say, look, test it out. one guy doing that can show there's value or no value. Thanks for writing that up man.

Re: Friday Smackdown: Ignore the Seismic Activity

solidsmack — Mon, 24 Mar 2008 12:39:21 -0000

sorry man, they are tricky huh. So much for thinking I'm super aware ninja material. back to drawing lines and stuff.

Re: Rockin! Incredible Hulk Movie Trailer

solidsmack — Tue, 25 Mar 2008 17:28:32 -0000

Yeah, I totally did not like the first one, not just cause of CGI though, it just sucked. I actually like the cartoony look in this one. Maybe they'll clean it up which would be ok, but man the action just looks intense. As long as there's plenty of that... sweet.

Tim Roth is one of my favorites, ever since reservoir dogs. he's the best rent-an-english-actor :) besides the up and comer al dean I hear about.

Re: Hit Me! SolidWorks and “21″ The Movie

solidsmack — Wed, 26 Mar 2008 09:23:11 -0000

Hey Guys, thanks! I'll check out Gabi's video.

Dale, that's an excellent way too. Really good for getting a parallel plane against that surface REAL quick!

Re: Hit Me! SolidWorks and “21″ The Movie

solidsmack — Wed, 26 Mar 2008 10:08:19 -0000

awesome. I had heard he was part of the team, but not the part about a million buck from it helping start out SolidWorks. The details of that story have gotta be interesting.

Scott does have that kinda crazy look in his eyes :)... I kid!

Re: There’s Cold Soup in My Technology: Two Sides of Yesterday’s Future Tech

solidsmack — Wed, 26 Mar 2008 17:27:49 -0000

yeah, i gotcha, and actually I do mean to point out how each view has correct and incorrect aspects to it, and things recently have taken the nearly correct path of Berry.

They were both wild hair opinions at the time and I find it interesting that most, including myself, would probably agree more with the pessimistic side rather than the optimistic side given we were standing there in the years they were said.

Just looking at these two trains of thought in this age, however far-fetched or off-base they are, can put current tech and future possibilities in a new light.

I think that quote is actually incorrect. I know I have been able to stay better connected with friends and family, what's going on in their life, plan trips together, find fly fishing spots (know you'll like that one :) ) and get my finances more organized (just in past few days!). I think that is two-sides one could look at as well and would be a great talk to have sometime. I'd definitely say people are online WAY too much though.

Re: Hit Me! SolidWorks and “21″ The Movie

solidsmack — Fri, 28 Mar 2008 10:54:44 -0000

Cool Brandon, thanks.

Re: SolidWorks Instant3D Updates Equations in Real-Time

solidsmack — Fri, 28 Mar 2008 10:57:43 -0000

Hey Pete. You mean like, drag something and it initiates DriveWorks to perform a process? sounds interesting, but haven't tried it.

Re: How To Make A Custom Color Swatch in SolidWorks

solidsmack — Fri, 28 Mar 2008 11:18:21 -0000

Hi Peter. I've tried to add a color 'name' to the ColorSwatch Schema (C:\Program Files\SolidWorks 2008\SolidWorks\data\xmlschema) but have not been successful thus far. If you know a little bit more than me about XML you could probably figure it out.

Re: Hit Me! SolidWorks and “21″ The Movie

solidsmack — Fri, 28 Mar 2008 14:49:59 -0000

Hey, here's two more sites on the subject:

Beard Revue (Thanks Nancy!)

It's in the Cards

Re: Hit Me! SolidWorks and “21″ The Movie

solidsmack — Mon, 31 Mar 2008 13:25:55 -0000

Hi Jon! Thanks for confirming all this yourself. What an amazing time I bet and it's just plain cool what each hand eventually turned into and man, getting to meet all the people you have, users to celebrities. fun stuff. Thanks for sharing! and I'll keep my 3D job at least until I get some pointers from you :)

Re: How to Create 3D Animal Fur in SolidWorks

solidsmack — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 15:52:48 -0000

@Jason - definitely, the more notes and least model info the better. :) I kid of course. Have you seen those drawings with the first sheet covered in flag notes *shiver*

@John - I think most people feel that way when they visit here, only to leave disappointed :)

Re: Where Can You Find SolidWorks Content Online Fast? Mash it up Here.

solidsmack — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 15:55:09 -0000

they give away stuff at user groups. it's curious to me why SolidWorks marketing doesn't have a merch store on their site. Baby clothes? hats? c'mon, exploit the users and tempt their consumerist lustings!

Re: Friday Smackdown: Two Saddles Please

solidsmack — Fri, 04 Apr 2008 12:54:45 -0000

Cool Charles. I've been looking at a tutorial on this. Wish I knew of a camera that could do it automatically.

Re: How To Use 3D Sketches To Reduce SolidWorks Features

solidsmack — Fri, 04 Apr 2008 13:08:52 -0000

Cool Chris, nice to see that someone else has tried this out. If I'm not able to do something with the typical sketches or have a lot of extra reference features, I'll try it out with 3D sketches. Comes in handy for sketch patterns as well as Component Patterns in assemblies.

Re: Very Cool Cutting Board Designed in SolidWorks

solidsmack — Wed, 09 Apr 2008 12:17:08 -0000

Hey mau, thanks. That one little thing stops a lot of people from pursuing their ideas huh. Ideas are hard enough to create without attaching excuses to them. ...ok I'm gonna write a book. my self-help tour starts June 08. :)

Re: How To Get Hired On the Spot Plus Have An Easy Interview

solidsmack — Wed, 09 Apr 2008 12:18:46 -0000

awesome, thanks guys! glad to hear it was helpful. look me up on LinkedIn!

Re: Best SolidWorks Dimensioning Tips Contest

solidsmack — Wed, 09 Apr 2008 12:25:02 -0000

Hey Mike, sometimes I'll add some sketch entities manually on the views and dimension them. It's probably best to do true section though. If your company allows it you could try to show this in an Iso View or Iso section view. makes it clearer sometimes. you can make a Iso section view by right clicking on the section view and selecting Isometric Section View. hope this helps!

Re: Who’s In Charge of The SolidWorks Real Logo?

solidsmack — Fri, 11 Apr 2008 11:49:04 -0000

Yep sir, Catia is pretty good stuff. I think if what your designing demands some higher end surfacing its good to look at and compare. V6 stuff is going to be interesting for sure.

Re: 8 Absolutely Odd Facts About SolidWorks 2008

solidsmack — Fri, 11 Apr 2008 11:58:21 -0000

Hey Nima, there was an issue with 08 that cause my computer to keep crashing like you say. I didn't seem to be related to SolidWorks but to the way the graphics card was functioning with the software and a conflicting .dll. I had to get a new graphic card.

Re: PDM Assassin: Combine the Best, Eliminate the Rest (Could it Ever Be?)

solidsmack — Fri, 11 Apr 2008 12:08:17 -0000

Hey All, thanks for consoling me. I think it's going to have to be thought of differently. It's weird to think about but the people using cad/computer/etc. later on are the kids texting on mobiles, accessing all their info and friends info online, moving around in computer games without having to think about load times and where/how things are stored or related. It's gotta change.

Re: Very Cool Cutting Board Designed in SolidWorks

solidsmack — Fri, 11 Apr 2008 12:31:37 -0000

does it need to be dishwasher safe? I can't put my bamboo cutting boards in the dishwasher either :)

Re: SolidSmack Bares It All Today

solidsmack — Fri, 11 Apr 2008 12:32:59 -0000

Hey Chris! sorry! back to normal now :) you can subscribe to the feed to, it always looks the same.

Re: LineRider: Create Your Own 3D-ish Sketchy Fun

solidsmack — Sat, 12 Apr 2008 15:39:47 -0000

ahhh, indeed, at first you may think so, but start adding some lines across others and whatnot and you get a 3d-ish environment. ok, it's 2D lines. :) SolidSmack is now only 99% 2D free :O

Re: Apple Ads Make Good Fun of Vista

solidsmack — Mon, 14 Apr 2008 16:37:20 -0000

Talk with Ben Eadie at SolidMentor. He uses SolidWorks exclusively on the Mac. Contact me josh (at) solidsmack(dot)com if you would like his contact.

