CHAPTERCHAPTER
Modeling in Context
IN THIS CHAPTER
Evaluating in-context modeling
pros and cons
Examining the pros and cons of
in-context modeling
Understanding inserted, split,
and mirror parts
Understanding the Layout
workflow
Working in-context tutorial
Working with a layout tutorial
I
n this chapter, I present best practice suggestions and offer a balanced
explanation so that you can evaluate the benefits and potential problems
associated with in-context modeling. I give you enough facts so that you
can decide for yourself how in-context techniques fit into your process.
In-context modeling is an extremely powerful technique for extending para-
metric design from individual parts to top-level assemblies. With the power
comes potential for mistakes. If you are not careful, in-context modeling can
lead to unexpected results.
Understanding In-Context
Modeling
In-context modeling is also known as top-down modeling. It is a technique
used to create relationships between parts in the context of an assembly,
where the geometry of one of the parts is controlled by both the other part
and the mates that position them relative to one another.
In-context, or top-down, modeling may be contrasted against bottom-up
modeling. Bottom-up modeling involves making the parts in their own
individual windows and assembling the finished parts into an assembly
with mates.
In its most common form, a sketch in one part in an assembly is related
to an edge in another part in the assembly. The relationship is specific to
that particular assembly, and is only relevant in the context of that assembly.