solidworks 2010…configuration publisher

This new SolidWorks 2010 functionality has already gotten some press already but I wanted to take a quick opportunity to point out 3 new functions of the Configuration Publisher.

Name Change

It should first be pointed out the this tool has been renamed in 2010.  What used to be named the “Create PropertyManager” in 2009 will now be called “Configuration Publisher” in 2010.

Upload to 3D ContentCentral

As you can see in the screenshot below you can upload your models with all of your configuration options directly to 3D ContentCentral.  The button is in the lower left hand corner next to the Apply and Close buttons.

SolidWorks Preview

You can also quickly see what your Configuration Publisher interface will look like inside of SolidWorks by switching to the middle tab that is called “SW Preview”.  Here you will be able to double check your work and make sure that you are not missing a key input or missing a key option.

3D ContentCentral Preview

Like being able to preview what the SolidWorks interface will look like you can also see what the interface will look like online at 3D ContentCentral.  You can access this tab by clicking the furthest right tab called “3DCC Preview”.

A couple of other quick enhancement in regards to the Configuration Publisher that might be of interest to you are:

• the ability to configure custom properties.
• the ability to create a PropertyManager for assemblies.

The Configuration Publisher looks like a really nice tool and could even (if set up correctly) be used as a low end design automation software.  I am kind of curious where this tool will end up in the future.  Make sure you check it out and see what it can offer to your design process.