In part 3 of our three-part SOLIDWORKS Parts and Assemblies series, you will learn how to use the Copy with Mates tool to copy components and speed up your design process.
Watch the rest of the Video Tech Tip series on SOLIDWORKS Parts and Assemblies:
Part 1: Using the “R” Key
Part 2: Pattern Driven Component Pattern
Similar to part two, in this video I use a crank shaft and pistons of a flat-four boxer engine to demonstrate how to copy a specific instance of hardware. The first step is to select the bolt and washer and click Copy with Mates. Once copied, these components can be viewed in the Assembly toolbar > Copy with Mates > Selected Components list. Next, users determine a concentric mate and a coincident mate to copy the hardware to a location or locations throughout your assembly. Ultimately, this tool is a huge time saver because it allows users to copy multiple instances quickly.
Looking for a broader overview of SOLIDWORKS CAD? Watch our Get to Know SOLIDWORKS webinar series.