The feature is an advanced modeling tool available from the Tools Menu. has two applications: it allows for an alternative method for assembly modeling with multiple body parts, and it allows you to slice a given part into several sub-volumes (for example, sweepable volumes for hex meshing).
Normally, a 3D solid feature operates like this:
Create the bodies of the 3D feature (for example, the body or bodies of an Extrude feature).
Merge the feature bodies with the existing model via Boolean Operations:
The feature allows you to control the second step. It acts as a separator in the construction history as displayed in the Tree Outline. Any bodies created for features before a will become frozen. Frozen bodies are denoted by the ice cube icon next to a body under the Bodies branch of the Tree Outline. All frozen bodies will be ignored when it comes to the Add, Cut, or Imprint Material operation of any features following the Freeze.
The solid features offer an additional Boolean operation:
Active bodies in the Slice operation will be frozen automatically in the case of Slice Material, the Freeze separator does not hide bodies from the Boolean operation.
Other Advanced Tools: