Converting a database of fabrications to Inventor

[spencer.robertsU8DLN]

Hi All,

I'm coming over from autocad, so I apologize in advance if I get any of the terminology mixed up.

I'm working with an existing database of member fabrication data to migrate the data into 3d models. All the parts in the database can be treated as an extruded profile (tube, channel, angle, etc...) which is then fabricated (Holes, Notches, Cuts, etc...). See below for an example of some of the kind of parts I'm dealing with.

I'm exploring using iParts to quickly generate the models for these members but I'm running into an issue for how to handle the possible variation in quantity of fabrications. I could have anywhere from 0 to n holes on a given part, each with an independent location and size.

I've considered setting up a template sketch to define the hole location, but then a unique sketch/feature is required for each additional hole which is more setup that desireable & runs the risk of not being enough for some of our consolidated fabrications. 

Is there someway to dynamically clone and modify a part feature with independent parameters using iLogic, or is there another better solution?

Any advice would be appreciated.

[johnsonshiue]

Hi! Please refrain from apologizing! You did not do anything wrong. There is nothing to be ashamed of using AutoCAD. It is Autodesk's flagship product and it is the most popular CAD system in the world.

I believe iPart, particularly custom iPart may be what you need. The idea is to create an iPart factory with predefined variations (the length and basic shape). For more detail variation, you may want to add it in the individual custom iPart member (just as a regular part but with a table).

Please share your attempt here. Forum experts can help take a further look.

Many thanks!

[BDCollett]

iParts may work but if the parts have a lot of variables that change you may be better to just have a template that creates the parts with iLogic. 

Since it seems that there are dynamic features that need input with each creation I think iLogic is going to be the answer.

The first step is to identify all the variables.