How to enter points with x, y and z coordinates?

Sometimes you may receive files from vendors or get information from a CCM where you need to plot out reference points using x, y and z coordinates.  There are not many tools in SOLIDWORKS that will allow you to enter in x, y, z coordinates regardless of the feature type. 

One trick is using a 3D sketch…

In a 3D sketch:

1  -  Create however many points you need.  (Doesn't matter the location.)

2  -  Select a point.  Using the property manager on the left hand side, enter in the x, y, z coordinates of the point.

Note:  Parameters for any entity in the property manager are strictly for reference.  Entering values in the parameter boxes will NOT constrain the geometry.  Relations and dimensions are highly recommended to fully constrain sketch entities.

3  -  Because of the above note, the point is not constrained and is still floating in 3D space (hence the blue / under defined color).  This is one of the few times that it would be a good idea to use the “fix” relation so that you do not in advertently move the point.

4  -  Repeat the steps for the additional points.

Points-1 

Nathan Brunner, CSWP

Technical Analyst

Computer Aided Technology, Inc.

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