- Appearances
An appearance defines the visual properties of a model, including color and texture. Appearances do not affect physical properties, which are defined by materials.
- Displaying Model Information
You use the DisplayManager and the Display Pane to display model information and to view and change display settings.
- Cameras
You can add cameras to model documents and view the model from the camera perspective.
- Decals
A decal is a 2D image applied to a model. You can use decals to apply warning or instruction labels to models. You can use decals to create model details that you can represent with an image instead of with the model geometry, such as a car grill or a picture frame.
- Scenes
Scenes provide a visual backdrop behind a model. In SOLIDWORKS, they provide reflections on the model. With PhotoView 360 added in, scenes provide a realistic light source, including illumination and reflections, requiring less manipulation of lighting. The objects and lights in a scene can form reflections on the model and can cast shadows on the floor.
- Lighting
You can adjust the direction, intensity, and color of light in the shaded view of a model. You can add light sources of various types, and modify their characteristics to illuminate the model as needed.
- Walk-through Overview
The Walk-through function lets you explore the 3D geometry of machines, plants, equipment, or other systems.
- Snapshots
You can take snapshots of locations that you want to return to.
- Body Compare
You can use Body Compare to compare two groups of bodies that are colocated in the same part or assembly. For example, you can compare a CAD model against a scan file, mesh file, or another CAD model.
- Realistic Display and Rendering
You can use RealView and Ambient Occlusion to add realism to your models without rendering. You can use PhotoView 360 within SOLIDWORKS or Visualize, a standalone suite of tools, to produce photo-realistic renderings of your models.
- Managing File References
- Solar Access Studies
With SOLIDWORKS Professional, you can apply sunlight to SOLIDWORKS models. Using solar access studies, you can simulate the movement of the sun as it passes over models of buildings, solar panels, and outdoor equipment.