You can't directly extrude a sketch in a SOLIDWORKS assembly. Extrusions are created within individual parts, not in the assembly environment.
Here's how you can achieve the desired outcome:
- Create the Sketch in a Part:
- Open a new part file or use an existing one.
- Create your sketch on a plane or face within the part.
- Extrude the Sketch:
- Use the Extrude feature in the Features tab to create a 3D solid from your sketch.
- Insert the Part into the Assembly:
- Go to your assembly file and use the Insert Components command to place the part you just created.
- Position and Mate the Part:
- Use mates to accurately position the part within the assembly.
Example:
Imagine you want to create a rectangular block that fits inside a cylindrical hole in your assembly.
- Part File: Create a new part file, sketch a rectangle, and extrude it to create the block.
- Assembly File: Insert the block into the assembly, position it using mates, and ensure it fits within the cylindrical hole.
Key Points:
- Separate Entities: Parts and assemblies are separate entities in SOLIDWORKS.
- Assembly is for Combining: The assembly environment is primarily for combining and positioning existing parts.
- Individual Part Features: Features like extrusions are created within individual parts.
Practical Insights:
- Design Intent: Always think about the purpose of your design when deciding where to create features.
- Streamlined Workflow: Creating features in individual parts helps maintain a clean and organized assembly structure.
- Flexibility: By creating parts independently, you can easily modify them later without affecting other parts in the assembly.
