How to Check Interference in Assembly in SolidWorks

In SolidWorks, you can check interference in an assembly by using the Interference Detection tool found under the Evaluate tab. This tool scans the assembly and highlights overlapping parts, helping you identify and fix design conflicts.

Syntax

The Interference Detection tool in SolidWorks is accessed via the assembly environment. The main steps include:

• Evaluate > Interference Detection: Opens the interference check dialog.
• Select Components: Choose which parts or the entire assembly to check.
• Include Subassemblies: Option to check inside nested assemblies.
• Report Options: Generate a detailed report of interferences.

This tool automatically scans for overlapping volumes between parts.

arm_architecture

Evaluate > Interference Detection > Select Components > Calculate > Review Results

Example

This example shows how to check interference in a simple assembly with two overlapping parts:

1. Open your assembly in SolidWorks.
2. Go to the Evaluate tab on the CommandManager.
3. Click Interference Detection.
4. In the dialog, select the entire assembly or specific components.
5. Check Include Subassemblies if needed.
6. Click Calculate.
7. SolidWorks lists all interferences found with details.
8. You can click each interference to highlight it in the graphics area.

Common Pitfalls

Common mistakes when checking interference include:

• Not selecting all relevant components, missing some interferences.
• Forgetting to check Include Subassemblies, so nested parts are ignored.
• Ignoring small interferences that might cause assembly issues later.
• Running interference check on very large assemblies without filters, causing slow performance.

Always review the interference report carefully and fix issues before finalizing your design.

Quick Reference

Step	Action
1	Open assembly in SolidWorks
2	Go to Evaluate tab
3	Click Interference Detection
4	Select components or entire assembly
5	Check Include Subassemblies if needed
6	Click Calculate
7	Review and fix interferences

Key Takeaways

Use the Interference Detection tool under the Evaluate tab to find overlapping parts.

Always select all relevant components and include subassemblies for a thorough check.

Review the interference report carefully to identify and fix design conflicts.

Avoid running interference checks on very large assemblies without filters to maintain performance.