When working with SolidWorks, you might wonder where the exploded views are saved. Exploded views are an essential part of creating assembly instructions or demonstrating the functionality of your design. In this article, we will explore the different ways you can save and manage your exploded views in SolidWorks.
The Exploded View Feature
The exploded view feature in SolidWorks allows you to disassemble your components and show how they fit together. It is a powerful tool that helps communicate complex assembly procedures effectively. To create an exploded view, follow these steps:
- Navigate to the Configuration Manager: On the left side of the SolidWorks window, you will find the Configuration Manager tab. Click on it to access your assembly configurations.
- Right-click on your desired configuration: Choose the configuration for which you want to create an exploded view.
- Select ‘Exploded View’ from the context menu: Right-clicking on the configuration will display a context menu.
Choose ‘Exploded View’ from this menu.
- Edit your exploded view: Now that you have entered into the exploded view mode, you can start manipulating your components. Drag and rotate them as needed to demonstrate their relationship more clearly.
- Save your exploded view: Once you are satisfied with your modifications, it’s time to save your exploded view for future use or reference.
Saving Exploded Views
To save an exploded view in SolidWorks, follow these steps:
- Navigate to ‘Configuration Properties’: Right-click on the configuration tab again and select ‘Properties’ from the context menu.
- Access the ‘Explode’ tab: In the Configuration Properties dialog box, click on the ‘Explode’ tab.
- Save your exploded view: In this tab, you will find an option to save your exploded view. Click on the ‘Save As’ button and provide a name for your exploded view.
Congratulations! You have successfully saved your exploded view in SolidWorks.
It is worth mentioning that saving an exploded view does not save it as a separate file. Instead, it is stored within the configuration of your assembly file.
Accessing Saved Exploded Views
To access your saved exploded views in SolidWorks:
- Navigate to the Configuration Manager: Open the Configuration Manager tab if it is not already visible.
- Expand the configuration tree: Locate and expand the configuration you want to access.
- Select the saved exploded view: Within the expanded configuration, you will find your saved exploded views listed. Click on the desired one to activate it.
You can now work with or modify your saved exploded view as needed. Remember that any changes made to a saved exploded view will be applied globally across all instances where that configuration is used.
In Conclusion
SolidWorks offers powerful tools for creating and managing exploded views in your assemblies. By following these simple steps, you can create, save, and access exploded views whenever needed. Remember to utilize these features effectively to enhance communication and improve assembly instructions for your designs!