Practical CAD workflows for SolidWorks and Autodesk Inventor.
The principle comes first. The software follows.
Independent methods, no direct integrations. Menu names and functions may differ per version or license.
Name the design variables. Fix dimension relationships from the function and test the smallest and largest variant.
Use named global variables and equations. Decide which dimensions vary per configuration.
Split the machine into functional modules. Choose a fixed reference and limit dependencies between modules.
Fix subassemblies with purposeful mates. Check the remaining degrees of freedom after changes.
Separate standard parts from project-specific ones. Give every part one recognizable identity and revision.
Use configurations for manageable variants. Check configuration-specific properties and references.
Define material, quantities, revision and critical dimensions. Check that the model, drawing and BOM describe the same design.
Check the configuration used in every drawing view and BOM. Verify part numbers and custom properties.
Review interferences, tool clearance, tolerances and assembly order. Then fix the released revision.
Run interference detection for the relevant components. Check drawings and references after the last rebuild.
