Learn SOLIDWORKS-API with Real Code Examples
Updated Nov 27, 2025
Architecture
COM interface exposing SolidWorks objects
Events system for hooking into SolidWorks actions
Macros: scripts executed inside SolidWorks
Add-ins: compiled .NET or C++ libraries
Property and feature tree manipulation through API objects
Rendering Model
Not directly applicable
API can manipulate model geometry and view orientation
Supports camera and view control
Control display styles (shaded, wireframe) programmatically
No custom rendering engine; relies on SolidWorks visualization
Architectural Patterns
COM-based object model
Event-driven programming
Macro-based automation
Add-in compiled modules for extensibility
Integration with external systems via COM or .NET
Real World Architectures
Automotive part and assembly automation
Industrial machinery design and BOM generation
Consumer product design with template automation
PLM-integrated engineering workflows
Custom add-ins for enterprise CAD standards enforcement
Design Principles
Expose all SolidWorks objects and features programmatically
Enable automation of repetitive design tasks
Provide event-driven architecture for customization
Support both scripting and compiled add-ins
Ensure backward compatibility across versions
Scalability Guide
Use modular add-ins for reusable automation
Batch process multiple documents for efficiency
Separate UI from automation logic
Optimize API calls for large assemblies
Maintain compatibility with multiple SolidWorks releases
Migration Guide
Legacy macros -> .NET add-ins for performance
Update API calls for newer SolidWorks versions
Refactor VBA scripts to handle configuration changes
Test automation on large assemblies
Integrate with modern PLM or database systems