Boolean Parts

Create a new part by using one set of solids to edit another set of solids.

The Boolean tools work on both geometry and mesh parts.

Combine Parts

Combine two individual objects or two sets of objects.

  1. On the Geometry tab, in the Modify group, click the Boolean tool, and then click the Combine tool.
  2. Select two individual objects or two sets of objects.
  3. Click Combine.


    Figure 1. Boolean Combine, Before and After

Subtract Parts

Carve out one set of solid objects from another set of solid objects.

You will select two sets of solid objects, which must intersect.
  • Targets are the set of objects being carved.
  • Tools are the set of objects doing the carving.
  1. On the Geometry tab, in the Modify group, click the Boolean tool, and then click the Subtract tool.
  2. A guidebar appears with Targets automatically selected. Select one or more solid objects.
  3. Press Tab or click Tools, and then select one or more solid objects.
  4. Optional: To keep the tools in the final result, select Keep Tools.
  5. Click Subtract.


    Figure 2. Boolean Subtract, Before and After

Intersect Parts

Retain only the intersecting portions of two sets of solid objects.

You will select two sets of solid objects, which must to intersect.
  • Targets are the first set of objects.
  • Tools are the second set of objects.
  1. On the Geometry ribbon, in the Modify group, click the Boolean tool, and then click the Intersect tool.
  2. A guidebar appears with Targets automatically selected. Select one or more solid objects.
  3. Press Tab or click Tools, and then select one or more solid objects.
  4. Choose from the following options:
    • Keep Targets: Keep the targets in the final result.
    • Keep Tools: Keep the tools in the final result.
  5. Click Intersect.


    Figure 3. Boolean Intersect, Before and After

Keyboard Shortcuts & Mouse Controls

To Do this
Select Tools Tab
Add to or remove from the selection Ctrl
Exit tool Right-click and mouse through the check mark to exit, or double-right-click.