Re: LineRider: Create Your Own 3D-ish Sketchy Fun

solidsmack — Mon, 14 Apr 2008 16:38:18 -0000

That's the one from the site, they put it together. let me know what you think or if you found it fun and useful. I though it was a nice distraction. :)

Re: Cloth Diapers more popular than SolidWorks

solidsmack — Mon, 14 Apr 2008 16:49:35 -0000

Hey Mark, Thanks for the comment! Yeah, that is one way of looking at it, but then the question becomes, what are they doing to capture that opportunity? I don't think any CAD company right now is leveraging the web like they could. It's always thought of the same client-side, computer based type of system that is only a tool. cloth diapers are like an entire environment. it may be a cheesy example, but what is it about cloth diapers that are capturing the community, and not just community, but individuals that want to become part of the conversation?

I think alot of companies need to look at how they can achieve that on a corporate level. If the socialsphere forming on the web is seen as a completely separate thing to regular business operations, that company is loosing valuable feedback, involvement and revenue that may be completely lost to the company who did see the value in adopting early technologies.

This can get into the whole development side of things as well. I'll take a look at that in another post.

Re: Faster Than Lightning Chips To Store and Access 3D CAD Data

solidsmack — Tue, 15 Apr 2008 16:58:42 -0000

Thanks for the critique. Always nice to hear what people like and do not like. I like to bring up stuff that related to 3D modelling too, the tech and product design specifically. Stuff like this can drastically change how we work, don't ya think? if anyone else doesn't like this post chime in... if you do like it chime in also. thanks.

Re: SolidWorks Assemblies: Four Furious Ways To Split ‘em Up (and Why You Should)

solidsmack — Tue, 15 Apr 2008 17:21:20 -0000

Hey Ivan! Thanks! Everything you mention can slow indeed slow assemblies down. I've done another post on improving Large Assemblies performance.

When you get assemblies that large, you'll want to suppress some of those complicated feature. I've gone as far as suppressing all my mates and fixing everything.

I would make sure drawings are split up so that different production steps are kept separate. I suggest keeping construction drawings separate from build/assembly drawing. when trying to do both on the same drawing, it can turn into a very large and unclear mess. This get tricky because everyone has there methodologies driven by different reasons. If you can show how drawings can be improved and get productions help it makes changing assembly methods easier.

I would try to "flatten" out your structure as much as possible. I try to stick to two levels deep. More is fine, I just try to keep it as shallow as possible.

Hope this provides some further clarity for you. Assemblies can be a real beast but it fun to see how other come up with ways to handle them.

Re: Product Review: Hands-on With the 3DConnexion SpaceExplorer

solidsmack — Thu, 17 Apr 2008 17:20:10 -0000

Sounds like you all really like them, I used a spaceball ages ago that I really like to use. I've gotta say using this in SolidWorks 2008 is great. I would change some stuff (see my dislikes) but it provides better interaction with the environment, something I particularly like with SW2008. They're a good combo. I'm also finding it really useful in MoI (moment of inspiration) and sketchUp. It's SUPER Fun using it in Google Earth and just completely incapsulating with the stars moving all around you. I hope they are able to support the World Wide Telescope that will be coming out from Microsoft.

Re: Product Review: Hands-on With the 3DConnexion SpaceExplorer

solidsmack — Thu, 17 Apr 2008 17:21:38 -0000

thanks of course to my kind brother and Marijn for correcting my spelling :) you both get a nickel and a bag of 2-month old corn chips.

Re: Friday Smackdown: Man Down

solidsmack — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 13:02:10 -0000

hey Devon, aren't they? I didn't know color photos existed that far back. there's probably not many left. you definitely get a clearer sense of the life then.

Re: LineRider: Create Your Own 3D-ish Sketchy Fun

solidsmack — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 17:27:24 -0000

Man Jon, so fun. I can't wait till my kids are at that age to play the games with.

Re: Racing Yachts designed with SolidWorks

solidsmack — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 17:28:44 -0000

Hey Richard, would be a great challenge designing a boat huh. My brother is really interested in boat design and we've had conversations about designing stuff. hope to one day!

Re: How to Load SolidWorks Files Faster with SyncBack

solidsmack — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 17:39:16 -0000

this post. It's fairly simple to setup PDMW Workgroup. I'm trying to get him to do a post on it as well :)

Re: Friday Smackdown: Man Down

solidsmack — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 17:44:17 -0000

Hey Keith. I just noticed that too. i thought the vectors were included! for shaaaaaame.>:(

Re: An Engineers Guide to Kittys Shiver

solidsmack — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 17:45:58 -0000

That's Ok Devon, I still like you :) my little dog doesn't pee on the floor, but he does bark at all the wrong times.

Re: An Engineers Guide to Kittys Shiver

solidsmack — Tue, 22 Apr 2008 16:19:50 -0000

Yeah Gabi, they're pretty gentle. I'd probably like them too if I wasn't allergic. I like the ones that can do backflips.

Re: Friday Smackdown: Man Down

solidsmack — Tue, 22 Apr 2008 16:21:07 -0000

Hey Rod, thank you for feeding my habit :)

Re: Earth Day: Raised-Bed Garden Designs in SolidWorks

solidsmack — Tue, 22 Apr 2008 16:46:05 -0000

yeah, no kidding, but that's when a simple project turns into a 3 year project. I have many of those already! :)

Re: How Microsoft’s Live Mesh Will Affect 3D CAD

solidsmack — Thu, 24 Apr 2008 09:51:17 -0000

Hey, Pete, thanks, I'm glad you commented. What you're doing is a perfect example of how this could change and help how you work. If the CAD vendors/developers latch onto this i have no doubt it will help people with what they design.

Re: How Microsoft’s Live Mesh Will Affect 3D CAD

solidsmack — Thu, 24 Apr 2008 18:05:20 -0000

Hey Daniel, looks like you guys are doing some really great stuff.

"it can be applied to really free the data once and for all, regardless of platform, application, format, language, etc."

That's going to be huge for sure. Open-source is even better and I'm looking forward to what handlers and add-ins you all cooks up. Thanks for the comment!

Re: SolidWorks World 2008 Media: Grilled Well-Done and Served Piping Hot

solidsmack — Fri, 25 Apr 2008 11:33:35 -0000

hey Matt, funny huh. I got an email from SWX to take down the link to Jeff's photo, but they were playin' around.

Re: How to Take the Pain Out of PDM: SolidWorks Explorer in 12 minutes, 6 seconds

solidsmack — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 11:00:27 -0000

thanks for inspiring them devon! I'm looking forward to when I do all the data management on one screen. I think SolidWorks Explorer has some things that could be integrated into regular use of documents. And even if you don't have workgroup, there's still alot of useful features to it. One thing I really, really, really wish it would do is a batch rename. we had to right a separate program for that.

Re: How To Get Hired On the Spot Plus Have An Easy Interview

solidsmack — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 11:01:20 -0000

Glad it's helping you all. Let me know if you find other ways of promoting yourself that you find useful.

Re: Top 5 questions for SolidWorks 2008

solidsmack — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 11:02:35 -0000

Hi Jerry, I used the default as well for both. make sure and save it in the version you're running it on.

Re: How to Take the Pain Out of PDM: SolidWorks Explorer in 12 minutes, 6 seconds

solidsmack — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 11:05:27 -0000

@Marijn, I've not got the virtual component message, but I usually don't keep my part 'virtualized' - the virtual parts are part of that assembly, stored inside, so to speak, and the y should go along with the assembly they are part of. It may be that it wasn't rebuilt? but I'm guessing there.

Re: SolidWorks ScanTo3D vs. NextEngine’s RapidWorks: Which Is Better?

solidsmack — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 11:10:11 -0000

James, I would definitely contact NextEngine to discuss that. I think they're scanners are the best prices I've seen. What you're talking about certainly seems feasible to me, but I have not seen a 3D scan flattened.

Re: How Microsoft’s Live Mesh Will Affect 3D CAD

solidsmack — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 11:14:26 -0000

Hey Ralph, I agree, but a CAD program on a portable device (iPhone, EeePC, Nokia810) is definitely feasible at some point. High-end photo editors are transitioning to web-based formats, and video production is making headway with HD coming online (latest at Smugmug.com) - so I have no doubt that 3D visual and quick geometry creation will begin to show up online, in fact I know of one in the works that looks promising.

