How to Change Plane in SolidWorks

Understanding Plane Selection in SolidWorks

Select a plane in SolidWorks by utilizing the Reference Geometry toolbar or navigating through the menu. Begin by clicking on the "Plane" option; this action prompts the software to automatically generate the most suitable plane based on your chosen entity. You can enhance the plane’s definition by exploring the First Reference options, which include settings like Parallel and Perpendicular.

Adjusting the 3D Sketch Plane

To modify the coordinate system for a 3D sketch, follow these steps:

1. Select the sketch tool you wish to use, such as Line or Arc.
2. While holding down the Ctrl key, click on the desired plane, a planar face, or a custom coordinate system that you would like to use.
3. By selecting a plane or a planar face, the orientation of the 3D sketch will adjust so that the XY sketch plane aligns with the chosen reference.

Navigating the XYZ Coordinate System

To manipulate a component’s position within the assembly, you have several methods at your disposal:

1. Free Drag: Simply select a component and click and drag it in any direction you prefer.
2. Along Assembly XYZ: If you want to move the component along a specific axis, first select the component, then click near the desired axis (X, Y, or Z) before dragging. The coordinate system will display in the graphics area, aiding your orientation during the movement.

Relocating the Sketch Origin

In SolidWorks 2020, moving the origin entails the following procedure:

1. Navigate to the menu and select Tools > Sketch Tools > Align > Align Grid/Origin.
2. In the Align Grid/Origin PropertyManager that appears, locate the Selections section.
3. Choose a vertex or point for the new sketch origin location. Confirm the selection to execute the change.

Transferring Sketches Between Planes

To relocate a sketch from one plane to another, perform these actions:

1. Right-click on the sketch within the feature tree.
2. Select the option to “edit sketch plane.” This will temporarily highlight the existing face of the sketch.
3. Choose the new face where you want to move the sketch. The sketch will then be transferred to the selected plane.

Modifying the Origin in SolidWorks Assembly

You can adjust an existing coordinate system in an assembly by following these instructions:

1. Click on the Origin in your assembly.
2. Choose a point or vertex that will serve as the new origin location.
3. This action allows the origin to translate accordingly, influencing the angle and direction of each axis based on your selected point.

Utilizing Collision Detection

To check for collisions between components during movement or rotation:

1. Select Move Component or Rotate Component from the Assembly toolbar.
2. In the PropertyManager, under the Options section, enable Collision Detection.
3. As you move a component, the system will alert you if it makes contact with any other components within the assembly.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can multiple sketches exist on the same plane within SolidWorks?
Yes, you can create multiple sketches on the same plane; however, managing them effectively is essential to avoid confusion and maintain clarity within your design.

2. How can I return a sketch to its original plane after moving it?
You can simply repeat the process of editing the sketch plane by right-clicking on the sketch and selecting the original plane as your target before confirming your choice to revert it.

3. Is it possible to create a new plane offset from an existing one?
Absolutely. You can create a new plane parallel to an existing one by selecting the original plane and using the "Offset" option to set the distance of the new plane from the selected reference.