Discover How to Transform 'Dumb' Imported Geometry into Usable SOLIDWORKS Features with Tips from SOLIDWORKS Champion Eric Beatty
When working with models imported from other CAD programs, SOLIDWORKS users often encounter what's known as a "dumb solid"—a single, featureless lump of geometry that cannot be easily edited. But with the right approach, you can make these imported models smarter by converting selected geometry into SOLIDWORKS features. In this blog post, we delve into a key technique shared by Eric Beatty, SOLIDWORKS Champion of the Year 2023 and SWUGN leader, which allows you to unlock the potential of imported models using SOLIDWORKS' powerful editing capabilities.
Unlocking the Power of "Edit Features"
Eric begins by demonstrating how to handle a model imported as an IGS file from another CAD system. The model initially appears as a single, featureless entity—a scenario that many SOLIDWORKS users are familiar with. The first step is to break the link with the original source, giving you full control over the geometry.
Once the link is broken, you can use SOLIDWORKS' "Import Diagnostics" tool to identify and fix any issues within the imported geometry. This process ensures that the model is clean and ready for further editing.
Converting Geometry into Editable Features
One of the most impressive aspects of SOLIDWORKS is its ability to convert existing geometry into editable features. For example, if the model has fillets or holes, these can be transformed into recognizable SOLIDWORKS features, allowing you to modify them as needed. Eric demonstrates this by selecting a fillet face and using the "Edit Feature" option. Despite there being no visible feature in the model tree, SOLIDWORKS intelligently recognizes the fillet and allows him to adjust its size.
This capability extends to holes as well. By selecting the holes and applying the "Edit Feature" option, Eric quickly transforms them into hole features, complete with editable parameters. This is particularly useful when working with imported parts that need to be customized to fit specific design requirements, such as changing a hole into a counterbore or adjusting its diameter.
The Benefits of Feature Recognition
The ability to convert geometry into features isn't just about making the model easier to edit—it's also about making it more functional. Once you've converted a hole into a feature, for example, you can leverage it in downstream operations, such as creating a pattern for assembly components. This can save significant time and effort compared to manually positioning and mating each component individually.
For SOLIDWORKS users dealing with imported models, knowing how to unlock and edit features is a game-changer. Thanks to tips like these from Eric Beatty, what once was a "dumb solid" can become a fully editable, intelligent model that integrates seamlessly into your SOLIDWORKS workflow. By applying these techniques, you’ll spend less time wrestling with geometry and more time refining your designs.
If you're interested in more SOLIDWORKS tips and tricks, be sure to check out the video linked above for a full demonstration.
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