Adding Bolts - only mates in one config

[phreaq]

I have an assembly with 4 different configs, all the same components, just in different positions.

I am adding washers and bolts from the toolbox, but the mates are only working in one config. When I switch configs, I can drag the bolts around freely. When I switch back to the config I started with, the bolts return.

I know I can go into each individual mate, and change its properties, but there has to be a better way.

any help?

thanks in advance,

 

[ShaggyPE]

Go to the configuration tab. Right click on one of the configurations with the problem. Go to properties. There is a section for "properties for newly inserted items". You probably have the one checked that "suppress[es] features and mates". Uncheck this box an any new components you insert and mate in another config will also be mated in this config.

You will have to repeat this for each config. To get the mates of the hardware you already inserted unsuppressed, you can select multiple (using either shift-select or cntrl-select) mates and unsuppress them all at once. This will have to be done to all the configs.

I would recommend saving your assembly template with none of the boxes checked in the "newly inserted items" section. This will prevent this problem in the future.

 

[phreaq]

Thanks Shaggy!

Did the trick. Its always easier once you know the answer

I've changed the template too

 

[CorBlimeyLimey]

A Design Table is much easier for managing multiple configs.


Helpful SW websites every user should be aware of faq559-520
How to get answers to your SW questions faq559-1091

 

[phreaq]

Hey CorBlimeyLimey,

you're right, but I couldn't figure out how to use a design table for my situation.

I designed a fixture that had 4 possible ways to assemble, with one plate being flipped, or rotated for each assembly. So basically, I have mates for half the assemblies on the front side, and the other assemblies mate to the back face.

I'm sure there's a way, but.....

 

[CorBlimeyLimey]

Now that you have manually created your configs, create a DT using the Auto-create option. This should populate the DT with all/most of the parameters which control your configs. You should then be able to study & experiment with the DT settings so that you can better use DTs for other situations.


Helpful SW websites every user should be aware of faq559-520
How to get answers to your SW questions faq559-1091

 

[phreaq]

will do, thanks a lot guys

 

[Roller1]

What I normally do is select all the mates for the bolt/washer etc., and then select Edit -> Unsuppress -> All Configurations.