Chapter 37
Using Imported Geometry and Direct-Editing Techniques
Dealing with geometry imported from other CAD systems is often difficult, particularly in history-based systems. Imports aren't always clean, meaning they often need repairs. Sometimes, you might want to change it. Imported data is often called “dumb geometry” because it has no features. Imported data can be edited using Direct Editing tools and techniques.
The Direct Editing tools in SolidWorks enable you to change a part without having access to the history of features that created the part; however, they do create history-based features in SolidWorks. Direct editing works on both native and imported geometry either by simply moving faces or by editing the geometry directly rather than indirectly through feature definitions or sketches.
This chapter looks at the Import and Export tools available in SolidWorks and the Direct Editing tools that can be used to manipulate imported or native geometry.
