SOLIDWORKS Electrical Routing

Included as part of the SOLIDWORKS Premium CAD package, Electrical Routing is a mechanical-first tool used to define the physical layout of wires, cables, and harnesses within a 3D assembly.

Its primary purpose is to ensure electrical components fit within the mechanical enclosure, calculate accurate path lengths, and generate manufacturing documentation for the physical assembly of the loom.

Book a Demo
Read FAQs

Key Capabilities

3D Path Planning

Use existing mechanical geometry to "Auto-Route" cables through holes, brackets, and conduits to ensure a perfect fit.

Accurate Length Calculation

Automatically calculate the exact length of Every wire and cable based on its 3D path, including "slack" factors for assembly.

Minimum Bend Radius Alerts

Set safety limits for cable flexibility; the software provides real-time visual warnings if a path is too tight, preventing wire fatigue.

Harness Flattening

Automatically create 1:1 scale manufacturing templates (nail-boards) that show the harness laid flat with all branches and connector labels.

Standardised Library

Access a small library of 3D connectors, clips, and cable ties that "snap" into the route, automatically orienting themselves to the wire direction.

Import From-To Lists

Rapidly populate a 3D assembly by importing basic Excel or XML connection lists to define which components need to be wired together.

Want to learn Electrical Routing?

Discover the best practices techniques to optimise your cable paths and automate harness documentation with a demo or our hands-on Electrical Routing training course.

Electrical Routing Training
Book a Demo
solidworks cable harness deisgn

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the fundamental difference between SOLIDWORKS Premium Routing and SOLIDWORKS Electrical?

SOLIDWORKS Premium Routing is a mechanical tool for planning physical space and cable paths, while SOLIDWORKS Electrical is a dedicated suite for circuit design and logic. Premium Routing helps you see if a cable fits; SOLIDWORKS Electrical ensures the circuit actually works and automates the documentation.

Does this tool create 2D electrical schematics?

No. SOLIDWORKS Premium Routing is for 3D physical layout only. For logic-driven 2D schematics, terminal strip layouts, and PLC management, you require SOLIDWORKS Electrical Schematic.

Is there a live link between the 3D route and an electrical circuit?

In SOLIDWORKS Premium, the link is manual (via file import). If you require a "live" bi-directional link where changes in a schematic update the 3D model instantly, you should look at the SOLIDWORKS Electrical 3D add-on.

Can I calculate the diameter of a cable bundle?

Yes. As you add wires to a route, the software calculates the total bundle diameter. This is essential for ensuring the loom fits through cable glands or trunking.

Can I use my own bespoke connectors?

Absolutely. You can take any 3D model of a connector and add "Connection Points" to make it "Routing Aware," allowing wires to snap to it and drive data.

Is this included in SOLIDWORKS Standard or Professional?

No. Electrical Routing is a specialised feature found exclusively in SOLIDWORKS Premium.