How it works
Engineering inputs → Rules & calculations → Model parameters → CAD API → 3D model
(load, span, flow) (sizing, selection) (lengths, counts) (parts, assembly)The key idea is that engineers provide engineering parameters (what the product must do), not geometry. The automation calculates the geometry.
Engineering parameters vs geometric parameters
| Engineering parameter | Derived geometry |
|---|---|
| Conveyor capacity 50 t/h | Belt width, roller pitch, motor size |
| Tank volume 10 m³ | Diameter, height, shell thickness |
| Platform load 5 kN/m² | Beam sections, column spacing |
| Airflow 2,000 m³/h | Duct size, fan selection |
Generation methods
Driving a master model
A robust template model with named parameters is opened, parameters are set, and the model rebuilds. Fast and reliable for fixed product structures.
Assembling from a component library
Code selects library components and places them with constraints or transforms. Ideal for modular products.
Building geometry through the API
Sketches, features and bodies are created directly in code. Maximum flexibility for variable shapes.
A short example (SOLIDWORKS API, C#)
// Open a master part and set its dimensions from calculated values
ModelDoc2 model = swApp.OpenDoc6(masterPath, (int)swDocumentTypes_e.swDocPART,
(int)swOpenDocOptions_e.swOpenDocOptions_Silent, "", ref errors, ref warnings);
((Dimension)model.Parameter("Length@Sketch1")).SystemValue = lengthMm / 1000.0;
((Dimension)model.Parameter("Width@Sketch1")).SystemValue = widthMm / 1000.0;
model.ForceRebuild3(false);
model.Extension.SaveAs3(newPath, 0, 1, null, null, ref errors, ref warnings);SOLIDWORKS stores dimensions in metres internally, hence the conversion.
Keeping generated models high quality
- Build master models with stable references and meaningful names.
- Validate inputs and reject impossible combinations early.
- Check the rebuilt model for errors before saving.
- Fill all properties so BOMs and drawings work downstream.
Generated models must be as good as hand-built ones, or engineers will not trust them.
What comes next
Once models are generated automatically, drawings, BOMs, DXFs and ERP records can follow in the same run, turning an order into a full manufacturing package.
Automate your model generation
ENGIMANDI develops model generators for SolidWorks, Inventor, Creo, Fusion 360 and CATIA.