Introduction to Computer-Aided Design Using SOLIDWORKS® : A Structured Approach to Parametric Modeling and Design Intent
Author ORCID Identifier
0000-0001-7932-8962
Files
Description
This textbook introduces computer-aided design (CAD) using SOLIDWORKS® through a structured, design-centered approach that emphasizes parametric modeling and engineering reasoning. Rather than focusing solely on software commands, the material develops foundational skills in design intent, constraint-based modeling, and feature relationships to create robust, adaptable models.
The content is organized progressively, beginning with basic sketching and feature creation and advancing to complex part modeling, assemblies, motion studies, and engineering drawings. Each chapter builds upon prior concepts, reinforcing systematic modeling practices and promoting the development of system-level thinking required in real-world engineering design workflows.
Designed for undergraduate students with little or no prior CAD experience, the textbook supports active, hands-on learning through step-by-step modeling exercises. In addition to technical modeling skills, students learn to translate design requirements into parametric representations, evaluate how modeling decisions affect downstream features, and communicate designs effectively through structured documentation.
This resource is published as an Open Educational Resource (OER) to promote accessibility, adaptability, and continuous improvement in engineering education. It is suitable for introductory CAD and engineering design courses and may be adapted by instructors to support a range of curricula in mechanical and related engineering disciplines.
Publication Date
2026
Publisher
New Jersey Institute of Technology Library
City
Newark, NJ
Keywords
Computer-Aided Design (CAD); SolidWorks; Parametric Modeling; Design Intent; Feature-Based Modeling; Engineering Design; Mechanical Design; Assembly Modeling; Top-Down Design; 3D Printing; Additive Manufacturing; Design for Additive Manufacturing (DFAM); Engineering Graphics; Technical Drawing; Bill of Materials (BOM); Motion Study; Mechanism Design; Surface Modeling; Sweep and Loft Modeling; Product Design
Disciplines
Computer-Aided Engineering and Design | Engineering Education | Industrial Engineering | Manufacturing | Mechanical Engineering
Recommended Citation
Moon, Swapnil, "Introduction to Computer-Aided Design Using SOLIDWORKS® : A Structured Approach to Parametric Modeling and Design Intent" (2026). Open and Affordable Textbooks. 3.
https://digitalcommons.njit.edu/oat/3
Creative Commons License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-Share Alike 4.0 International License.
