In this chapter, we discussed reference coordinate systems and mass properties. We started by defining what a reference coordinate system is, why we need new ones, and how to define new ones in SOLIDWORKS. Then, we learned about mass properties. First, we learned how to access the materials library we have in SOLIDWORKS and how to assign a particular material to our parts. Then, we learned how to find properties such as mass and volume for our models. Being able to determine mass properties will help us decide on what structural materials we can pick for the products we design. It will also help us to determine associated costs with production, transportation, and so on.

In the next chapter, we will start working with assemblies. Assemblies are more than one part mixed together in one file. Most of the products we use in our everyday lives, such as laptops, cars, and pens...