Adding a component in SOLIDWORKS assemblies is a fundamental task. One quick method, particularly useful for adding another instance of an existing component, involves a simple drag-and-drop technique using the Ctrl key.
Adding an Existing Component Instance
If you already have a component within your assembly and wish to add another instance of that same component, you can easily do so directly within the SOLIDWORKS interface. This is often faster than browsing for the file again.
Here’s how to use the Ctrl-drag method based on the provided information:
- Open Assembly: Ensure you have an assembly file currently open in SOLIDWORKS.
- Identify Component: Locate the component you want to add an additional instance of. You can find it either in the FeatureManager design tree (the list of features and components on the left) or visually within the graphics area (the main design window).
- Hold Ctrl and Drag: Hold down the Ctrl key on your keyboard. While holding Ctrl, click and drag the selected component (either from the tree or the graphics area) into the graphics area.
- Place Component: As you drag, a preview of the component will appear. Move this preview to the desired location in the graphics area and release the mouse button to drop it.
- Optional: Inference: You can inference the placement relative to the assembly origin or other existing geometry for precise positioning.
This method creates a new instance of the existing component, effectively duplicating it within your assembly.
Quick Steps Summary:
- With an assembly open, hold the Ctrl key.
- Drag a component from the FeatureManager design tree or graphics area.
- Release the mouse button in the graphics area to place the new instance.
This technique is a convenient shortcut for populating your assembly with multiple copies of the same part or sub-assembly.
