3D CAD Simulation in Solidworks and Labview

Before going to 3D printing or Manufacturing of the components , It's better to test the machine and evaluate its performance in a virtual environment.

This Project I've Used Solidworks for creating 3D Models, Labview for creating motion profiles for the 3D model and NI softmotion for interfacing 3D models and Labview program.

Step 1: 3D CAD Model

I've made look a like CNC milling machine, You can make whatever machine you'd like. Once the machine is completely assembled, Move to motion study and select motion analysis. In my machine I needed 3 axis (x,y,z) so I've chosen 3 linear motor.

The above CAD model and labview files can be downloaded from the link below.

https://www.dropbox.com/s/958pu0hs6z2scfx/arduino%2Bsolidworks.rar?dl=0

Step 2: Create New Project

after completion of CAD Model. Open labview and choose New project. In the project window right click the my computer select new and add solidworks assembly,CAD model that we want to simulate. if the assembly model already opened in the solidworks , it automatically choose the default assembly model.

right click my computer after the completion of adding the assembly model and select new and add NI softmotion Axis ( these are the motors that we added to the solidworks assemlby), right click the axis1 and select properties and tick the check box , enable drive on transition to active mode

I've used 3 motors so I've repeated the steps for 3 times.

right click my computer and add NI labview files if you already created or select New => VI

Step 3: Create Labview Files

create motion profiles for the assembly in the Labview

Step 4: Deploy the Files.

Right click and choose axis, my computer and assembly file and select deploy.

Start the Labview front panel and right click solidworks assembly in the project window and select start simulation.

Follow the Video for more information.