Learn Solidworks-api - 10 Code Examples & CST Typing Practice Test
SolidWorks API is a COM-based programming interface that allows developers to automate, customize, and extend the SolidWorks CAD software, enabling tasks from simple macros to complex design automation and integration with external systems.
Learn SOLIDWORKS-API with Real Code Examples
Updated Nov 27, 2025
Explain
Provides programmatic access to SolidWorks objects, documents, and features.
Supports automation of repetitive modeling tasks and drawing creation.
Allows integration with databases, PLM, and ERP systems.
Enables creation of custom add-ins, macros, and tools for engineers and designers.
Uses languages such as VBA, VB.NET, C#, and C++ through COM interop.
Core Features
Automation of sketching, features, assemblies, and drawings
Property and configuration management
Custom property and document manipulation
Interaction with SolidWorks events (e.g., file open, rebuild)
Support for both VBA macros and .NET add-ins
Basic Concepts Overview
COM Automation - core communication protocol with SolidWorks
Document types - Part, Assembly, Drawing
Features - extrude, cut, fillet, etc.
Sketches - 2D drawings used to create features
Configurations - variations of parts or assemblies
Project Structure
Macro files (.swp, .sldmacro) or .NET add-in projects
References to SolidWorks.Interop assemblies
Configuration files for custom tools
Unit tests for automation scripts
Documentation of API usage and custom workflows
Building Workflow
Identify repetitive task or required automation
Choose macro or add-in development approach
Access SolidWorks objects via API
Manipulate features, properties, and assemblies programmatically
Test and debug code within SolidWorks environment
Difficulty Use Cases
Beginner: simple macro to rename or export files
Intermediate: automate feature creation based on input parameters
Advanced: develop custom add-ins for assembly management
Expert: integrate SolidWorks with PLM/ERP systems
Architect: enterprise-level design automation frameworks
Comparisons
SolidWorks API vs Inventor API: both COM-based, SolidWorks uses SW object model, Inventor has Inventor-specific events
SolidWorks API vs Fusion 360 API: Fusion is cloud-based Python/JavaScript, SolidWorks is Windows COM/.NET
Macro vs Add-in: macros are simpler scripts, add-ins are compiled for deployment and events
SolidWorks API vs AutoCAD API: SolidWorks API more feature-tree focused, AutoCAD API drawing-object oriented
SolidWorks API vs OpenCASCADE: OpenCASCADE is geometry kernel; SW API automates SolidWorks
Versioning Timeline
1997 - Early SolidWorks API introduction
2000s - COM automation stabilized for parts, assemblies, drawings
2005 - .NET interop support added
2010 - Event handling and advanced object model enhancements
2015 - API improvements for large assembly performance
2020 - Cloud and PDM integration features enhanced
2025 - Latest SolidWorks API release with modern .NET support
Glossary
COM - Component Object Model
Macro - script automating SolidWorks tasks
Add-in - compiled code extending SolidWorks functionality
FeatureManager - tree representing model features
Event - notification triggered by SolidWorks action
Frequently Asked Questions about Solidworks-api
What is Solidworks-api?
SolidWorks API is a COM-based programming interface that allows developers to automate, customize, and extend the SolidWorks CAD software, enabling tasks from simple macros to complex design automation and integration with external systems.
What are the primary use cases for Solidworks-api?
Automate repetitive modeling or drawing tasks. Create custom add-ins for design processes. Integrate SolidWorks with PLM/ERP databases. Generate reports and BOMs automatically. Custom tools for design validation and rule enforcement
What are the strengths of Solidworks-api?
Reduces repetitive manual CAD operations. Enables company-specific design rules and standards. Improves design productivity and consistency. Integrates seamlessly with existing SolidWorks environment. Supports complex workflows for large assemblies
What are the limitations of Solidworks-api?
Requires knowledge of COM and SolidWorks object model. Performance can be limited for very large assemblies. Learning curve for VBA/.NET or C# integration. Limited cross-platform support (Windows only). API changes between SolidWorks versions can affect macros/add-ins
How can I practice Solidworks-api typing speed?
CodeSpeedTest offers 10+ real Solidworks-api code examples for typing practice. You can measure your WPM, track accuracy, and improve your coding speed with guided exercises.