Despite a lot of fun being had at the Dassault Systemes event Giddy Up at Gilley’s on day 2 of 3DEXPERIENCE World, users and speakers alike were ready to go at 8:30 AM for the hands-on session that our resident Large Assembly Wizard Alin Vargatu and I presented. This session was the Ultimate Guide to Optimizing Imported Geometry, and we showed users various ways that they can save on open times and operational times over the hour and a half of hands-on time with the software. Tips like this make up just one portion of our large assembly workshop and really help ease the pain of working with cumbersome step files.

A packed room for the hands-on session I co-presented with our resident Large Assembly Wizards, Alin Vargatu

Model Mania Results

After one more session, a demonstration of the loader from Aliens, and a quick lunch, the Model Mania contest results were announced in the 3D Playground. The whole team was elated when it was announced that our very own Matt Kokoski defended his title from last year’s competition successfully! The two-time back-to-back champion won a $500 Gift Card and, for the first year ever, the winners were also given a 3D printed copy of the model and revision they created, along with a laminated copy of the drawings themselves. Congratulations Matt!

Matt won the Reseller Model Mania Competition at 3DX World 2024 with a time of 16:15

Congrats Matt!

General Session and Announcements

The general session was filled with excitement and was centered on all of the amazing SOLIDWORKS users in the SWUG and Champions community. There was then an interview with F1 Legend Paddy Lowe, who discussed innovation in the sport, design philosophy, and his current ventures with sustainable fuels. Afterward, we continued to see some early enhancements for SOLIDWORKS 2025, my favorite being a “centered” option in the tab and slot tool, before the big announcement that 3DEXPERIENCE World will be in Houston, TX next year!

F1 Legend Paddy Lowe Speaking at 3DEXPERIENCE World 2024

Casino Night and Elite AE’s

The final event of the week will be casino night, and it will include recognition for the select Application Engineers from around the world who achieved their Elite Status this year. Sarah Taylor and I are the two from TriMech who fulfilled the requirements, including getting 30+ certifications and demonstrating community involvement.

This week has been an amazing opportunity to connect with clients, users, and TriMech and DS employees. The community has been stellar and it’s been so great not just to share favorite tips, tricks, and processes but to also learn so much! Looking forward to seeing everyone again in Houston in 2025!

3DEXPERIENCE World

3DEXPERIENCE World General Session

This morning’s General Session highlighted a few previews of enhancements we can look forward to in future releases of SOLIDWORKS and the 3DEXPERIENCE Platform, and featured a few keynote speakers. One of my favorite speakers was Aneesa Muthana, CEO and Co-Owner of Pioneer Service Inc. and M&M Quality Grinding, who spoke about the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion in the manufacturing and design industries.

3DEXPERIENCE World General Session

Another favorite speaker of mine was Thomas Silva from Endiatx, who introduced the crowd to their robot pill endoscope which, after it is swallowed, takes pictures of a patient’s digestive system in a quick and non-invasive manner. Manish Kumar, the SOLIDWORKS CEO, also showed off to the crowd, with his moon-walking dance skills!

Model Mania

For SOLIDWORKS newbies and veterans alike, Model Mania is the most fun way to put SOLIDWORKS skills to the test. I took a stab at the modeling challenge this morning, but I’ll have to wait until lunchtime tomorrow for the results to be presented. The winner will be whoever re-created the model to the highest accuracy, the fastest!

3DEXPERIENCE World Model Mania

Breakout Sessions

I stopped into two breakout sessions. The first was “SOLIDWORKS for Seamsters” by Rachael Naoum, where Rachael was sporting some brand new shoes that she designed and handmade with the help of SOLIDWORKS. The second was “101 Things Your Mother Never Told You about Mates” by Tracy Wettig and Chris Brooking. I was so proud to see my own manager, Tracy, rocking it with the assembly mate tips and tricks in front of a packed room!

3DEXPERIENCE World Breakout Session

Fun in the Playground

The 3DEXPERIENCE Playground has a variety of exhibitor booths. The R2D2 and Wall-E model robots made me smile. There was even a real robot (or, a robot arm) decorating cookies with the power of DELMIA!

Hands-on Session

I assisted Sawyer Gara with his hands-on session, “Cloud Connection: Design and Validation”, where he introduced two 3DEXPERIENCE Platform apps, xDesign and Linear Structural Validation. For many of the students, it was their first time using 3DEXPERIENCE Platform tools, and Sawyer led them through the modeling and simulation workflow with great success!

