Create Slot Mate in SOLIDWORKS

Slot Mate in SOLIDWORKS

The requirements for creating a Slot Mate in SOLIDWORKS are:

• The slot sides be parallel for straight slots and concentric for radial slot

• The slot radii are equal.

• Since it is based on cylindrical references , only shaft-type parts can utilize this option

Slots that are not supported are those which have one or more square ends, slots that contain straight and curve sections, as well as slots that break over the edge of a part.

Let us try the slot mate for the below components.

1. 1. Go to mates -> Mechanical Mates -> Slot Mates.

The constraints which are available for the slot mate are: free, Centered in Slot, Distance along slot, and Percent along slot. Let’s try each of them

1. 1. Case 1: Center in slot

Select any cylindrical face and any face on the slot for mating. Then select center in slot option from constraints drop down tab and give OK.

1. 1. Case 2: Distance along slot

In this case select the bore of the washer and any face on the slot for mating. Then select Distance along slot from constraints drop down tab and specify the distance (In this case 10mm). Reverse the distance direction if required.

1. 1. Case 2: Percentage along slot

In this case, select the axis of the pin and any face on the slot for mating. Then select Percentage along with slot from constraints drop-down tab and specify the percentage (In this case 20%). Reverse the offset direction if required.

1. 1. Slot on slot mate

This feature enables us to mate slot on slot also. To mate two slots select any one face on both the slots and give Ok.