Hi, my name is Doug Hamilton and I have been using 3-Dimensional CAD software for about 12 years now. Something that I have noticed with your software is the disclaimer on threads. I decided to take action myself to determine the problem. I have located it as well. I want this changed, so that future designers can depend on this software for designing real threads for Solidworks.

The problem begins simply by figuring out which component in solidworks is practical and which one isn't.
Using the tool box, and threads that are based off of real fasteners I can determine cutting threads with the Die function creates accurate threads.

I have located that it's the Tap section of the software that isn't working correctly. Rather than creating a perfect thread, it designs the thread based off the parameters of the hole being used. Meaning, you must know the minimum diameter of the fastener to create the correct threads for a screws. However there is a way around this, rather than changing the sketch or hole size to be the correct minimum diameter. If the outer diameter is known, as we do with most screws. We can change the function to the Die setting, and this will set our holes diameter to drive the outer or maximum diameter of a fastener. Thus, now we can extrude the threads to match the thread sizes and we will get threads that mesh with real components.

This problem happens, because solidworks doesn't drive the dimensions of "Tap" holes cutting, or changing the dimensions to match what the fastener needs to make the threads correctly.

This can be changed in the coding of the software, so that TAP drives the sizes of holes. While "DIE" uses the holes diameter to determine and create threads. This will in turn, provide correct threads sizes and supply designers with tools that actually work, rather than a message that states for us to not trust the software and what options it gives as well. TAP and DIE could in theory give you a list of available threads that work specifically for the hole that is created. Rather than the full list.

I have attached a photo of a known thread size cut and extruded with the die setting only in solidworks, creating a perfect mesh. That is true to to actual fasteners.

I hope this helps improve solidworks going forward. As using Inventor and Solidwork. I specifically enjoy how much control you have over surfaces to create custom defined parts.

Regards Doug Hamilton,

Student at Algonquin College.