Catia v5 sketcher patterns

[SooDesuNe]

Is there a better way to create patterns in sketcher? The only way I know how is insert-operation-transformation-rotate(translate). When doing this a pattern object isn't created, so parameters, such as number of instances, can not be easily changed later. Also the definition method is very restrictive. For example, in a radial pattern, the only way to define it is by number of instances, and angle between them. What about number of instances and angle to fill, or angle between and angle to fill? Thanks in advance!

 

[JacobL]

sketcher has a pattern feature, so you can work with that.
If you have something specific you want to drive the sketch with, then drive the pattern with a formula (knowledge based design).

 

[SooDesuNe]

Thanks for taking the time to reply! I've search high and low for the sketcher pattern feature, but I can't find it. Please point me in the right direction.

 

[JacobL]

I apologize... I got it mixed up with solidworks.
CATIA does not have pattern feature in the sketcher.. unfortunately.

 

[5050t]

Sorry, there is no "better" way to create patterns in sketcher.

However, you can pattern your sketch using the "Pattern" option/icon available in GSD workbench.

 

[solid7]

Why exactly do you want to pattern features in a sketch, if I might ask? I'm sure there are some valid scenarios, but you may be trying to do something that would be better suited using another method.

Can you elaborate?


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[DBezaire]

SooDesuNe - Make the sketch and pattern in Part Design or GSD.

Regards,
Derek

 

[5050t]

Derek,

Can you share with us how to pattern a sketch in Part Design WB.

 

[DBezaire]

5050t - You do not pattern the sketch - pattern the feature. You can use rectangular/circular/user pattern in the Transformation Features toolbar.
This allows for extended flexibility in assembly design. (Re-use pattern in Assembly design)

Regards,
Derek

 

[solid7]

To add to what Derek said - there are inherent advantages to creating a portion of the solid with the sketch, and then patterning it at a higher level. Even on something simple like a cylinder, (to be overly simplistic) you can create a sketch that shows a "slice of pie". Then, by patterning the feature (pad) X number of places, you obtain symmetry, which is valuable for downstream operations, and seems to relieve some of the resource strain. (I can't prove that, mind you)

I used to have a lot of trouble with FEA analyses done on a part that had 4 variable fillets, because of the way the fillets met the vertices. (due to the closing points of the sketch/pad) I solved it by creating a partial sketch, and patterning it. I also created the variable fillet 1 time, and patterned it from extracted faces. (Catia doesn't know how to solve the vector direction of variable fillets) My results became 100% consistent, and it solved a number of other issues.

Need any more explanation? I'm a big proponent of minimalistic sketches, and patterned features. I agree with Derek 100% on this one, which is why I also asked SooDesuNe to elaborate on the part a bit more.

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[DBezaire]

Thanks Solid7, I didn't have the time for a long explanation.

Derek

 

[5050t]

Yes, I need one more explanation...how do you pattern the sketch feature in Part Design WB.

 

[solid7]

You use the pattern functions! (circular, rectangular, or user)

We're talking about a sketch creation *methodology*, here. Not some new form of patterning..

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[5050t]

I am completely aware of all the patterning options in V5 and all benefits that come with it. For the record, you CANNOT pattern a sketch feature in Part Design WB. Try it!

 

[solid7]

Feature that is CREATED from the sketch. (hence a "partial" sketch)

Is that clear enough?

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