SOLIDWORKS Simulation Fundamentals (CSWA-S Prep)
FEA from first principles inside SOLIDWORKS Simulation. Static studies, meshing basics, and result interpretation aligned to CSWA-S.
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About this course
Course overview
Your launchpad into the SOLIDWORKS Simulation suite and the first step on the path to CSWE-S. We cover the mechanics of FEA — what the solver actually does, why mesh quality matters, and how to interpret stress and displacement results without fooling yourself. Aligned to the Certified SOLIDWORKS Associate – Simulation (CSWA-S) exam topics so you finish ready to sit the test.
Curriculum
What you'll cover
Day 1 — FEA Foundations & Static Studies
Stress, strain, and the Von Mises criterion in plain English. Setting up a first static study, applying loads and fixtures correctly, and reading the result plots.
Day 2 — Meshing & Material Models
Solid vs. shell vs. beam elements, mesh density and convergence, h- vs. p-adaptive refinement, custom material definition, and orthotropic materials.
Day 3 — Boundary Conditions & CSWA-S Drill
Symmetry, remote loads, bearing loads, and split-line tricks. Closing the day with a timed CSWA-S-style mock and walkthrough of every question type.
Outcomes
By the end you'll be able to
- Set up and solve linear static studies that mirror real loading
- Choose the right element type and mesh density for the geometry
- Interpret stress, displacement, and factor-of-safety plots correctly
- Sit the CSWA-S exam with confidence
Who it's for
- • Mechanical engineers new to FEA
- • SOLIDWORKS designers expanding into analysis
- • Engineers preparing for CSWA-S
Prerequisites
- • Working knowledge of SOLIDWORKS part modeling
- • No prior FEA experience required
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