What is the Pattern tool?

The Pattern element is similar to a linear or circular array that you find in 'static' CAD. However, in MechDesigner, Parts move in different ways.

You use the Pattern to make copies of a 'Solid', and also move the copies  along the same Path.

You can switch on and off the visibility of each Solid instance in the 'pattern', and also at different phases of the machine cycle.

See: Pattern dialog-box

Pattern FB

Add Pattern FB

Modelling FB toolbar > Pattern FB Above Graphic-Area

Menu:

Add menu > Add Pattern FB

What to do:

STEP 1: Add the Pattern FB to the graphic-area

1.Click Kinematics FB Toolbar > Add Pattern FB
2.Click again in the graphic-area to 'place' the Pattern FB.

The Pattern FB is now in the graphic-area and the Assembly-Tree.

What to do next:

STEP 2: Open the Pattern FB dialog-box

1.Double-click a Pattern FB in the graphic-area

or

See How to Open a Dialog-Box.

Preparation:

Nothing.

Notes:

A simple application of the Pattern element is to show or hide a single Solid at different angles in a machine cycle.

 

Tutorial and Reference Help Files for MechDesigner and MotionDesigner 13.2 + © Machine, Mechanism, Motion and Cam Design Software by PSMotion Ltd