TL;DR
LAD (Language-Aided Designer) is a SolidWorks add-in that translates plain-language instructions into sketches, features and assemblies. The developer published v1.0.0 in January 2026 and issued a v1.1.0 update adding planning mode, macro writing/running, and sketch issue detection.
What happened
A new SolidWorks add-in called LAD (Language-Aided Designer) launched with an initial release dated 01-05-2026 and received an update on 01-11-2026. LAD aims to let users describe designs in natural language and have the tool convert those instructions into SolidWorks operations, creating sketches, features and assemblies through a conversational interface. The add-in uses screenshots and the SolidWorks feature tree to infer the current state of a model, validate whether operations completed successfully, and attempt corrections when needed. LAD can also ingest documentation, images and prior parts or assemblies to inform design work. The update in January added a planning mode, the ability to write and run VBA macros, detection and reporting of sketch issues, and improvements to caching and AI context handling. The product is available for download on Windows.
Why it matters
- Natural-language input could lower the barrier to performing routine CAD tasks by translating plain descriptions into SolidWorks actions.
- Macro generation and execution support may help automate repetitive or niche workflows and improve reproducibility.
- Checkpointing, permissioning and operation verification provide built-in controls for reverting or restricting AI-driven changes.
- The ability to read documentation and images lets the tool incorporate external references into model creation and modification.
Key facts
- Product name: LAD (Language-Aided Designer), a SolidWorks add-in.
- Initial public release (v1.0.0) dated 01-05-2026; update (v1.1.0) dated 01-11-2026.
- Core capability: translate natural-language descriptions into SolidWorks sketches, features and assemblies.
- Uses screenshots and the SolidWorks feature tree to understand and verify the current model state and to correct mistakes.
- Can read and search documentation files, images and examples of previous parts and assemblies to inform design.
- Supports writing and running VBA macros; when generating macros it searches SolidWorks documentation and examples to better use the API.
- Includes permissioning per command, a checkpoint reversion system and rules to guide AI behavior.
- v1.1.0 additions include planning mode, macro writing/running, sketch-issue detection/reporting and caching/context improvements.
- Available as a download for Windows from the project site.
What to watch next
- Whether LAD will receive support for macOS or other platforms: not confirmed in the source
- Pricing, licensing and whether a free tier exists: not confirmed in the source
- How LAD handles telemetry, data collection, and privacy for uploaded files and screenshots: not confirmed in the source
- Compatibility with non-SolidWorks CAD tools or multi-CAD workflows: not confirmed in the source
Quick glossary
- SolidWorks: A commercial computer-aided design (CAD) software package used for 3D mechanical design, simulation and documentation.
- Add-in: A software extension that integrates into a host application to provide additional features or automate tasks.
- Feature tree: The list in a CAD model that records the order and parameters of sketches and features used to build a part or assembly.
- Macro: A script or small program that automates repeated tasks within an application; in SolidWorks macros are often written in VBA.
- VBA (Visual Basic for Applications): A scripting language commonly used for creating macros and automations in Windows applications, including CAD tools.
- Checkpointing / Versioning: Saving intermediate states so users can revert to previous versions if automation produces unwanted changes.
Reader FAQ
What is LAD?
LAD is a SolidWorks add-in that translates plain-language instructions into CAD operations, and can create sketches, features, assemblies and macros.
Is LAD free to use?
not confirmed in the source
Can LAD work with my existing SolidWorks files?
The tool can read and search files and images and uses screenshots and the SolidWorks feature tree to understand the current model state, per the release notes.
How does LAD handle data collection and analytics?
not confirmed in the source
Where can I ask additional questions about LAD?
not confirmed in the source
1.1.0 01-11-2026 Latest Add planning mode Add macro writing/running Detect and report sketch issues Improve caching efficiency Various AI context improvements and bug fixes LAD (Language-Aided Designer) A SolidWorks add-in…
Sources
- Show HN: AI in SolidWorks
- Evolve Your Design Workflows with AI
- AI in SOLIDWORKS: What It Is (and What It Isn't)
- I Tried 5 Text to CAD AI Tools for Faster Drafting
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