Solidworks CSWA review

Overview

The CSWA test is based on three drafting questions, three parts, and two assemblies. Each drafting question is worth 5 points, each part question is worth 15 points, and each assembly question is worth 30 points. Each part has 2-3 questions based on it, and each assembly has 2 questions. You take the exam in either two 90 minute segments, or one 3 hour segment. The core topics covered are:

• Extrusions, Revolves, and Drafted Pockets
• Dimensions, Relations, and Mates
• Sketching
• Basic assemblies

Practice Problem

Piston: Create the following part using the dimensions given. Material is AISI 1020 steel

What is the Mass of the part (Grams)

1. 1200
2. 1957.64
3. 2271.32
4. 1.25

(B)

Advice

The CSWA is a challenging test with extremely draconian accuracy requirements. If you don’t get the EXACT answer on the multiple choice segment of each part or assembly, I would highly recommend fixing the part before moving on to the free response. If you do not, you will likely fail simply because your part is not within the 1% threshold they set for accuracy. Additionally, they do not provide you with instructions, merely dimensions, and deciphering them can be quite challenging. Be on the lookout for parts that require a revolve or added relations, such as tangency. Also keep an eye on the clock, because the three hours can go quickly. I would advise skipping the harder parts until you have completed the easier ones.