Re: How to Make Learning SolidWorks Tasty: The Grandpa Effect

solidsmack — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 13:47:24 -0000

Hey Jason, nice to hear some friendly competition is going on, AND even better that they explain how they did it. I can see that providing a lot of dialog between everyone. sweet!

Re: The Uno: Uni-Motorbike Designed in SolidWorks

solidsmack — Fri, 02 May 2008 09:02:45 -0000

pretty inspiring huh? I love hearing stories like this. gotta contact him to test this thing out :)

Re: IronMan Movie in Theaters: Forget the SolidWorks Model

solidsmack — Fri, 02 May 2008 09:04:12 -0000

Man, I'm not gonna get to see it till the weekend. smaller line i guess, maybe. everyone I've heard that has seen it, absolutely loves it.

Re: Internet Trends: Affecting CAD and the Way You Work?

solidsmack — Mon, 05 May 2008 13:31:46 -0000

@Franco no problem!

@ Matt yeah, definitely not a centerpiece. (V6 looks to make it that way but I gotta say... hmmmm.) I'm wondering if bandwidth and security will always be a problem. I hate the slow speed, but I'm confident about my data I have online (at least right now.) Sharing will be a big part of it and I imagine it will almost be expected by those on all the social networks now that will be using CAD products in the future.

Re: SolidWorks Real View: Light up Your Life

solidsmack — Mon, 05 May 2008 14:33:59 -0000

yeah, I believe the bare minimum on the Quaddro series is gonna be a FX1400. I'm rockin' a 1500 and it does pretty well. SolidWorks Graphics Card Support

Re: SolidWorks Real View: Light up Your Life

solidsmack — Tue, 06 May 2008 09:03:01 -0000

Hey Kyle, have you tried what Marijn did. reload the video driver?

Re: SolidWorks World Top Ramen Enhancement Requests. Which Implemented?

solidsmack — Tue, 06 May 2008 09:08:02 -0000

He Jim, in 2009 you will be able to display a BOM in the model while you work. I can see advantages and disadvantages to that. I like your idea. It's more simple. I hope you've submitted it in the enhancement request online. I've had to 'pre-build' assemblies as well and having a item number on the model could help. It goes along with doing everything in the model.

Re: Why I Like Twitter

solidsmack — Tue, 06 May 2008 14:37:37 -0000

@Daniel.. twhirl is the best for sure.
@Chris.. you know you are super cool :)
@Marijn.. yep, I bore myself at times.
@Matt.. i hope so! already have more followers!
@Jason.. cause it's so COOL. it's calling your name, Jaaaason.

Re: SolidSmack Mystery Meat: Will SolidWorks Implement Direct Modeling Techniques?

solidsmack — Thu, 08 May 2008 07:31:43 -0000

Check out Al Dean's article on the subject - Synchronous Technology

If you've used any of the DM type modelers, you'll most likely be frustrated with making changes and "locking things down" dimensionally. If Siemens is what it looks like it's going to influence things. For SolidWorks I think it's good that they have implemented types of Direct Model and seem to be watching the fray that is going on currently. But also, think of this, what if SolidWorks introduces some new modeling capabilities without all the hype an marketing terminology?

Re: Less Blood: The PEAK Surgical PlasmaBlade Designed in SolidWorks

solidsmack — Fri, 09 May 2008 07:16:13 -0000

Thanks Ed! That's excellent. There's so much that go into products like these. It really makes you realize the scope of some projects and how many people can be involved. Thanks for sharing that!

Re: Buell Motorcycles Hiring Senior CAD Designer, SolidWorks Hiring Too.

solidsmack — Fri, 09 May 2008 14:51:32 -0000

not at all Matt, thanks for commenting. There's always more behind the PR that what it seems. A lot of companies use multiple programs I imagine. I think it would be a cool idea for the companies if they were more transparent about the technology they use. That is one thing that lacks on corporate sites that are trying to impress the consumer. There's a whole (HUGE) segment of engineers and designers that would be attracted to a company just becuase of the way the design and manufacture things, don't you think?

Re: FREE Certified SolidWorks Professional Exam

solidsmack — Fri, 09 May 2008 14:54:05 -0000

SolidWorks Certified Professional Test

Good Luck!!

Re: SolidSmack Turns 1 Year Old: Still Cute, But a Bit Sassy

solidsmack — Fri, 09 May 2008 18:09:43 -0000

Thanks everyone! hmmm. a shortcut bar. that sounds interesting. :) a claw tub full of ice water sounds even more interesting. I'm lookin' forward to seeing everyone in Orlando for sure.

Re: SolidSmack Turns 1 Year Old: Still Cute, But a Bit Sassy

solidsmack — Mon, 12 May 2008 12:29:23 -0000

Hey everyone, thanks again! I can't believe it's been that long either. A small injection everyday and suddenly I've become obsessed with CAD related stuff! :)

Re: SolidSmack Mystery Tip: Motivating SolidWorks Users to Use More Features

solidsmack — Wed, 14 May 2008 11:36:38 -0000

Chris, I was in a similar situation a couple years ago. I realized that a lot of people just didn't know about some of the features that are obvious to more knowledgeable users. I started to doing SolidWorks Tips in emails, then putting them into a document for them to reference. That ended up turning into this blog where I'm able to share them with more people.

The pattern stuff you talk about is actually one of the first tips I did on this site.

Re: Microsoft Reveals the TouchWall; CAD Will Never Be the Same

solidsmack — Thu, 15 May 2008 09:39:19 -0000

Thanks for the video links guys! Yes, those are very similar. Who woulda thought you could do that with the Wiimote right? Johnny Chung Lee has done some cool stuff with the Wiimote and Edusim looks like it incorporates similar functionality in Plex.

That Edusim is open-source is even better.

Re: 8 Absolutely Odd Facts About SolidWorks 2008

solidsmack — Fri, 16 May 2008 11:32:35 -0000

I have SP4.0 EV installed and I do believe this is fixed from all the 07 drawing I've brought up. We're still using 07 because of vendors but I'm actively testing it on a daily basis with internal programs and drawings.

Re: SolidWorks vs. AutoCAD: The Twitter Spectrum

solidsmack — Fri, 16 May 2008 14:21:34 -0000

Gotta keep it %^$&^%$# clean for the kiddos' :)

Re: Microsoft Reveals the TouchWall; CAD Will Never Be the Same

solidsmack — Mon, 19 May 2008 10:11:34 -0000

ye...eaah Kutch. true. Microsoft open it? only if they can get people's information. They are schemin' already with Yahoo and Facebook.

Re: Cloth Diapers more popular than SolidWorks

solidsmack — Mon, 19 May 2008 10:16:03 -0000

Good analogy MikeO. It's also weird. regular diapers are easier, but cloth diaper sites and conversations are more popular on the web. it's an interesting look at community. i think the community forms around a need (health/cost. waste for the cloth diaper peeps) and can go viral from there.

Re: How to Automate Your Dimension in SolidWorks

solidsmack — Mon, 19 May 2008 10:18:03 -0000

Good idea! yes you can Oleg. All you would have to do is get the dim name like in the others and add that to the annotation. follow the same process to get the depth dimension name.

Re: Two Crazy Cool Spreadable, Flexible Display Technologies

solidsmack — Mon, 19 May 2008 10:19:24 -0000

yeah, I can just imagine the warning label on a jar of Spredable OLED...."Keep out of reach of children. If swallowed your kid will light up like a nuclear reactor. flush with water."

Re: 8 Absolutely Odd Facts About SolidWorks 2008

solidsmack — Mon, 19 May 2008 10:24:52 -0000

Hey Thomas, glad things worked out for you. There's a disconnect between hardware/software tech. One is always driving the other prematurely. I would have to concur with the upgrade cost. I've suggested in the past to wait until your companies next round of hardware upgrades. We are still not using it in production for multiple reason, but I want to make sure the hardware will handle the move to 08/09 and Vista which will coincide with each other.

