How to Create Fixtures in SolidWorks: Step-by-Step Guide

To create fixtures in SolidWorks, start by designing the fixture parts using Part files, then assemble them in an Assembly file. Use Mates to position and constrain fixture components accurately within the assembly.

Syntax

Creating fixtures in SolidWorks involves these main steps:

• Create Part Files: Design individual fixture components as separate Part files.
• Create Assembly File: Open a new Assembly document to combine parts.
• Insert Components: Add fixture parts into the assembly.
• Apply Mates: Use Mates to define how parts fit and move relative to each other.
• Save Assembly: Save your fixture assembly for use in projects or simulations.

text

1. Open SolidWorks and create new Part files for each fixture component.
2. Design each part using sketch and feature tools.
3. Create a new Assembly document.
4. Insert all fixture parts into the assembly.
5. Use Mate tool to position parts (e.g., coincident, concentric).
6. Save the assembly as your fixture.

Example

This example shows how to create a simple fixture assembly with a base plate and a clamp part.

text

1. Create Part: Base Plate
- Sketch a rectangle 100mm x 50mm.
- Extrude to 10mm thickness.

2. Create Part: Clamp
- Sketch a U-shape profile.
- Extrude to 20mm thickness.

3. Create Assembly
- Insert Base Plate and Clamp parts.
- Use Mate tool:
  - Select top face of Base Plate and bottom face of Clamp, apply coincident mate.
  - Select side faces to align clamp position.

4. Save assembly as "SimpleFixture.SLDASM".

Output

An assembly file named "SimpleFixture.SLDASM" with a base plate and clamp positioned correctly using mates.

Common Pitfalls

• Not fully defining parts: Fixture parts should be fully constrained in sketches to avoid errors.
• Incorrect mates: Using wrong mate types can cause parts to move unexpectedly.
• Over-constraining: Applying too many mates can create conflicts and errors.
• Ignoring material properties: Fixtures should have correct material assigned for accurate simulation.

text

Wrong way:
- Applying multiple coincident mates on the same faces causing conflicts.

Right way:
- Use one coincident mate and add distance mates if needed to control position precisely.

Quick Reference

Step	Action	Tip
1	Create Part files	Fully constrain sketches for accuracy
2	Open Assembly	Use a new assembly document
3	Insert Components	Add all fixture parts needed
4	Apply Mates	Use appropriate mates like coincident, concentric
5	Save Assembly	Name clearly for reuse

Key Takeaways

Design fixture parts as separate SolidWorks Part files before assembly.

Use mates carefully to position and constrain fixture components accurately.

Avoid over-constraining mates to prevent assembly errors.

Fully define sketches in parts to ensure stable fixture design.

Save your fixture assembly clearly for easy reuse in projects.