What is AI in SOLIDWORKS?

At its core, SOLIDWORKS AI refers to a set of intelligent capabilities that assist engineers by automating repetitive tasks, providing design guidance, and enabling workflow orchestration through built-in features and Virtual Companions that can be interacted with using natural language.

What AI features are currently available in SOLIDWORKS?

Currently, available capabilities include automated drawing generation, general design assistance through an interactive chat interface, command prediction, sketch analysis and repair, fastener recognition, and many additional features that are being rapidly developed and expanded.

Learn more about what’s available in SOLIDWORKS AI.

Stay up to date with the latest SOLIDWORKS Design features.

What is the difference between built-in AI features and Virtual Companions in SOLIDWORKS?

On one hand, built-in AI refers to machine learning-based capabilities that enhance existing design workflows. On the other hand, Virtual Companions are AI assistants that can be engaged using natural language to access knowledge and perform specific tasks. Both built-in AI features and Virtual Companions are available directly within the SOLIDWORKS Design user interface.

What are the roles of the new Virtual Companions?

Unlike generic conversational agents, our companions embody AI at the heart of engineering, grounded in physics and causality.

Name

Specialty

Example Application (E-Foil Wing)

AURA

Knowledge and Context

Balances requirements for strength, lightweight construction, and water resistance (for example, choosing between carbon fiber and fiberglass).

LEO

Engineering Reasoning

Optimizes the strength-to-weight ratio using carbon composites, specifically unidirectional carbon fiber with epoxy resin for stiffness and fatigue resistance.

MARIE

Materials Science

Analyzes critical factors such as density (1.6 g/cm³), elastic modulus, and resistance to water-induced degradation.

How do these entities collaborate to optimize a project?

Innovation emerges from the combination of multiple perspectives. AURA explores the range of possibilities, MARIE grounds the project in rigorous materials science, and LEO ensures mechanical and manufacturing feasibility. Together, they help identify the optimal technical solution without compromising safety or manufacturability.

Why is the move to the Cloud essential for these new AI capabilities?

Knowledge extraction, deep data mining, and the execution of complex AI models require significant computing power. Cloud infrastructure is the only practical way to provide these resources flexibly and cost-effectively to organizations of all sizes.

Does SOLIDWORKS AI use customer data for training?

No. Customer data is not used to train AI models. Governance controls ensure the protection of intellectual property. You can learn more by visiting the 3DS Trust Center.

Can AI automatically create drawings?

Yes. SOLIDWORKS Design includes the ability to automatically generate 2D drawings by interacting with Virtual Companions using natural language. Drawings can be created according to specified standards, templates, and dimensioning schemes, helping accelerate the documentation process.

Can AI automate repetitive CAD tasks?

Yes. SOLIDWORKS AI automates repetitive engineering tasks such as drawing creation and assembly structure generation. Additional capabilities will continue to be introduced in future releases.

How does SOLIDWORKS AI protect intellectual property?

SOLIDWORKS AI ensures that customer intellectual property remains isolated and secure. Learn more about the specific security protocols by visiting the 3DS Trust Center.

How do I get started with AI in SOLIDWORKS?

Start by exploring the built-in AI capabilities and current Virtual Companion features available through the AI Lab task pane directly within SOLIDWORKS Design. Access to Virtual Companions requires Cloud Services to be enabled, which are included with every SOLIDWORKS Design license.

Can AI automatically fix CAD models?

AI can identify issues, explain errors, and suggest corrections. However, engineers remain responsible for reviewing and approving any modifications.

Will AI replace CAD designers and engineers?

No. AI helps automate repetitive tasks and uncover valuable insights, but engineers remain responsible for design intent, validation, and decision-making.

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