Problem

This article goes over how to project a 2D Sketch onto a Surface or Face using a Projected Curve in SOLIDWORKS. For other methods, check out these articles:
How to Project a Sketch onto a Surface or Face using Convert Entities in SOLIDWORKS – Hawk Ridge Systems
How to Project a Sketch onto a Surface or Face using a Wrap in SOLIDWORKS – Hawk Ridge Systems
How to Project a Sketch onto a Surface or Face using Split Lines in SOLIDWORKS – Hawk Ridge Systems

A projection is used to map a set of entities to a 3D face or surface perpendicular (or normal) to the sketch plane.

If the projection is viewed normal to the sketch, it will appear to follow the same path, despite each point having different heights in relation to the sketch plane.

Solution

To use the "Projected Curve" feature, follow the steps below:

1. Navigate to the "Features" tab
2. Select the "Curves" button to open the Curve Commands drop-down menu

3. Click "Project Curve" from the drop-down menu

   

4. Select the appropriate Projection type from the "Projected Curve" property manager. Sketch on faces projects a sketch onto a face or surface. Sketch on sketch produces a curve that represents the intersection of both sketches.

   

5. If "Sketch on faces" was selected, select the intended sketch, surface/face, and (optional) projection direction as shown below

   

6. If "Sketch on sketch" was selected, select the two intended sketches as shown below.

   

7. Click the green check to complete the feature

Once the projected curve is complete, we are left with 3D curve geometry. These are most commonly used as sweep paths and guide curves for sweeps, lofts, and boundary features.

For additional support, existing customers can submit a ticket or new customers can contact Hawk Ridge Systems.