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File Organization and Naming Standards

When using SolidWorks PDM, it is important to consider file organization and assembly creation as to minimize confusion and increase clarity for all users. The structure below should be utilized for all of PDM, regardless of subsystem.

Organization

Note: "SolarGators" PDM access is stored in a local file of your choice during installation, that is the starting point for accessing PDM as described here and here.
Screenshot 2026-02-11 113833.jpg

1. SolarGators is firstly organized by vehicle: Car ####

base.jpg
2. Car #### is then organized into:
  • FOLDERS: Aerobody, Battery Pack, Cockpit, Structures, Suspension
  • ASSEMBLIES: Car #### Full Assembly

intocar.jpg
3. Any "Subsystem" is then organized, as necessary, into FOLDERS, ASSEMBLIES, and GEOMETRY:

  • "Full Assembly"
  • "Sub Assembly"
  • "Geometry"

example3.jpg

4. Sub-system-sub-assemblies are then organized into FOLDERS:

  • "Custom Component"
  • "OTS"
      • Note: all major custom components should have their own folder, where each version of their parts can be housed alone. All OTS components go into their own folder.

suassed.jpg


Naming

  1. Custom Designed Components 

    • File Name: Part_Name_V#

      • Example: Trailing_Arm_V1 

  1. Assembly Folders
    • File Name: Name_Assembly

      • Example: Rear_Suspension_Assembly

  1. Off-The-Shelf Components 

    • File Name: Part_Name_Part#

      • Example: Shoulder_Bolt_91259A455

[ If you have any questions ask Trevor :) ]