This illustrated handbook provides a complete course, taking readers step-by-step through the basic operations of SolidWorks 2014. Written by an expert and experienced instructor in this versatile program, it reveals how SolidWorks, a full two-way parametric design tool, can be used to create fluid models with myriad features. SolidWorks Basis is for anyone new to CAD software who wants to learn how to use SolidWorks(R) and for those who want to increase their proficiency in this program. It can be used in virtually any setting, from four-year engineering community colleges and vocational/technical schools to industrial training centers. A well-designed self-study manual, it also is an excellent resource for professionals who use SolidWorks.

Features

• This complete course is the most fun and effective method for mastering SolidWorks.
• It can be used to learn or teach others how to use any version of SolidWorks, including the 2015 software release.
• Detailed instructions teach both specific steps and good design skills.
• Full-color illustrated projects design LEGO(R) Minions(TM), Bar Pullers, Center Jigs, Turkey Calls, and more.
• Explanations cover how parts are broken down into logical features that are created, refined, and added.
• QR codes (in the print edition) and Web links (in the ebook) take readers to online instructional videos.
• Additional materials are available online for adopting instructors.

Reviews"This book provides an excellent introduction to SolidWorks concepts and techniques, which are explained using step-by-step instructions, along with extensive graphical illustrations and video demos. The examples used in this book ensure that the users can relate the information provided in this textbook with practical industry designs. This book would be great for self-paced learning or as a text for a course in 3D parametric feature-based modeling." -- Bill Ferguson Instructor -- Mechanical Engineering Technology, Nova Scotia Institute of Technology

"SolidWorks is a huge program by itself, and with all of the Gold Partners around the world that make 'add in's' for the program, it can be mind-boggling to learn. However, with Fulkerson's approach to modeling based learning, it can even be fun if you follow along.

In this superbly written and detailed learning experience, there are some neat things that I will start using in my next class. It really pays to see how other SolidWorks Instructors do things, explain and demonstrate 'the how to' with newer technologies.

This very detailed-orientated book on SolidWorks is even more enhanced by the inclusion of the QR or Quick Response links that you will see throughout this book. Sometimes, words are just not enough so a visual demonstration can show how something is done when words alone are too vague. I demonstrate how to do things in my classes, but I now see that can also be done teaching with a book and a smart phone. I have never such scannable links used before in any of the books on SolidWorks that I have reviewed to date. I think this is a really nice idea, and we all might see a lot more of it in the future.

This is truly a remarkable book to learn SolidWorks with and I am sure it will be a 'self learner's delight' when they get started with it. In fact, I have never seen a more detailed and better illustrated book on this subject. That alone will not do justice to how completely everything and every step was compiled and explained along the way. I believe that anyone having the SolidWorks program and this book could easily use it to learn and pass the very first step in the certification process that SolidWorks offers. I highly recommend it to all and give it my 5-star rating." -- Richard Williams, Instructor and SolidWorks Expert