Circular Array and Variables... 1

[m4rc]

(SEv18)

Hi,

I'm kind of new to using Solid Edge and I'm having a slight issue with the program… To keep it simple what I want to do is create a base 2D drawing that is fully constrained by variables to make the creation of the range a little easier. The range in this case is a flange plate, therefore I need:

O/D
I/D
PCD of the holes
N - number of holes
D - Ø of the holes

I've set up the easy ones, but cannot for the life of me get the program to modify the circular array that creates the N number of holes. Only the original hole gets updated, none of the arrayed holes… So my question is, can this be done to how I want or is this a limitation in the program?

Cheers,

Marc

 

[fredericmenage]

Hi,

Yes, it can be done. Read the help about the pattern features.

Check that your circular pattern feature is positionned correctly with dimensions and/or constraints (connected).

Make sure that the pattern contains all the original features you need (hole, chamfer, thread,...)

If it's a color that doesn't update, it's just because you are using the fast mode; try the smart mode instead.

HTH,

Fred

 

[m4rc]

Hi,

Thanks for the quick reply, but I'm not sure it'll work... Over the range I need to increase the number of holes, so this needs to be a variable. This means that I will only be contraining one hole...

Am I missing something here

Marc

 

[m4rc]

Hi again,

I can only seem to get this pattern feature in 3D not 2D which I'm working in...

Marc

 

[fredericmenage]

Hi,

In 2D (draft environment), the pattern tool is not parametric (no variables). Do you use the free SE 2D ?

The only way to do it in 2D would be to check 'maintain relationships' in the Tools menu and build construction geometries, constraints and dimensions for the maximum number of holes you could have (bolt circle, radial lines at each angle, place angle dimensions and make same equal or draw connection lines between the outside extremities of the radial lines and make those segments equal in length); place the circles for the holes, make them equal in diameter. Then go to Tools/Variable and enter the necessary formulas: create a user variable for the qty and calculate the angle between each hole by dividing 360 degrees by that qty user variable.
NB: the only drawback is that when you reduce the qty, some holes will be repeated twice (or more).

Of course, if you have SE 3D, it will be much simpler to do it in the part or psm environment and after create a view of the sketch or part in the draft environment.

HTH,

Fred

Fred

 

[m4rc]

Hi,

Thanks for the reply. We have 3D capability, but we don't use it (sigh)...

I think your way for the 2D solution might work quite well, so I'll look into that.

Thanks for the help.

Marc