
Create reference geometry by projecting model geometry (edges and vertices), loops, work features, or sketch geometry from another sketch onto the active sketch plane. You can use the projected geometry :
Overview of projected geometry
The size and position of projected geometry is fixed relative to the originating sketch ( reference geometry ). You can constrain sketch geometry to the projected geometry. The projected geometry is associative, and moves or changes when its parent sketch moves or changes. Sketch geometry that is constrained to the projected geometry also moves.
In an assembly, project edges of a selected component cut by an assembly section onto the sketch plane when the edges would intersect the sketch plane. The projected geometry is not associative, and if the parent geometry moves or resizes, it does not update.
You can automatically project reference geometry onto the sketch plane by selecting options in Application Options, Sketch tab.
When you project spline curves from the construction environment to a 2D sketch, you create nonassociative reference splines. Any edits to a reference spline create an approximation of the original spline, which can cause the loss of accuracy of the curve.
You can use any sketch or constraint command to edit normal style geometry.
Unlike projecting edges of the face one curve at a time, a projected loop places a Projected Loop entry in the browser under the Sketch symbol.
Changes to the parent feature or face, such as causing the loops to overlap, automatically trims the projected loop. If the geometry is projected one curve at a time instead of a loop, the projected geometry is not trimmed.
Why are selected faces sometimes highlighted?
A selected face is highlighted only when selection is ambiguous and your selection is a single-curve loop such as a closed spline, ellipse, or circle. When a loop comprises multiple segments, such as a rectangular slot, the Select Other command cycles through the edges and faces of parent geometry so you can see what will be projected.
Highlighting the loop helps you understand the origin of the projected geometry. When the parent geometry updates, the loop update is different depending on which face the loop is from, particularly if line segments are added.
Can I delete a projected loop?
You can delete a projected loop two ways:
Can I break the association between projected geometry and parent geometry?
Projected geometry is reference geometry and updates when the parent geometry changes. To break its association with parent geometry, use the Break Link command from the context menu.
You can use any sketch or constraint command to edit normal style geometry.
How do I use projected geometry in assemblies?
You can project the edges of a component cut by an assembly section to the sketch plane if the part would intersect the sketch plane. Projected cut edges are not associative in a sketch. The geometry is a "snapshot" of the geometry when projected, and if the parent geometry changes, does not update.
In an assembly, you can create a part in place by specifying a face or plane as the sketch plane. You can then project edges, loops, or a face to the sketch. The features you create from the projected geometry are associative to the parent sketch, unless you break the link.
You can place a sketch on or offset from a part face. Similar to projecting a face from another part in an assembly, the Project Geometry command on the Sketch tab selects edges and loops or all loops on a face. When there is more than one loop selection possible, the Select Other command cycles through and highlights each.
What are some uses for projected geometry?
What methods do I use to project geometry?
Choose a method to fit your design needs:
Project geometry to the sketch plane
If you selected a loop (closed spline, circle, or ellipse), a face highlights when there are several possible selections. Cycle through selections using the Select Other command. When the geometry highlights, click to select.
The selected face or faces must be connected to the sketch plane with bends, and must lie on the same side of the sheet metal as the sketch plane.
Project geometry to a 3D sketch
A preview displays the projected geometry while you modify the 2D source sketch. When you finish the 2D sketch, a 3D sketch is created that contains the projected geometry.
The normal geometry is no longer associated with the original geometry.
Use Sketch commands such as General Dimension, Trim, and Extend, and constraints to edit the geometry independently.
Projects model geometry (edges and vertices), loops, work axes, work points, or unconsumed sketch geometry onto the active sketch plane .
Projects model edges onto the active sketch plane from a component cut by a section plane in a sketch. Occurs only when the edges would intersect the sketch plane.
Projects geometry from the active 2D sketch onto selected faces. When you exit the 2D sketch, a 3D sketch is created, and it contains the projected geometry.
| Project | Enables/disables the projection of 2D geometry onto faces. |
| Faces | Specifies the faces to project geometry to. |
| Preview | Enables/disables the preview of projected geometry. |