This course provides an introduction to intermediate parametric modeling using SolidWorks. Students will develop proficiency in creating robust solid models, assemblies, and technical drawings, and will also be introduced to fundamental analysis tools, animation techniques, and spreadsheet integration. Emphasis is placed on preparing students for the Certified SolidWorks Associate (CSWA) examination.

Instruction is delivered through a combination of guided tutorials, training videos, and collaborative project-based learning. Throughout the course, students will apply creative engineering principles and problem-solving skills to real-world design challenges.

You will need to purchase SolidProfessor and create an account to access most of the course videos and several assigned learning modules. A SolidProfessor account may be purchased and created using the link provided below. Please do not purchase a student version of SolidWorks from this site. You will be able to download a free student version of the software by following the steps outlined in the next section.

https://app.solidprofessor.com/iframes/studentstore.asp

• Demonstrate a clear understanding of parametric modeling concepts and their applications within the engineering industry.
• Create efficient, well-structured, and complex multi-sketched features using appropriate modeling techniques.
• Accurately and efficiently apply geometric and dimensional constraints to sketch features.
• Generate precise three-dimensional solid models from sketches using best-practice modeling strategies.
• Construct and fully constrain assemblies that accurately represent real-world mechanical configurations.
• Produce professional-quality production drawings from parts and assemblies, and correctly identify and apply the various types of drawing views.
• Utilize basic to intermediate analysis, animation, and simulation tools to evaluate part and assembly performance.
• Reinforce and apply engineering design concepts, including ANSI standards and Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T).
• Prepare for and successfully complete the Certified SolidWorks Associate (CSWA) examination.
• Apply SolidWorks skills effectively in advanced engineering coursework and professional industry settings.

The final course grade will be determined using the four categories outlined below. Students will have continuous access to their homework, quiz, and test grades throughout the semester via the Canvas grade book.

When creating and submitting homework assignments, quizzes, and tests, students must include both their name and the assignment name in the file name. For example, if John Franklin submits the Module 2 Test, the file should be named:

“JFranklin Module 2 Test.SLDPRT.”

Homework – 25%

Homework requirements and due dates will be posted in Canvas. Late homework submissions will automatically incur a 20% penalty and will not receive instructor feedback.

Daily Quizzes – 25%

Daily quizzes are designed to measure students’ understanding of the concepts presented in each module. Quizzes will be administered during the first few minutes of class and will be timed. Students must be familiar with the material beforehand; there will not be sufficient time to learn the concepts during the quiz. Missed quizzes cannot be made up. Immediate feedback will be provided in class following the assessment.

Tests – 25%

Four to six tests will be administered throughout the semester. One make-up test opportunity will be offered near the end of the term. At the conclusion of the course, the lowest test score will be dropped.

Final Project – 25%

Instead of a traditional final exam, students will complete a comprehensive Final Project. This project will require students to demonstrate mastery of the tools, techniques, and skills developed throughout the semester.

Grading Scale

• Understand core parametric modeling concepts
  
  
• Explain the role and applications of parametric modeling within the engineering industry
  
  

• Create efficient, well-structured sketches using proper geometric and dimensional constraints
  
  
• Develop complex, multi-sketched features using appropriate modeling techniques
  
  

• Generate accurate three-dimensional solid models from sketches
  
  
• Apply best-practice modeling strategies to ensure robustness, efficiency, and design intent
  
  

• Construct assemblies that accurately reflect real-world mechanical systems
  
  
• Fully constrain components within assemblies to ensure correct functional relationships
  
  

• Produce professional-quality production drawings for parts and assemblies
  
  
• Correctly identify and apply various drawing views, annotations, and detailing standards
  
  

• Utilize basic to intermediate analysis tools to evaluate part and assembly behavior
  
  
• Apply animation and simulation features to visualize and assess design performance
  
  

• Integrate ANSI standards into modeling and documentation practices
  
  
• Reinforce and apply Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T) concepts
  
  

• Develop the modeling speed, accuracy, and competencies required for the CSWA exam
  
  
• Successfully complete the Certified SolidWorks Associate (CSWA) certification
  
  

• Apply SolidWorks tools and workflows effectively in advanced engineering courses
  
  
• Demonstrate readiness to use SolidWorks in professional industry contexts
  
  

• Late homework submissions will automatically incur a 20% penalty and will not receive instructor feedback.
• Missed quizzes cannot be made up.
• One make-up test opportunity will be offered near the end of the term.

Instructor's Response Time & Feedback

I strive to respond to all emails and Canvas messages within one business day of receipt. Feedback is an essential component of the learning process, and the most substantive feedback will be provided during class after homework has been submitted. Additional comments will be included in the comment sections of homework assignments; however, these remarks will be brief.

If you have questions regarding the in-class feedback or the written comments, please contact me for clarification. It is the student’s responsibility to review and follow up on all feedback provided.

Student Responsibilities

• Be engaged and motivated. Take an active role in your learning and participate fully in all course activities.
• Stay informed. Review the Canvas modules and course calendar regularly to understand requirements and deadlines.
• Be prepared. Take notes, complete all homework, and dedicate sufficient time to developing the skills needed to meet the course objectives.
• Follow instructions carefully. Read all assignment, quiz, and test instructions thoroughly before submitting your work.
• Avoid falling behind. The semester moves quickly, and consistent progress is essential for success.
• Ask for help when needed. If you are struggling with a concept, please reach out. Office hours are posted, and I maintain an open-door policy.
• Act professionally and reasonably. Conduct yourself in a manner consistent with engineering and academic standards.
• Save and back up your work. Save your files frequently and maintain backups of all assignments to prevent loss of work.

Faculty Responsibilities

• Be engaged and motivated. Demonstrate enthusiasm for the subject matter and support an active, productive learning environment.
• Provide meaningful learning opportunities. Use proven pedagogical methods to facilitate student learning and skill development.
• Communicate expectations clearly. Ensure that requirements for homework, quizzes, tests, and deadlines are explained thoroughly and consistently.
• Challenge students appropriately. Prepare students to pass the CSWA exam successfully and, more importantly, equip them with skills and knowledge applicable to real-world engineering and technology careers.
• Provide timely and detailed feedback. Offer constructive and prompt feedback on homework, quizzes, tests, and projects to support continuous improvement.
• Be professional and fair—model integrity, respect, and equitable treatment in all interactions and evaluations.

Use of AI Tools in this Course

Acceptable and Unacceptable Use of AI

The use of generative AI tools (e.g.ChatGPT, Dall-e, etc.)is permitted in this course for the following activities:

• Brainstorming and refining your ideas;
• Finding information on your topic (it is your responsibility to cross-check and verify that information);
• Checking grammar and style.

The use of generative AI tools is NOT permitted in this course for the following activities:

• Impersonating you in classroom contexts, such as by using the tool to compose discussion board prompts assigned to you or content that you put into a Zoom chat;
• Completing individual or group work that your group has assigned to you;
• Writing entire sentences, paragraphs or papers to complete class assignments;
• AI can not be used to answer any Quiz or Test Questions.

You are responsible for the information you submit based on an AI query (for instance, that it does not violate intellectual property laws, or contain misinformation or unethical content). If using AI tools, it must be properly documented and cited in order to stay within university policies on academic honesty. Any assignment that is found to have used generative AI tools in unauthorized ways will receive a zero in the assignment. When in doubt about permitted usage, please ask for clarification.