Section View (Drawings, SOLIDWORKS)
A drawing view created by cutting through the model along a section line, showing internal geometry with hatching per ASME / ISO conventions.
Definition
On a drawing, place a section line through the model view, click to define the section direction, place the resulting section view. Aligned sections, offset sections, broken-out sections, partial sections, and revolved sections are all supported. Hatch patterns and density are controlled by the material applied in the part.
Why it matters
Section views communicate internal features that an outside view cannot. For machined parts, fabricated housings, and pressure vessels, sections are not optional — they are the deliverable.
Technical Deep Dive & Core Mechanics
From a geometric perspective, Section View (Drawings, SOLIDWORKS) represents a parametric boundary representation (B-Rep) mechanism within SOLIDWORKS. The underlying geometric modeling kernel—whether Parasolid, ACIS, or a proprietary solver—maintains a strictly ordered history tree (Feature Manager). Each operation stores topological references (faces, edges, vertices) that are re-evaluated sequentially during model regeneration.
Cross-Discipline Collaboration & Handoff
In global multi-office projects, Section View (Drawings, SOLIDWORKS) is a high-frequency handoff node between diverse software packages. During cross-platform export (for example, exporting SOLIDWORKS drawings to IFC for coordination in Navisworks or Solibri, or converting mechanical STEP files into BIM detail families):
Common pitfalls
- Forgetting to exclude bolts and shafts from section — solid-shaft sections look wrong per drafting standards.
- Defining the section line in a view whose orientation doesn't match the intended cut plane.
- Letting auto-hatch override the company standard — wood, plastic, and steel must look different.
This concept is a core structural element of the SOLIDWORKS drafting and engineering environment developed by Dassault Systèmes. Dassault Systèmes' mainstream parametric MCAD — feature-based modelling, assembly mates, and 2D drawings tightly coupled to the 3D model.
Relevant SOLIDWORKS FAQs
❓ Is SOLIDWORKS available on macOS?
Not natively. SOLIDWORKS is Windows-only. Mac users run it via Parallels, VMware Fusion, or Boot Camp (Intel Macs). On Apple Silicon, virtualisation is limited. The official cross-platform alternative from Dassault is the browser-based xDesign on 3DEXPERIENCE.
❓ What's the difference between SOLIDWORKS Standard, Professional, and Premium?
Standard is the core modelling + drawings package. Professional adds CAD Library, PhotoView 360 rendering, eDrawings Professional, Toolbox, advanced sheet metal. Premium adds Simulation, Routing (electrical/piping), ScanTo3D, Motion. Most production shops use Premium; education usually uses Premium-equivalent.
❓ What is 3DEXPERIENCE SOLIDWORKS vs. traditional SOLIDWORKS?
Traditional SOLIDWORKS is a desktop product, files saved to disk/network/PDM. 3DEXPERIENCE SOLIDWORKS is the same desktop product but cloud-connected: files saved to the 3DEXPERIENCE platform, license tied to a Platform identity, and access to companion cloud apps (3D Sculptor / xDesign, simulation, PLM).
⚡ Concept Self-Test
🎓 Recommended Practice Lessons
Step-by-step practical exercises and certification-aligned paths chosen by our editors to master this concept:
The Complete SOLIDWORKS 2026 Masterclass: From Beginner to Pro
SOLIDWORKS Professional Design & Engineering Specialization
Certified SOLIDWORKS Professional (CSWP) Exam Study Guide & Mock Practice
🌳 Semantic Crossroads & Navigation Pathways
Trunk-Branch-Leaf ModelCore glossary, interactive graph, and domain-wide concept index.
Parent design environments and platforms implementing this method natively.