Rebuild Errors (SOLIDWORKS)
The cascade-failure mode of parametric modelling — a downstream feature's references no longer resolve after an upstream change.
Definition
When a feature loses a reference (deleted edge, suppressed parent, missing sketch) SOLIDWORKS reports a rebuild error on next rebuild (Ctrl+B / Ctrl+Q). The What's Wrong dialog lists offending features. Resolution options: redefine the reference (Edit Feature), suppress the broken feature, or delete and rebuild.
Why it matters
Rebuild discipline determines how quickly a design can iterate. A part where every edit causes ten downstream errors is unworkable; a part where edits propagate cleanly is the parametric promise made real.
Common pitfalls
- Suppressing the offending feature instead of fixing the reference — error accumulates over time.
- Editing dimensions without rebuilding immediately — multiple errors batch together and become harder to diagnose.
- Building features off temporary construction geometry that gets deleted — every dependent feature breaks.
This concept is a core structural element of the SOLIDWORKS drafting and engineering environment developed by Dassault Systèmes. Dassault Systèmes' mainstream parametric MCAD — feature-based modelling, assembly mates, and 2D drawings tightly coupled to the 3D model.
Relevant SOLIDWORKS FAQs
❓ Is SOLIDWORKS available on macOS?
Not natively. SOLIDWORKS is Windows-only. Mac users run it via Parallels, VMware Fusion, or Boot Camp (Intel Macs). On Apple Silicon, virtualisation is limited. The official cross-platform alternative from Dassault is the browser-based xDesign on 3DEXPERIENCE.
❓ What's the difference between SOLIDWORKS Standard, Professional, and Premium?
Standard is the core modelling + drawings package. Professional adds CAD Library, PhotoView 360 rendering, eDrawings Professional, Toolbox, advanced sheet metal. Premium adds Simulation, Routing (electrical/piping), ScanTo3D, Motion. Most production shops use Premium; education usually uses Premium-equivalent.
❓ What is 3DEXPERIENCE SOLIDWORKS vs. traditional SOLIDWORKS?
Traditional SOLIDWORKS is a desktop product, files saved to disk/network/PDM. 3DEXPERIENCE SOLIDWORKS is the same desktop product but cloud-connected: files saved to the 3DEXPERIENCE platform, license tied to a Platform identity, and access to companion cloud apps (3D Sculptor / xDesign, simulation, PLM).
⚡ Concept Self-Test
🎓 Recommended Practice Lessons
Step-by-step practical exercises and certification-aligned paths chosen by our editors to master this concept:
SOLIDWORKS Professional Design & Engineering Specialization
Certified SOLIDWORKS Professional (CSWP) Exam Study Guide & Mock Practice
🌳 Semantic Crossroads & Navigation Pathways
Trunk-Branch-Leaf ModelCore glossary, interactive graph, and domain-wide concept index.
Parent design environments and platforms implementing this method natively.