ME 470 Project SolidWorks Routing

Here is a video in which I explain the SolidWorks Routing Add-In. This is useful for easily creating pipes using routes. It also takes advantage of the SolidWorks Design Library. By using this add-in with an assembly, pipes can be automatically created, custom pipes and piping routes can be made in minutes, and pre-existing features can be dragged-and-dropped into assemblies reducing pipe creation to minutes.

Step 1: 3D Sketches

Here we begin by learning how to create 3D sketches in SolidWorks. 3D sketches allow you to draw in different planes, which will be useful when creating a piping route from one part of the assembly to another.

Step 2: SolidWorks Design Library

The SolidWorks Design Library is a useful tool for piping features. It contains many pre-designed parts.

Step 3: Adding Features From the Design Library

After the Routing Add-In is turned on, the features from the SolidWorks Design Library can easily be dragged-and-dropped directly into the assembly. This can be seen in the picture to the left, where a weld-on flange has been dropped onto a tank. SolidWorks then automatically selects the appropriate size. In the picture to the left, it can be seen that other designs, such as an elbow and a straight cross are added onto a pre-existing route.

Step 4: Apply 3D Sketching Techniques

By using the same 3D sketching method, custom pipes are created as quickly as the lines are drawn. Settings can be adjusted to allow for elbows or bends to be put in place of curves. The radius can also be easily adjusted. The same Smart Dimension Tool as used when sketching can be applied to ensure the pipe is the correct length.

Step 5: Auto Route

The SolidWorks Auto Route feature allows points to be selected within the sketch and will create multiple routes. Predefined options are automatically put into place and you can easily flip through the options and select the best fit for your design.