SolidWorks 2010 Bible

Part I: SolidWorks Basics

Cross-Reference
To learn more about sketch cursor feedback, see Chapter 3. n

The Select cursor changes depending on the item over which you have positioned it. Cursor sym-

bols also help remind you when selection filters are active. The cursor is frequently available as an

OK button. For example, after selecting edges for a Fillet feature, the RMB functions as an OK but-

ton. Figure 2.22 shows various cursors and their significance.

FIGURE 2.22

Various SolidWorks cursors

Select

OK

Selection Select

sketch

plane

Sketch

line

Working with models in the FeatureManager and

PropertyManager windows

The FeatureManager window is the panel to the left of the screen, which shows an ordered list of

features describing how the part was built. SolidWorks users spend a fair amount of time using the

FeatureManager to edit or inspect models. Figure 2.23 shows the FeatureManager for a simple

model.

Using the FeatureManager ...............................................................................

There is a splitter bar at the top of the FeatureManager that enables you to split the
FeatureManager window into two windows, enabling you to display the FeatureManager and
another window, such as the PropertyManager (see Figure 2.24). Small arrows in the middle of the
right separator can collapse the FeatureManager to increase screen space. The F9 key also collapses
or opens the FeatureManager (refer to Figure 2.23.)

The Display pane ...........................................................................................

You can open the Display pane flyout from the FeatureManager by using the double arrows at the
top-right corner of the FeatureManager. The Display pane helps you to visualize where appear-
ances, display styles, or hidden bodies have been applied in a part document and additional func-
tions in an assembly document. The display pane is helpful when you’re looking for colors that are
applied to the model at some level other than the part level.