The Revolve command in SolidWorks is a powerful feature that allows you to create symmetrical shapes by rotating a profile around an axis. This command is particularly useful when designing objects with rotational symmetry such as screws, bolts, and cylindrical objects. In this tutorial, we will explore the various aspects of the Revolve command and learn how to use it effectively.
Creating a Revolve Feature
To create a revolve feature, you first need to sketch a profile on a plane. This profile will act as the cross-section of the object you want to create. You can use various sketching tools in SolidWorks such as lines, arcs, circles, rectangles, and splines to create your profile.
Step 1: Start by clicking on the Sketch tab in the Command Manager and select the desired plane on which you want to sketch your profile.
Step 2: Use the appropriate sketching tools to create your desired profile. Ensure that your profile is closed and fully defined.
Step 3: Once you have finished sketching your profile, click on the Revolve command in the Features tab of the Command Manager.
Step 4: In the PropertyManager dialog box that appears, specify an axis for rotation. You can choose from existing edges or sketch a new axis using lines or arcs.
Note: It’s important to select an appropriate axis for rotation as it determines how your profile will be revolved in 3D space.
Step 5: Specify other parameters such as angle of revolution and direction of rotation if needed. You can also choose options like merging bodies or creating separate bodies based on your requirements.
Step 6: Click on the OK button to create the revolve feature.
Tips for Using the Revolve Command
The Revolve command offers several options and settings to help you create complex shapes with ease. Here are some tips to keep in mind while using this command:
1. Profile Orientation
Make sure that your profile is oriented correctly before using the Revolve command.
The orientation of your profile will determine how it revolves around the axis. You can use the Mirror or Mirror Entities tools to flip or rotate your sketch if needed.
2. Symmetry and Reference Geometry
If your object has symmetric features, you can save time by sketching only half of the profile and using the Mirror Entities tool to create the other half. You can also use reference geometry such as planes and axes to aid in sketching and positioning your profile accurately.
3. Editing Revolve Features
If you need to make changes to a revolve feature, you can simply edit the original sketch or modify its parameters in the PropertyManager dialog box. SolidWorks will automatically update the revolved shape based on your modifications.
In Conclusion
The Revolve command in SolidWorks is a versatile tool that allows you to create complex shapes with rotational symmetry easily. By mastering this command, you can expand your design capabilities and efficiently model a wide range of objects. Remember to experiment with different profiles, axes, and settings to achieve the desired results.
- Step 1: Start by clicking on the Sketch tab in the Command Manager and select the desired plane on which you want to sketch your profile.
- Step 2: Use the appropriate sketching tools to create your desired profile.
- Step 3: Once you have finished sketching your profile, click on the Revolve command in the Features tab of the Command Manager.
- Step 4: In the PropertyManager dialog box that appears, specify an axis for rotation.
You can choose from existing edges or sketch a new axis using lines or arcs.
- Note: It’s important to select an appropriate axis for rotation as it determines how your profile will be revolved in 3D space.
- Step 5: Specify other parameters such as angle of revolution and direction of rotation if needed.
- Step 6: Click on the OK button to create the revolve feature.
Tips for Using the Revolve Command
- Profile Orientation: Make sure that your profile is oriented correctly before using the Revolve command. The orientation of your profile will determine how it revolves around the axis.
You can use the Mirror or Mirror Entities tools to flip or rotate your sketch if needed.
- Symmetry and Reference Geometry:If your object has symmetric features, you can save time by sketching only half of the profile and using the Mirror Entities tool to create the other half.
- Editing Revolve Features: If you need to make changes to a revolve feature, you can simply edit the original sketch or modify its parameters in the PropertyManager dialog box.
In conclusion, the Revolve command in SolidWorks is a versatile tool that allows you to create complex shapes with rotational symmetry easily.