Chapter 9: Patterning and Mirroring Components
In This Chapter
Creating local component patterns Placing the initial components for feature-driven component patterns Examining other pattern options Creating component patterns tutorial
In SolidWorks assemblies, the word component can refer to either parts or subassemblies at the top level of an assembly. Component patterns can therefore be patterns of parts, subassemblies, or combinations of parts and subassemblies.
Component patterns come in two varieties: local patterns, which include linear and circular patterns, and feature-driven patterns, which are driven by a feature pattern in a part. The local patterns are obviously somewhat limited, but because feature-driven patterns follow patterned features, they can also be driven by sketch-driven patterns. Curve-driven and fill patterns can also be used.
It is possible to focus only on the basics, making patterns that exist in the present moment. However, if you are interested in creating features that will adapt to future changes, then you will find the tools in this chapter useful.
Mirroring components in assemblies is far more complex than mirroring features in parts. SolidWorks provides options for mirrored parts, mirrored positions, left- and right-hand versions of parts, and mirroring parts and subassemblies within top-level assemblies.
Using Local Component Patterns
Local component patterns are limited to linear and circular patterns; SolidWorks assemblies do not offer the ...