3DEXPERIENCE Training Session

Monday’s General Session had a major focus on the continuous improvements to 3DEXPERIENCE and SOLIDWORKS products we’ve come to know and love. A lot of what was covered was around a central theme of incorporating Artificial Intelligence into our everyday design and engineering process to streamline and optimize going from initial concept to fully realized product. Some of the things hinted at for future updates are going to change the game from generating 3D models. The example used of generating manufacturable bookshelves and coffee tables while only providing the material and a bounding box is groundbreaking. Amongst the excitement were also some great stories from 3DEXPERIENCE and SOLIDWORKS community members and how they leverage best-in-class tools to produce their best-in-class designs.

The session ended with the 2024 version of Don’t Miss This Demo where the Technical Marketing team put on another great edition and teased enhancements coming in SOLIDWORKS 2025. I won’t spoil the fun so you’ll need to go watch the recap to hear about some of the new things coming down the pike. Also, be sure to tune in tomorrow for Episode 2 of this year’s epic!

Instructional Courses and Hands-on Workshops

Each year, members of the greater SOLIDWORKS and 3DEXPERIENCE community come together to create and present exceptional content on topics they are passionate about: this year was no different. I managed to make my way around to a bunch of different user sessions on Day 1. After the General Session, I made my way down to a presentation on SOLIDWORKS CAM to see how to leverage automation to increase CNC Programming efficiency by using APIs. Speaking of APIs, there was another great session by Artem Taturevych who gave an introductory session to using the SOLIDWORKS API in a beginner-friendly, example-based way. There was already a ton of great content packed in and we are only through lunch!

After lunch, I hopped into a training session led by Dassault’s John Milberry who put on an incredible overview of ICAM Foundations, the post-processor technology built into 3DEXPERIENCE’s DELMIA Machining tools. His training gave a great introduction to customizing post-processors and helped solidify concepts that were a little hazy before. After John’s session, I turned my attention to my own presentation happening later in the day. In the final presentation slot for Day 1, I was able to present my Fundamentals of 3DEXPERIENCE Machining which aimed to lay a foundational understanding of the 3DEXPERIENCE CAM roles. I started with a brief overview of the portfolio and wrapped up with a simple hands-on example of bringing a model from SOLIDWORKS into DELMIA and then creating toolpaths. The response exceeded my expectations and led to some great follow-up conversations.

If you are interested in hearing more about any of the topics covered by one of TriMech’s Application Engineers at this year’s conference, we’d be more than happy to discuss!

What to look for on 3DEXPERIENCE World Day 2?

Day 2 kicks off again with a General Session and serves as a continuation of today’s messaging. We then have a whole host of TriMech-led sessions on the docket. Tracy Wettig is co-presenting 101 Things Your Mother Never Told You About Mates, I’ll be back with Sarah Taylor for a Hands-on Workshop Cloud Connection: Design and Validation, and Alin Vargatu is leading the charge on his session titled Ultimate Import Geometry Optimization for Large Assemblies.

TriMech isn’t the only group of presenters tomorrow at 3DEXPERIENCE World and there are a whole host of great sessions. You’ll want to review the daily agenda yourself and find sessions that match your interests. Regardless of what you choose, you’ll for sure find yourself in a great informational session. Stay tuned for Day 2!

Wayne White

Before joining TriMech in 2012, Wayne worked in companies large and small, and in industries including automotive and battery technology. This path led him to TriMech, where he began as a general application engineer supporting clients working with SOLIDWORKS desktop products. Today, he supports clients in their move to the cloud and, through training and support, ensures they take full advantage of the power of the 3DX platform.

How did you make the shift to focusing on 3DEXPERIENCE within TriMech’s collection of products and services?

I have worked for Matt Kokoski throughout my career with TriMech. Beginning about 2017, he started to ask me for help supporting 3DX because it was new at the time and he was a team of one. I was already watching the trend of everything moving to the cloud and wanted to be part of that, so eventually I asked Matt if I could work on 3DX full time.

I have used cloud-based products personally for more than 15 years and I knew the benefits related to data management and backup, and just connecting large amounts of information and making it more usable.

Plus, I liked the idea of marrying CAD with the cloud.

It can be challenging to be on the leading edge of change, since people are naturally resistant. How do you deal with this?

Some people are still resistant to moving to the cloud. That’s not unique to engineering or manufacturing – there’s a societal shift in how we’re using software.

