Fastening Features in SOLIDWORKS: The Mounting Boss Command

When designing injection-molded plastic parts, the Mounting Boss command in SOLIDWORKS can be a powerful tool to add structure and stability to your assemblies. By creating a reliable connection point for screws or adhesives, Mounting Bosses help bond components together seamlessly. In this blog, we'll guide you through using this command for optimal assembly strength, using the example of a remote control casing.

What is the Mounting Boss Command?

As demonstrated by Nick Luyster from the SOLIDWORKS Training team, the Mounting Boss command is specifically designed for plastic part design, adding structural rigidity by forming anchor points. In this example, Nick demonstrates how to connect the top and bottom halves of a remote control casing.

Step-by-Step: Creating a Mounting Boss in SOLIDWORKS

1. Preparing Your Part

To begin, Nick opens a model that already has a sketch with a circle positioned between two shelled bodies. This circle will serve as the central point for placing the Mounting Boss, designed to hold together the casing parts. If you’re following along, make sure to set up a similar sketch to position your Mounting Boss accurately.

2. Accessing the Mounting Boss Command

Start by expanding the Insert and Fastening Feature menus. Within the Fastening

Feature menu, select Mounting Boss.

1. Select the Face: Choose the face where the boss will be placed.

2. Control the Direction: For angled faces, use the feature tree to select the appropriate plane (e.g., Front Plane) for aligning the boss.

3. Position the Boss: Choose the circular sketch profile to position the boss precisely.

3. Setting the Boss Type and Dimensions

SOLIDWORKS offers two types of Mounting Bosses:

• Hardware Boss: Requires a screw connection.

• Pin Boss: Fits a pin boss to a hole boss.

In this example, Nick uses the Hardware Boss with Head option. From here:

1. Enter Dimensions: Define the size and parameters for the boss.

2. Align the Fins: Add structural fins by selecting a direction and setting the fin dimensions. In this example, Nick aligns the fins to the part’s edge, setting four fins around the boss.

4. Creating the Thread Boss for a Secure Fit

Now that the head boss is set up, it’s time to create a thread boss on the opposite face. This boss will mate to the head boss to create a threaded hardware connection.

1. Select Opposite Face and Direction: Choose the face opposite the head boss and the Front Plane to control the direction.

2. Position and Flip Direction: After positioning the boss using the circular sketch, Nick inverts the boss direction to ensure alignment with the head boss.

3. Specify Parameters: Once oriented correctly, set the dimensions for the thread boss and any additional parameters for the fins.

Benefits of Using the Mounting Boss Command in SOLIDWORKS

The Mounting Boss command is specifically designed to optimise plastic part assemblies, enabling fast, reliable connections without manually building complex features. It offers robust options for adding hardware or pin bosses, with flexibility for various design needs, from electronic casings to larger plastic components.

With the Mounting Boss command, SOLIDWORKS provides a straightforward, powerful way to enhance the stability of plastic assemblies. By following these steps, you can design parts that bond seamlessly and ensure that your components stay secure, whether you're using screws or adhesive.

Watch the full video above to see the process in action and explore other mold design features in SOLIDWORKS. If you’re looking to create durable and reliable plastic part assemblies, the Mounting Boss feature is an essential tool to master.