SOLIDWORKS 30 年

寂静回声

Thirty years ago, the world of product design underwent a significant transformation. In 1995, SOLIDWORKS launched the first professional-grade 3D CAD tool built natively for the Windows operating system. Computer-aided design (CAD), once the domain of expensive, UNIX-based workstations, would now be available to all engineers. This event democratized design, making powerful 3D modeling accessible, affordable, and user-friendly. As we celebrate this three-decade milestone, we reflect on the journey, the key innovations that defined it, and the future of product development.



Before 1995, professional 3D CAD software was predominantly confined to expensive and complex UNIX-based systems. The learning curve was steep, and the cost was a barrier for many engineers and smaller companies. SOLIDWORKS changed the landscape by introducing a tool that operated in the familiar Windows environment. With an intuitive interface, featuring drag-and-drop functionality, the training time was reduced from months to days, empowering a new generation of designers to bring their ideas to life more efficiently.
This initial release was more than just new software; it was a fundamental shift in how products were designed. For an initial cost of around $4,000, compared to the $18,000 or more for UNIX-based alternatives, high-quality 3D design was suddenly within reach for a much broader audience.

Over the past 30 years, SOLIDWORKS has consistently evolved through continuous software improvements driven by user feedback and technological advancements. Several key features stand out as transformative enhancements that have had a lasting impact on how engineers work.


Multibody Modeling
One of the most significant core enhancements was the introduction of Multi-body Modeling, which enabled the creation and management of multiple solid bodies within a single part file. Previously, engineers were limited to one body per part, resulting in cumbersome workarounds for complex designs. Multi-body Modeling streamlined workflows, particularly in weldments and sheet metal, enabling faster iteration and better control over interrelated components.

Configurations
Called a “cornerstone of SOLIDWORKS” by users, Configurations allow designers to create multiple variations of a part or assembly within a single file. Each configuration can have different dimensions, features, or properties, making it an ideal tool for managing product families without creating and tracking separate files for each version. This feature drastically improved efficiency and simplified file management, especially in the era before data management systems became commonplace.


Cloud Services

Marking the third major shift in SOLIDWORKS history—after its Windows-native foundation and the integration of embedded tools—Cloud Services connected users to the 3DEXPERIENCE platform. This integration provides secure cloud-based storage, version control, and seamless collaboration. Teams can access, share, and manage CAD data from anywhere without the complexity and cost of traditional IT infrastructure. It provides a “magic CAD-aware hard drive in the sky,” ensuring data is always up-to-date, and instantly accessible and shareable.

The Power of Community
From its earliest days, SOLIDWORKS has been shaped by its dedicated user base. The community has played a crucial role in the software’s evolution, providing valuable feedback and driving demand for new features. This symbiotic relationship is best exemplified by several key programs.
The SOLIDWORKS User Group Network (SWUGN), established by users in 1997, created a global community where designers and engineers could connect, share knowledge, and develop their skills. This peer-to-peer learning environment has been instrumental in shaping SOLIDWORKS into what it is today.
Building on this spirit, the SOLIDWORKS Champions program recognizes top advocates and experts who go above and beyond to help others. These passionate users are crucial leaders who inspire and educate the broader community. Furthermore, programs like SOLIDWORKS for Startups, Education, and Makers extend access to professional tools, fostering innovation across early-stage companies, academic institutions, and hobbyists.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Product Innovation
As we look to the next 30 years, SOLIDWORKS continues to focus on helping engineers work smarter and faster. The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) is the next frontier in this mission. AI-powered tools are not a futuristic concept; they are already beginning to enhance productivity by capturing expert knowledge, flagging issues early, and accelerating design iterations.
Predictive analytics are giving leaders clearer insights into the business impact of design decisions. AI can simulate design behavior, suggest material alternatives, and even forecast market risks. These capabilities are becoming essential as engineers face increasing pressure to meet performance, cost, and sustainability targets. At SOLIDWORKS, we are strategically integrating AI where it delivers tangible benefits to our users, ensuring we not only keep pace with change but also stay ahead of it.
The journey from a disruptive Windows-native tool to a comprehensive, cloud-connected platform has been remarkable. For three decades, SOLIDWORKS has provided the tools for innovators to build a better world. We look forward to continuing this legacy, supporting our incredible community, and driving the future of product development for many years to come.
Celebrate with us and explore the resources on this page: https://www.solidworks.com/product/30-years