How to Use the Mirror Function in Fusion 360?

Understanding the Mirror Feature in Fusion 360

Fusion 360 provides a versatile Mirror function that allows users to create symmetrical designs seamlessly. This feature can be applied to various elements, including sketches, bodies, features, and components. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to effectively use the mirror command within Fusion 360.

Step-by-Step Guide to Mirroring in Fusion 360

1. Mirroring Sketches

To mirror sketches, follow these steps:

• Open your design and navigate to the sketch you want to mirror.
• Select the entire sketch or specific sketch entities using the selection tool.
• Click on the Sketch dropdown menu, and select the Mirror command.
• Choose a mirror line or axis from your sketch (this can be an existing line or a new construction line).
• Once selected, the preview of the mirrored entities will appear, confirming the operation.
• Click OK to complete the mirroring process.

2. Mirroring Bodies

To mirror a solid body:

• Go to the Solid tab and select the body you want to duplicate.
• Access the Modify menu and choose the Mirror command.
• Identify the mirror plane; this can be one of the default planes (XY, YZ, XZ) or a custom plane that you create.
• Enjoy a preview of the mirrored body before finalizing the operation.
• Click OK to execute the action, and the mirrored body will be created.

3. Mirroring Features

If you wish to mirror specific features of a body, such as cuts or extrusions:

• Select the feature you want to mirror from the timeline or browser.
• Proceed to the Modify panel and click on Mirror.
• Select a mirror plane similar to the previous steps.
• Confirm which features to include in the mirroring operation.
• Review the mirrored preview and confirm the action by clicking OK.

Additional Mirroring Capabilities

Creating Mirror Planes

Sometimes, an existing plane may not suffice, and creating a custom mirror plane is required:

• Choose the object to mirror.
• Navigate to the Create menu, then select Offset Plane.
• Define the distance and orientation of your new plane.
• Use this newly created plane as the reference for your mirror operation, similar to the previous steps.

Mirroring Components

Fusion 360 allows for mirroring entire components within an assembly:

• Select the component that you want to mirror.
• Click on Assemble, then choose the Mirror option.
• Specify the mirror plane and adjust settings as needed.
• Apply these changes to see the mirrored component in your assembly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I mirror multiple objects at once?

Yes, you can select multiple entities, bodies, or features to mirror simultaneously. Just ensure all the selected elements share the same reference plane.

Is it possible to edit the mirrored object after creating it?

Absolutely. Once the mirrored object is created, it can be modified independently or as part of the original design depending on the selection of merge options during the mirroring process.

What limitations exist when using the mirror function?

Some limitations include restrictions on mirroring certain complex features or patterns in certain modeling contexts. Always verify the compatibility of the features you wish to mirror within Fusion 360.