What Does Convert Entities Do SolidWorks?

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What Does Convert Entities Do SolidWorks?

When working with complex 3D models in SolidWorks, it’s often necessary to reuse existing geometry or extract specific features from the model. SolidWorks provides several powerful tools to accomplish this, and one such tool is the Convert Entities feature.

Understanding Convert Entities

The Convert Entities tool in SolidWorks allows you to convert existing geometry, such as edges, curves, or sketches, into sketch entities. This means you can extract important features from an existing model and use them for creating new sketches or features.

It’s important to note that the Convert Entities feature only works within a sketch. So before using this tool, make sure you are working within a sketch environment.

How to Use Convert Entities

To use the Convert Entities feature in SolidWorks, follow these steps:

  1. Select the sketch where you want to convert entities. You can either create a new sketch or edit an existing one.
  2. Activate the Convert Entities command by clicking on it in the Sketch toolbar or by going to Tools > Sketch Tools > Convert.
  3. A dialog box will appear with options for selecting entities. You can choose which entities to convert by selecting them individually or by using selection filters.
  4. Select the desired entities and click OK.
  5. The selected entities will be converted into sketch entities and added to your current sketch.

Tips for Using Convert Entities Effectively

  • Selecting Multiple Entities: To select multiple entities for conversion, hold down the Ctrl key while making your selections. This is particularly useful when converting multiple edges or curves.
  • Selection Filters: SolidWorks provides various selection filters to help you select specific types of entities.

    For example, you can choose to convert only edges or only curves by using the appropriate selection filter.

  • Using Convert Entities in 3D Models: The Convert Entities feature is not limited to sketches on the same plane. You can also use it to convert entities from other planes or faces of a 3D model.

Applications of Convert Entities

The Convert Entities feature has numerous applications in SolidWorks. Some common use cases include:

  • Creating New Sketches: You can extract important features from an existing model and use them as a starting point for creating new sketches.
  • Generating Reference Geometry: Convert Entities can be used to create reference geometry like construction lines, centerlines, or reference points based on existing model features.
  • Reusing Existing Geometry: By converting entities, you can reuse existing geometry in different parts of your model, saving time and effort.

The Convert Entities tool in SolidWorks is a powerful feature that allows you to leverage existing geometry within your models. By understanding how to use this tool effectively, you can streamline your design process and improve your productivity.

So next time you need to reuse existing features or extract important geometry from a 3D model, remember the Convert Entities tool and make the most out of it!