Re: 5…No Wait, 6 Tips For Fixing SolidWorks Errors

solidsmack — Mon, 19 May 2008 10:27:09 -0000

Hey guys, thanks! a good additional tips. Bruce, definitely post the SHOVE technique. it sounds so interesting and mysterious. :)

Re: 8 Absolutely Odd Facts About SolidWorks 2008

solidsmack — Mon, 19 May 2008 10:32:25 -0000

Hey Pedro. Thanks for the comment. I think the result of using SW08 are going to be somewhat subjective. We're not using it in production except what I'm testing out daily, but it has usability that will increase our designers efficiency. The Shortcut bar for one allows in fewer operations while staying in the workspace. the dynamic search has saved time as well although it need to be faster in large assemblies. My suggestion to many that are skeptical of the changes is to go with 2009. beta starts in June and thatwill allow you to try it out and see for yourself, but I already know of some performance enhancements that will help.

Re: Interested in Boat Design? Well, Have Some Free Boat Plans

solidsmack — Mon, 19 May 2008 10:35:56 -0000

man, that would've been cool Al. A boat seems more feasible to me... some wood scraps, a hammer and a bit'o seafarin' love. of course I'd have to grown the chin wiska's like you...and I'm telling you, I am one scraggly looking pirate.

Re: SolidWorks BOM: Slap, Rinse, Repeat

solidsmack — Mon, 19 May 2008 11:34:11 -0000

Cristian, Hi. you can create an excel table that links to quantity and any other property you have defined. You would have to make sure that each of those (length, width, thcikness, and qty) are a property.

Re: MAc Addict Alert! How To Use SolidWorks on a Mac

solidsmack — Thu, 22 May 2008 07:24:44 -0000

Hey Lou, could you post the link to that driver please?

Re: MAc Addict Alert! How To Use SolidWorks on a Mac

solidsmack — Thu, 22 May 2008 15:58:44 -0000

Here's a great review of the Lenovo X300 that puts some of it's features up against the Macbook Air. I'd love to have both actually. Mac for the graphics/video and PC for the CAD.

Re: SolidSmack Mystery Meat: Assembly Features For Weldments

solidsmack — Thu, 22 May 2008 16:01:52 -0000

I'm thinking that I would add configurations for each cutout I need in the weldment part. I try to avoid as many extra views as possible to help things rebuild faster and I don't enjoy manipulating the sketches for broken out sections. It's just much easier to make the cuts in the model.

Re: Siemens PLM Excites Onlookers With ‘New’ 3D CAD Technology; Many Soaked

solidsmack — Fri, 23 May 2008 07:16:23 -0000

Hey Bob! Thanks for the comment. Fill us in! I think the Live Rules and active dimensioning of the solid are the most attractive feature to me. I'm wondering how it all acts with complicated parts and assemblies. any thoughts?

Re: SolidSmack Mystery Meat: Assembly Features For Weldments

solidsmack — Fri, 23 May 2008 07:20:43 -0000

Hey John. I'm talking about doing all the cuts in the model. even the sections. Think of those fancy cut-away you see of motors or tools. There's no way to do all those cuts in a drawing. So, just make the cuts in the model and then when you get to the drawing, add some hatching if needed to the cut surfaces. does that make more sense?

Re: MAc Addict Alert! How To Use SolidWorks on a Mac

solidsmack — Wed, 28 May 2008 12:40:58 -0000

hey peter, when bootcamp was in beta, there were issues with gpu support. not sure where it's at now that it's packaged with Leopard. your best bet is to go to the nVidia site and check for driver updates. you can also try to adjust some of the setting for your card to see if that affects it at all.

Re: The Amazing Art of CAD and CNC

solidsmack — Wed, 28 May 2008 12:43:12 -0000

yeah, I'd agree to that seeing how this was created at the shop level would be very interesting. I'll see what I can find. kinda crazy that two simple profiles like that could be used to create a structure like this.

Re: The 7 Best SolidWorks Keyboard Tricks

solidsmack — Wed, 28 May 2008 12:47:05 -0000

Very nice guys. I have some of those shortcuts set up as well. I use 'V' for the shortcut bar though and 'S' for going in and out of sketch mode.

Re: The 7 Best SolidWorks Keyboard Tricks

solidsmack — Wed, 28 May 2008 17:31:09 -0000

Wow! you guys are just scrapin' the keyboard shortcut jar till there's nothin left! I love it!

@Charles, yeah, I saw the windows 7 video and it looks great. Like Microsoft Surface but on a laptop. Hope it goes over better than the tablet computer, but I guess we'll see in 2010 or so. I'm thinkin more touchscreen tech will be out before Microsoft gets 7 up and out. The infrared stuff is really picking up steam and allows for some 3D manipulation that a flat screen may not be able to employ as well. exciting stuff!!

Re: Product Review: Hands-on With the 3DConnexion SpaceExplorer

solidsmack — Wed, 28 May 2008 17:36:39 -0000

COMPLIANCE!! my brother! - actually when linking them together I did transport to the set of "Predator", had a muffin with that claw-faced dude and then split back to work, cause it's so dang exciting and there's less threat of a small atomic arm-band going off.

Re: How to Suck All the Memory You Can Out of Windows XP

solidsmack — Thu, 29 May 2008 18:17:43 -0000

Hey Peter, thanks for the clarification and the link to the .exe modifier. I almost assume that everyone is at SP2 at this point but very important to point out and check. To check if you are running SP, go to Windows Explorer, click help in the menu and select About Windows. It should show up after the version number. Also, ALWAYS make sure you backup the .exe before modifying!

Thanks Peter!

Re: MoI Releases Version 1.0 Plus a Little Review

solidsmack — Mon, 02 Jun 2008 08:52:39 -0000

Hey there whataslacker, thanks for the update. have you used it?

Re: The Ultimate Desktop Engineer’s Chair

solidsmack — Mon, 02 Jun 2008 08:55:38 -0000

Hey Jason, that is cool. I use to have one of those at another job and miss it. can you find old ones in the dumpster behind their building? :)

Re: 3D Coming to Your Browser: Google Earth Online

solidsmack — Mon, 02 Jun 2008 09:01:06 -0000

Thanks guys, I've covered WWT and Virtual Earth. I'm really impressed with the WWT, but I think Google has a good position on the 3D side of things with sketchup and 3D warehouse. However, the microsoft and dassault relationship could affect that, but they are going to have to bring it all down to a more consumable level.

Re: From PDF to Solid: More Fun Using Images to Create SolidWorks Layouts

solidsmack — Wed, 04 Jun 2008 17:27:48 -0000

Right on! Print Screen for a screen capture works really good too. Having some accurate dims on the image is a real time saver too or like Adrian says, having reference for an object.

Re: SportCopter GyroPlane Designed in SolidWorks, No Turret Guns

solidsmack — Wed, 04 Jun 2008 17:30:39 -0000

It's definitely a design improvement, but like 'Orville' says, I'd hate to be on it if a rotor stopped. Still, it would be fun to fly and to get outta dodge if you needed to quickly.

Re: The 7 Best SolidWorks Keyboard Tricks

solidsmack — Fri, 06 Jun 2008 16:44:40 -0000

Yes! I did a post on Alt Codes that give you all the special symbols you'll ever need! hit Alt + 0176 to get a degree symbol.

Re: SolidWorks 2009 Beta. Monday?…We Meant Tuesday.

solidsmack — Tue, 10 Jun 2008 17:08:34 -0000

Yeah Mike. looks like it showed up around 1:30. have you downloaded yet?

Re: Cool 3D: Creating the Modern City

solidsmack — Tue, 10 Jun 2008 22:29:58 -0000

Hey Don. You don't know hoooow close I was to linking up the 3D view of Manhattan NYC on Live! Very, very cool 3D and ahead of Google for that matter, except it's a little slow, but bandwidth will meet up with it sooner or later.

Beside that, my favorite is the Photsynth project I've mentioned.

Thanks for bringing it up!

Re: From Flat to Cool: Three New Twist on Product Design

solidsmack — Thu, 12 Jun 2008 14:12:02 -0000

oH! that reminds me you gotta check out the YouTube video of the BMW. It's just crazy cool.

Re: 5 SolidWorks Options to Be Quicker Than the Other Guy

solidsmack — Thu, 12 Jun 2008 17:36:38 -0000

Cool! Thanks Noe! I had fun with this post. I had to interrogate some people and watch how slow they were. Their pain is gone. :)

Re: Somebody. Please Make 3D CAD Look This Cool.

solidsmack — Thu, 12 Jun 2008 17:38:37 -0000

Thanks (david?) you all should get some great feedback on your product. I so hope that it can be used within some of the 3D MCAD programs for... something. It is just sooo cool lookin'. Thanks!

Re: SolidWorks 2009 Beta. Monday?…We Meant Tuesday.

solidsmack — Thu, 12 Jun 2008 17:39:49 -0000

I had some problems with the License Manager (LM) but have got it all sorted out now. I'd recommend the manual download if you're having problems with the Install Manager.

Re: Cool 3D: Creating the Modern City

solidsmack — Thu, 12 Jun 2008 17:42:07 -0000

Thanks a lot Don. It seems like product development and technology is just moving so much faster, even since this year has begun. There's something everyday that is coming up in Tech/Web/Media and yes even 3D and CAD. fun times my friend!

Re: Reader Poll: What Do You Like (Dislike) About SolidSmack?

solidsmack — Thu, 12 Jun 2008 17:51:26 -0000

Hey ya'll, you guys are awesome. Thanks for the comments. It's always nice to hear what people think!

Re: SolidWorks Confirmation Corner. Use It? Loose It? Three Other Options.

solidsmack — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 13:02:35 -0000

Very Cool everyone! glad to see the double-click to exit sketches is being used. I think that really shows how the confirmation corner isn't used as much as it use to be, although the poll, so far, is showing that most people do still use it. I think that can partly be attributed to people not knowing about the other methods and just being use to seeing it and using it. I'd like an Alt-double-click to cancel any changes. That would be a great alternative, but mostly I wish it would be the same for all the commands.

Re: FireFox3 Rocks Your Noodle at Noon CST

solidsmack — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 22:21:12 -0000

Sweet. so fast. seriously. I decided to try the Flock Beta 2 that is built on Firefox3 since that's what I've used most recently. It's really, really good too.

The Firefox3 portable version is here at portable apps

I hope the get firebug working soon.

Re: Cloth Diapers more popular than SolidWorks

solidsmack — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 22:26:26 -0000

man, matthew, I think you are in the same throes of child rearing as we are :) - the move to cloth diapers is what totally inspired this post. I'm familiar with diaperswappers... and the various ways to wrap a cloth diaper around a hiny. The Cloth Diaper, formula-free, baby carrier community is just amazing.

Re: Yes, Finally, The Ultimate CAD/World Domination Workstation

solidsmack — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 22:28:55 -0000

The acid delivery system is what would set this apart from any other wanabe insect-lookin' workstation. I think they throw in a pair of white contact lenses so it looks like the beast has symbiotically taken over your thought-control and now has a mind of it's own. welcome to the future.

Re: Using A Wiimote to Control 3D CAD, SolidWorks?

solidsmack — Thu, 19 Jun 2008 16:18:47 -0000

@Ocell, the natural control is what's gonna push this when it happens. Why would anyone not want one.

@Al, Ha! I can picture a wad of ducttape holding that spacetraveller on. that's awesome. Those Cintiqs are so cool. would make photoshop a cinch. Very cool stuff about Dassault! They could pull off too, especially with their business relationships. Whoever is developing this stuff and gets it out and marketed first could really dominate the next gen of input peripherals. There's some patents from microsoft floating around out there for handheld-IR devices. it's all changing... and quick.

I'm surprised there's not more Wiimote-type stuff coming out from logitech.

Re: 3D Creature Makin’ Fun with Spore Creature Creator

solidsmack — Fri, 20 Jun 2008 17:17:57 -0000

Sven, so nice to see somebody use "semantics" and "extensible" along with CAD. Everyone read that post, especially devs.

Re: Friday Smackdown: Portugal Teeth

solidsmack — Mon, 23 Jun 2008 10:31:45 -0000

haha! thanks Charles! I've tried doing that but need the color dark at the edge. I ended up doing a couple layers. putting a drop shadow on one and a glow on the other. doing this with multiple layers and shadows can create a really interesting look. Thanks again and also for the viovio site. I'm gonna check that out for sure!

Re: 5 Tricks To Tackle SolidWorks “Failed To Save Document”

solidsmack — Mon, 23 Jun 2008 10:33:24 -0000

@Bob, right on, that is the magic. I think I'm gonna turn that into a post, with your credit, to obsolete and supersede this one! Thanks!

@JB man, that sounds weird, although would be the first time hardware affected software, but I've never noticed optical mouse conflicts. Could possible be a conflict with mouse driver and SolidWorks??

Re: 3D Creature Makin’ Fun with Spore Creature Creator

solidsmack — Mon, 23 Jun 2008 10:43:16 -0000

I am gagging to play the game. I've been thinking about creating more stuff in the creature creator and wondering what the possibilities will be with the items in the game and then seeing how it all acts together in a system. Now that the kind of VR world I can get into. I'm hoping they have parts of the game where you can collaborate together. Seems like it should.

Re: Stop the SolidWorks Rot: Simple Tips for Awesome Design Practices

solidsmack — Tue, 24 Jun 2008 16:17:41 -0000

Len, Hi, you should be able to get the same properties when you insert the library part. You will need to open the original part and add the properties, save it back and then reference that model each time you use it in your assembly. Hope I'm understanding you correctly. If not, let me know what 'existing libraries' you are talking about and where the models are being accessed from. Thanks!

Re: The 2 Step Trick to Kill Email and Take Back Your Day

solidsmack — Tue, 24 Jun 2008 16:26:20 -0000

@Bruce - indeed huh. I definitely recommend it to document conversations. On phone conversations, I'll follow up with an email to all the parties. That is important to point out.

@MikeO - yes, jokes. my deleted box is a repository for jokes and chain mails. :)

@Rich - that is an interesting program. I've always hated those ">" marks on forwarded email.

@Rick - totally agree with you. I've seen the same thing and it gets ridiculous.

@Ivan - product management can increase email load, but the goal is to make it not rule your day. I'd still set times to check it, say 1 time every hour, instead of just sitting looking at it (which I've seen as well.)

@Marijn - cool, I'll check out that Gmail Labs tool. i don't use gchat too much though, but the other feature sounds cool.

Thanks for all the replies. I hope some people try this out and tell me what happened!

Re: The Possibilities of 3D Displays In Vapor Gettin’ Closer

solidsmack — Tue, 24 Jun 2008 16:31:10 -0000

Yeah Jeff, I seen some tech on getting displays onto vapor. It's kinda interesting and thought it would spark some ideas and awareness of what is going on in that field. multi-touch is one thing, but 3D CAD on multi-touch? it's happening yeah, but modeling 3D in actual space is so much more... 3D.

Re: Cooler Than Cool: Develop3D Magazine Out Soon Plus Free Subscription

solidsmack — Tue, 24 Jun 2008 16:32:59 -0000

Cool AP! Thanks for letting us know it's out. Hope some paper copies make it to the US too!

Re: Smack! The Complete Guide to SolidWorks Layout Sketches

solidsmack — Wed, 25 Jun 2008 11:41:07 -0000

Thanks Matt, yeah, we've been creating layout sketches, aka skeleton sketches, assembly sketches, horizontal modeling for year. Cool that SolidWorks put it into a single function with 3D sketches, but not cool that you cannot use sketch picture and sketch patterns. Patterns get me the most because I need hundreds of attachment locations driven from a layout.

I've gotten around the inability to use sketch picture in 3D sketches by putting a picture in a part first and then inserting it into the assembly. definitely not the best way I'd like to do it.

I totally missed mentioning the dynamic motion! it's so cool too, when you have inter-related sketches/blocks in 3D and you're adjusting sketches.

Re: Smack! The Complete Guide to SolidWorks Layout Sketches

solidsmack — Thu, 26 Jun 2008 09:09:08 -0000

yeah guys, I'd try it out and see how it works for your processes. The sketch patterns is the biggest bummer for me since I can work around the sketch picture by adding another part.

What Loeb is talking about is interesting. I've seen that done with spring. You could also do something similar with configurations, but you could get some complicated configurations with large assemblies.

