To create a new part within an assembly in SolidWorks, you essentially initiate the command to add a new component, define its save location (internal or external), and then specify its initial sketch plane directly within the assembly environment. This process seamlessly transitions you into editing the new part in-context.
Creating a new part directly within an assembly in SolidWorks is a fundamental aspect of bottom-up and in-context design. This method allows you to design a part while referencing existing components, ensuring precise fit and function.
The primary method for creating a new part in a SolidWorks assembly involves a few straightforward steps:
Step-by-Step Guide to Creating a New Part
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Initiate New Part Creation:
- Navigate to the Assembly toolbar and click New Part.
- Alternatively, you can go to the menu bar, select Insert Component, and then choose New Part.
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Define Part Storage (External vs. Internal):
- For externally saved parts: If you intend for the new part to be saved as a separate file (which is recommended for reusability and better file management), a Save As dialog box will appear. Enter a descriptive name for your new part in this dialog box and click Save.
- For internally saved parts (virtual components): If you do not save it externally, the part becomes a "virtual component," stored only within the assembly file. This is useful for parts unique to that assembly.
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Select the Sketch Plane:
- Once the command is initiated (and potentially saved), your pointer will change (often indicating a selection mode).
- Select a plane or planar face within your existing assembly. This chosen plane will serve as the initial sketch plane for your new part. You can select:
- One of the default assembly planes (Front, Top, Right).
- A planar face of an existing component in the assembly.
- A custom reference plane you've created in the assembly.
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Enter Part Editing Mode:
- Upon selecting the plane, the editing focus changes to the new part. This means the assembly becomes transparent or dimmed, and the new part's feature tree is highlighted.
- A sketch automatically opens in the new part on the selected plane, ready for you to begin sketching the part's geometry.
Summary of New Part Creation Process
The table below summarizes the key actions and their immediate results when creating a new part in a SolidWorks assembly:
| Action | Result |
|---|---|
| Click New Part (Assembly toolbar) or Insert Component > New Part | SolidWorks prepares to add a new component to the active assembly. The command line often prompts for a save location if saving externally. |
| (Optional) Enter name in Save As dialog and click Save | If you choose to save the part externally, this action creates a new .SLDPRT file at your specified location. If skipped, the part becomes a virtual component within the assembly. |
| Select a plane or planar face (pointer often changes) | This crucial step defines the base plane for your initial sketch. The system intelligently shifts its focus, indicated by the rest of the assembly becoming translucent, and the newly created part being the active component for editing. |
| Automatic Sketch Opening | Once the plane is selected, SolidWorks immediately opens a new sketch within the context of the new part. You are now in sketch mode, ready to define the part's initial features using existing assembly geometry as references if desired. |
Practical Insights
- In-Context Editing: When you select a plane on an existing component, you are performing "in-context" editing. This allows you to create features that directly reference edges, faces, or points of other parts in the assembly. This is powerful for ensuring design intent and proper fit.
- Virtual Components: Parts created without an external save are called "virtual components" and are identified by a '->' suffix in the FeatureManager Design Tree. They are embedded within the assembly file. You can later right-click a virtual component and choose "Save Part (in External File)" to save it out independently.
- Exiting Part Editing: To return to the assembly editing mode, right-click anywhere in the graphics area and select "Edit Assembly," or click the "Edit Component" icon in the Confirmation Corner.
This structured approach ensures you can efficiently add new components to your SolidWorks assemblies, facilitating complex design workflows.
