SolidWorks 2011 Assemblies Bible - Matt Lombard [127]
1. Open an assembly that you want to add parts to. In this case, it is the Rear Derailleur assembly.
2. Open the Design Library, and browse to the folder with the part you want to insert. Alternately, you can use the SolidWorks Search function to find a part with a particular filename, description, or other property. Make sure that the Search Paths are set up at Tools⇒Options⇒File Locations⇒Search Paths. Make sure the search is set to the Files and Models option (using the drop-down arrow to the right of the search magnifying glass symbol). Figure 15.9 shows the results of the search and the two locations on the derailleur cage where it needs to be inserted.
FIGURE 15.9
Using SolidWorks Search to find library components
3. Drag the screw in and hover the cursor over the circular edge of the hole you want it to go into. SolidWorks previews the part and shows the preview snapping into the hole. This snapping action is due to the Mate Reference.
4. When you drop the part onto the edge, SolidWorks gives you the option to select a size, Short or Long. These are the two configurations of the part. Select Short for both instances shown. Figure 15.10 shows the popup dialog box for the configuration selection.
FIGURE 15.10
Selecting a configuration for a newly placed library component
Exploring Other Design Library Functions
The Design Library has other functions besides library features. For example, you can use it as a repository for other items that you use frequently.
Using Annotations in the library
You can store commonly used annotations in the Design Library. If you look at the Annotations folder with the default sample annotations, you see a combination of symbols and blocks. You can use symbols and notes in 3D models, but you can only use blocks in sketches or 2D drawings. Keep in mind that not all annotation types can be used in all places.
Annotations can be stored in the library as favorites or blocks. Many file extensions are used for different types of favorites, but they typically begin with *.sld and end with fvt, as in *.sldweldfvt. Figure 15.11 shows the default location of the Design Library and the Thumbnail view of the favorites and blocks in the Annotations folder.
FIGURE 15.11
The Annotations folder in Windows Explorer
Using sheet metal–forming tools in the library
Sheet metal–forming tools are only mentioned here as a part of the library. They work much like library features, but they do so within the specialized functions of sheet metal parts in SolidWorks. Sheet metal–forming tools are discussed in the SolidWorks 2011 Parts Bible. Forming tools folders have special properties. If you want to use the parts in a folder as forming tools, you must right-click the folder in the Design Library and choose Forming Tool Folder. The only other library type that needs special folders is a library assembly.
Using assemblies in the library
You can use library assemblies in SolidWorks in the same ways that you use library parts because they are inserted into the top-level assembly as a subassembly. For subassemblies that require motion, such as universal joint subassemblies, you can set the subassembly to solve as flexible or simply dissolve the subassembly into the upper-level assembly, through an RMB option.
Tip
When saving assemblies to the library, it is recommended that you put the parts in a separate folder to segregate the parts of different assemblies.
Routing
Routing is an add-in that is included with SolidWorks Office Premium. It includes piping, tubing (rigid and flexible), and wiring. Routing makes extensive use of libraries and automation but is not part of the scope of this book. The documentation on Routing at this time is rather sparse, but SolidWorks offers a reseller training class that, at this time, is your best source for information on this add-in.
Understanding Smart Components
A Smart Component can comprise several elements:
• A single part or an assembly that may use size configurations
• A configurable library feature that usually