About Axis Patterns
Use the Axis pattern to create a pattern by revolving a feature around a selected axis. An Axis pattern allows you to place members in two directions:
• Angular—(First direction) Pattern members are revolved around the axis. The default Axis pattern places members equally spaced in the counterclockwise direction.
• Radial—(Second direction) Pattern members are added in the radial direction.
There are two ways to place pattern members in the angular direction:
• Specify the number of members, including the first member, and the distance between the members (increment).
• Specify the angular extent and the number of members, including the first member. The range for the angular extent is from -360° through +360°. Pattern members are equally spaced within the specified angular extent.
While creating or redefining the Axis pattern, you can vary the following items:
• Spacing in the angular direction—Drag the placement handle in the angular direction or type the increment in the tab text box.
• Spacing in the radial direction—Drag the placement handle in the radial direction or type the increment in the tab text box.
• Number of pattern members in each direction—Type the number of members in the tab text box or edit it by double-clicking in the graphics window.
• The angular extent of the members—Type the angular extent in the text box.
• Feature dimensions—You can vary dimensions of the patterned feature by using the Dimensions tab. For example, you can vary the hole diameter or depth.
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You can create a spiral pattern by varying the radial placement dimension.
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• Skip pattern members—To skip a pattern member, click the black dot identifying that pattern member. The black dot turns white. To restore the member, click the white dot.
• Direction of pattern members—To change the direction of the pattern, drag the placement handle in the opposite direction, click 
, or type a negative number for the increment in the tab text box.
, or type a negative number for the increment in the tab text box.