Smart Linear Patterns?

[suelflow]

Can the number of instances of a linear pattern be the result of an equation?

I would like to automatically space out one part (in an assembly) at 18" O.C. along another for as many as needed (as it changes lengths).

This assembly is actually a sub-assembly that is reused in the main assembly with various lengths.

I was thinking I would center the one part on the second and have a bidirectional Linear Pattern with the number of instances in each direction be equal to half the whole number result of the dimension of the length divided by 18" (& maybe minus 1?). The thing is, I cannot find the name of the number of instances to refer to.

BTW - Is anyone out there using Structureworks Precast? If so, we need to network. To my knowledge there are fewer than a hundred of us.

 

[CorBlimeyLimey]

Before opening the Equation function, double click on the pattern in the FM tree. The pattern spacing and qty should appear in the graphics area, although you may have to zoom in close to be able to see them. Next, start the Equation function and after clicking the Add button, simply click on the qty you want to control to insert it into the equation.

FYI, if you have SW2007 you can use the Fill Pattern function instead of an equation.


SW07-SP3.1
SW06-SP5.1