Re: The Possibilities of 3D Displays In Vapor Gettin’ Closer

solidsmack — Thu, 26 Jun 2008 09:11:30 -0000

yeah, you can actually get the ,a href="http://www.amazon.com/iZ3D-Panel-Computer-Gaming-Monitor/dp/B001B04YY6/ref=pd_bbs_sr_2?ie=UTF8&s;=electronics&qid;=1214419916&sr;=8-2">iZ3D '3D monitor' on Amazon right now. I've been trying to get ahold of a Philips monitor for sometime now trying to test, but have been unable to thus far.

Re: Bow to Your Robot Masters: SolidWorks Robotic University

solidsmack — Thu, 26 Jun 2008 12:31:23 -0000

yeah, I'm sure we'll be seeing game engine support about the same time the robots take over. Not saying it won't happen... just may be awhile :)

Re: Google Trends for 3D CAD Companies: Whose Competing?

solidsmack — Fri, 27 Jun 2008 21:59:14 -0000

Hey Oleg, thanks for bringing that up. I was interested mainly in just traffic to the site, because even though the domain names may not be associated with the product, the traffic that goes to the domain is part of what they offer.

The NX/SolidEdge, Autocad and Catia all reside within Siemens, AutoDesk and Dassault, respectively. Therefore, what a company does as far as marketing and online search engine optimization go along way toward driving traffic toward that site. Which in turn is what Google Trends for website looks at.

The Search trends reveal what has been fairly typical over the years. if you look at another set that includes autocad it matches the SERP's with exactness.

Again, thanks for mentioning that because the search trends also go a long way to show the competitive advantage a company may have. See ya!

Re: Inspired to Design: Could You Create A Rug Like This in SolidWorks?

solidsmack — Mon, 30 Jun 2008 09:03:24 -0000

Yeah Jeff, I did, and it looks like I have to go back to the drawing board. It failed miserably in shear. Maybe if I adjust the thickness and add some gussets, but I gotta watch the weight. ahy!!

Re: The 2 Step Trick to Kill Email and Take Back Your Day

solidsmack — Mon, 07 Jul 2008 15:29:36 -0000

Al... that... IS INSANE. 12,000 - I think I would delete and start over.

Re: Dimension the Snot out of Your Sketch in Two Steps

solidsmack — Mon, 07 Jul 2008 15:39:05 -0000

Lint, there's a point at the beginning of the text on the lower left. you can define that point. The text is controlled by the font you use and any guide curves. For a guide curve you can select a another line/curve you have created.

Re: Zombie Killin’ Carts and Call for PhotoWorks Tips

solidsmack — Tue, 08 Jul 2008 12:35:30 -0000

yeah Al, I'm was wondering if anyone would pick up that obscure reference and start a conversation about :)

...bash 'em in the head, that seems to work. Ow.

maybe we can all discuss the intricacies of that movie, since not too many are interested in sharing photoworks tips :O

Re: Zombie Killin’ Carts and Call for PhotoWorks Tips

solidsmack — Tue, 08 Jul 2008 15:42:57 -0000

Man, I'm laughing out loud just thinking about some of the scenes from that movie! - how many ways can you kill a zombie?

Re: Create Stylish SolidWorks Graphics without PhotoWorks

solidsmack — Thu, 10 Jul 2008 07:28:02 -0000

Hey Charles. Shadows are really cool, but sometimes I get weird shadows along the 'ground' - like really long dark shadows. It happens in some models and not others and messing with lighting only effect it a little. Any ideas about this?

Re: SolidWorks News: Prizes Galore and You, Baby

solidsmack — Thu, 10 Jul 2008 07:29:52 -0000

man Marijn, that stinks. gotta read the fine print I guess. I wonder if you can submit it via someone else? I'll look into it. Thanks.

Re: Create Stylish SolidWorks Graphics without PhotoWorks

solidsmack — Thu, 10 Jul 2008 16:19:42 -0000

@Chris, thanks. I just did something similar that I think turned out pretty well. Lines are a little heavier, but still looks good. I usually just do a 'Print Screen' screengrab and paste it into photoshop. Quick and easy with no conversion necessary!

@Charles - I also added shadows in the link above, but had to clean it up a bit in Photoshop. I'll mess with that first light a bit more. thanks!

Re: Google Makes the Future of 3D CAD… Lively

solidsmack — Thu, 10 Jul 2008 16:23:01 -0000

@Devon - I know what you mean. I have to limit the number I use, but enjoy trying them out to see potential. I saw it in Twitter and have the same feeling about Lively. It's pretty basic right now, but just wait.

I was hanging out with the 3DVia gang earlier, just gabbin' about stuff. That doesn't happen everyday.

I don't like the gamey, cheesy fake aspects of it so much, but when other industries start to affect how the features are developed, I think we'll get a lot more use out of the VR Worlds.

Re: 5 Fresh Backgrounds for SolidWorks

solidsmack — Tue, 15 Jul 2008 09:51:43 -0000

yeah man, that is exactly what I use them for. I use the orange burst almost always. really helps everything stand out and I don't get conflicts in light and dark colored lines.

Re: MAc Addict Alert! How To Use SolidWorks on a Mac

solidsmack — Tue, 15 Jul 2008 11:44:07 -0000

@Peter. Hey peter. thanks, glad you found this. I'll probably turn it into a post and give you some credit. do you have a website?

Re: 5 Tricks To Tackle SolidWorks “Failed To Save Document”

solidsmack — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 07:16:44 -0000

Thanks Alex, that's another great case to know about.

Re: Create Stylish SolidWorks Graphics without PhotoWorks

solidsmack — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 07:21:56 -0000

Hey Michael, I love using that Ambient Occlusion Scene. My GPU has a bug where I can switch to it, then back to the Light Card scene to get the reflection.

When using photoshop, sometimes I'll make a config for just internal parts, turn edges on for that one, then no edges for external parts. take screenshots of each and add to separate layers in photoshop and change transparency on the external no edge layer. really gives focus to internal parts.

Re: SolidWorks 2009: Decimate the Weak

solidsmack — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 10:01:55 -0000

Hey Mike, I think the performance improvements are meant to address stability. I'm going to be looking at what the requirements are for upgrading and will mention that in a future post. Thanks!

Re: Product Review: Hands-on With the 3DConnexion SpaceExplorer

solidsmack — Thu, 07 Aug 2008 12:05:09 -0000

Hey Ivan, definitely go with the Explorer if you can, you'll get much better use out of it. the navigator does only have two programmable buttons on it.

Re: Stop the SolidWorks Rot: Simple Tips for Awesome Design Practices

solidsmack — Thu, 07 Aug 2008 12:08:35 -0000

Ian, in this case I would bring everything into a central directory, then go to File, Pack and Go and start putting the top level assemblies and drawing (with their associated files) into a directory structure (or PDM system) for your company. This is about the single quickest way to resolve problems with data in multiple locations. hope this helps your team!

Re: SWUGN Summit - Nashville

solidsmack — Wed, 23 May 2007 11:41:35 -0000

Man, makes me wish I could have gone. That tips and tricks format does sound like it was interesting and thanks for making your presentation available!

Re: SolidWorks 2008 Announced!

solidsmack — Mon, 18 Jun 2007 11:42:22 -0000

Cool, i didn't realize the SolidWorks 2008 Highlights page was up.

What kinds of questions are poeple asking you about 2008? Most of the questions I've been getting where I work have been kind of sarcastic. hmm.

Re: SolidWorks 2008: The New UI

solidsmack — Tue, 19 Jun 2007 10:43:22 -0000

great post ricky. I definietly agree with you. take some time to try it out. I always get a little anxious about interface changes, but once i get in it, I can usually tell right away if it's gonna be worth it. In my case and the way I use solidworks, it is.

Re: Fun with The Simpsons

solidsmack — Fri, 20 Jul 2007 07:19:27 -0000

yeah, I was dissapointed they didn't have any polos. Barney wheres a polo I believe, cmon!

Re: SolidWorks 2008: Inserting and Mirroring Parts

solidsmack — Mon, 30 Jul 2007 11:58:10 -0000

I so can't wait to use this in production. Nice video by the way.

