Sketch - Polygon

[Anonymous]

Recently, we have models with many polygons in which the number of facets are based on other size parameters. We rely heavily on linking Excel spreadsheets to pass parameters to many parts and even assemblies and do the background mathematics behind these models.

We drew polygons and for the number of sides dialogue, we entered a parameter name, which was accepted and the polygon was generated. When the number of sides was updated in the spreadsheet, the polygon did not change. This is the only place within Inventor (that I can think of at the moment) where a parameter is accepted as an input to a static field which implies that it will respond to updates even when it won't.

Alternatively, we attempted to use a circular pattern to accomplish the task, which works, but the resulting polygon can't be extruded because the pattern command doesn't generate a "POLYLINE" for those AutoCAD users out there and for lack of a better description. The resulting pattern endpoints are coincident but not the same point. This mean you have to uncheck "Associative" in the pattern dialogue and then use the sketch doctor to join the points. You have a polygon again but now once again it is not dynamic to number of side changes.

I understand the complexity in generating a dynamic polygon but it would be a nice feature as right now we have to regenerate a bunch of items because it isn't dynamic or even editable.

If it were to be implemented via the pattern command, the user would have to ensure the input were compliant in size, etc. in order for Inventor to be able to close the sketch or generate a POLYLINE.

If it were to be implemented via the Polygon command, compliance parameters would be enforced but there may be difficulty in downstream items depending on how the sketch geometry were to be constrained. If the polygon were to be created with a construction inscribed or circumscribed circle (chosen by the user), an origin point (as already provided) and a start vertex which would always be part of whatever polygon might be created, this may resolve the issue.

[PaulMunford]

How would it work if, instead of defining the number of sides of the polygon, you turn the problem inside out? How about you define a circle, then create a second feature that cuts away a sector to create the first flat edge of the polygon. Finally pattern the void shape around the centre of the circle. This should give you an extruded polygon that is parametric in size and number of sides?

[inv.ideareview]

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