To duplicate a component in a SolidWorks assembly, click and drag the component while holding down the Ctrl key. Release the mouse button, and then release the Ctrl key.
Here's a breakdown of the process:
- Select the Component: Click on the component in the assembly you want to duplicate.
- Initiate Drag and Duplicate: Press and hold the
Ctrl
key. Click and drag the component. You'll see a ghost image of the component following your cursor, indicating that you're about to create a copy. - Position the Copy: Drag the component to the desired location in the assembly.
- Release and Confirm: Release the mouse button first, then release the
Ctrl
key. This creates a new instance of the component at the dragged location.
This method effectively copies the part within the assembly, creating a new, independent instance. Changes to one instance will not affect the original or other copies.