Use the ConfigurationManager to add configurations and modify the part by controlling the suppression state of features and by configuring dimensions. Use the ConfigurationManager to add configurations to a part. Suppress features to represent a different version of the model. Configure dimensions to create different size versions of the part.
Use the sketch tools Convert Entities and Offset Entities to reference sketch entities and model geometry to create new sketch entities. If the original geometry changes, then the converted and offset entities also change. Create converted entities into a new sketch. Create offset entities. Create a slot using offset entities.
Create reference planes in any orientation using existing reference and solid geometry. You use reference planes for sketching or as a reference for other features. Create reference planes in a variety of orientations from different reference selections. Create reference planes from one or more geometric references.
Create assemblies by adding and orienting existing parts in an assembly. Add mates to connect the components. Create a new assembly from a part. Introduce the assembly FeatureManager design tree. Insert components into the assembly. Move and rotate components. Add mates between components.
Extend sketch profiles to create extruded bosses to add material and extruded cuts to remove material. Use sketch relations and dimensions to define sketch profiles. Understand some of the options for extruded features. Add material with an extruded boss and remove material with an extruded cut.
Explore the differences between solid and surface bodies and learn why surface modeling can be a solution to challenging modeling tasks. Understand the difference between a surface and solid body in SOLIDWORKS. Learn why surface modeling should be used.
The SOLIDWORKS user interface (UI) can be modified to suit your needs by displaying the tools you use most. You can rearrange the display of toolbars and the CommandManager and add your own keyboard shortcuts and mouse gestures. Turn tabs on and off in the CommandManager. Learn how to dock and undock toolbars and panes. Add commands to toolbars. Add keyboard shortcuts. Customize mouse gestures.
