What does the term "assembly" refer to in SolidWorks?

In SolidWorks, the term "assembly" specifically refers to a collection of multiple parts and their relationships. This definition encompasses how different components interact with each other within the software to form a complete, functional model. Assemblies allow users to simulate the way various components fit together and operate, taking into account constraints, motions, and dependencies between the parts.

Creating an assembly involves inserting multiple individual parts, which can be either newly created or sourced from libraries. The assembly environment supports the visualization of these parts as they come together, enabling engineers and designers to analyze the device or system as a whole.

This functionality is crucial for tasks such as testing fit and function, ensuring that parts interact correctly in a physical model, and conducting simulations of how the assembled parts will behave under various conditions. Thus, view assemblies as a fundamental aspect of the design process, allowing for a thorough analysis and validation of complex systems.