A derived part in SolidWorks is a powerful feature that allows you to create new parts based on existing ones. It provides a way to link multiple parts together, making it easier to design complex assemblies and maintain consistency throughout your projects. In this article, we will explore the concept of derived parts in SolidWorks and learn how to use them effectively.
Why Use Derived Parts?
Derived parts are incredibly useful when working on large assemblies or designs with similar components. Instead of creating each part from scratch, you can save time by deriving new parts from existing ones. This ensures that changes made to the original part automatically update in all derived parts, minimizing errors and maintaining design integrity.
Creating a Derived Part
To create a derived part in SolidWorks, follow these steps:
- Open the original part file in SolidWorks.
- Select the “Insert” menu from the top toolbar.
- Choose “Derived Part” from the drop-down menu.
- Select the desired plane or face where you want to place the new derived part.
- Click “OK.”
You have now created a derived part that is linked to the original part. Any changes made to the original will automatically update in the derived part.
The Derived Part PropertyManager
The Derived Part PropertyManager allows you to control various aspects of your derived part. When creating a derived part, this PropertyManager appears, offering options such as:
- Naming: You can provide a unique name for your derived part, making it easier to identify in your assembly.
- Linking Options: You can choose to link the derived part to the original part, ensuring that any changes made to the original are reflected in the derived part.
- Configuration: If your original part has multiple configurations, you can select the desired configuration for your derived part.
Updating Derived Parts
If you make changes to the original part, you can update all associated derived parts by following these steps:
- Select the “Tools” menu from the top toolbar.
- Choose “Update” from the drop-down menu.
- Select “Update All Components” to update all derived parts in your assembly.”
This ensures that any modifications made to the original part propagate throughout all derived parts, maintaining design consistency and saving valuable time.
In Conclusion
The use of derived parts in SolidWorks is an efficient way to create and manage complex assemblies. By deriving new parts from existing ones, you can streamline your design process, maintain consistency, and easily update multiple components simultaneously. Remember to make use of these powerful features in your next SolidWorks project!