Creating a flawless electrical system isn’t just about drawing lines – it’s about following a smart, integrated workflow that ensures accuracy, efficiency, and collaboration.
SOLIDWORKS Electrical guides you through every phase, from high-level planning to detailed 3D routing. Let’s walk through the process and see how it transforms complex designs into streamlined masterpieces.
1. Start with the Big Picture: Single-Line Diagrams
Every great electrical project begins with clarity. Single-line diagrams give you an instant, high-level overview of your system while serving as the foundation for basic connections.
- Place symbols for major components (motors, panels, transformers, etc.).
- Link components to manufacturer parts – anytime, with no rush.
- Draw cables to visually connect components and optionally link circuits.
This stage is fast, intuitive, and sets the stage for deeper detailing without getting bogged down in complexity.
2. Dive into Detail: Building Schematics
Now it’s time to flesh out the power and control circuits. Using symbols already tied to your components:
- Draw single or multi-wire connections between symbols.
- Wires auto-number and trim as you go – no manual cleanup needed.
- Use origin-destination arrows to seamlessly connect across multiple pages.
- Rest easy knowing SOLIDWORKS Electrical blocks incorrect connections – like grounding to power – before mistakes happen.
Need terminals, PLCs, or black boxes? Automated tools place and organize them with precision, keeping your schematics clean and compliant.
3. Stay Organised with the Dynamic Component Tree
As you add symbols, SOLIDWORKS Electrical builds a live Component Tree in the background.
This isn’t just a list – it’s your command center for organisation and documentation.
- Define project locations (e.g., Panel A, Floor 2, Machine Line 1).
- Assign components to locations for clear identification.
- Use the tree in schematics to insert symbols and in 3D to place corresponding models.
It’s like having a digital blueprint that updates itself as your design evolves.
4. Bring It to Life in 3D
Time to integrate electrical and mechanical design. With SOLIDWORKS Electrical 3D:
- Assemble electrical components alongside mechanical parts in a unified 3D environment.
- Auto-route wires and cables along predefined guide paths.
- Get accurate wire/cable lengths calculated instantly.
No more guessing during assembly – your digital model mirrors real-world behaviour.
5. Customise to Your Standards
Your company has unique needs, and SOLIDWORKS Electrical adapts. Tailor your workspace by:
- Importing or removing symbols and manufacturer parts.
- Adding parts on-the-fly as you design.
- Sharing everything via the SQL database – accessible to your entire electrical team.
Consistency across projects? Built-in. Scalability? Effortless.
The Result: A Seamless, Error-Free Design Process
From single-line planning to 3D routing, SOLIDWORKS Electrical connects every step with intelligence and automation.
You’re not just designing – you’re orchestrating a synchronised system where changes propagate instantly, errors are prevented upfront, and documentation is always complete.
Ready to experience a workflow that works with you, not against you? Dive into SOLIDWORKS Electrical and design smarter, faster, and with total confidence.