SVNworks
SVNworks is a custom Windows MSIX application that integrates Apache Subversion with SOLIDWORKS workflows. It provides file-locking awareness, repository status visibility, and streamlined version control for CAD teams to prevent overwrite conflicts and improve collaboration.
The application bridges the gap between SVN's version control capabilities and SOLIDWORKS' binary file format, as the lack of merging ability in CAD files makes traditional version control methods ineffective. By providing real-time feedback on file status and lock states directly within the file opening environment, SVNworks enhances team productivity and reduces the risk of data loss due to conflicting edits.
What
- Built a Windows desktop tool to streamline CAD version control for teams using SOLIDWORKS
- Published on the Microsoft Store as an MSIX application
- Deployed an SVN server on Oracle Cloud to host team design files for UBC Formula Electric
How
- Developed the application using C#/.NET
- Integrated Apache Subversion with the SOLIDWORKS API
- Exposed file-lock and repository state directly in the CAD file-opening workflow
- Packaged as an MSIX for easy distribution via the Microsoft Store
Results
- Reduced file conflicts in collaborative CAD environments
- Improved design accountability and version awareness for team members
- Adopted by UBC Formula Electric's chassis subteam for daily use
Key Features
- File-Locking Awareness
- Repository Status Visibility
- Conflict Prevention
- CAD Team Collaboration
Technologies
- C#/.NET
- MSIX
- Apache SVN
- Oracle Cloud
- SOLIDWORKS API
Project Gallery
