SolveSpace
SolveSpace is a parametric 2D and 3D CAD tool for constrained sketches, solid geometry and engineering measurements. This page covers constraint order, model references, export checks and the boundary between a prototype and a manufactured part.
What SolveSpace provides
SolveSpace models geometry through sketches, constraints and solid operations, making relationships explicit instead of relying only on dragged coordinates. It is useful for compact mechanical and fabrication prototypes, while tolerances, materials, safety factors and manufacturing approval remain separate engineering work.
Constraint and reference discipline
Add a few stable dimensions first, then use horizontal, vertical, coincident and equal constraints to describe intent. Keep construction geometry distinct from output geometry, name important references and inspect the model after each major edit so an over-constrained sketch does not hide the real design change.
Maintenance note
This page reviews SolveSpace for constrained sketches, parametric solids, measurement checks and export preparation. Content review date: 2026-08-23.
Save to your cloud drive
Open the cloud drive to get the file directly, or save it for convenient access on another device.
Quark Cloud Drive
RecommendedSave SolveSpace to this cloud drive
Baidu Netdisk
Save SolveSpace to this cloud drive
SolveSpace constrained sketch and export guide
Build a small bracket-like sketch, establish the reference dimensions, solve constraints, preview the solid and validate an export before adding complexity.
Before you start
- Prepare a simple dimensioned concept and decide which dimensions are design inputs.
- Create a versioned project folder for the model, exported files and measurement notes.
- Keep manufacturing tolerances and material decisions documented outside the prototype file.
Installation steps
- 01
Install and start a project
Install the build for the operating system, create a new document and save it before drawing the first construction line.
- 02
Draw and constrain the sketch
Add geometry, set one origin or reference dimension, then apply constraints in small groups and resolve warnings before continuing.
- 03
Create and inspect the solid
Extrude or revolve the solved sketch, inspect faces and measurements, and save a new version before exporting.
Quick start
- 01
Identify design inputs
Mark dimensions that should drive the model, keep dependent geometry derived and avoid editing repeated coordinates manually.
- 02
Test a parameter change
Change one input dimension, verify that the sketch and solid update as expected and note any constraint that needs redesign.
- 03
Validate the export
Export the target format, reopen or inspect it in a separate viewer and compare key measurements with the source model.
Usage tips
- A solved sketch can still describe an unsafe or impractical part; review materials, load cases and manufacturing limits separately.
- Keep construction geometry and production geometry visually distinct for later edits.
- Version before changing a reference chain or replacing an imported shape.
Troubleshooting and uninstall
Why is the sketch over-constrained?
Remove the newest constraint or duplicate dimension, identify which relationship already fixes the degree of freedom and rebuild the constraint group in smaller steps.
Why does an export measure differently?
Check units, scale, coordinate orientation and the selected export body, then compare one known length before changing the model.
- Archive the modelSave the source document, export files and measurement notes in a versioned folder, and confirm that a copy can be opened.
- Remove the CAD toolUninstall SolveSpace through the operating system and remove preferences only after verifying that the project archive is independent.
Frequently asked questions
Is a constrained SolveSpace model ready for manufacturing?
It is a design prototype. Manufacturing readiness also requires materials, tolerances, loads, process limits and an appropriate engineering review.
What should be checked after exporting?
Confirm units, scale, orientation, body selection and several known measurements in a separate viewer or downstream tool.
Does the download require an extraction code?
The Quark entry does not require one; the four-character code for the Baidu entry is shown beside its download entry.