How to Animate Mechanism in SolidWorks: Step-by-Step Guide

To animate a mechanism in SolidWorks, use the Motion Study tab to create a timeline and apply mates that define movement between parts. Add motors or forces to simulate motion, then play the animation to see the mechanism in action.

Syntax

Animating a mechanism in SolidWorks involves these key steps:

• Motion Study Tab: Access this tab at the bottom of the SolidWorks window to create and control animations.
• Mates: Define how parts move relative to each other (e.g., hinge, slider).
• Motors/Forces: Apply motion drivers like rotary or linear motors to parts.
• Timeline: Set keyframes and durations for movements.
• Play Controls: Use play, pause, and rewind to preview the animation.

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1. Open assembly with mechanism
2. Click on 'Motion Study' tab
3. Add mates to define part relationships
4. Insert motors or forces
5. Set timeline keyframes
6. Click 'Calculate' and 'Play' to animate

Example

This example shows how to animate a simple hinge mechanism:

• Open an assembly with two parts connected by a hinge mate.
• Go to the Motion Study tab.
• Add a rotary motor to the hinge axis.
• Set the motor to rotate 90 degrees over 5 seconds.
• Click Calculate and then Play to see the animation.

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1. Open assembly with hinge mate
2. Select 'Motion Study' tab
3. Click 'Motor' > 'Rotary Motor'
4. Select hinge axis
5. Set rotation: 90 degrees, duration: 5 seconds
6. Click 'Calculate'
7. Click 'Play' to view animation

Output

The mechanism rotates smoothly 90 degrees around the hinge axis over 5 seconds.

Common Pitfalls

Common mistakes when animating mechanisms in SolidWorks include:

• Not fully defining mates, causing parts to move unexpectedly.
• Forgetting to add motors or forces, so no motion occurs.
• Setting unrealistic motor speeds or directions.
• Ignoring the timeline, leading to abrupt or no animation.
• Not clicking 'Calculate' before playing the animation.

Always check mates and motor settings carefully before running the animation.

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Wrong way:
1. Add mates but no motor
2. Click Play

Right way:
1. Add mates
2. Add motor with correct axis and speed
3. Click Calculate
4. Click Play

Quick Reference

Step	Action	Tip
1	Open assembly	Ensure parts are properly mated
2	Go to Motion Study tab	Located at bottom of SolidWorks window
3	Add mates	Define movement constraints
4	Insert motors or forces	Choose correct axis and speed
5	Set timeline keyframes	Control timing of motion
6	Click Calculate	Prepares animation
7	Click Play	View the animation

Key Takeaways

Use the Motion Study tab to create and control mechanism animations.

Define mates carefully to ensure correct part movement.

Apply motors or forces to drive the motion realistically.

Always click Calculate before playing the animation.

Use the timeline to set smooth and timed movements.