Understanding Exploded View in SolidWorks
Exploded views in SolidWorks provide a detailed representation of assemblies by displacing components along specific axes, enabling better visualization of how parts fit together. One of the key features that enhance the clarity of exploded views is the use of explode lines. To effectively utilize explode line sketches in SolidWorks, follow the steps outlined below.
Step 1: Access the Exploded View Feature
Begin by ensuring that you’re working within an assembly context. Navigate to the Assembly toolbar at the top of the interface. You will find the option for exploded views here, storing a wide array of tools that facilitate the creation and manipulation of your assembly.
Step 2: Create an Exploded View
To initiate an exploded view, select Insert > Exploded View from the main menu. This action opens the Exploded View PropertyManager, where you will set the sequence for exploding parts. Make sure you select the components you wish to include in the exploded view and specify how far they should be displaced—side-to-side or up-and-down, as required.
Step 3: Adding Explode Line Sketches
To introduce explode line sketches, which visually reveal the assembly paths between components, you must start a new sketch. From the Assembly toolbar, click on Explode Line Sketch or access it via Insert > Explode Line Sketch. This prompts the Route Line PropertyManager to appear.
Step 4: Draw the Explode Lines
Using the 3D sketching tools, draw lines connecting the associated parts. Focus on clarity as these lines will visually indicate the paths along which components were separated during the explodement. Ensure that each line distinctly represents the relationship between the components.
Step 5: Adjusting and Editing Explode Lines
Once you create your explode lines, you may wish to adjust or refine their placement. If necessary, select the line you want to move, then drag it to your desired location. Subsequently, if you wish to delete any unnecessary lines, simply click on them and press the Delete key.
Step 6: Finalizing and Saving the View
With all components exploded and the lines drawn, finalize the view by clicking ‘OK’ in the PropertyManager. This saves your settings and allows you to revisit your explode lines and exploded view any time in the future.
Step 7: Reopening and Modifying Existing Exploded Views
If you need to return to a previously saved exploded view, navigate to the ConfigurationManager. Right-click on the Exploded View option and select Edit Feature. From here, you can make adjustments or reposition components and explode lines as necessary.
FAQs
How do I delete an exploded view in SolidWorks?
To delete an exploded view, right-click on the exploded view in the ConfigurationManager and select Delete. Confirm your action to remove it completely from your assembly.
Can I animate my exploded view?
Yes, you can add animation to your exploded view. Right-click on the exploded view and select Animate Explode to visualize the disassembly and reassembly of your components in an illustrative manner.
What additional options are available for adjusting explode lines after they are created?
After creating explode lines, you can edit their properties, such as line color and thickness, in the Line Format toolbar. You may also delete or move lines as required to ensure the clarity and accuracy of your exploded view.
