Chapter 9: Patterning and Mirroring
IN THIS CHAPTER
Using the Pattern function in sketch mode
Using the Mirror function in sketch mode
Using the geometry pattern
Patterning or mirroring as bodies
Understanding Pattern faces
Patterning fillets with their parent geometry
Introducing pattern types
Creating the appearance of geometry with Cosmetic Patterns
Discovering 3D mirroring techniques
Patterning and mirroring in SolidWorks are great tools to help you improve your efficiency. SolidWorks software provides many powerful pattern types that also help you accomplish design tasks. In addition to the different types of patterns, some options enable functionality that you may not have considered.
Patterning in a Sketch
You can use both pattern and mirror functions in sketch mode, although sketch patterns are not a preferred choice. The distinction between patterning and mirroring in sketch mode is important when it comes to sketch performance.
Performance
Although there are many metrics for how software performs, in SolidWorks, the word performance is synonymous with speed. Sketch patterns have a very adverse effect on speed and do not offer the same level of control as feature patterns.
You might hear lots of conflicting information about which features are better to use in different situations. Users coming from a 2D background often use a function such as sketch patterning because it's familiar, without questioning whether a better approach is available, and often without having ...
