Slotted holes to suit area

[matt_jlt]

I have a plate that requires lots of slotted holes to suit the designated opening area (shown as construction line in screenshot below). I was hoping someone might have a better way of drawing this. Currently I draw each slot individually and extude it through. Is there a pattern area or similar feature that can achieve the result I want? I initially though that plastic grill feature might do the trick but it isn't suitable.

Also, I have to draw lots of these for all different sized areas which is why i'm trying to find a quicker way.

Thanks, Matt.

[salariua]

Hi Matt,

This won't help but I will mention it just in case you find it usefull in other cases. On ModTheMachine there is a Fill Area Pattern code which suppresses pattern features that fall outside a user defined boundary.

What are the pattern parameters? Is there a fixed distance between the cuts? what are the constraints of the design.

Wondering if you can use ifeature or intersect features, or use DWG Underlay with AutoCAD dynamic blocks (random thinking, I know!)..... Post the file as well for others to try.

[WHolzwarth]

Hmm. What's the problem with Grill feature?

See my attempt with Inventor 2014

Walter

[Anonymous]

I am using 2015.  I have never used the grill feature before, in fact I cannot locaate it on my ribbon.  Can you show me where it might be located?

[JDMather]

Make sure you are not in an active sketch.

You might have to right click and make the Plastic Parts panel visible.  (the part doesn't really have to be a "plastic" part, but if it is Sheet Metal you will have to go to the 3d Model tab or customize the Sheet Metal tab to add it there if you use this a lot)