SOLIDWORKS 2022 focuses on "working smarter, faster, and together," introducing significant performance boosts for large assemblies and a more streamlined user interface Key Performance & Workflow Improvements Large Assembly Speed
: The "Large Design Review" mode was significantly expanded, allowing you to open sub-assemblies in this high-performance mode and even access reference planes and walk-throughs without fully resolving the model. Faster Graphics
: Refinements to the graphics architecture provide smoother panning and zooming, even with complex models, though users with the latest NVIDIA cards may need specific patches for full compatibility. Streamlined Data Import
: Opening heavy STEP, IFC, and DXF/DWG files is noticeably faster, reducing downtime when collaborating with external parties using different CAD software. New Modeling Capabilities Hybrid Modeling
: You can now combine mesh data with parametric features in a single part, allowing for more flexible organic designs. Part Enhancements
Vary the length of chamfers and fillets along a single edge.
Create edge flanges on non-planar faces in sheet metal designs.
Model physical textures using images rather than complex geometry. Flexible Components
: New support for modeling elastic parts like bellows or springs that change shape within an assembly. User Interface & Experience What's New SOLIDWORKS 2022 - Assembly Enhancements 31 Jan 2022 —
5. Drawings: The Detailer's Dream
SolidWorks has always been strong in 2D drawing production, but 2022 closes the gap with specialized detailing tools.
Chapter 3: Assemblies – Large Design Review on Steroids
Large assemblies have historically been the bottleneck for CAD performance. SolidWorks 2022 tackles this head-on.
Chapter 1: The Core Philosophy – "The User Experience Release"
SolidWorks 2022 can be best described as the "Quality of Life" update. Dassault Systèmes listened to the user community via the Enhancement Request system. Consequently, this version reduces mouse clicks by an average of 15-20% across common tasks.
The most immediate change users notice is the Command Search improvements. Previously buried settings are now surfaced instantly. Furthermore, the Slimline FeatureManager design tree uses a more compact visual style, allowing you to see more features without endless scrolling. This is especially helpful for users working on complex assemblies with 500+ features.