What Is a Broken Out Section View in SolidWorks?
In SolidWorks, a broken-out section view is a powerful tool that allows you to create a section view of a part or assembly while excluding certain areas. This feature is particularly useful when you want to highlight specific details or show internal features of your design without cluttering the overall view.
Creating a Broken Out Section View
To create a broken-out section view in SolidWorks, follow these steps:
- Select the part or assembly you want to work with.
- Navigate to the “View” tab in the Command Manager and click on “Section View”.
- In the PropertyManager, choose the desired cutting plane for your section view. You can either select an existing sketch or create a new one.
- Under “Options”, enable the “Broken-out Section” checkbox.
- Specify the break line style and width according to your preference.
- Adjust other settings such as offset distance and gap size if needed.
- Click on “Apply” to generate the broken-out section view.
Customizing Broken Out Section Views
SolidWorks provides several options for customizing your broken-out section views:
- Include Components: By default, all components are included in the section view. However, you can exclude certain components by selecting them individually or using filters based on component properties.
- Show Hidden Components: If you have hidden components in your design, you can choose whether to display them in the broken-out section view or keep them hidden.
- Adjust Break Line: You can modify the break line shape and size to better suit your design requirements. SolidWorks offers various options such as zigzag, wave, or jagged.
- Add Detailing: To enhance the visual clarity of your section view, you can add dimensions, annotations, and hatching patterns to highlight specific features or areas of interest.
Potential Applications
The broken-out section view feature in SolidWorks has numerous applications across different industries and design scenarios. Here are some examples:
- Machine Design: Showcasing internal components and mechanisms of a machine for better understanding and troubleshooting.
- Product Assembly: Illustrating the spatial arrangement of components within an assembly without obstructing the overall view.
- Mold Design: Highlighting intricate details or critical features inside a mold for accurate manufacturing.
- Architecture: Displaying cross-sections of buildings or structures to demonstrate internal layouts or construction details.
In conclusion, a broken-out section view is a valuable tool in SolidWorks that allows you to create visually appealing section views while excluding certain areas. By customizing the appearance and content of your section views, you can effectively communicate design intent and showcase important details in a clear and concise manner.