I have a new model very much like an older model.
I need to machine the old model to be like the new.
I will have to plug or make covers/inserts for some of the exsiting features on the old model.
I need to see the old features in comparison to the new.
Very simple thing in other cad programs.
There must be a way to do this In Solidworks.
Thank You,
Tom
Simple in SW as well. For something like you mention I would start by doing a "Save As Copy" and open a "New" Assembly, insert both files into the assembly and do your comparisons and edits from there.
If the original part has external references then I would recommend doing a "Pack & Go" rather than a save as copy..
Thank You John,
Not being a full time SW User you have settled a concern.
one of my guys said you cannot do that in SW.
what your suggesting is make a new assembly with the 2 sets of sketches to see what has to be addressed?
anything more would be helpful.
thanks again.
The compare feature works in various ways. There is a geometry method in which you would open and select 2 models to compare - this method gives you numeric/graphic feedback showing the differences. There is also a "drawing compare" method in which you open 2 drawings to compare.
thank you Jeff,
I will give that a try sometime.
at this point I just do not want to drill into any existing holes.
What is your end result supposed to be?
1. A comparison of components only?
2. A comparison of components to keep existing data and create a new component with the updated data?
If you're only comparing the models for different outputs of dimensions and other evaluation information then follow what Jeff is mentioning, however if you need to make a new component and keep the old, then open a "New" Assembly, drop in the original component, save the assembly, then insert a "New" Component, draw the profile or copy from the original.
John,
I'm not ashamed to admit your getting a little over my head.
End Result:
If some of the new holes for the new model run into the holes of the old model I will have to do some plugging before I machine the old to the new configuration.
if a can clarify more:
lets just say I have to upgrade last years model to this year model.
some of the holes from last year interfere with the new.
This part is not a assemble at this level time so i do not think I am concerned about existing data or components.
appreciate your time.
Tom
Don't mean to complicate your original post, just saying how I would do it.
Can you upload your part?
What version are you using?
I am not at liberty to do so.
2015.
this was very simple saving each as a dwg.
and putting each into different layers.
again I am a beginning SW user.
so far from what I understand.
I need to create a new assembly just for this consideration and put both old an new parts in it?
and then I can see where holes collide?
anyone else?
For me that's the quickest way - However I also know that if you're just learning SW it could be more of a challenge to understand that process.
I need to create a new assembly just for this consideration and put both old an new parts in it?
and then I can see where holes collide?
That's what I would recommend, but the biggest thing is this - Whatever is the easiest for You, and you get the result you're looking for, then by all means do what works best for you.
Tom,.. the compare is one way to go (if you have professional/premium).. but personally, I'd use "insert part" (my favorite feature).... insert part the "old" and draw/compare your new.... see attached..
All Right!
I'm getting it.
creating a new assembly with the 2 models mated shows the differences.
now, can someone tell me if it is possible to set the colors of each model(s) geometry differently.
I have been selecting one part in the feature tree and going to appearances, this only seems to have an effect if I set my display style for shaded.
Thank you much,
Tom
Yes - you would only get the color in the shaded mode - the other is just a wire frame and no color on the lines, unless you select every line in one of the parts and change the line color.
John,
Good enough.
Thank you.
Tom
Have you tried the "compare" feature on the "tools" bar?