SolidWorks Lab Session 3
SolidWorks Lab Session 3
Sketching: Splines are created within sketches. To start, open a sketch on a plane or a face
where you want to create the spline.
Spline Creation: Select the Spline tool from the Sketch toolbar. Click on the sketch plane
to place control vertices (points) that will define the shape of the spline.
Control Points: Click multiple times to create control points. The shape of the spline can
be adjusted by dragging these points or by using handles that appear to manipulate the
curve's direction and shape.
Constraints and Relations: After creating the spline, you can apply constraints and
relations to control its behavior. This helps in ensuring that the spline follows certain
guidelines or remains tangent to other sketch entities as needed.
Manipulating the Spline: SOLIDWORKS offers various options for manipulating splines.
You can add or remove control points, adjust handles, convert entities (such as lines or arcs)
into a spline, and more.
Fine-Tuning: Use tools like spline handles, control polygon, curvature combs, and spline
endpoints to precisely control and refine the shape of the spline.
LAB 03 Practicing Command & 3D Drawing
Feature Creation: Once the spline is defined within a sketch, it can be used as a path or
guide for creating various features like lofts, sweeps, or cuts. These features leverage the
spline's curve to create complex shapes or details.
Editing: Splines in SOLIDWORKS are editable. You can always go back and modify the
spline by adding or removing points, adjusting handles, or changing constraints to refine
the design.
Figure 1 spline
• Arc:
In SolidWorks, arcs are essential elements for defining curved geometry within sketches.
When creating a sketch, you can incorporate arcs by selecting the "Arc" tool from the
sketch toolbar. This tool allows you to define an arc based on its center, endpoints, or other
parameters, providing flexibility in shaping the curve. By setting the radius, angle, or other
constraints, you can precisely control the dimensions of the arc. SolidWorks also supports
different types of arcs, such as three-point arcs and tangent arc
Figure 2 Arc
LAB 03 Practicing Command & 3D Drawing
• CenterPoint Arc:
In SOLIDWORKS, the CenterPoint Arc represents a pivotal method for creating arcs defined by
their center point, radius, and angular span. This tool offers precision in establishing arcs with
specific radii and angular extents, crucial for designs requiring accurate circular or partial circular
features. By selecting the CenterPoint Arc tool within a sketch, users can first position the arc's
center point and then set the radius, followed by specifying the start and end angles to define the
arc's extent. This method ensures meticulous control over the curvature and positioning of the arc,
enabling designers to craft intricate curves essential for various mechanical or geometric designs.
Once created, modifications to the CenterPoint Arc—such as adjustments to the radius or angular
span—can be easily implemented to meet specific design requirements, making it a valuable tool
for detailing precise curved elements in SOLIDWORKS designs .
Tangent Arc:
In SolidWorks, the Tangent Arc tool is a feature within the sketch environment that allows
designers to create arcs that smoothly connect to existing sketch entities while maintaining
tangency. This tool is particularly useful for creating aesthetically pleasing and continuous curves
in 2D sketches. To utilize the Tangent Arc tool:
Three-Point Arc:
LAB 03 Practicing Command & 3D Drawing
In SolidWorks, the Three-Point Arc tool is a feature within the sketch environment that
allows designers to create arcs defined by three specified points, facilitating precise control
over the curvature and orientation of the arc. To use the Three-Point Arc tool
The Three-Point Arc tool is valuable for creating arcs with specific orientations and
curvatures, providing a flexible and precise means to design complex shapes within
SolidWorks. It is often used in scenarios where a specific curvature or angle is required,
offering designers control over the geometry and aesthetics of their 3D models.
Ellipse:
Ellipses are commonly used in SolidWorks sketches to represent various components and
features that require rounded or elliptical profiles. Whether used independently or in
combination with other sketch entities, ellipses are integral elements in creating accurate
and aesthetically pleasing
To construct Ellipses from an axis defined by its end points and the radius of the perpendicular axis:
1. Click Draw > Ellipse > Axis, End (or type Ellipse).
2. In the graphics area, specify: Axis start point. Axis end point. Radius of the perpendicular axis.
LAB 03 Practicing Command & 3D Drawing
Figure 6 Ellipse
Slots:
In SolidWorks, a slot is a geometric feature that represents an elongated or rectangular hole
in a part. Creating a slot involves using the Slot tool within the sketch environment. After
creating the slot, SolidWorks provides options to adjust parameters such as the slot length,
width,
Figure 7 Slots
Straight Slot:
In SolidWorks, creating a straight slot involves using the Slot tool within the sketch
environment. Straight slots are commonly used in SolidWorks sketches to represent
features like keyways, grooves, or other elongated openings in parts. The Slot tool offers
flexibility in creating straight slots of varying dimensions to suit specific design needs.
Whether used independently or in combination with other sketch entities, straight slots play
a significant role in accurately defining the geometry of 3D models in SolidWorks.
You can create a straight slot with a center point using the general slot and center point
creation tools. Here's a general guide on how you can create a straight slot with a center
point in SolidWorks: Access the Sketch Environment
• Polygon:
Polygons are commonly used in SolidWorks sketches to represent various geometric
features or shapes. The Polygon tool provides flexibility in creating polygons with different
numbers of sides, allowing designers to tailor the geometry to specific design requirements.
Whether used independently or in combination with other sketch entities, polygons play a
crucial role in accurately defining the geometry of 3D models in SolidWorks
Section 2
LAB 03 Practicing Command & 3D Drawing
LAB 03 Practicing Command & 3D Drawing
LAB 03 Practicing Command & 3D Drawing
LAB 03 Practicing Command & 3D Drawing
LAB 03 Practicing Command & 3D Drawing