How Do I Change the Drawing View in SolidWorks?

Welcome to this tutorial on how to change the drawing view in SolidWorks! In this article, we will explore the various methods you can use to modify the drawing view in SolidWorks.

Introduction

Changing the drawing view in SolidWorks is an essential skill for any CAD designer. By adjusting the view, you can showcase your model from different perspectives and communicate your design intent effectively. Let’s dive into the different techniques you can employ to accomplish this task.

Method 1: Using the View Palette

The View Palette is a handy tool that allows you to manage and modify your drawing views easily. Follow these steps:

  1. Step 1: Open your SolidWorks assembly or part file.
  2. Step 2: Go to Insert > Drawing View.
  3. Step 3: In the Drawing View PropertyManager, select the desired view type.
  4. Step 4: Choose a reference plane or an existing model edge for alignment purposes.
  5. Step 5: Click on Create Drawing View.

Tips:

  • To rotate or orient the view, click and drag on the triad that appears after creating a drawing view.
  • To move or resize the drawing view, click and drag on its boundary handles.

Method 2: Utilizing Model Views

If you have predefined model views set up in your SolidWorks file, you can directly use them in your drawing. Here’s how:

  1. Step 1: Open your SolidWorks assembly or part file.
  2. Step 3: In the Drawing View PropertyManager, select the Model View tab.
  3. Step 4: Choose the desired model view from the drop-down list.

Tips:

  • To update the drawing view if changes are made to the model view, right-click on the drawing view and select ‘Update Standard Views’.

Method 3: Manually Modifying Drawing Views

If you need more control over your drawing views, you can manually modify them using SolidWorks tools.

  • Step 2: Go to Drawing View.
  • Step 3: In the Drawing toolbar, click on the desired drawing view type.
  • Step 4: Click on the desired location in the drawing sheet to place the view.
  • Tips:

    • To modify a drawing view’s properties, right-click on the view and select ‘Properties’.
    • To change the scale of a drawing view, right-click on the view and select ‘Properties’. In the PropertyManager, adjust the scale as required.

    Conclusion

    Changing the drawing view in SolidWorks is a straightforward process. Whether you use the View Palette, utilize model views, or manually modify drawing views, SolidWorks provides you with multiple options to create professional and informative drawings. Experiment with these techniques to enhance your design communication skills!