using a derived part
using a derived part
(OP)
I have modeled a sems screw (screw, lockwasher, flatwasher) by creating a derived part.
I put the screw, lw, & fw in one directory, and I put the derived part in that same directory.
Now when I insert it into an assy, there is a single part in the bom.
What are the pitfalls, if any, of using this method? Recommend or despise?
I put the screw, lw, & fw in one directory, and I put the derived part in that same directory.
Now when I insert it into an assy, there is a single part in the bom.
What are the pitfalls, if any, of using this method? Recommend or despise?






RE: using a derived part
If you don't expect to have to change the individual parts in the future, you can put them together in an assembly and then save the assembly as a part using Save As. This has the advantage of not needing the individual piece parts any more. You will get some level of better performance out of this method. The disadvantage is that the part becomes a dumb solid with no feature history.
Another method is to keep it as an assembly. Then, in the Configuration Properties of that assembly, you can check the box marked "Don't show child components in BOM when used as a subassembly." This makes your little assembly much easier to modify in the future. For some types of components (pneumatic cylinders spring to mind) this is really the only method that achieves the single BOM line without a major loss of model functionality.
RE: using a derived part
Dan
www.eltronresearch.com
RE: using a derived part
"There are two other ways I can think of immediately to get the end result of one line in the BOM:"
But what about the merits of my method? My method keeps the parts as an assembly without dumbing down, and it is a single entry in the BOM no matter how you set up the BOM.
Dave Zinn
Mech. Des.
Currently residing in Massachusetts
RE: using a derived part
Hulk brain hurt when Hulk think...
Dan
www.eltronresearch.com
RE: using a derived part
I'm not going to say your way is better, worse, or indifferent to the two other ways I mentioned. I didn't say those were better ways, just other ways that I have used. Personally, I have never used your method, but everyone has different preferences. Each one works differently. Everyone's situation is different. What is an advantage to one person's situation is a disadvantage to another person. I'm glad you found a way that works well for you. If you like it, keep using it.
RE: using a derived part
Jason
SolidWorks 2007 SP4.0 on WinXP SP2
SolidWorks 2008 SP0.0 on WinXP SP2
RE: using a derived part
Dave Zinn
Mech. Des.
Currently residing in Massachusetts
RE: using a derived part
Often used for purchased parts which are then modified. Changes made to the derived part will NOT be reflected in the original. Also used for castings where the derived part would be used to create the machined part.
RE: using a derived part
In addition to the modified purchase parts, derived parts are commonly used for cast parts that are later machined.
I agree with Gildashard concerning your method of creating the sems fastener. You buy a screw with a couple of washers built onto it. It should be modelled that way.
-Dustin
Professional Engineer
Certified SolidWorks Professional
RE: using a derived part
-Dustin
Professional Engineer
Certified SolidWorks Professional