How to Create a Sphere in SOLIDWORKS

There are several different approaches to create a sphere in SOLIDWORKS. While it is a straightforward task, you may need to use one or all of the methods depending on your requirements.

We will be covering these three approaches: modeling a solid sphere, a surface body sphere, and a hollow sphere. This may come in handy with many applications within your modeling workflow. Each method has its strengths depending on your goal.

As with everything in SOLIDWORKS, there are multiple ways to achieve the desired outcome; the only right one is what suits your needs for your specific project.

How to Model a Sphere with Revolve Features

The most straightforward way to create a sphere in SOLIDWORKS is by using the Revolved Boss feature. Let’s look at what is involved in using this method of modeling.

1. Sketch a Semicircle: First, we will need to sketch a center line on any of the available sketch planes so that we have an entity to revolve around. After we have created the center line, we will create a half circle or hemisphere by using a three-point arc, ensuring the center point falls on the centerline.
2. Fully Define the Sketch: Once we have sketched the semicircle, we need to dimension it and add other relations to fully define it. In this case, we will set the radius of the arc to 50mm to get a 100mm diameter sphere.

   A fully defined semicircle sketch

3. Use the Revolve Boss/Base Command: Once we have sketched and dimensioned the hemisphere, use the Revolve Boss/Base command. Ensure you specify 360 degrees for rotation to revolve fully around the selected axis.
   

   Using a Revolve feature to create a sphere

This will create a sphere with a solid interior to be used for normal part or assembly operations. You can now apply materials to the model and calculate volume, weight, or other physical characteristics.

How to Model a Sphere with Surfacing Techniques

In some instances, you may need to use a surface body to model a sphere. This comes in handy for reference geometry, or any applications where zero-thickness geometry requires such as a split body operation.

1. Sketch a Semicircle: First, we will need to sketch a center line on any of the available sketch planes so that we have an entity to revolve around. After we have created the center line, we will create a half circle or hemisphere by using a three-point arc, ensuring the center point falls on the centerline.
   

   The initial sketch for the sphere model

2. Fully Define the Sketch: Once we have sketched the semicircle, we need to dimension it and add other relations to fully define it. In this case, we will set the radius of the arc to 50mm to get a 100mm diameter sphere.
3. Use the Surface Revolve Command: Using the surfacing tools on the SOLIDWORKS Command Manager, find and use the Revolved Surface command. Once in the feature, revolve your sketch 360 degrees.
   

   A sphere modeled with surfacing techniques

This will create a sphere in SOLIDWORKS that is empty, comprised of a single surface body. This technique is useful for advanced modeling techniques, such as creating reference geometry or using it in operations that require zero-thickness geometry.

How to Model a Hollow Sphere

Sometimes, you need a sphere that is hollow inside, perfect for reducing weight. This method will produce a shell of a sphere that has a void in the middle but still retains solid geometry around the wall thickness.

1. Create a Semicircle Sketch with an Offset: After creating a semicircle sketch with a centerline as described in the previous example, use the Offset Sketch command to create a second arc with a specified thickness.
2. Join the Two Arcs: Connect the two offset sketches with line segments to create a fully defined polygon.
   

   A sketch used with two offset sketches for a hollow sketch

3. Use the Revolve Boss/Base Command: Once we have sketched and dimensioned the hemisphere, use the Revolve Boss/Base command. Ensure you specify 360 degrees for rotation to revolve fully around the selected axis.
   

   Revolving a hollow sphere

This will create a sphere with a solid interior to be used for normal part or assembly operations. You can now apply materials to the model and calculate volume, weight, or other physical characteristics.

Knowing More Than How to Create a Sphere

The ability to create a sphere in SOLIDWORKS is a basic skill that leads to a plethora of design options. These techniques offer versatility and accuracy, whether you select a hollow sphere for lightweight applications, a solid sphere for structural integrity, or a surface sphere for more complex modeling. Try out each method to see which one works best for your project.

Being able to tackle complex models and techniques requires a solid foundation of software knowledge. Staying on top of the SOLIDWORKS basics gives you the ability to experiment and learn new areas of the software.

Ensure you have the foundations and basics by downloading our SOLIDWORKS Beginner’s Guide here.