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SolidWorks 2d usability

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BrianE22

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Mar 21, 2010
1,069
I'm going to make the jump to 3d drawing. There are times though that a 2d sketch seems like the way to go. I'm used to AutoCad for 2d drawing. Is Solidworks 2d sketching comparable to AutoCad? As powerful?
 
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Comparable? Absolutely!

As powerful? I would say more if you need to use constraint and parametric modeling.

Personally there are times when I don't want to have to constrain my sketch so I prefer working with Autocad (Draftsight in my case) but it's only for basic stuff. When I'm designing something I much prefer the flexibility of a parametric modeler for tweaking things.

When it comes to plant layout though if I only work in 2D it will be with AutoCad, If I need to work with SW then it will be in 3D directly.

I previously worked with Solid Edge and I must say that with SE I was less tempted to go to AutoCad because the Draft environnement is more similar to AutoCad.

My 2 cents

Patrick
 
IMO, AutoCAD is widely used because it's easier to teach.
Make the jump to 3D parametric, you can always make 2D drawings from 3D models.
Not much time to list all positives of 3D over 2D.

Chris
SolidWorks 11
ctopher's home
SolidWorks Legion
 
Thanks guys - I'm so comfortable with AutoCad and I'm too old too learn much new. But it does sound like the jump to Solidworks wouldn't be too bad.
 
Brian SolidWorks is really great, especially for swoopy 3d "stuff". If all you are doing is boxes and cubes, and flat layouts, auotcad will suffice. I went to SolidWorks (ver 1998) because of some compound curvy "stuff" I had a hard time modeling with Autocad.Autocad was designes as a archectical program that was grabbed by the early designers because there was not a 3d design package out there in the 70's and 80's.Do what you feel comfortable with and need.Or that your company needs. Wish you luck in your choices.
 
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