Reference Components not updating positions

[benNH94D]

My project is arranged where I build individual components in their own file and then insert them into a more complex design and then finally inserting them into a complete large design.  So I have a file called "wheel" that's a wheel and another called "axle" that's an axle and then an assembled file of a wheel and axle.

When I make changes to a component the parent component prompts me to sync which i do and see the new components.  It seems like the origins are wrong because the child components parts are in the wrong position.

Here is an assembly of a robot wheel, electromagnetic clutch and motor:

And here it is inserted into a larger machine.  Note the axle is showing because the wheel is moved away from the clutch.   If i want to see the correct image I have to delete it and re-insert it but that's a real problem for more complex parts that take a lot of time to orient correctly.  Any thoughts as to what I'm doing wrong?

[jeff_strater · Accepted solution]

first, a recommendation:  You should use Joints to relate components to each other, not Move (or even Align).  Joints will always come across an Insert of a sub-assembly into a higher level assembly.  Component positions (as changed by Move Component, Align Component, or Drag Component) are not guaranteed to come across.  The explanation of why is a bit complex.  I can elaborate further if needed.

second, in your wheel/axle subassembly, is that design in a "capture position pending" state?

if your design is in this state, component positions are not captured, and definitely will not come across with Insert.  That is the most common cause of these symptoms.

[benNH94D]

Thanks! I'm just learning about joints and i spend a lot of time aligning things so that's probably what i'm missing.

[benNH94D]

oh my goodness - mind blown, level up! THANK YOU

[Phil.E]

This is a recording that Jeff and I made for Autodesk University. The handout PDF has a lot more info than is contained in the video. Good luck!

https://www.autodesk.com/autodesk-university/class/Joints-Fusion-360-Guide-Assembly-Position-and-Mot...