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Overview: Sketch-based features are fundamental in creating solid models. The basic features include pads, pockets, shafts, and grooves, with all the options working in a similar manner. You select the sketch, which contains the required profile, and then you specify the limits of the feature. In general, pads and shafts are created material and pockets and grooves are removed material.
Pads and Pockets
Pad and Pocket are similar commands. The main difference is that Pad creates material while Pocket removes material.
The pad and pocket dialogs are divided into the same sections, First Limit, Second Limit, Profile and Direction.
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The First and Second Limits specify the height and depth of the pad and pocket, respectively. Access Second Limit and the Direction options by clicking More>>. You can enter a height or depth value or specify a limiting plane or surface.
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The advantage of specifying a plane or surface is that as the model updates, the pad or pocket updates to reflect the changes.
The Profile area allows you to select a profile to create a pad or pocket. You can use the Sketcher icon in the dialog to edit existing profiles or create a new sketch on a face or plane.
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You can use both open and closed profiles for pads or pockets, but the existing geometry must be able to trim the resulting solid.
The Direction option allows you to define the direction of the pad or pocket.
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The default option is set to Normal to profile. Other options include Mirrored extent, Reverse Direction, and Reverse Side. Mirrored extent mirrors the pad or pocket about the sketch plane. Reverse Direction reverses the direction of the pad or pocket, while Reverse Side reverses the side that creates material. For pads, this option is only available for open profiles.