How Do I Use Convert Entities in SolidWorks Assembly?

Introduction

In SolidWorks, the Convert Entities feature is a powerful tool that allows you to create new sketch entities based on existing geometry. This feature is particularly useful when working with assemblies, as it enables you to transfer information from one part to another effortlessly.

Step 1: Open the Assembly

To begin using the Convert Entities feature, you must first open the assembly file in SolidWorks. Navigate to File > Open and select the desired assembly file from your computer. Once opened, you will be able to access all the components and their respective geometries within the assembly.

Step 2: Activate the Sketch

To use the Convert Entities feature, you need to activate a sketch within one of the parts in your assembly. Select the desired part from the FeatureManager Design Tree or Graphics Area and double-click on its name. This action will activate the part’s sketch environment.

Note: If there is no existing sketch in the part, create a new one by selecting Sketch > Create Sketch from the menu bar.

Step 3: Access Convert Entities

With a sketch activated, navigate to Tools > Sketch Tools > Convert Entities. Alternatively, you can also find this feature by right-clicking on an existing sketch entity and selecting Convert Entities from the context menu.

Step 4: Select Geometry to Convert

The next step is to select which geometry you want to convert into new sketch entities. Click on any edge or face of a component in your assembly that you wish to transfer information from. This action will highlight and select all connected edges and faces automatically.

Note: Hold down Ctrl key on your keyboard to select multiple edges or faces.

Step 5: Review and Modify Selection

After selecting the desired geometry, SolidWorks will display a preview of the entities that will be converted. Take a moment to review this selection and make any necessary modifications.

If there are any unwanted entities, you can remove them by clicking on them individually or by using the Shift key to select multiple entities at once.
If there are internal loops within the selected geometry, you can choose to include or exclude them by using the Options button in the Convert Entities PropertyManager.

Step 6: Confirm and Create Sketch Entities

Once you are satisfied with your selection, click on the green checkmark in the Convert Entities PropertyManager. This action will create new sketch entities based on the selected geometry. The converted entities will appear in your active sketch as separate elements that can be edited and manipulated independently.

Conclusion

The Convert Entities feature in SolidWorks Assembly is an invaluable tool for transferring geometry from one part to another. By following these simple steps, you can harness its power to enhance your design workflow and save valuable time. So go ahead, explore this feature, and unlock new possibilities in your assembly designs!