How to Do Generative Design in SolidWorks: Step-by-Step Guide

To do generative design in SolidWorks, start by defining your design goals, constraints, and loads using the Topology Study in SolidWorks Simulation. Then run the optimization to generate lightweight, efficient shapes automatically, which you can refine and finalize in the CAD environment.

Syntax

Generative design in SolidWorks is done through the Topology Study feature in SolidWorks Simulation. The basic steps include:

• Create a new Topology Study: Define the part or assembly to optimize.
• Set Objectives: Choose what to minimize or maximize, like mass or stiffness.
• Apply Loads and Fixtures: Define forces, pressures, and fixed points.
• Set Manufacturing Constraints: Specify how the part can be made (e.g., machining, casting).
• Run the Study: The software generates optimized shapes.
• Review and Refine: Use the results to create final geometry.

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Topology Study Setup:
1. Open SolidWorks Simulation
2. Select 'New Study' > 'Topology'
3. Define Objective: Minimize Mass
4. Apply Loads and Fixtures
5. Set Manufacturing Constraints
6. Run Study
7. Export Results to CAD

Example

This example shows how to create a simple generative design for a bracket using SolidWorks Topology Study.

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1. Open your bracket model in SolidWorks.
2. Go to Simulation tab and click 'New Study'.
3. Choose 'Topology' study type.
4. Set Objective: Minimize mass with a 50% reduction target.
5. Apply a fixed fixture on mounting holes.
6. Apply a downward force on the bracket arm.
7. Set manufacturing constraint to 'Machining'.
8. Run the study.
9. Review the optimized shape and export the results.
10. Use the results to create a new CAD model with the optimized geometry.

Output

The software generates a lightweight bracket shape removing unnecessary material while maintaining strength at load points.

Common Pitfalls

• Not defining correct loads and fixtures can lead to unrealistic designs.
• Ignoring manufacturing constraints may produce shapes that are impossible to make.
• Setting too aggressive mass reduction goals can cause weak or unusable parts.
• Failing to refine the generated mesh can reduce result accuracy.
• Not reviewing the results carefully before finalizing the design.

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Wrong way:
- No fixtures applied
- Objective: Maximize mass

Right way:
- Apply fixed fixtures where the part mounts
- Objective: Minimize mass with realistic constraints

Quick Reference

Step	Action	Tip
1	Create Topology Study	Use Simulation tab to start
2	Set Objective	Minimize mass or maximize stiffness
3	Apply Loads & Fixtures	Define real-world forces and fixed points
4	Set Manufacturing Constraints	Choose feasible production methods
5	Run Study	Check for convergence and errors
6	Review Results	Analyze material removal and stress areas
7	Export & Refine	Create final CAD model from optimized shape

Key Takeaways

Use SolidWorks Simulation's Topology Study to perform generative design.

Always define realistic loads, fixtures, and manufacturing constraints.

Set achievable objectives to avoid unusable designs.

Review and refine the generated shape before finalizing.

Export optimized results to create improved CAD models.