How to use design study in SolidWorks for determining forces

This how-to explains the usage of SolidWorks Design Study to evaluate how variations in geometry, material, or loading affect the bending behavior of components, based on tests from a real machine development project. The tutorials found online are using simple 3D models, but this how-to is going to focus on oddly-shaped components. The use case in question is a galvanized steel thimble used in marine logistics that needs to be pried open. When automating a system that uses manual labor, estimating forces applied on certain components might present certain risks, especially when the deformation applied implies a big force.

  1. Prerequisites:
    Before you begin, ensure you have:

    • SolidWorks Education (Simulation add-in enabled)
    • A 3D model of the component
    • SolidWorks Simulation setup for a static or nonlinear study
    • Basic knowledge of setting materials, fixtures, and loads
  2. Setting up the simulation:

  3. Set up Design Study