To build parts within a product, you can Insert New Part. Double clicking on that new part will give you access to the Part Body and the Part Design Workbench where you model as you normally would.
I have a CatProduct which consists of three sub-assemblies. Two of the parts are connected with a hydraulic hose assembly (Fittings and Hose). We do not supply the hose assembly with our product, but would like to show it on upper level assy drawings.
There are more complicated things that I would like to accomplish, but the simpliest task would be as follows:
I would like to have the ability to create the hose assembly between two fittings of the CatProduct within the catproduct itself. It would be much easier to create the Hose assembly within the CatProduct, then to have to measure between points and planes of the CatProduct fittings to create the subassy. I could simply assembly the two fitting within the CatProduct, then create the hose (Rib function) between the fittings. Then the hose subassy could be saved.
If I take measurements and round the numbers, sometimes components don't assembly correctly. If I use the CatProduct model, I know that the subassy is exact and will assembly just like I would like.
Hopefully I have explained myself clearly?
I have just started working with the Part and Product functions within the Product workbench.
The advise rgmidway gives you will work fine, but just one word of warning, I assume you want to use existing geometry as reference in your sketches, if so you may get a warning "Can not extract geometry on unpublished elements" (or simlair message).
If so then do the following:-
Tools/Options/Infastructure/ Part Infastructure..
Under General tab ensure the following button is unchecked
"Only use published elements for external selection keeping limit" Then you should be ok.
I think solid 7 sums it up, there are several ways to do this, and published elements are just another part of the equation..
