Fix a Part or a Subassembly

Fix a part or a subassembly to a specific position of the assembly, in which it is, when the function selected.

You can select more than one part to be fixed at once. Previously done part fixings are retained. The fixing is done to a first-level subassembly of the assembly.

The fixing affects kinematics viewing

In order to be able to view the kinematics of an assembly, there must be a fixed part in the assembly, and geometric constraints need to have been defined between the parts. If there is no fixed part, the entire assembly will move when you pull the part. The part that was first added into the assembly is locked in place (default).

The fixing affects a solution of a model geometry

Locking parts in place makes the calculation of the geometric constraints of the assembly model easier. You can do this with structures that do not require kinematics viewing, for example, a welded steel structure.

Fixing by selecting the Fix function

  1. Do either of the following:
    • Select one or more parts from an assembly model.
    • Select one or more labels of the part or subassembly in the assembly tree.
  2. Select Constraints> Fix.

Fixing by pressing the F key

You can fix by pressing the F key as follows:

  1. Select parts to be fixed from the model.

    • In the model, move the cursor over the part to be fixed and press the F key. If you want to fix several parts, select parts in the model and press the F key.
  2. Select parts to be fixed in the assembly tree.

    • Select one part, part patten or subassembly in the assembly tree and press the F key. You can use the F key to fix and release items in the assembly tree.
Note:
  • You can use this function to lock a part or a subassembly of the main assembly, but not a part of a subassembly. If you want to edit locking parts of a subassembly, you must first select the subassembly for editing.
  • A fixed part or a subassembly is highlighted in the assembly tree with the lock symbol (part) and (assembly).

    Assembly Tree Symbols and Conventions

  • Remove the fixing of the part or the subassembly with the context-sensitive function Release, and fix an other part or assembly.