Our most successful 3DEXPERIENCE clients are those who are willing to put some time into making a few simple changes and trying new things. You have to say, “ok, this workflow doesn’t work the same way anymore, I’m open to adapting.”

People like what they’re used to. You build a history of knowledge and skills and we’re presenting you with a different technology and asking you to retool your brain. The first hurdle is encouraging people to make a change, and we do that through education.

Do clients have misconceptions about what it means to use 3DX?

One misconception is that the cloud is not as secure as storing your data at your physical location behind a locked door. We provide clients with all the information they need about Dassault Systèmes’ ISO-certified management systems and risk management practices to protect their data and privacy.

Speaking of education, how do you support client learning?

There are several options. To start, the MySOLIDWORKS platform has excellent on-demand video content that you can watch when it suits you.

And within The TriMech Group, we have training options that are live and interactive. This gives clients a chance to ask very specific questions, which they always do.

I always recommend TriMech 3DEXPERIENCE training because this is how you will truly understand what the platform is capable of. This is how you learn to make informed decisions about how you want to use the environment to suit your specific needs. Training exposes you to features and benefits of the platform that you’re not likely to tap into otherwise.

It makes sense to invest in the best possible use of the system where all your critical data and communication is stored.

Beyond training, we’re always here to answer questions by phone or by email.

Is there an ideal client for 3DX?

Honestly, 3DX can suit the full range of clients. I will say that small- and medium-sized businesses that don’t currently have a data management solution in place are often the most ready to run with it.

Having said that, very large companies have successfully migrated their existing data into 3DEXPERIENCE; it just takes a bit of time to make the transition.

What are the most attractive features of 3DEXPERIENCE that are making clients move to 3DX as a data management solution?

The first thing I would say is that it’s data management out of the box. The second thing is that 3DX offers rules-based standardization among all users, keeping consistency across the board. 3DX is the problem-solver that leads to efficient data management and effective team collaboration.

For 25 years, people got used to managing their own data. The problem of course is that people leave organizations and trying to pick up where that person left off is a daunting task. Nobody can afford to have errors and delays because of inconsistent data management practices.

3DEXPERIENCE Platform

Why should people choose 3DEXPERIENCE training offered by TriMech Group?

Our training courses are home grown and continually evolving, and we bring all of our years of experience using and supporting 3DEXPERIENCE.

We’ve worked with many different types of clients and know what works best in uploading files, setting workflows and revision schemes, rules that are critical to success, etc.

In our six-hour course, for example, we outline everything the client has to look out for in order to make informed decisions about what will work in their organization. We show them the steps, and all the variables that come into play along the way.

It’s really important to consider the needs of existing SOLIDWORKS users vs. non-users, and we cater to both.

Is the 3DEXPERIENCE training content flexible enough to evolve over time?

We’re always making changes. There are common technical questions that most clients have, and we always answer those; at the same time, we definitely reconfigure the training based on interactions with clients and training participants.

Being cloud-based, 3DX itself changes more frequently that SOLIDWORKS desktop users would be used to. Adjusting the training based on platform updates is critical. I actually had a call yesterday from a client interested in taking the training for a second time.

We can add new modules or courses as new 3DX elements are introduced or as we learn more about what a certain group of clients needs. Right now, I’m working on content for more role-specific training courses.

What makes a successful learning environment for a trainee?

People should come ready to participate. I encourage a comfortable learning space by telling everyone that I also started at zero with 3DEXPERIENCE, and that all questions are welcome. Even when we’re learning together online, you can easily communicate with the instructor. I want people to ask the questions that make their learning valuable.

Businesses who invest in training and development for their people clearly demonstrate that the organization is committed to the platform and this leads to greater success overall.

Why does your team stand out?

I’m proud of the TriMech 3DEXPERIENCE training team because I feel we are among the most advanced. We can answer the basic questions about how 3DX works and we’re also well past that. We’re on top of the evolution of the platform in a proactive way. Combine that with our experience up to this point, and we can quickly solve issues that clients run into.

3DX is a massive platform with far-reaching applications and our client base is diverse. The exciting part is watching clients push the boundaries of its capabilities. Imagine an organization with more than 100 users across many different departments.

We can support any client, small or large, anywhere in the world. For me, this is special and different from my first 10 years in the business. It’s cool that I’m on calls with people in Europe, India, and China.

Are you interested in TriMech 3DEXPERIENCE Training or Support?

