# CAD Learn everything you need to be a competent CADDER on 3506 YETI Robotics! # Downloading Solidworks Solidworks is required for robot design and downloading it can be tricky. Here's how to download it step by step. # Requirements To Download

Below are the MINIMUM requirements for a SolidWorks computer, while the bare minimum works the higher the computers stats, the smoother it is to run SolidWorks.

Min 4gb graphics card, ([Click here to see all the certified graphics cards](https://www.solidworks.com/support/hardware-certification/)) Min 16gbs ram, (32 GB recommended) Min 2.7ghz cpu/processor, (Anything above an i5) These computers are expensive so they are not only meant for SolidWorks, but also everyday use and can also be used in college as well.

If you need help finding a computer or want to find a cheaper one than is on normal vendors look for refurbished computers or message in CAD chat in discord, and someone will help you find a computer in your budget.

# Out with the old, In with the new

This is only for students that have previous versions of SolidWorks already on their computer!

First things first, before downloading the newest form of SolidWorks, all previous versions MUST be deleted. The easiest way to do this is to go to Settings --> Apps --> Installed Apps --> Type Solidworks into the search bar. [![use 1.png](https://wiki.yetirobotics.org/uploads/images/gallery/2026-07/scaled-1680-/zwOuse-1.png)](https://wiki.yetirobotics.org/uploads/images/gallery/2026-07/zwOuse-1.png)

Make sure to delete all add-ons of Solidworks, like 3DEXPERIENCE, as well.

After clicking uninstall, a pop-up will appear on your screen. Make sure all the items in the box are selected and click, remove items. [![use 2.png](https://wiki.yetirobotics.org/uploads/images/gallery/2026-07/scaled-1680-/use-2.png)](https://wiki.yetirobotics.org/uploads/images/gallery/2026-07/use-2.png) Lastly click deactivate now, since you will be using a new license. [![use 3.png](https://wiki.yetirobotics.org/uploads/images/gallery/2026-07/scaled-1680-/use-3.png)](https://wiki.yetirobotics.org/uploads/images/gallery/2026-07/use-3.png)

Make sure you have access to internet for a while since the process requires it and takes some time.

[![Screenshot 2026-07-06 154038.png](https://wiki.yetirobotics.org/uploads/images/gallery/2026-07/scaled-1680-/screenshot-2026-07-06-154038.png)](https://wiki.yetirobotics.org/uploads/images/gallery/2026-07/screenshot-2026-07-06-154038.png) Once you receive this pop-up you are done and can move on to downloading your newest version! # Downloading Solidworks Now that you have done all the prerequisites for SolidWorks, let's get to downloading! 1\. First go to [my.solidworks.com](https://my.solidworks.com/try-solidworks) and create an account [![Screenshot 2026-07-07 102342.png](https://wiki.yetirobotics.org/uploads/images/gallery/2026-07/scaled-1680-/screenshot-2026-07-07-102342.png)](https://wiki.yetirobotics.org/uploads/images/gallery/2026-07/screenshot-2026-07-07-102342.png)

If you already have an account, you can skip this step.

2\. Next go to [SOLIDWORKS.com/SEK](https://www.solidworks.com/support/community-download#no-back) Fill in your contact information, click Yes for your Serial Number, and select 2026 (SP2.1) for your SolidWorks Version. Then click Request Download. [![image.png](https://wiki.yetirobotics.org/uploads/images/gallery/2026-07/scaled-1680-/iLQimage.png)](https://wiki.yetirobotics.org/uploads/images/gallery/2026-07/iLQimage.png)

This ONLY applies to YETI student, ask your team for your Serial Number and Version!

3\. Next click Accept and Continue [![image.png](https://wiki.yetirobotics.org/uploads/images/gallery/2026-07/scaled-1680-/lL1image.png)](https://wiki.yetirobotics.org/uploads/images/gallery/2026-07/lL1image.png) 4\. And then Download [![image.png](https://wiki.yetirobotics.org/uploads/images/gallery/2026-07/scaled-1680-/0cGimage.png)](https://wiki.yetirobotics.org/uploads/images/gallery/2026-07/0cGimage.png) 5\. You should then see SolidWorksSetup pop-up in your downloads and click Open File. [![image.png](https://wiki.yetirobotics.org/uploads/images/gallery/2026-07/scaled-1680-/Lt5image.png)](https://wiki.yetirobotics.org/uploads/images/gallery/2026-07/Lt5image.png) 6\. A pop up will then show up and click Unzip [![image.png](https://wiki.yetirobotics.org/uploads/images/gallery/2026-07/scaled-1680-/887image.png)](https://wiki.yetirobotics.org/uploads/images/gallery/2026-07/887image.png) 7\. If it asks, allow the program to make changes to your computer. 8\. It may also ask you to reboot your computer. If it does, cancel the installation and restart your computer.

If you do restart your computer, you need to start from step 5 again.

[![Screenshot 2026-07-07 131227.png](https://wiki.yetirobotics.org/uploads/images/gallery/2026-07/scaled-1680-/screenshot-2026-07-07-131227.png)](https://wiki.yetirobotics.org/uploads/images/gallery/2026-07/screenshot-2026-07-07-131227.png)

If you get the error a second time after restarting, continue the installation by clicking OK

9\. Make sure (Install on this computer) is selected and click Next [![image.png](https://wiki.yetirobotics.org/uploads/images/gallery/2026-07/scaled-1680-/WSpimage.png)](https://wiki.yetirobotics.org/uploads/images/gallery/2026-07/WSpimage.png) 10\. Enter your Serial Number in the space shown below, and click Next

YETI student can find your Serial Number in the pins of the YETI discord CAD chat.

[![image.png](https://wiki.yetirobotics.org/uploads/images/gallery/2026-07/scaled-1680-/FvMimage.png)](https://wiki.yetirobotics.org/uploads/images/gallery/2026-07/FvMimage.png)

If you are not a YETI student, ask your team for a Serial Number.

11\. Click the check on the Terms of SolidWorks and then download and install.

If you are using an old or previously used computer, make sure it has enough storage to hold what you are downloading.

[![image.png](https://wiki.yetirobotics.org/uploads/images/gallery/2026-07/scaled-1680-/19rimage.png)](https://wiki.yetirobotics.org/uploads/images/gallery/2026-07/19rimage.png)

Once again, this process will take time, and you need to make sure you are connected to internet the entire time.

Once it is finally done downloading click finish and we will move on to activating the account! # Activating your SolidWorks The last step needed to use SolidWorks is activating your account. 1\. First find the SolidWorks Design Icon and open it. [![image.png](https://wiki.yetirobotics.org/uploads/images/gallery/2026-07/scaled-1680-/Wz9image.png)](https://wiki.yetirobotics.org/uploads/images/gallery/2026-07/Wz9image.png) 2\. Next a pop-up will show up Make sure (I want to activate my SOLIDWORKS product now) is selected Then click Next [![image.png](https://wiki.yetirobotics.org/uploads/images/gallery/2026-07/scaled-1680-/jwEimage.png)](https://wiki.yetirobotics.org/uploads/images/gallery/2026-07/jwEimage.png) 3\. Make sure (Automatically over the Internet) is selected, and make sure your email is in the Contact Info section. Then click Next [![image.png](https://wiki.yetirobotics.org/uploads/images/gallery/2026-07/scaled-1680-/07bimage.png)](https://wiki.yetirobotics.org/uploads/images/gallery/2026-07/07bimage.png) 4\. After a little bit you will see a (Activation Succeeded) page and click Finish to continue. [![image.png](https://wiki.yetirobotics.org/uploads/images/gallery/2026-07/scaled-1680-/pkzimage.png)](https://wiki.yetirobotics.org/uploads/images/gallery/2026-07/pkzimage.png)

If you have any issues with this, send a message and screenshot in CAD chat.

Lastly click accept on the license agreement and you are done! [![image.png](https://wiki.yetirobotics.org/uploads/images/gallery/2026-07/scaled-1680-/Yykimage.png)](https://wiki.yetirobotics.org/uploads/images/gallery/2026-07/Yykimage.png) # Getting Started With CacheCAD CacheCAD is the software we use to manage our files in SolidWorks. Here is how to use it effectively. #### 1. Installation Use this installation link: [https://drive.google.com/file/d/1BaY2dzd9njdK8UrvhdGPG2ClQ6J\_iNNR/view](https://drive.google.com/file/d/1BaY2dzd9njdK8UrvhdGPG2ClQ6J_iNNR/view). You may get prompted by Windows Defender. If this is the case, click the "More Info" button and select Run Anyways. After installing, you should see this image:[![image.png](https://wiki.yetirobotics.org/uploads/images/gallery/2025-06/scaled-1680-/pDdimage.png)](https://wiki.yetirobotics.org/uploads/images/gallery/2025-06/pDdimage.png) Type "FRC3506" in the field (or FRC{your team number} if you are not on YETI Robotics). Make sure to sign in with your Google Account in the top left or when prompted. #### 2. Making Projects A project allows us to manage our files with Google Drive. To make a project, click "new project" and paste a Google Drive folder link to the field here: #### [![image.png](https://wiki.yetirobotics.org/uploads/images/gallery/2025-06/scaled-1680-/QOsimage.png)](https://wiki.yetirobotics.org/uploads/images/gallery/2025-06/QOsimage.png) 3. Managing Projects After making a project, it should appear in your left menu. Double click it to see something like this: [![image.png](https://wiki.yetirobotics.org/uploads/images/gallery/2025-06/scaled-1680-/OY2image.png)](https://wiki.yetirobotics.org/uploads/images/gallery/2025-06/OY2image.png) Upload Changes - Changes that you have made in SolidWorks that have not gone to the Google Drive yet. Download Changes - Changes other people have made that you have not downloaded yet.

Before working, **ALWAYS DOWNLOAD CHANGES!** This prevents your work from being overridden by others, which is incredibly frustrating. If you can, download at home to save bandwidth at robotics.

In order to save something to CacheCAD, it must be saved locally in your CacheCAD folder, then your Project folder! To access this, click the "đź“‚CacheCAD" button in the top left of the CacheCAD UI, which will take you to the main CacheCAD folder. To access an individual project's folder, click "Open Local Folder" in the bottom middle. When saving from SOLIDWORKS, always "save as" and navigate to this project folder when saving, or it will not upload it when you upload changes!

When clicking upload and download changes, you can select which changes you would like to make by ticking the boxes. There will be 4 icons next to the changes, which are the following: [![image.png](https://wiki.yetirobotics.org/uploads/images/gallery/2025-06/scaled-1680-/6uGimage.png)](https://wiki.yetirobotics.org/uploads/images/gallery/2025-06/6uGimage.png) Double-check the symbols before messing with files.

If it was not clear before, **ALWAYS DOWNLOAD YOUR CHANGES BEFORE WORKING!** I cannot stress this enough: work will be deleted when you do not download changes.

When in doubt, ask a veteran, mentor, or see the user guide [here](https://www.cachecad.com/user-guide). # Drivetrain Design Learn about the intricate design aspects of drivetrains # Swerve **Swerve Overview** In FIRST, there are several types of swerve modules which have their own nuances dedicated to specific robot performance
Swerve X2i - At YETI, we typically use the [X2i modules](https://wcproducts.com/collections/systems-structure/products/swerve-x2i). The 2 is for the 2 motors (one for turning and the other for driving) and the i is for the inverted placement of the motors. This module has a symmetrical gearbox and we prefer them due to their protection of the swerve motors and for the lower center of gravity (CG).
Swerve X2c - The "c" stands for compact layout which positions the motors closer to each other to optimize the horizontal space. The [X2c modules](https://wcproducts.com/collections/systems-structure/products/swerve-x2c) feature an asymmetrical gearbox and use a Kraken X44 for turning and can use an X60 or X44 for driving. Teams typically choose this due to its compact profile and wider wheels which allow for better traction.
Swerve X2t - The [X2t module](https://wcproducts.com/collections/systems-structure/products/swerve-x2t) is slimmer and has an asymmetrical gearbox. The "t" stands for thin layout, optimizing the vertical space. These specific modules take up more of the perimeter space of your chassis, but allow for more central space. This is good for full width intakes and other design choices which require this increase in central availability.
Inverted vs Regular Regular swerve modules like the X2 have the motors placed above the module, making it more exposed to damage from colliding bots, requiring taller swerve covers (decreases vertical space and adds some weight). Inverted swerve modules are the desired choice as they are nested safely away from the top of the swerve module, meaning we only need a thinner swerve cover for the cancoder (much easier)
**Mounting Swerve Modules** Swerve modules are bolted by either a corner mount or a tube mount - Tube mount - Mounting style which has the 2x1s touching when positioned, allowing for stronger structural support, but the decrease in wheel base causes the robot to be more prone to tipping. You can find this mounting style on the 2025/26 alpha bot. - Pro - Very structurally strong - Con - Loss of wheel base and track, making less stable robot - Wheel base is how far your wheel is distanced from front to back and track is how far your wheel is distanced from side to side, with the wider you go the better CG you accomplish [![image.png](https://wiki.yetirobotics.org/uploads/images/gallery/2026-07/scaled-1680-/Lprimage.png)](https://wiki.yetirobotics.org/uploads/images/gallery/2026-07/Lprimage.png) - Corner mount - Mounting style which has the 2x1s spread out from each other, with a gap in between. This increases the wheel base, but makes the overall structural support prone to taking more damage - Pro - Wheel base spread out more, allowing for better speed and traction - Con - Less strong, likely to bend plates [![image.png](https://wiki.yetirobotics.org/uploads/images/gallery/2026-07/scaled-1680-/mkmimage.png)](https://wiki.yetirobotics.org/uploads/images/gallery/2026-07/mkmimage.png) **Mounting Choice** - Placing 2x1s under swerve mount allows for lower center of grav - Placing 2x1s on top of mount good for going over rough terrain and integrating under the bumper intakes (like in 2024) # Frame When constructing your frame, you'll need 1\) 2x1s for the base (Qty - 4) 2\) Bellypan (Qty - 1) 3\) Frame Rails (Qty - 1 or 2)
Note Wall thickness of .100" or thicker = thick wall (good for chassis due to durability and high impact resistance)
