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Project Structure

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Folder Hierarchy

Project Name/
├── Base Components/
├── Features/
├── Assemblies/
└── Manufacturing/
Create a consistent folder structure at the start of each project. This makes it easier to find and manage components as your project grows.

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Naming Conventions

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Components

Follow a clear naming pattern: 
[Type]_[Function]_[Version]
Examples:
  • BASE_Platform_v1
  • FEATURE_MountingHole_M6
  • ASSY_TopModule_Final

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Features

Use descriptive, consistent names: 
- Hole_M6_Through
- Fillet_R5_External
- Pattern_Circular_6x

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Version Control

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Component Versions

Track changes systematically:
  1. Use version numbers (v1, v2, v3)
  2. Add date stamps when needed
  3. Keep notes on major changes
BASE_Platform_v1    // Initial design
BASE_Platform_v2    // Added mounting points
BASE_Platform_v2.1  // Modified hole pattern

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Model Tree Organization

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Structure

Assembly/
├── 01_Base
│   ├── Base_Plate
│   └── Support_Structures
├── 02_Features
│   ├── Mounting_Holes
│   └── Alignment_Pins
└── 03_References
    ├── Center_Planes
    └── Construction_Geometry

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Reference Geometry

Keep construction elements organized:
  • Named reference planes
  • Center axes
  • Construction sketches

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Best Practices

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1. Component Management

  • Group related components
  • Use subfolders for complex assemblies
  • Keep reference geometry separate

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2. Feature Organization

  • Order features logically
  • Group related operations
  • Name patterns clearly

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3. Assembly Structure

ASSY_Main/
├── SUB_Base
├── SUB_Mechanism
└── SUB_Housing

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Working with Teams

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Shared Components

  • Use clear component names
  • Document dependencies
  • Note any constraints

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Collaboration Tips

  1. Standard Naming
    • Follow team conventions
    • Use clear descriptions
    • Include version numbers
  2. Documentation
    • Add comments to complex features
    • Note design intentions
    • Document dependencies
Consistent organization is key for team projects. Establish standards early and document any deviations.

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Project Management

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File Organization

Project_Name/
├── CAD/
│   ├── Components/
│   ├── Assemblies/
│   └── Manufacturing/
├── Documentation/
└── References/

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Design States

Track model status:
  • WIP (Work in Progress)
  • REVIEW (Under Review)
  • APPROVED (Final Version)
  • DEPRECATED (Obsolete)

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Tips for Success

Regular Cleanup

Remove unused features and organize regularly

Clear Hierarchy

Maintain logical structure from start

Version Control

Track changes and maintain history

Documentation

Keep notes on important decisions

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

  1. Inconsistent Naming
    • Mixed conventions
    • Unclear descriptions
    • Missing versions
  2. Poor Structure
    • Deep nested folders
    • Unclear hierarchies
    • Mixed component types
  3. Lack of Documentation
    • Missing change notes
    • Undefined references
    • Unclear dependencies
Take time to organize at the start of each project. Good organization saves time and reduces errors in the long run.
Remember that organization is an ongoing process. Regular maintenance keeps your projects manageable as they grow in complexity.