Learn more about the 3DEXPERIENCE training courses available and the 3DEXPERIENCE support options for TriMech clients »

Join us on Tuesday, February 27 at 10:00 AM ET, as Russ Bassett, a TriMech Process and Training Consultant, discusses why training is important and how TriMech can help you and your business to become more efficient cost-effectively and conveniently, making sure you’re using your system to the maximum potential.

During this Invest in TriMech Training webinar, you will learn:

• Why you should take training
• Why invest in training with TriMech
• TriMech training methods
• The value of certifications
• Our training offerings

Join us as Jorge Villacres, a TriMech Certified SOLIDWORKS Expert, examines the possibilities of creating Change Actions on your designs. He focuses on Collaborative Tasks tools and management within SOLIDWORKS 3DEXPERIENCE. Learn how to seamlessly create and assign tasks, fostering efficient communication among team members. Discover the tools to define task urgency, identify collaborators, and attach essential deliverables, ensuring everyone is aligned on project goals and timelines.

Uncover the capabilities that SOLIDWORKS 3DEXPERIENCE offers for swift and precise design iterations. We’ll provide a step-by-step walkthrough, empowering you to adapt and modify designs seamlessly while maintaining design integrity and meeting project requirements.

During this 3DEXPERIENCE Webinar, you will learn:

• Create Collaborative Tasks
• Define task urgency, collaborators, deliverables, and attachments.
• Create Change Actions on Your Designs
• Manage all your Design Issues Online

From design and simulation to manufacturing and planning, 3DEXPERIENCE World gives SOLIDWORKS customers an unprecedented pass to the skills, tools and resources that will improve your product development and help you get to market faster with increased customer satisfaction.

Why attend 3DEXPERIENCE World 2024?

Building on the legacy of SOLIDWORKS World, 3DEXPERIENCE World 2024 is an opportunity for designers, engineers, entrepreneurs and business leaders to learn, innovate, collaborate and celebrate together. It’s your must-attend source for innovate tools and technologies that will help you shape the world of design, today and tomorrow.

• Designers and Engineers
  • Continue to hone your SOLIDWORKS skills, and learn how to connect your design data for better collaboration in the cloud, and enable design from your laptop, phone or tablet.
• Executives, Principals and Owners
  
  • Learn how you can manage complexity, make better decisions, and enjoy a quicker time to market, by connecting your people, data and applications in a single environment.
• Engineers and Analysts
  
  • See how advanced simulation solutions can improve the real world results by validating various scenarios in the virtual world.
• Program Managers, Process Planners, and Manufacturers
  • Learn how DELMIAWorks and 3DEXPERIENCE Works will improve your current manufacturing processes with a single version of the truth. Perfect your operations and implement world-class manufacturing practices in your business by learning/sharing from product experts and your peers.
• Entrepreneurs
  
  • Invest in 3DEXPERIENCE Works for a business innovation portfolio that provides a single version of the truth for improve product development, and faster time to market without the overhead.
• Students and Educators
  
  • One of our highest priorities is to help students build the career of their dreams.
    • Students who register for and attend the event will get a 3-month valid free SOLIDWORKS certification voucher and a trial license to download SOLIDWORKS Cloud Apps.
    • Educators will learn more about our education offerings that can help build the class of the future and enhance teaching methods for sustainable development..
• Hobbyists and Makers
  
  • Create anything you want with a collection of powerful, online tools for designing, fabricating, visualizing, and more.

Registration is open

Registration is open. Book your space now and choose the program that best suits your needs.

Snap fit analysis example

For this guide, we will be running a snap fit analysis. You will learn about:

• Running a nonlinear analysis in SSE
• Analyzing a buckle clip assembly
• Using the 3DEXPERIENCE add-in of SOLIDWORKS
• Analyzing an assembly in SSE

After reading this guide you will have a clear concept of SSE and how to use it for your simulations. You will be able to create designs within the 3DEXPERIENCE platform.

Fill out the form to download instantly.

Watch as TriMech Electrical Implementation Engineer, Cameron Cintula, demonstrates how to use the native application Electrical Schematic Designer with the 3DEXPERIENCE platform.

Cameron covers some key best practices that are crucial to success, including which roles need to be granted, “saving with options,” and tagging projects with bookmarks for easier recall and management. Demonstrating these practices will help engineers exchange projects with one another no matter where the engineers may be physically located.

Learn more about:

• Saving with options
• Tagging projects with bookmarks
• 3DEXPERIENCE roles
• Collaborative spaces