Combine, Subtract and Intersect
Three tools that change parts using other parts: join them, cut one with another, or keep where they overlap.
Onshape puts these in one tool called Boolean, and SOLIDWORKS and Fusion in one called Combine. SchoolCAD gives each its own button, so you can see what each does:
- Combine joins two or more parts into one part (Onshape: Union · SOLIDWORKS: Add).
- Subtract cuts the shape of one part out of another, such as a groove for a shelf (press B).
- Intersect keeps only where parts overlap (Advanced mode; SOLIDWORKS: Common).
- Split is the opposite of Combine: it cuts one part into two.
Designs made with the old Boolean tool still work: double-click one in the feature tree and it opens as Combine, Subtract or Intersect.