Creating a radial pattern of part instances

To create multiple copies of a selected part instance in a radial pattern, select InstanceRadial Pattern from the main menu bar. You cannot edit a pattern after you create it. You can specify the following:

  • The number of copies to create in the radial pattern, including the selected instances. You can create any number of instances.

  • The total angle between the original instance and the last copy in the pattern.

  • The position of the axis of the circular pattern.

For more information, see Creating patterns of part instances. You cannot use the radial pattern tool with model instances.

Related Topics
Creating patterns of part instances
Creating a linear pattern of part instances

  1. From the main menu bar, select InstanceRadial Pattern.

    Tip: You can also create a radial pattern of part instances using the tool from the Assembly module toolbox. For a diagram of the tools in the Assembly toolbox, see Using the Assembly module toolbox.

  2. Select the part instances that you want to copy.

    Tip: To select more than one instance, hold down the Shift key as you click each instance or drag a rectangle around the instances. To unselect an instance, use CtrlClick. For more information, see Selecting objects within the viewport.

  3. Click mouse button 2 to indicate that you have finished selecting instances.

    Abaqus/CAE displays the Radial Pattern dialog box.

  4. From the Radial Pattern dialog box, configure the radial pattern:

    1. Click the arrows to the right of Number to increase or decrease the number of copies to create, including the selected instances. The number of copies in the assembly updates when you click the arrows and provides a preview of the setting.

      Alternatively, you can type in a number and press Enter to preview the setting. You can enter any number greater than or equal to 2.

    2. Enter the Total angle between the original instances that you selected and the final copy. The angle must be between –360° and +360°. A positive angle corresponds to a counterclockwise direction.
    3. By default, Abaqus/CAE rotates the selected instance about the Z-axis to create the pattern. To define a new axis of rotation, click and select a line from the assembly that represents the new axis of rotation. You can also select an axis from the global coordinate system triad.

  5. In most cases you will want to preview the radial pattern that Abaqus/CAE will create as you enter values in the Radial Pattern dialog box. However, if you choose to create a large number of copies, the preview capability may impact the performance of Abaqus/CAE. In this case you should toggle off the Preview button.

  6. To copy more instances, repeat the above steps beginning with Step 1.