Recommended test
Create a coarse pattern and distinguish its sketch geometry from a finished pocketed body.
- In Sketch mode, draw a rectangle and choose Pattern > Fill pattern.
- Use a generous pocket size with conservative rib, rim and depth settings.
- Inspect the layout and material estimates, then apply the pattern to the sketch.
- Confirm that the result is sketch lines; use a separate supported solid operation if you need actual cuts.
Start with a rectangle
Pattern > Fill pattern produces an isogrid-style layout inside a rectangular sketch region. This fill option remains experimental. For repeating your own circles or other shapes around a boundary or along a spline, use Pattern > Along path instead.
Choose Sketch mode and a plane, draw the rectangle, then open Pattern, select Fill pattern and pick the rectangle. Use a small, uncomplicated test before creating a dense layout. This creates planar sketch geometry; it does not pattern features over arbitrary curved body surfaces.
Set the layout
Pocket size controls the broad cell size. Rib and rim preserve spacing between pockets and around the edge. Auto fit resolves a fitting layout; Fixed prioritizes the chosen pocket target.
Begin with large cells so individual boundaries and intersections remain easy to inspect. A small cell size can produce many entities and make selection slower.
Understand Apply and the estimates
Applying the pattern commits its generated sketch lines. It does not itself subtract all the pockets from an existing body. A finished part still needs an appropriate solid creation or cutting operation.
The depth and density inputs contribute to approximate removed volume, remaining material and mass figures. They do not validate the final solid or establish a structural load capacity. Recheck the actual body and material separately.
Check the next operation
Inspect the resulting closed regions before using Push/Pull. Save a copy before attempting many cuts. Confirm wall thickness and the resulting 3D geometry instead of treating a displayed estimate as proof that the cuts were made.