Automating File Conversion from SolidWorks to CADMATIC

Context

In day-to-day engineering work, repetitive file conversion can consume valuable specialist time. We developed a macro-based tool that fully automates the conversion of files from SolidWorks to Cadmatic, turning a manual multi-step task into a reliable overnight workflow.

This case study opens our new series focused on real engineering and administration challenges, practical solutions, and measurable results.

Manual process before automation

• Export a *.x_t file from SolidWorks.
• Open it in another software environment such as AutoCAD for conversion.
• Save the converted model in the CADMATIC *.3dc format.
• Import the saved *.3dc files into CADMATIC Plant Modeller.

For large 3D files around 300 MB, the manual process used to take up to 4 hours per file of an engineer’s valuable time.

Our solution

We designed an automated setup that runs outside working hours and performs the entire conversion chain overnight. Windows Scheduler triggers the job, while CADMATIC Plant Modeler Service supports the unattended processing flow.

In the morning, engineers have an updated CADMATIC project space ready, with objects loaded from SolidWorks and no manual intervention required.

Results

• Significant time and cost savings.
• Zero manual work for the engineering team.
• Higher efficiency across the project workflow.
• Better use of working hours for engineering decisions instead of repetitive processing.