Understanding Feature-Based Modeling
You need to be familiar with some terminology before diving into building models with
SolidWorks. Notice that I talk about “modeling” rather than “drawing,” or even “design.” This is
because SolidWorks is virtual prototyping software. Whether you are building an assembly line for
automotive parts or designing decorative perfume bottles, SolidWorks can help you visualize your
geometrical production data in the most realistic way possible without actually having it in your
hand. This is more akin to making a physical model in the shop than drawing on paper.
“Feature-based” modeling means that you build the model by incrementally identifying functional
shapes and applying processes to create the shapes. For example, you can create a simple box by
using the Extrude process, and you can create a sphere using the Revolve process. However, you
can make a cylinder using either process, by revolving a rectangle or extruding a circle. You start
by visualizing the 3D shape, and then apply a 3D process to a 2D sketch to create that shape. This
concept on its own is half of what you need to know to create models with SolidWorks.
SolidWorks® 2010 Bible
Published by
Wiley Publishing, Inc.
10475 Crosspoint Boulevard
Indianapolis, IN 46256
www.wiley.com
SolidWorks. Notice that I talk about “modeling” rather than “drawing,” or even “design.” This is
because SolidWorks is virtual prototyping software. Whether you are building an assembly line for
automotive parts or designing decorative perfume bottles, SolidWorks can help you visualize your
geometrical production data in the most realistic way possible without actually having it in your
hand. This is more akin to making a physical model in the shop than drawing on paper.
“Feature-based” modeling means that you build the model by incrementally identifying functional
shapes and applying processes to create the shapes. For example, you can create a simple box by
using the Extrude process, and you can create a sphere using the Revolve process. However, you
can make a cylinder using either process, by revolving a rectangle or extruding a circle. You start
by visualizing the 3D shape, and then apply a 3D process to a 2D sketch to create that shape. This
concept on its own is half of what you need to know to create models with SolidWorks.
SolidWorks® 2010 Bible
Published by
Wiley Publishing, Inc.
10475 Crosspoint Boulevard
Indianapolis, IN 46256
www.wiley.com
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BalasHapusSolidworks Training