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CAD & Software
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Which AI tools are helping your engineering work?
Hi, we’ve started exploring how AI fits into everyday engineering workflows and want to hear what’s working for others. Are there any AI tools or plugins you’re using (or experimenting with) for design, modeling... read more
0
10
Nov 10
Transferring assembly cuts to part files in SolidWorks
I'm designing a clamping fixture for a CNC-milled aluminum part on Solidworks, where a set of pins and slots needs to precisely align across multiple plates. I initially created the cut features at the... read more
3
1.5k
Jul 02
Text-to-CAD tools for modeling enclosures
Has anyone tested text-to-CAD tools for quick concept modeling of enclosures? I'm designing a small plastic enclosure for a PCB-based sensor module (around 60x40x20 mm) and was wondering if any of the new text-to-CAD... read more
4
1.5k
Jul 03
Simulating shear and bending on a welded tow hook bracket
I'm designing a welded tow hook bracket for a lightweight off-road trailer (max gross weight 850 kg), made from 8 mm thick mild steel plates (S355), joined with full-penetration fillet welds. I’m running a... read more
2
998
Jun 26
Solidworks or Inventor for sheet metal design?
Hey, I need to create a small sheet metal enclosure for a power supply unit—mostly bent parts in 1.5 mm steel, with tabs, cutouts, and a few fastener points. I’m new to CAD and... read more
2
1.2k
Jun 24
Best file format for tight-tolerance parts with GD&T annotations
Hi, I'm designing a housing component for an optical assembly, machined from anodized 7075-T6 aluminum, with several ±0.01 mm tolerances and GD&T callouts for perpendicularity and flatness. The part is quite compact (80x60x40 mm)... read more
2
911
Jun 24
Modeling ribs on a curved surface
hi, designing a snap-fit enclosure for a small handheld sensor (approx. 60 x 40 x 20 mm), and I need to add structural ribs to the inner shell. The issue is the inner surface... read more
3
1.7k
Jun 24
Solidworks
HelloI am a mechanical engineer. I have advanced knowledge of Solidworks, meaning I know how to use every tab and command. But for design, that is for measurements, I only know how to use... read more
1
798
Apr 14
Add grip texture to a handle in Fusion 360
I want to print a 30 mm diameter handle for a handheld tool, in SLS nylon, and I’m designing the part on Fusion 360. It needs a grip texture that balances ergonomics, durability, and... read more
2
1.1k
Jun 16
STEP or IGES?
Hi! I’m preparing to send a CAD file to my manufacturer for a CNC-machined aluminum enclosure. Would it be better to use a STEP or IGES file to send to the manufacturer? The design... read more
3
1.4k
Mar 18