ChipsNChips wrote: ↑Sat Feb 04, 2023 5:05 am
Now I want to model my first part that will fit that existing object. So I start a new file for that part. Can I see the model of the existing object while modeling my part in this new file? This would help me to work to both the dimensions and the shape of the existing object.
If you are going to be working with assemblies then I suggest you pick an assembly workbench and learn how to use it. I prefer Assembly4 which may be the easiest to learn once you grasp the concept.
My general workflow using The Assembly4 and PartDesign workbenches is as follows:
1. Create an Assembly4 file, Model, and Body(s) in the Parts folder which includes a default LCS in each Body for assembly.
2. Double left click the Body which takes you to PartDesign to create first sketch.
3. Locate first sketch on an mating interface which automatically locates the LCS for the body for assembly. Create features.
3.1 Add LCS's and/or Hole Axes at each additional assembly interface as you model. Attach these to the sketch that creates the assembly interface.
4. All bodies are located at the global origin while modelling. If drawings are not available I assemble the body before creating any features.
5. Assembling the body allows you to work in-context which I prefer, i.e. top down. Select the body link not the original body in the Parts folder.
6. I tend to put all bodies for a sub-assembly in one Assembly4 file since it is easier to manage and distribute the files for larger projects.
6.1 You can still re-use these bodies in other projects but the sub-assembly file has to be open. Or, you can save them to their own file for re-use.
6.2 If there are many purchased parts or .step files I usually put all those in one file in an Assembly4 part container for each.
7. All parts that must be able to move should be in the same sub-assembly which makes it easier (possible) to animate the model to check clearances, etc.
7.1 E.g. sub-assemblies for stationary, rotating, and reciprocating or articulating bodies.
8. I usually assemble the sub-assemblies in the top assembly as I create them in the same sequence as you might assemble them on the bench.
Another top-down approach can be found here:
viewtopic.php?p=586394#p586394 and also here for something somewhat simpler
viewtopic.php?t=48473.