How to Apply Fixture in SolidWorks Simulation: Step-by-Step Guide

In SolidWorks Simulation, apply a fixture by selecting the Fixtures tool in the Simulation tab, then choose the faces or edges to fix. This locks the selected geometry in place during the simulation, preventing movement or deformation in those areas.

Syntax

To apply a fixture in SolidWorks Simulation, use the following steps:

• Fixtures Tool: Access this from the Simulation tab.
• Select Geometry: Choose faces, edges, or vertices to fix.
• Choose Fixture Type: Options include Fixed, Roller/Slider, or other specialized fixtures.
• Apply and Confirm: Click OK to apply the fixture.

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Simulation > Fixtures > Select Geometry > Choose Fixture Type > OK

Example

This example shows how to apply a fixed fixture to a face in a bracket model to prevent it from moving during simulation.

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1. Open your SolidWorks model and start a new Simulation study.
2. Click on the <Fixtures> icon in the Simulation tab.
3. Select the face of the bracket you want to fix.
4. Choose <Fixed Geometry> as the fixture type.
5. Click OK to apply the fixture.
6. Run the simulation to see the effect of the fixed fixture.

Output

The selected face is locked in place, and the simulation results show no displacement on that face.

Common Pitfalls

Common mistakes when applying fixtures include:

• Not selecting the correct geometry, causing unexpected movement.
• Applying too many fixtures, which can over-constrain the model and cause errors.
• Using the wrong fixture type for the scenario, leading to inaccurate results.

Always verify the fixture locations and types before running the simulation.

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Wrong way:
Simulation > Fixtures > Select entire part > Fixed Geometry (over-constrains model)

Right way:
Simulation > Fixtures > Select only necessary faces > Fixed Geometry

Quick Reference

Step	Action	Description
1	Open Simulation Tab	Access simulation tools in SolidWorks.
2	Click Fixtures	Open fixture options.
3	Select Geometry	Choose faces, edges, or vertices to fix.
4	Choose Fixture Type	Select Fixed, Roller/Slider, etc.
5	Apply Fixture	Confirm and apply the fixture.
6	Run Simulation	Analyze results with applied fixtures.

Key Takeaways

Use the Fixtures tool in the Simulation tab to apply constraints.

Select only necessary geometry to avoid over-constraining the model.

Choose the correct fixture type based on the physical scenario.

Verify fixture placement before running the simulation.

Proper fixtures ensure accurate and stable simulation results.