SolidWorks 2010 Bible

Part VII: Working with Specialized Functionality

Note
To check the cavity and core blocks to make sure that they make the shape desired, make a new block that is
larger than the original part, making sure to deselect the Merge Result option. Then use the Combine tool to
subtract the mold parts from the new block. Then use the inverse scale to shrink it back down to finished part
size (1original scale factor).

Also note the Interlock surface option in Figure 32.25. Most if not all of the examples of molds that you see
created with SolidWorks mold tools are going to employ parting line interlocks. This is not because most molds
are built that way, but because it is the main way that SolidWorks gets around the limitations in the Parting
Line functionality. n

Core

I will use the Core feature to create a set of core pins. All the standing steel that creates the coun-
terbores for the screw bosses is made from separate replaceable pins. You can use many techniques
to locate pins rotationally. This is not a lesson in mold design, but a lesson only in mold modeling
techniques.

You can either pre-create a sketch or just make a sketch when the Core feature asks you for it. The

Core feature is looking for a sketch that will cut out the block of mold material that you want to

make a core of. Again, you can use this for side cores or core pins. In this case, I want to make sev-

eral core pins.

To start, activate the Core feature; then sketch circles centered on each of the screw boss cores in

the Cavity body. When I exit the sketch using the Confirmation Corner, SolidWorks prompts me

for an extrusion depth for the sketch to create the feature. The Core PropertyManager and the fea-

ture preview are shown in Figure 32.26.

FIGURE 32.26

The Core feature