How to Creat Large Patterns using Inventor 2012?
I'm trying to make a large perforated pattern for a television speaker area. It consists of almost 13,000 very small holes. Inventor freezes when I array the pattern. Is there an easier way of creating this type of pattern?
I attached a photo of the TV I'm modeling, I'm referring to the small hole pattern on the bottom of the television where the speakers are located.
9 Answers

Hi Cullen there is no easy way it is down to IV and the resourses the software will use from your computer. You will always get a problem with this kind of comand... 3 options, bare with it with your comp, buy a super comp, ask someone on GrabCAD that does have a super comp if there could do it for you.
:P
I've come to the same conclusion. I tried splitting the pattern into smaller sections, and it worked it just takes a lot of time. I'll try making a pattern that looks similar, otherwise I'll just skip it until I have 20K to drop on a supercomputer. Is there another program that can handle this type of command other than AutoCAD? Will solidworks handle this better?
Thanks
There maybe some software that is somewhat better than others, but bottom line 13000holes creates a lot of geometry. Try making a sheet metal part that is say 24in square. Make the part metal and apply an expanded metal surface to it. It is a very believable look with out the geometry.
With some research the correct look should be achievable.
William 24 Jun, 2012 01:06 AM Hi Kevin after reading your answer about sheet metal, just had an Idea! make it an I-Part and with the right equation in the parameters would that maybe work? to late for me to try it as time for bed now..... Just a though, anyway have a nice night m8 :P
Cullen Williams 24 Jun, 2012 01:15 AM Yes that may work also, although the face in which i need the perforation is more of a trapezoid.

I wish Autodesk would do something about this issue, because its a major barrier for my process. I drew this wall with 4500+ holes and it took forever for inventor to figure out the geometry. Every small correction took about 5 minutes to recalculate. The most frustrating part is that my computer was only running about 15% in processing power and i also had lots of ram left. Inventor should at least use the power available.
Here's my wall: http://www.behance.net/gallery/CPH-Urban-Toilet/5826687
Anyways, i'm happy that keyshot could help you out.
- Morten