Creating a mirrored part file in SolidWorks allows you to generate a new, separate part document that is the mirror image of an existing one, often used for creating opposite-hand versions of components.
The process outlined in SolidWorks documentation focuses on using the "Mirror Part" command within an open part document to create this new file. This resulting mirrored part can then be inserted into an assembly as a component.
The SolidWorks Mirrored Part Command
This command is used to create a new SolidWorks part file that contains features and properties mirrored across a selected face or plane of an existing part. It is distinct from mirroring components within an assembly, which patterns or mirrors existing component instances.
Step-by-Step Process
Here are the key steps to create a mirrored part file based on an existing one:
-
Open the Original Part: Start by opening the SolidWorks part document you wish to mirror.
-
Select the Mirror Plane: In the open part document, click a model face or plane about which to mirror the part. This face or plane will define the mirror boundary.
-
Access the Mirror Command: Navigate to the menu and click Insert > Mirror Part. This action will open the Mirror Part PropertyManager.
-
Configure Transfer Options: In the PropertyManager, look Under Transfer. Here, you can select any combination of items from the source part to be included in the opposite-hand version.
- You can choose which elements from the original part are transferred to the new mirrored part file.
- Options typically include solid bodies, surface bodies, construction geometry, absorbed features, properties, dimensions, and more.
- Select only the items necessary for the new mirrored part.
-
Finalize and Save: Once your selections are made, confirm the command. SolidWorks will create a new part document containing the mirrored geometry and selected items. You will then need to save this new part file.
Understanding the "Transfer" Options
The "Transfer" section is crucial as it dictates what data from the original part is carried over to the new mirrored part file. You have control over including or excluding:
- Solid bodies
- Surface bodies
- Axes
- Planes
- Sketches
- Construction Geometry
- Features (potentially as absorbed features)
- Custom properties
- Cut-list properties
- Hole wizard data
- And more items depending on the part's complexity and SolidWorks version.
Selecting specific items gives you flexibility in defining the final state of the mirrored part. For example, you might choose to include only the solid body if you plan to add new features to the mirrored version independently.
Why Use This Method?
This method is primarily used to efficiently create a separate part file for the opposite-hand version of a component. This is common for parts that are symmetrical in form but installed oppositely, such as brackets, covers, or linkages. Having a distinct part file allows for separate drawings, BOM entries, and potentially different post-machining operations or finishes.