Re: What Enhancements in SolidWorks 2008 do YOU want to see?

solidsmack — Tue, 07 Aug 2007 07:05:25 -0000

How about something on the newe fillet options. what works best? what doesn't work? why fillet Xpert may not work all the time? stuff like that.

Re: SolidWorks 2008: Configurations

solidsmack — Tue, 07 Aug 2007 12:00:51 -0000

Hey Ricky, great post. just wondering what your personal opinion was on these enhancements. I thought the Modify Configurations was a little hard to work in when there were large tables. I do like how they made display states separate from configurations.

Re: Windows Live Writer

solidsmack — Thu, 03 Apr 2008 08:52:50 -0000

I'm gonna have to suggest using ScribeFire, an browser extension for FireFox.

https://addons.mozilla.org/en-US/firefox/addon/...

Re: Direct Modeling: The future?

solidsmack — Thu, 24 Apr 2008 07:12:05 -0000

"believe that combining the two methods in the correct manner IS the best solution I have seen."

I totally agree. I think the direct modeling will add ease of use but the history will provide the power. The focus is going to be on the DM because it's flashy and looks good in video.

thanks for the link Ricky!

Re: SolidWorks and Animations

solidsmack — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 08:37:33 -0000

hey Ricky, very nice. I would alway use the highest quality uncompressed. Some of the video share sites, like Vimeo and Smugmug support HD, plus you can protect who sees it. so you could very easily set up a customer site for animations.

I had a lot of trouble with the gravity setting. have you tried the other features as well?

Re: SolidWorks 2008: Colors and Appearances

solidsmack — Mon, 30 Jun 2008 05:40:24 -0000

Man, wish i could get into a discussion about this and the changes in 2009, but... ok, to the forums :( - thanks for bringing this up. I think people should look forward to better ways. :)

Re: Blog Content Research

solidsmack — Thu, 24 Jul 2008 06:05:10 -0000

Hey Ricky, Videos are GREAT. but put your perspective in on them. That's what's key to engage people and give it a personal touch.

Lookin' forward to what ya got comin'.

Re: ALL NEW SITE & HOST!!

solidsmack — Fri, 01 Aug 2008 23:07:55 -0000

Hey Ricky, looks GREAT. love the colors and you did most the work with that car you did in the header! glad to have helped out man.

Re: Linking Dimensions in Sketches

solidsmack — Tue, 20 May 2008 13:52:19 -0000

I love dimensions. hey, what about unlinking them?? :)

Re: Standards Tuesday - Drawing Notes Pt2

solidsmack — Tue, 27 May 2008 11:00:33 -0000

good points. we have an inspector that gets hung up on these phrases exactly. he also gets irate at improper use of tense. It becomes annoying after the drawing has been sent back for 10 revisions because of verbage. Should get it right in the first place I suppose.

Re: Gopal Shenoy’s SolidWorks Life Lessons

solidsmack — Mon, 30 Jul 2007 17:00:59 -0000

That is a great post huh? My favorite is #4 - It is all about “relationships”

That's so true from personal to business life. Glad you posted this.

Re: Brand SolidWorks 2008 With Your Own Custom Logo

solidsmack — Thu, 02 Aug 2007 15:45:21 -0000

I wonder if you can change other graphical elements like this. hmmmm.

Re: Brand SolidWorks 2008 With Your Own Custom Logo

solidsmack — Thu, 02 Aug 2007 15:48:04 -0000

That's a good way to take up more space. It be nice to add it somewhere else. This would be good for a VAR doing demos.

I'm using 2008 with NO toolbars now. it was kinda wierd at first, but I'm just using the shortcut bar. try it out.

Re: Physics is Phun!

solidsmack — Thu, 13 Mar 2008 10:40:10 -0000

If Physics was actually like this in college I probably would not have a nervous breakdown.

This would be great for kids huh.

Re: File Manglement

solidsmack — Thu, 24 Jul 2008 11:07:13 -0000

Speak it brother! keep a tight reign on those files ya hear!

Re: Time For Change

solidsmack — Thu, 24 Jul 2008 11:08:58 -0000

Ya going to give a look inside at what you do? that would be an interesting post man! good luck with your new job!

Re: When will Solidworks allow for me to lin …

solidsmack — Mon, 24 Nov 2008 14:16:08 -0000

It probably because some may have multiple models on the drawing. Should be an option though.

There is one possibility. When I rev the cuwhat about tying the drawing rev property to the View?

Re: Like working things out for yourself ?

solidsmack — Wed, 22 Oct 2008 09:28:21 -0000

ha, the SNL question is one I just went there for a few weeks ago. THe knowledge base has actually helped me a lot. and I know my reseller has it up if I'm on the phone with him :) - so it moves issues along a little better.

Re: Objects of Desire

solidsmack — Mon, 04 Feb 2008 02:33:35 -0000

hey gabi, solidworks has been huge on this. The vexplorer campaign was something started up by solidworks. you can find out more at http://www.solidworks.com/pages/products/edu/Robotics.html

cool stuff huh?

Re: Treasure Hunter

solidsmack — Mon, 18 Feb 2008 02:54:39 -0000

not a genetic problem at all! a genetic blessing.

My wife is hispanic too. Man has here common sense saved me a bunch of times. :)

Re: Dare

solidsmack — Wed, 20 Feb 2008 05:22:04 -0000

Reminds me of the email conversation we all had about learning more.

What's even better, you're teaching two.

messing with springs is fun (and frustrating) to work with. Have you tried any yet??

Re: The happiest drafter on this side of the Rio Grande

solidsmack — Wed, 05 Mar 2008 08:30:14 -0000

Very cool gabi. congrats.

Re: I see a hole out there

solidsmack — Mon, 17 Mar 2008 03:08:48 -0000

Hey Gabi, this is great for two reason. First, it shows how you can really dig down into the specifics of how something is created, finding the best way.

And it also makes you ask, why should I have to be concerned with how I create a hole. hopefully solidworks is working on this with 2009.

I know I'd much rather enjoy modeling the part than concerned with which method is going to make it load faster, ya know. great post.

Re: Creating revolved sections the easy way

solidsmack — Thu, 10 Jul 2008 20:33:23 -0000

This is really cool Gabi. I don't think I've ever thought of using a broken view like that. excellent! Thanks.

Re: Meet the new CSWP!!!!!

solidsmack — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 03:51:24 -0000

AWESOME! So cool Gabi. Congrats!

Re: SW2009: The Toolbox got a makeover!

solidsmack — Tue, 05 Aug 2008 05:56:20 -0000

Look pretty slick huh. I'd like to use it but it doesn't have a lot of the aircraft standards we use. and haven't taken the opportunity to make a library in toolbox for them.

I'll have to try it out now.

Re: Back in California

solidsmack — Mon, 25 Aug 2008 17:59:26 -0000

Hey Gabi, I'm in complete agreement with how you are looking at the opportunities you have as just that. To me it's part of the experience and a chance to interact with others... no matter what the volunteer effort is.

Re: Time to head back home

solidsmack — Fri, 19 Sep 2008 17:59:47 -0000

awesome Gabi, have a good flight and it was finally nice to meet ya.

Re: I still don’t get it!

solidsmack — Wed, 08 Oct 2008 05:53:07 -0000

I always thought the emulator was a bad idea. It's better to take a few more minutes, even hours to actually show them how to do it using SolidWorks.

I think this single topic and Kenneth's comment are key. once this one concept is realized, it opens up their thinking about how to work with 2D in SolidWorks.

Re: Job search for the picky one

solidsmack — Mon, 13 Oct 2008 08:34:14 -0000

Gabi, I think you know that an opportunity lost is an opportunity gained. :) no worries right. I have a feeling you won't just be 'blogging, learning, searching, and waiting.' for long.

Re: Getting Creative

solidsmack — Thu, 16 Oct 2008 04:52:11 -0000

awesome post gabi. I love using split lines. It works in pratical engineering situations too, when you want to show detail, but not put in all the cuts, like on a screw head.

The flower design looks like some stained concrete I wanted to do in our house! nice.

Re: Having fun with cameras in PhotoWorks

solidsmack — Mon, 10 Nov 2008 23:29:23 -0000

great post Gabi. I haven't used the cameras either and have wondered how it handles DOF. Thanks!

Re: The Weldments Cut List

solidsmack — Wed, 19 Nov 2008 02:49:02 -0000

Great overview Gabi. We're up against a wall trying to automate some of the weldment functionality we used with regular part/assy files. Right now I'm really wishing different materials could be assigned to bodies. great post!

Re: Like a Sticker

solidsmack — Fri, 21 Nov 2008 04:05:08 -0000

YOu keep going like this girl and I'm gonna have to come to you for renderings!! supa cool!

Re: And it’s back to the rendering board with this one…

solidsmack — Mon, 01 Dec 2008 05:53:57 -0000

I like it Gabi. I like how the glow up front is different. kinda like it's sitting under an overpass or sumthin. NICE.

Re: Decals and masks revisited

solidsmack — Tue, 09 Dec 2008 02:54:55 -0000

Gabi's Photoshop tips and techniques for Photoworks! love it!

Re: Gabi Jack’s Blog is one year old!

solidsmack — Mon, 05 Jan 2009 07:41:47 -0000

Hey Gabi. Congrats! Keep it up. the post frequency is just fine and the content is muy excelente!

Re: 2008/12/23/how-to-create-online-video/

solidsmack — Tue, 23 Dec 2008 11:21:37 -0000

I love the idea of video. I've been planing on using it, but get hung up in the video quality, editing, intros, outros.... ahy. I haven't found an easy way just to sit down and do it without worrying about the details. A lot of post like these are nice, but miss the process.... yeah, I know, it simple right. hit record button, upload to youtube. I imagine there's more to it tho.

Re: 2008/12/23/how-to-create-online-video/

solidsmack — Tue, 23 Dec 2008 12:47:04 -0000

Thanks Morgan. I'm checking out the DV Show. The vid production you all do at turnhere is NICE. thanks for the links!

Re: DEVELOP 3D Magazine

solidsmack — Tue, 03 Feb 2009 07:06:59 -0000

Hey Rich. Thanks or the linkback. I think you're right. With enough people seeing this magazine state-side, I think there would be enough for D3D to offer it over here.

Re: What the heck was I thinking?

solidsmack — Wed, 06 Jun 2007 17:22:37 -0000

I'm a little late on this since being out of town and I started writing something that got lengthy so it inspired me to just do it as a post. hope these help...
http://www.solidsmack.com/4-quick-tips-for-speaking-in-public/2007-06-06/

Re: What the heck was I thinking?

solidsmack — Fri, 08 Jun 2007 15:24:25 -0000

I don't really like this magazine, but my brother showed me a good article that explains a lot.
http://www.psychologytoday.com/articles/pto-20070227-000002.xml

Re: Networking

solidsmack — Fri, 20 Jul 2007 17:33:22 -0000

LinkedIn is great. have found some old friends and co-workers there.

Re: Time for a change

solidsmack — Mon, 30 Jul 2007 19:22:29 -0000

It's in the beers the sales guys buy you. don't drink it! buy your own and good luck!! nice obscure reference to Bill and Teds. I would avoid the air guitar though. I think that's a no-no for guys like us over 30.

Re: Time for a new name!

solidsmack — Fri, 17 Aug 2007 21:35:48 -0000

"Cad to the Bone" is good. That video is funny and disturbing. IT actually made me feel a little nauseous.
I try to think of it it terms of good domain names.
The name card is always good. I checked and JeffMirisola.com is not taken.
Other (not sure if their taken or good)
If you want CAD in the name
Cadjockular – Faboulous Cad insight from a CAD Jocky
CADSkillz – increase your skillz to pay the billz
CADKills – Keep your babies away
Cadalicious – the juicy side of CAD
CAD! STAT! – 500cc’s of the best CAD stuff on earth
If you don’t
AttackofJeff – you can’t avoid the onslaught
SwimmingwithModels – beautiful solid models
TheDailyJeff – it’s like that cause I say it is
Jeff-whip – like cool-whip but not as sweet

Re: SWIFT Technology Matures

solidsmack — Tue, 09 Oct 2007 16:57:21 -0000

instant 3D is great for conceptualizing parts, but won't isn't much good for assemblies form what I can do so far. 08 does seem more stable, but our hardware is holding us back on upgrading companywide.

Re: DimXpert - Automated GTOL

solidsmack — Tue, 06 Nov 2007 02:44:45 -0000

works good for detail parts, but man was it a pain trying to set it up for an assembly. I'm not even sure I tried to finish.
Our stack-up tolerances come in when things are slapped together, they're not really tight but we need to make sure they are within .03-06.
Would be nice to easily set it at an assembly level as well. Have you messed with it any further on assemblies? If so, let me know.

Re: Human Tetris at SolidSmack

solidsmack — Thu, 15 Nov 2007 12:09:55 -0000

haha! thanks jeff. I posted that in June, but hey, that's okay, link away! I LOVE TAHT VIDEO. would that not be a perfect show at SWW?

Re: Got a question for the Chumps?

solidsmack — Mon, 03 Dec 2007 16:14:28 -0000

well see who the hack is!! it's ON.

Re: SWW ‘08 - Tales from the ‘Dark Side’

solidsmack — Mon, 28 Jan 2008 02:42:18 -0000

man, this is like 50 posts rolled into one. I'll need a few days to get through it. :) Really good to meet you man.

Re: User Groups - You know what they are, right?

solidsmack — Mon, 18 Feb 2008 11:54:12 -0000

Good stuff man. Employers are often scared of headhunters getting their employees at the user group meetings. that is the number one most common thing I've come up against from day one.

Re: Importing Non-native Files…

solidsmack — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 11:45:37 -0000

Hey Jeff, I can give it a go if ya like. May be the version it was saved in. Would be nice if you could get another save out of revit (maybe split up?)
you could try bringing it into another CAD program too. maybe SpaceClaim? it can bring in anything right? :)
Give me a call if ya like.

Re: SolidWorks and Architecture

solidsmack — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 16:12:15 -0000

man, I'd love to see what you're working on. (Feature it on SolidSmack?) I love the architecture angle. SWEET.

Re: SolidWorks Success Stories

solidsmack — Wed, 19 Nov 2008 10:52:58 -0000

man, that Force Protection company that did the 'boncrusher' vehicle would be so awesome to work with. thing is HUGE... a bit smaller than that house you're working on tho :)

Re: SolidWorks + Microsoft = Robots

solidsmack — Fri, 21 Nov 2008 12:07:00 -0000

I'm frustrated by the separation of robotic design and robot CGI. either the imagination or the capabilities are just not there yet. arg.

Re: 3 Easy and Highly Requested Thesis Theme Tutorials

solidsmack — Thu, 28 May 2009 16:27:13 -0000

Hye Matt, thanks. what would you need to add to get the Tweetmeme to show up on the home page too. I've tried adding is_home but it doesn't work correctly. Thanks again!

Re: Anti-depression thinking: what do we do?

solidsmack — Mon, 29 Sep 2008 23:41:26 -0000

I'm a start-up. a blogger. trying as hard as any company to succeed. I don't complain about someone not giving me money so I can 'get out of a rut'.

Instead, I keep working my ass off. This 'downturn' is all speculations. It's all 'fail, fail, fail' - the market needed a correction. Yeah, businesses tank, but businesses making better decisions take them over. That's how it goes.

oh, hey, guess what, there's some cheap(er) stocks out there right now... Can't get VC? try your hand at a solid company stock. It couldn't be any riskier than the mess Carter, Clinton and Frank got us into.

Re: We’re in a death spiral

solidsmack — Mon, 06 Oct 2008 23:25:10 -0000

My friend in the mortgage biz had to stay at work late tonight because they have so many new loans. certainly the exception. the market is correcting itself, that's something good. real good.

also, partly socializing the banking system with the 700bill, even though it set a bad precedent, will (theoretically) thwart the full socialization of those tending toward that form of government, if they make it into the white house.

Re: I Want Your RSS Feed, Again!

solidsmack — Thu, 24 Apr 2008 11:33:57 -0000

http://feeds.feedburner.com/solidsmack

Josh's last blog post..How Microsoft’s Live Mesh Will Affect 3D CAD