2. Save on 3DEXPERIENCE

In this article we're going to learn how to perform the most basic actions with SOLIDWORKS and 3DEXPERIENCE: save a design to the server, add it to a folder, open it and use the Search bar

Introduction

You are probably used to save your SOLIDWORKS files in Windows folders, with all the associated problems (lost references, copies everywhere, strict organisation...)

The 3DEXPERIENCE approach to organizing and consuming content is different, but prevents losing references and allows to create revisions for better iteration processes. Let's see how to do the basics, first.

There are 2 types of save operation in SOLIDWORKS:

1. Local save (on Windows)
2. 3DEXPERIENCE save (on the server)

Step 1 : Saving to 3DEXPERIENCE

1. Check backup status
A file which has not yet been backed up to 3DEXPERIENCE, or which has been modified, displays an orange backup status. It is important to check this status to avoid forgetting to save. A saved part has a green status.

• Select the "Save to 3DEXPERIENCE" command in the File menu.
• Select the desired collaboration space. This is the server of your choice, and allows you to control who has access to the file. In general, you can keep "Common Space".
• In the dialog box, select Choose a Bookmark in which to save the file. A bookmark is like a folder.
• Make sure the status is green.

Above, an example showing only the top-level assembly and its drawing. The folder is looking clean!

Step 2 : Finding and Opening Files Saved in 3DEXPERIENCE

You can still use the "Open" command to open from your Windows or from 3DEXPERIENCE.

You can also open from the platform by just right clicking the file, or drag & drop from your browser to Windows. It's really convenient when you have multiple screens!

Step 3 : Best practice: locking

To save changes back to 3DEXPERIENCE, it is recommended practice to lock the file by clicking the open padlock icon in the FeatureManager flyout. .

This prevents other users from modifying the file and ensures that conflicting changes are not made simultaneously in a multi-user environment.

If you don't lock the file, the save will be blocked and SOLIDWORKS will prompt you to lock it.

Step 4 : Using the Search bar

Searching through folders and assembly structures can be time-consuming. Sometimes, using the search bar is way faster!

You can search directly from SOLIDWORKS: