First Article Inspection (FAI) is a cornerstone of quality assurance in manufacturing. It ensures that parts produced meet design requirements before mass production begins. However, traditional FAI processes are time-consuming and prone to human error due to manual data entry and report creation. SOLIDWORKS Inspection changes this by automating ballooning and report generation, streamlining workflows for quality engineers.
Using SOLIDWORKS Inspection, users can extract inspection data directly from 2D drawings or 3D CAD models. Features such as dimensions, geometric tolerances, and notes are automatically captured and ballooned, eliminating the need for repetitive manual tasks. This alone can reduce FAI preparation time by up to 70%.
With support for standard templates (like AS9102, ISO 13485, or custom ones), the software enables consistent and professional inspection documents every time. Teams can configure reports to meet specific customer or industry needs, improving communication and reducing the chance of rework or non-conformance.
Another key advantage is integration with SOLIDWORKS MBD (Model-Based Definition). When combined, users can directly utilize 3D PMI (Product Manufacturing Information) to generate inspection reports—completely bypassing 2D drawings. This makes workflows more efficient, accurate, and ready for the future of digital manufacturing.
By eliminating manual steps and reducing the time required to generate FAI packages, SOLIDWORKS Inspection enhances productivity and ensures greater traceability. Teams can track revisions, respond quickly to design changes, and create digital records that simplify audits and customer reviews. As organizations scale or seek ISO compliance, automation becomes not just helpful—but essential.
