How to detach an object from an array... (if that is even possible)

[oransen]

I'm more of a programmer than a user so maybe this is a stupid question, but here goes:

Is it possible to detach an object from a linear array, so that the rest of the array remains, but the detached object can be moved into a slightly non-array position?

[CCarreiras · Accepted solution]

HI!

No.

You have to suppress the object.

Place another equal object and position it like you need.

[-niels-]

Which version of inventor?

For sketches:

In Inventor 2017 you have sketch driven patterns that would allow for elements to have different positions.

In previous versions you'll have to suppress and create a new instance, like @CCarreiras mentioned.

For assemblies:

If you want a single element to be moved around, you can expand the pattern and select the element you want moveable, right-click on it and select "independent":

Hope that helps.

[Rob67ert · Accepted solution]

If you expand the feature you see all the occurrence. Right click on one of them and select suppress.
Then just place a new sketch of the object you like at a different position.

[oransen]

As usual I discovered a solution as soon as I posted this. Right click on the object in the array and click on "free rotate" or "free move". Inventor 2015

[oransen]

In Inventor 2015 I get "Free Rotate" and  "Free Move" but not "independent"...

[-niels-]

Make sure they don't snap back in to place if you update the model when using "free move"... i don't think it's a permanent function.

You could use the move body / direct edit tools though.

(Assuming you want this for sketches / .ipt, not assemblies... still a bit confused about that.)

[oransen]

You're right. If I save and re-open the assembly the free move has vanished and the part is back in place.

[oransen]

I'm doing it for part arrays inside assemblies. I think the suppress and insert another part is the best solution...

[CCarreiras]

Free move and free rotate are always temporary situation.

You marked the correct answers as solution, why you are using a different process?! 🙂

[oransen]

"You marked the correct answers as solution, why you are using a different process?! :)"

I don't understand your statment. I think that suppress and insert a new part is the correct solution...

[CCarreiras]

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@oransen wrote:

I don't understand your statment. I think that suppress and insert a new part is the correct solution...

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Suppress and insert a new part is the correct solution.

The free move and rotate is wrong.