SolidWorks 2010 Bible

CHAPTER

Patterning and

Mirroring

IN THIS CHAPTER

Using the Pattern function in

sketch mode

Using the Mirror function in

sketch mode

Using 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

Discover 3D mirroring

techniques

Creating a circular pattern

tutorial

Mirroring features tutorial

Applying a Cosmetic Pattern

tutorial

P

atterning 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, there are options that enable
functionality that you may not have considered. A solid understanding of
patterning and mirroring tools is necessary to be able to build the maximum
amount of parametric intelligence into your models.

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 means the same thing as speed. Sketch patterns have a

very adverse effect on speed, and do not offer the same level of control as

feature patterns. n

You might hear a lot of conflicting information about which features are

better to use in different situations. Users coming from a 2D background

often use functions such as sketch patterning because it’s familiar, without

questioning whether there is a better approach. When in doubt, you can

perform a test to determine which features work best for a given situation.