I am trying to convert 2D Autocad drawings into 3D models using the 2D-3D interface. The .dwg files I have are essentially rectangular blocks with hundreds of either #4,#6,#8 holes and some blind holes. Is there a way I can automatically count how many holes there are (to make sure it lines up with what the .dwg callout says? And is there a way I can automatically select all #4 holes and use that to extrude cut them, and then all #6 holes etc...obviously I do not want to sit there and manually select 100 #4 holes to extrude them. The holes are all extruded to unique depths per size so I can;t just blindly select them all.
And separate question - how can I pull the 2D to 3D toolbar back up after accidentally closing it? It's a pain to have to go into sketch tools, 2d to 3d, then click what i want everytime if I close it in order to do things. And can 2D to 3D only directly do extrudes/cuts? What if I have a chamfer, or lofted/swept area? Do I have to do that manually after the fact?
Thanks
Matt,
No, there isn't an automatic way to do that using sketched circles. You could use Hole Wizard and have it tell you in the drawing how many there are. I usually reference the imported dwg sketch to place all my holes and you can see as you are placing them if you accidentally put the wrong size in a spot.
To turn the toolbars on and off just RMB on the top bar of the SolidWorks window and select the "2D to 3D" toolbar.
I would recommend that you don't try and use all the dwg sketches to recreate your file in 3D completely. Use it as a reference and building block for generating the 3D using SolidWorks features to create geometry.
Paul