Adding a new plane in SolidWorks is a straightforward process that allows users to create reference geometry for sketches and features within their models. This guide will walk you through the steps to successfully create a new plane in SolidWorks, providing tips for different scenarios.
Accessing the Plane Feature
To begin, you need to access the plane feature within SolidWorks. You can do this in two primary ways:
Using the Command Manager:
- Navigate to the ‘Features’ tab.
- Locate and click on ‘Reference Geometry’.
- Select ‘Plane’ from the dropdown options.
- Using the Menu Bar:
- Click on ‘Insert’ from the menu bar.
- Hover over ‘Reference Geometry’ and select ‘Plane’.
Defining New Planes
Once the Plane feature is selected, a new property manager will appear, prompting you to define the new plane. This process typically involves selecting one or more references for the plane’s orientation and position.
Step-by-Step Process to Create a Plane:
Select Initial Reference:
- Click on a face, edge, or vertex in your model to serve as the first reference.
Adding Additional References (Optional):
- You have the option to choose up to three references. For example, you might select another face or edge to define the plane’s orientation more clearly.
Adjusting Plane Position and Orientation:
- If required, you can drag the newly created plane to adjust its position or enter specific values in the property manager to set its exact placement.
- Confirm the Plane Creation:
- Click ‘OK’ in the property manager to finalize the creation of the plane. The new plane will now be visible in the model.
Creating Parallel Planes
To create a plane that runs parallel to an existing surface or plane, follow these instructions:
Select a Surface:
- Right-click on the surface or plane that you want your new plane to be parallel to.
Choose Create Plane:
- From the shortcuts, select ‘Create Plane Parallel to Screen’. This will position your new plane parallel to the currently displayed view.
- Finalizing the Plane:
- Verify the new plane’s location and orientation before confirming.
Constructing a Plane at an Angle
For users needing to create a plane at a specific angle to an existing plane, the steps are as follows:
Select a Reference Plane:
- Choose the first existing plane that will be used as a reference.
Enable the Multiple Plane Option:
- In the property manager, ensure the option for creating multiple planes is selected before you choose an axis.
Set the Angle:
- Specify your desired angle (for example, 15 degrees) and the number of planes by entering the relevant values.
- Create the Planes:
- Click the ‘OK’ button to generate all the specified planes at once.
Utilizing Planes for Sketches
Once your planes are created, they can serve as the foundation for sketches:
Select the Plane for Sketching:
- Right-click on the newly created plane and choose the ‘Sketch’ option.
- Begin Sketching:
- Use standard sketching tools to create geometry on the selected plane.
FAQ
What happens if I select more than three references when creating a plane?
You are limited to selecting only three references when defining a new plane. Exceeding this limit will prompt an error, and you will need to remove some selections.
Can I edit or delete existing planes in my SolidWorks model?
Yes, existing planes can be modified or deleted. To edit a plane, right-click on the plane in the FeatureManager design tree and choose ‘Edit Feature.’ To delete it, right-click and select ‘Delete’ from the context menu.
Is it possible to create a plane that intersects with multiple existing planes?
Yes, you can create an intersection plane through multiple existing planes. Simply select the two or more planes that you wish to intersect, and SolidWorks will generate a new plane at their intersection point.
