Is it possible to add 3D annotations directly on a part in SolidWorks?
Short Answer
Yes — in SolidWorks, you can add 3D annotations directly on a part using 3D annotation View as part of the MBD workflow. This is the most common professional method for placing dimensions, notes, datums, and GD&T on model faces in the part environment. Limitation: visibility and downstream sharing depend on annotation views and supported formats.
What You Need to Know Before
Warning: 3D annotations can become unusable if the model is not oriented correctly in annotation views or if faces later change from edits. A common failure is attaching dimensions or notes to geometry that gets replaced, causing dangling annotations in MBD-based documentation.
How to Add 3D Annotations on a Part in SolidWorks
Command: 3D Annotation View
Shortcut: No default keyboard shortcut
Quick Steps:
- In the CommandManager, go to the MBD tab or Insert > Annotations > 3D Annotation View, then create a new annotation view from the current model orientation.
- Use standard annotation tools such as Smart Dimension, Geometric Tolerance, Datum Feature, or Note to place annotations directly on the part faces.
- In the PropertyManager, assign the annotation to the correct Annotation View and confirm the Show in 3D option is enabled if available.
Variables & Settings
Key Setting: Annotation View
Expert Setting: Annotation View controls which 3D annotations are visible in a given orientation. If annotations seem missing, they are often assigned to a different view rather than deleted.
Why it Fails
Cause 1 (Geometry): Annotations are attached to faces or edges that changed after a feature edit, causing dangling or misplaced references.
Cause 2 (layers/Locks): Hidden annotations, filtered display states, or disabled annotation visibility can prevent them from appearing even though they exist.
Cause 3 (Command/Logic): Users place standard annotations without first creating or activating the correct 3D annotation view, so the annotations do not display as expected in MBD views.
Quick Fix & Best Practice
Quick Fix: Open the target 3D Annotation View, then use View > Hide/Show > Annotations and reassign misplaced items in the annotation PropertyManager if needed.
Manager’s Verdict: Use 3D annotations when your workflow supports MBD, 3d pdf, or STEP 242 deliverables. Avoid relying on them alone if your suppliers still require traditional 2d drawings as the contractual manufacturing document.
FAQ
Can I add GD&T directly to a solidworks part?
Yes, GD&T can be placed directly in the part using MBD annotation tools.
Do 3D annotations require a drawing file?
No, they can be created directly in the part environment.
Can I export SolidWorks 3D annotations for sharing?
Yes, typically through MBD-supported outputs such as 3D PDF and compatible neutral formats.
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