Chapter 7: Selecting Features
Putting together a Composite curve
The composite curve joins multiple curves, edges, or sketches into a single curve entity. The spring
shown in Figure 7.28 was created by using a composite curve to join a 3D sketch, variable pitch
helix, and a projected curve. You can also use model edges with the composite curve. The curve is
shown on half of the part; the rest of the part is mirrored. Curves cannot be mirrored.
Composite curves overlap in functionality with the Selection Manager to some extent. In some
ways, the Composite Curve is nicer because you can save a selection in case the creation of the fea-
ture that uses the Selection Manager fails. (If you can’t create the feature, you can’t save the selec-
tion.) On the other hand, Composite Curves don’t function the same way that a selection of model
edges do for settings like tangency and curvature.FIGURE 7.28A part created from a composite curve
Using Split lines
Split lines are not exactly curves; they are just edges that split faces into multiple faces. Split lines
are used for several purposes, but are primarily intended to split faces so that draft can be added.
They are also used for creating a broken-out face for a color break or to create an edge for a hold
line fillet, which I discuss later in this chapter.
There are some limitations to using split lines. First, they must split a face into at least two fully
enclosed areas. You cannot have a split line with an open loop sketch where the ends of the loop
are on the face that is to be split; they must either hang off the face to be split or be coincident with
the edges. If you think you need a split line from an open loop, try using a projected curve instead.The SolidWorks 2010 version removes some other long-standing limitations, such as splitting on
multiple bodies, using multiple closed loops, and using nested loops. These much needed
improvements will help users avoid workarounds.