SOLIDWORKS 2019 comes with dozens of features that expand on the robust toolset we have been using for decades. We’re eager to share with you the newly expanded capabilities of the Offset on Surface tool which now includes Geodesic Entities. Through the offset on the surface command, you can now add an offset that is defined as either a geodesic offset or a Euclidean offset.
Differences Between Geodesic and Euclidean Offsets
The differences between the two are subtle but have big implications in the definition of the geometry. It all has to do with a curve that considers the curvature of the surface.
- Geodesic Offset: Creates an offset distance that is the shortest possible distance between the selected edge and the resultant offset entity, taking the support curvature into account.
- Euclidean Offset: Creates a liner offset distance between the selected edge and the offset entity that does not include the curvature of the surface.
In other words, a geodesic offset distance is measured along the surface (shown in green), while a Euclidean offset distance is measured as a linear distance (shown in pink).
>> See all of our Top Features in SOLIDWORKS 2019
We know a lot of users are extremely happy to see the expansion of the Offset on Surface command to include this functionality. It is a welcome addition for those creating complex, curvy shapes. With this and the dozens of other new tools and expanded functionality, what will you create with SOLIDWORKS 2019?
Do you want to learn more about the SOLIDWORKS 2019 enhancements and updates? Download our infographic highlighting TriMech’s Top 11 Favorite Features in SOLIDWORKS 2019.
