Copy, but reference the same parameters.

[Anonymous]

I have created a rounded triangle pattern, whose dimensions are controlled by user parameters (d50 = TriBase, d51 = TriHeight, etc.). However, whenever I copy the triangle, instead of the new dimensions referencing the correct user parameters (d53 = TriBase, d54 = TriHeight), it creates new unnamed user parameters for the dimensions to reference (d53 = d55, d54 = d56). How can I copy the triangle while still referencing the same user parameters?

I have posted a CAD here (http://host.codingproject.net/Side_Plate_R2.1.ipt) with the original triangle (middle), a copy made by remaking the triangle (right), this is what I would like the copy to be, and one actually made by copying (left).

[Curtis_Waguespack]

Hi lemiant,

You can copy features within in the same part (right click on the feature in the browser and choose Copy) and then paste them to make copies. When doing so you can choose to have the parameters remain dependent on the original parameters.

I created a video on this some time ago, that illustrates how this is done. If you happen to have a Copy of the Mastering Auodesk Inventor book, it's covered in chapter 7 also:

Autodesk Inventor Copy Features on Youtube

You can also copy features from one part to another using the same method, but the abilty to link parameters is not avalible when doing so:

Autodesk Inventor Clone Features From One Part to Another on Youtube

I hope this helps.

Good luck with all of your Inventor pursuits,

Curtis

http://inventortrenches.blogspot.com/

[Anonymous]

Will this method work inside a sketch? How would it be implemented?

[Curtis_Waguespack · Accepted solution]

Hi lemiant,

You can copy sketch entities within a sketch and then edit the new dimensions, and then clear the dimension input box and link it to the exising parameter either by clicking it on screen, or by clicking the flyout and choosing List Parameters, and then selecting it from the list.

But it's almost always best to copy repeated features at the part level rather than at the sketch level. The goal being to keep your sketches as simple as possible:

http://inventortrenches.blogspot.com/2011/03/inventor-101-simple-fully-constrained.html

I hope this helps.

Good luck with all of your Inventor pursuits,

Curtis

http://inventortrenches.blogspot.com/