**Bellypan** - Has small holes in certain areas known as grommet holes to allow for electrical components to mount, and has holes along the perimeter for mounting onto chassis. All bellypans have a cut extrusion pattern along the surface which saves weight and makes it look nice, which is known as pocketing - - Laser cut by sponsors - Typically 1/16" to 1/4" in thickness - Thicker bellypans have smoother driving due to lower center of gravity (CG) [![Screenshot 2026-07-09 131905.png](https://wiki.yetirobotics.org/uploads/images/gallery/2026-07/scaled-1680-/screenshot-2026-07-09-131905.png)](https://wiki.yetirobotics.org/uploads/images/gallery/2026-07/screenshot-2026-07-09-131905.png) **Pocketing** - Process of using a CNC or laser cutter to cut away material from a solid sheet of metal, leaving behind bits of metal known as ribs, which form a lightweight grid or lattice pattern. Common bellypan pocketing patterns include triangles, squares, rectangles and hexagons, but pocketing for other subsystems like shooters or intakes feature different patterns. In SolidWorks, you'd make the bellypan pattern by using the vent tool. As for the mounting holes it would just be a linear pattern which you would cut extrude. - **\*ALWAYS have fillets when designing your pattern to avoid difficult to machine sharp edges\*** - Any sort of pocketing should have ribs with a thickness of 1/8" to 3/16" **Frame Rails** - Frame rails are mounting tubes (1x1s or 2x1s) which are integrated into the frame design for structural support and for mounting separate subsystems like shooters, intakes, climbers, etc. **[![Mounting tubes.png](https://wiki.yetirobotics.org/uploads/images/gallery/2026-07/scaled-1680-/mounting-tubes.png)](https://wiki.yetirobotics.org/uploads/images/gallery/2026-07/mounting-tubes.png)** **Design Considerations** - Place battery first when designing drivetrain as it is the heaviest component, so you can take CG into account (important for deciding how smooth your robot can drive) - When designing your drivebase, your main goal should be maximizing CG while maintaining efficient mass to incorporate other subsystems in the future - Tungsten sheets are heavy and good for CG, but VERY expensive [![expesive.png](https://wiki.yetirobotics.org/uploads/images/gallery/2026-07/scaled-1680-/expesive.png)](https://wiki.yetirobotics.org/uploads/images/gallery/2026-07/expesive.png) # Driving Characteristics In FRC, every win, draw or loss is contingent on the design choices you make. When it comes to excelling at the game, the number one priority for every team is to drive, and to do it well. For the drivetrain, decisions like mounting your 2x1s above or below your swerve module mounting holes or choosing your bellypan thickness all play a part in your results. So here are some driving characteristics which you should acknowledge when designing: - Swerve drivetrains are built for maneuverability rather than a pushing tank, which would be the job of a tank drive - Acceleration is prioritized in games which require lots of change of direction and a need for a fast top speed accumulation - Tall robots which have a need for speed require heavier drive bases to maintain balance
Gearing When you design a drivetrain, you can either gear it for torque or for speed - If your drivetrain is geared too tall, that means it takes too long to reach top speed but has stronger traction - Robots geared too high will do better with pushing (which can be thought of like torque) - If your drivetrain is geared for top speed and acceleration, that means it is very fast and can reach its maximum velocity much quicker, but the tradeoff being that it won't win many pushing matches - Prioritizes speed over torque
[![Screenshot 2026-07-09 133449.png](https://wiki.yetirobotics.org/uploads/images/gallery/2026-07/scaled-1680-/screenshot-2026-07-09-133449.png)](https://wiki.yetirobotics.org/uploads/images/gallery/2026-07/screenshot-2026-07-09-133449.png)[![Screenshot 2026-07-09 133310.png](https://wiki.yetirobotics.org/uploads/images/gallery/2026-07/scaled-1680-/screenshot-2026-07-09-133310.png)](https://wiki.yetirobotics.org/uploads/images/gallery/2026-07/screenshot-2026-07-09-133310.png) For a deeper dive into drive base design, refer to the [Drivebase Design](https://wiki.yetirobotics.org/books/design-process/page/drivebase-design) page in the [Design Process](https://wiki.yetirobotics.org/books/design-process) book. # Whats next? To learn more about Design navigate to this link to see both a cache and a design course: [https://drive.google.com/drive/u/0/folders/1Zmn4XHeXhhq8NJsQPh3pXAXYu101RIQx](https://drive.google.com/drive/u/0/folders/1Zmn4XHeXhhq8NJsQPh3pXAXYu101RIQx). Good Luck! # Screen completely white in solidworks? Step 1: Go to Solidworks Rx Step 2: Go to Troubleshoot Step 3: Select "Bypass your graphics card/driver..." Step 4: Click the "Launch Solidworks" button that is right below it