Define symmetries

With the Live Parts™ for SOLIDWORKS Add-in, users can define symmetry within your Live Parts object. A symmetry is a plane in your assembly centered on a datum point. A symmetry defines a region where Live Parts will aim to ensure that cell operations are balanced on both sides of the symmetry plane (out to a certain effective distance). You can define a symmetry using the method outlined below.

Defining a symmetry:

1. Select Symmetry in the Live Parts for SOLIDWORKS Add-in toolbar.
2. Click on the Point box and select the relevant datum point your SOLIDWORKS assembly.
3. Click on the Plane box and select the relevant datum plane in your SOLIDWORKS assembly.
4. (Optional) Specify a distance from the symmetry plane within which the symmetry constraint will be effective. By default this value is 100mm. Any cell operations that take place further than distance from the symmetry point will not cause symmetry to be imposed.
5. Click the Checkmark as the top of the symmetry side menu.

Notes on symmetry:

• Symmetry is not an absolute constraint in Live Parts because the growing object will aim to also to minimize cell material. If you define asymmetrical forces, the Live Parts object may respect the symmetry, but may not be able to realize full symmetry.