How to Create an Aligned Section View in SOLIDWORKS
Contents
An aligned section view creates a section through angled or non-parallel features and unfolds that cutting path into a readable drawing view. It is useful for parts or assemblies where a normal straight section would miss important holes, ribs, slots, or angled geometry.
When to use an aligned section
Use an aligned section view when the features you need to show are not arranged along one straight cutting line. Instead of creating several separate section views, an aligned section lets the cutting line bend through the important features and presents them in one sectioned view.
This is common on circular parts, brackets with angled holes, castings, and assemblies where important details sit on different centerlines.
Start the section view
- Open the drawing and select the view that will be sectioned.
- Go to View Layout and choose Section View.
- Choose the aligned section option if it is not already active.
- Sketch the cutting line so it passes through the features that need to appear in section.
- Place the resulting section view on the drawing sheet.
The cutting line should be simple and intentional. Use as few bends as possible while still passing through the geometry that matters.
Control the cutting line
After placing the view, review the cutting line arrows, labels, and bend points. The drawing reader should be able to understand where the section was taken without guessing. If the line crosses too many unrelated features, simplify it or create a separate detail view.
Make sure the aligned view does not imply that angled features are physically in one straight plane. The section is a drawing convention used to show related features clearly.
Review the section hatching after the view is created. Adjacent parts or bodies should be distinguishable, and the hatch should not cover important edges or dimensions. If the section is hard to read, adjust hatch settings or move dimensions away from crowded geometry.
Also check whether hidden lines are needed. In many section views, hidden lines are turned off for clarity. If hidden detail is important, turn it on deliberately and verify that the view is still readable.
Dimension the section view
Add only the dimensions that are clearer in the aligned section view. Hole spacing, wall thickness, slot size, and internal clearances are common examples. Avoid duplicating dimensions that are already clear in the parent view unless the drawing standard requires it.
Troubleshooting
If the view looks distorted or confusing, inspect the cutting line and reduce unnecessary bends. If the wrong bodies are sectioned, check the section scope and drawing view settings. For assemblies, confirm whether fasteners or standard components should be excluded from sectioning.
