SolidWorks is renowned for its intuitive 3D CAD capabilities that cater to engineers, designers, and product developers across industries. While its graphical interface provides immense power, the SolidWorks API (Application Programming Interface) takes productivity and design customization to the next level. It enables users to automate repetitive tasks, integrate with other applications, and extend SolidWorks functionality in ways that manual workflows simply can’t match.
In this in-depth blog by Multisoft Systems, we’ll explore the fundamentals of the SolidWorks API online training, covering its architecture, programming language support, key components, and common use cases, alongside hands-on examples to get you started on your automation journey.
What is SolidWorks API?
SolidWorks API is a collection of libraries, methods, interfaces, and classes provided by Dassault Systèmes to interact programmatically with the SolidWorks environment. The API certification allows developers and engineers to create customized tools, automate routine design tasks, and build applications that enhance SolidWorks functionality. Instead of relying solely on mouse clicks and GUI commands, the API lets you instruct SolidWorks through code – creating parts, editing features, exporting files, running simulations, and more – all automatically.
It provides the tools needed to:
- Automate repetitive tasks (e.g., batch printing, file conversion)
- Create custom features and commands
- Extract and manipulate model data
- Generate reports
- Build add-ins and integrate SolidWorks with other applications
The API is exposed primarily through COM (Component Object Model) interfaces and is most commonly used with VBA, VB.NET, or C#.
Why Use the SolidWorks API?
1. Automation of Repetitive Tasks
Tasks such as batch drawing generation, model updates, file exports, or property updates can be automated to save hours or even days of manual work.
2. Custom Workflows
You can design processes that are tailored to your organization’s needs, enabling engineers to follow a streamlined, error-free workflow.
3. Integration with Enterprise Systems
Connect SolidWorks with ERP, PLM, or database systems to pull or push data automatically, ensuring design-data consistency across departments.
4. Product Configuration
Easily create configurations or variants of a product from a template model based on user input or predefined rules.
Key Concepts and Architecture
To fully leverage the SolidWorks API, understanding its structure and core principles is essential.
1. COM-based API
SolidWorks API is built on Microsoft's COM (Component Object Model) architecture. This means you can use it in any COM-compatible programming language like:
- VB.NET
- C#
- VBA (used in macros)
- C++
- Python (with wrappers)
2. Object-Oriented Approach
The API is object-based. Everything from parts to features to faces is represented as an object. For example:
vb
CopyEdit
Dim swApp As SldWorks.SldWorks
Set swApp = Application.SldWorks
You instantiate objects, access their properties, and call their methods to get things done.
3. API Hierarchy
At the top of the API hierarchy is the SldWorks application object. From it, you can access documents (ModelDoc2), features, selections, and so on.
Hierarchy Overview
- SldWorks
- ModelDoc2
- PartDoc, AssemblyDoc, DrawingDoc
- Feature, Component, View, etc.
Getting Started with SolidWorks API
SolidWorks API (Application Programming Interface) is a powerful tool that allows users to automate tasks, customize workflows, and integrate SolidWorks with other software systems. If you are a designer, engineer, or developer looking to streamline repetitive tasks or build tailored solutions, getting started with the SolidWorks API can transform how you use the software. The API exposes the same functionality found in the SolidWorks graphical interface but allows you to control it programmatically using languages such as VBA, VB.NET, and C#. To begin, ensure you have SolidWorks installed along with Microsoft Visual Studio if you plan to use .NET languages. For quick scripting, SolidWorks also includes a built-in VBA editor to write and run macros directly.
Your journey typically starts by learning how to access and use the core objects provided by the API, such as ISldWorks, IModelDoc2, IPartDoc, and IAssemblyDoc. These objects allow you to interact with parts, assemblies, drawings, features, and user selections. One of the simplest ways to begin is by writing a macro that performs a basic task, such as opening a file, extracting custom properties, or exporting a drawing to PDF. With time, you can progress to more complex tasks such as creating features, managing configurations, handling events, and building full-scale add-ins with custom toolbars and commands.
To succeed with SolidWorks API development, familiarize yourself with the SolidWorks API Help documentation, community forums, and tutorials. Practicing small projects will help you understand object hierarchies and the logic of model manipulation. Whether you are automating design processes, generating BOM reports, or integrating with PLM systems, mastering the SolidWorks API can save hours of manual work and greatly enhance productivity across your design and engineering workflows.
Commonly Used Objects and Methods
Here are some of the most commonly used objects and methods when working with the SolidWorks API:
- ISldWorks
- The main application object to start the API.
- Method: GetActiveDoc() – returns the currently active document.
