Use this function to create a pattern along an arc, circle or ellipse.

• When a circular pattern is created, the seed entity (entity being patterned) lies on the circumference of the circle. Alternatively, if a root position is specified, the root position lies on the circumference of the circle.

• The start and end angle of the completed pattern is determined by the direction of the normal to the plane of the circle that is selected.

• For radial patterns, the seed entity lies at the center of the pattern.

• Bump features must be adjacent to parallel planar faces. For example, you will not be allowed to select a bump on a spherical face when creating circular patterns.

Using the Function:

1. Select Circular from the Solid Feature>Patterns submenu.

2. The Create a Pattern Along an Arc, Circle or Ellipse dialog appears. Configure the available dialog settings and click OK when done.

3. Select the entity to be patterned.

4. Select a start vector to define the first spoke of the pattern (Radial patterns only).

5. Specify the center of the circular/elliptical pattern and select the normal to the plane of the pattern being created.

6. If the Rotate Pattern Elements option in the dialog is enabled (checked on), you are prompted to select a position on the pattern that will lie on the circular/elliptical pattern.

Dialog Options:

Entity to Pattern

Specify whether to pattern solids and sheet bodies or bump features. Check on the Check for and Repair Self Intersections if there is a possibility of pattern overlap (if there are no expectations of self intersection unchecking this will decrease processing time.)

Angle Between Pattern Elements

Specify a value for the separation, or distance, between elements.

Pattern Type

Specify a pattern type by clicking on the appropriate button option.

• One Dimensional Radial Pattern – When selected, specify a value for the angle and for the number of copies to be created.

• Two Dimensional Radial Pattern – When selected, you can specify a value for the start and end angles, the number of copies to be created in both the Angular and Radial Directions and the spacing between rings.

• Create Elliptical Pattern – When selected, specify a value for the ratio of minor to major radius.

Rotate Pattern Elements

When checked, you will be prompted to specify a position on the pattern that will lie on the circular/elliptical pattern.
 

Example Cicular Pattern: