SolidWorks 2010 Bible

CHAPTERCHAPTER

Using Component

Patterns and Mirrors

IN THIS CHAPTER

Creating local component

patterns

Placing the initial components

for feature-driven

component patterns

Examining other pattern

options

Mirroring components

Creating component

patterns tutorial

I

n 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.

Performance

For best pattern performance, you should use subassemblies as the patterned

unit as much as is practical. Multiple patterns of individual components are

not as efficient as a single pattern of multiple components. A single pattern of

a single component, where the single component is itself a subassembly, is the

best choice, if available.

Another performance issue is the fact that component patterns require exter-

nal references (for the direction or center of the pattern). These external refer-

ences have the potential to increase rebuild times if you do not choose them

carefully. Reference geometry internal to the assembly would be the best

choice.

Although you can experience possible performance problems with patterns,

patterns can also significantly decrease the number of mates in an assembly,

which always improves performance. n

Component patterns come in two varieties: local patterns, which include lin-

ear 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, to simply make 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 this chapter useful.