SolidWorks software engineers and professionals start assembling a Zenith kit in their FabLab at their Waltham, Massachusetts headquarters. The high level of finish and completion of Zenith Aircraft kits (possible in large part due to SolidWorks 3D design software) makes the parts ready to assembly with just simple hand tools.
On May 31, Dassault Systèmes SolidWorks employees started assembly of the Zenith kit with a team (mainly software engineers, management and interns) under Zenith Aircraft guidance. While completely inexperienced in aircraft assembly, their enthusiasm (and willingness to learn and to read instructions) made up for their lack of experience. After just a few hours they had the rear fuselage assembly together.
This project illustrates how modern Zenith kits are developed using advanced 3D design software (SolidWorks) to allow for final hole-size match-drilled assemblies, and where the resulting kit can be put together by a group of amateur builders (with no prior hands-on experience).
Needless to say, their enthusiasm was contagious and they're eager to continue on with the forward fuselage, tail sections, and the wings!