SOLIDWORKS Weldment Sketch From Solid Model Tutorial

While many users leverage weldments inside of SOLIDWORKS, one of the main challenges is the creation of 3D sketches needed for the layout of structural members. In this tutorial, learn how to use a solid model in SOLIDWORKS to generate and parametrically drive 3D sketches, foregoing the hassle of creating them manually.

• Suggested Reading >> SOLIDWORKS Weldment Profiles & Weldment Tools Guide

Traditional SOLIDWORKS Weldment Setup 

Typically, when creating weldments in SOLIDWORKS, there can be multiple 3D sketches needed to lay out the paths for structural members. It can be challenging to maintain design intent when working with multiple 3D sketches that have relationships to each other.

The usual process is, once the layout sketch is complete, to add a structural member and create groups by selecting individual sketch entities.

Solid Model Approach

Now that we have seen the traditional method of creating weldment sketches, we will show how to create them using a solid model. Here we have a solid model representation of the 3D sketch layout. This was created from three 2D sketches on different parallel planes. Sketches were then lofted together.

The edges of the solid represent the paths for our structural members, so we will convert them into a single 3D Sketch. 

Start a 3D Sketch by going to Sketch Toolbar > Sketch Flyout Menu > click 3D Sketch.

Since we will need to select all the edges of the solid, turn on the Selection Filter and enable the Edge Filter.

Hit F5 on the keyboard to turn on the Selection Filter Toolbar. Click Edge Filter.

Now we need to select all edges. Since we enabled the edge selection filter, we can perform a Select All to capture all the edges simultaneously via Standard Toolbar > Select Flyout Menu > Select All.

Now that all the edges are selected, the next step is to convert them to sketch entities. We will do this with a tool called Convert Entities.

Sketch Toolbar > click Convert Entities.

• Suggested Reading >> SOLIDWORKS Convert Entities Quick Tips

Once we have converted the edges, the result is a single 3D sketch parametrically driven by the edges of the solid model. 

The next step is to add a structural member and select the sketch entities as normal for a weldment. For this example, I have created a base bottom sketch with dimensions to help with creating the solid model. Dimensions can be changed, and the weldment will update accordingly.

As you can see, the solid model approach to weldment sketches can save time and help with maintaining design intent. I hope you found this tutorial helpful. Check out more SOLIDWORKS tips and tricks below.

Want to learn more? Check out this YouTube video for a demonstration of these tips, tricks, and best practices. 

SOLIDWORKS Weldment Training

Learn to build stand-alone sheet metal parts and create standard structural members by enrolling in professional SOLIDWORKS Weldment training with GoEngineer. Learn more below. 

More SOLIDWORKS Tutorials

SOLIDWORKS - Weldment Configurations

SOLIDWORKS 2020 Structure Systems for Weldments

Designing a Trailer Using SOLIDWORKS Weldments

SOLIDWORKS Weldment Profiles & Weldment Tools Guide

Creating Multiple Parts from One Part File in SOLIDWORKS

VIEW ALL SOLIDWORKS TUTORIALS