Mastering SOLIDWORKS DimXpert: The Key to a Drawing-Free Future


Mastering SOLIDWORKS DimXpert: The Key to a Drawing-Free Future
  • Apr 29,2025

HARNESSING THE POWER OF MBD IN SOLIDWORKS:

Use the DimXpert tool to define:

  • Dimensions
  • Tolerances
  • Datums
  • Surface finishes

DimXpert is a tool in SOLIDWORKS that allows you to apply dimensions and tolerances directly onto your 3D models, essentially embedding manufacturing data into the CAD file itself. This eliminates the need for separate 2D drawings and supports automated inspection, CAM, and other downstream processes.

DimXpert supports:

  • Feature-based dimensioning (such as holes, bosses, and faces)
  • Geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T)
  • Automatic annotation schemes

It’s especially useful when using SOLIDWORKS MBD to publish 3D PDF technical data packages (TDPs).

  • Go to: Tools > Options > Document Properties > DimXpert Here you can set units, tolerance types (plus/minus or limit), precision, and GD&T symbols.
  • Launch the SolidWorks software and Create/ Open an existing part model.

  • Right click on Command Manager and select Tabs> select MBD

  • Click on Auto-Dimension Scheme on top-left corner

Here we have different option setting for creating the dimensions along with selecting for

  1. Part Type: Prismatic or Turned
  2. Tolerence Type : Plus/minus or Geometric
  3. Pattern Dimensioning: Linear or Polar

  • Select the appropriate settings and DATUM planes, Click OK.
  • It will create dimnesions along with the Geometric Tolerences automatically. We can also edit the tolerence values.

We can also manually add the geometric Tolerences from the Command Manager.

  • Save the part and open Drawings for the part and selsect the Sheet Tempalate.

In the Drawing View Palette on the right side of the screen we can see the part name with option under it.

  • Check the box Import Annotations the remaining options will be enabled.
  • Check  the boxes Design Annotations and Dimxpert Annotations.
  • Drag the views in the drawing template it will automatically add the dimxpert dimensions into the sheet.

Save the part after doing necessary changes.

Tips for Using DimXpert Effectively

  • Use Design Intent: Annotate based on how the part will be manufactured or inspected.
  • Stick to Feature Geometry: DimXpert works best when features are created in SOLIDWORKS (rather than imported from other systems).
  • Combine with SOLIDWORKS MBD: For a full MBD workflow, use DimXpert alongside MBD to generate professional 3D PDFs.
  • Regularly Review Annotation Views: Clean views make for clearer communication.

Conclusion:

DimXpert in SOLIDWORKS offers a smart, efficient way to transition from traditional 2D drawings to a more modern, model-based approach. By embedding dimensions, tolerances, and GD&T directly into your 3D models, you streamline communication, reduce errors, and set the stage for better collaboration across design, manufacturing, and quality control.

Engineering Technique is an Authorized Value-added Reseller of SOLIDWORKS Desktop 3D CAD & 3DEXPERIENCE Works Cloud CAD software in Ahmedabad, Vadodara, Surat, and across Gujarat, including Mumbai.
For inquiries, feel free to reach out:
Call: +91 94276 11239
Email: marketing@enggtechnique.com

Thank you for Reading!

Author: SUREDDI BHARGAV NAIDU, Post-Sales Application Engineer