- IModelDoc2
- Represents a general document (part, assembly, or drawing).
- Methods:
- GetTitle() – gets the name of the document.
- SaveAs() – saves the document with a new name or format.
- EditRebuild3() – rebuilds the document.
- IPartDoc, IAssemblyDoc, IDrawingDoc
- Specific document types inheriting from IModelDoc2.
- Provide access to part-specific, assembly-specific, or drawing-specific methods.
- IFeatureManager
- Used to create or manipulate features like extrusions, cuts, fillets, etc.
- Method: InsertFeature() – adds a new feature programmatically.
- ISelectionMgr
- Manages current user selections in the UI.
- Method: GetSelectedObject6(index, mark) – returns the selected object.
- IView
- Used primarily in drawing documents to access and control views.
- Method: SetDisplayMode() – changes how a view is rendered.
- ISketchManager
- Allows creation and editing of 2D/3D sketches.
- Methods: CreateLine(), CreateCircleByRadius() – draw sketch entities.
- IComponent2
- Represents components in an assembly.
- Methods:
- GetChildren() – returns child components.
- Select() – selects the component.
- IConfigurationManager
- Manages different configurations of a model.
- Method: AddConfiguration() – creates a new configuration.
These objects and methods form the foundation of most SolidWorks API scripts and automation tasks.
Developing Add-Ins vs. Macros
When working with the SolidWorks API online course, users often choose between creating macros or developing add-ins, depending on the complexity and scope of the task. Macros are small, script-based programs written in VBA (Visual Basic for Applications) and are best suited for automating repetitive, short-term tasks such as batch exporting files, modifying model properties, or renaming features. They are quick to create and execute directly from within SolidWorks, making them ideal for beginners or one-time operations. On the other hand, add-ins are more robust applications developed using .NET languages like VB.NET or C#. Add-ins integrate deeply with the SolidWorks interface, allowing for custom toolbars, menus, event handling, and persistent behavior across sessions. They are ideal for long-term solutions, advanced automation, and enterprise-level tools where UI integration or background services are needed. While macros are easier to deploy and require minimal setup, add-ins offer greater flexibility, scalability, and maintainability for complex projects. Choosing between the two depends on your specific requirements—use macros for quick wins and prototypes, and develop add-ins when building full-featured, professional-grade solutions.
Integration with External Tools
SolidWorks API can connect with:
- Excel: For parametric design using Excel inputs
- Databases: Access SQL Server or Access for BOM and metadata
- REST APIs: Communicate with cloud systems for real-time data updates
- Python Scripts: Using COM or pywin32
Learning Path and Resources
Here are recommended learning steps:
- Master SolidWorks GUI – Know the manual operations thoroughly.
- Learn VBA Basics – Ideal for quick scripting and macros.
- Explore API Help – Study classes and methods in-depth.
- Take an API Course – SolidWorks API online courses (like those by Multisoft Systems) provide guided, real-world examples.
- Build Projects – Practice by building small automation tasks, then expand.
Challenges and Limitations
Working with the SolidWorks API offers powerful automation capabilities, but it also comes with several challenges and limitations that developers should be aware of. One of the primary challenges is the steep learning curve, especially for those new to object-oriented programming or unfamiliar with the COM-based architecture used by the API. The documentation, while comprehensive, can be complex and lacks modern examples in some areas, making it harder for beginners to find clear guidance. Additionally, the API’s performance can be limited when dealing with large assemblies or drawings, where operations like rebuilding, opening, or exporting may take significant time or lead to memory issues. Another limitation is version compatibility—scripts and add-ins developed for one version of SolidWorks may not work seamlessly with newer or older versions due to API changes or deprecated methods. Error handling is also critical, as the API can crash or become unresponsive if not properly managed. Furthermore, debugging and testing API code can be difficult since SolidWorks must be open during execution, and failures can be hard to trace. Lastly, the API provides limited support for some high-level operations like feature recognition or design intent, which still require manual input or advanced algorithms. Despite these challenges, with structured learning and careful development practices, many of these limitations can be overcome, allowing users to harness the full potential of the SolidWorks API.
Conclusion
SolidWorks API offers a gateway to unleash maximum efficiency and customization within your CAD workflow. Whether you’re an engineer tired of repetitive tasks, a company needing ERP integration, or a developer creating advanced plugins, the API empowers you to take full control.
By mastering the SolidWorks API fundamentals, you position yourself not just as a CAD user, but as a CAD innovator. Start small, build your skills, and soon you'll automate the impossible. Enroll in Multisoft Systems now!