Proper master model merge technique
The master model merge technique is still an excellent method for sharing common
geometry in a family of parts. It's especially useful for castings and master
models. Among the advantages of this technique are:
- faster model regeneration - compared to family tables
- simpler drawing management - dimensions from reference model are "filtered"
The merge command is located: Edit > Component Operations >Merge
The recommended procedure is:
- Create an empty assembly (zero features)
- Create new component
- Assemble reference part using default placement
- Merge parts
- Detach reference part
- Save new component
- Erase merge assembly
- Store new component.
Important notes:
- The reason for using an empty assembly is to avoid references to the merge
assembly.
- One of the easiest ways to do this is to create a new component in the assembly,
copying from your start part.
- Again, avoiding assembly references.
- You might get a message like: Support associative placement? I don't know
what the purpose of associative placement is, but I know that the default "N"
produces the desired results.
If you don't get a message "Detach reference part XXXX from the assembly?",
START OVER AND FOLLOW THE PROCEDURE EXACTLY! Otherwise, you will be stuck with
references to the merge assembly for the life of your part. You can check that
in the model/feature info.
The most common errors involve component order and assembly references.
Alternative: Inheritance features
In version 2001, PTC added inheritance features
to simplify creating merge parts with family tables. Inheritance features act
like a family table: you can selectively suppress features, and modify
parameters, references, and dimensions. But, it's easier than creating a family
table.
PTC Knowledge Base
Using Inheritance
Features to Create a Machined Version of a Cast Part